Evaluating the Potential Contribution of Beef Cattle to Antimicrobial Resistance
Increasing public concern regarding antimicrobial use (AMU) and resistance (AMR) in livestock is leading to increased pressure on livestock producers, veterinarians, industry groups, processors, foodservice companies and governments to address these concerns. Science-based, epidemiologically sound research is critical for sound industry policy and communication, legislation, and educated consumer choices.
Research currently underway and funded by the National Check-off and Canada’s Beef Science Cluster will provide insights into the relationships between AMU in feedlot cattle, the nature of AMR bacteria in cattle, and the possible spread of pathogens and AMR bacteria in downstream environments. These results will help to identify appropriate on-farm intervention points for the control of AMR in feedlots, and help to decipher and quantify the association between AMU and AMR in Canada’s beef production system with AMR in humans. This continues the leadership role that the Canadian beef industry has taken in promoting and quantifying good antimicrobial stewardship within feedlot production systems.
To learn more about this research, see the BCRC fact sheet.
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