In addition to banning antibiotics as growth promoters, a few countries also prohibit the use of anticoccidials (5). Unfortu- nately, the definition of an ‘anticoccidial’ is not necessarily the same in all countries. In some countries the term antibiot- ic-free prohibits the use of ionophores but makes an excep- tion for the class of compounds referred to as ‘chemicals’, while in other countries such as Norway and Argentina the use of both ionophores and chemicals is strictly forbidden. Looking at these different types of antibiotic-free production shows that the term leaves room for a lot of different inter- pretations and leaves consumers, and probably producers alike, confused.
Addressing important topics In today’s world, the consumer wields tremendous power in how food producing animals are raised. The fact that con- sumers want both ‘fewer antibiotics’ and ‘more sustainability’ has put farmers in a difficult position. If they are to survive, they must follow the market demand. Raising animals sus- tainably with the use of fewer antibiotics is possible, but it takes time and energy. For some farmers this period of ‘trial and error’ is very costly. Although many consumers want more animal welfare, less medication, slower growth, etc.,
they often do not take into account the additional costs of providing such things. What, for instance, will happen to broilers which are labelled ‘no antibiotics ever’ when they get so sick that they have to be treated? Will they have to be dis- posed of? Can they be sold to other markets? And if so, at what costs? To successfully reduce the use of antibiotics in food producing animals a number of topics must be ad- dressed including: (1) consumer education as it pertains to animal production; (2) transition periods, i.e. the time needed for farmers to transition from conventional to antibiotic-free production; (3) specific definitions and goals with respect to regulation, monitoring, and governmental involvement; and (4) alternative products as supplemental tools for maintaining animal health and performance.
Common goal remains the same Although the definition of antibiotic-free is not clear, the com- mon goal remains the same: to reduce the overall use of anti- biotics. Although achieving such a goal will not be easy and requires sophisticated management, excellent husbandry, proper animal nutrition, and veterinary consultation, the end result is the preservation of antibiotics for the future health of humans and animals alike.
▶ ALL ABOUT FEED | Volume 25, No. 10, 2017 27
The definition of antibiotic-free production in one country does not neces- sarily match the definition in an- other country.
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