Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is an issue with the potential to negatively impact human and animal health worldwide. AMR occurs when microorganisms such as bacteria become resistant to antimicrobial medicines such as antibiotics. The more we use antibiotics, the more chance that bacteria will become resistant to them. For red meat producers around the world, AMR poses a safety risk.
AMR is an issue that the Australian red meat industry takes extremely seriously, and has been active on this issue for many years. In 2013, farmers and producers contributed to the Australian One Health Antimicrobial Resistance Colloquium – a government led response to managing AMR across human and animal health.
The Australian red meat industry has subsequently developed Antimicrobial Stewardship Guidelines for the feedlot sector, and offers guidance to the industry on steps to prevent over-use of antibiotics which may lead to AMR. MLA also continues to conduct research into this topic.
Australia’s work on AMR prevention aligns with and complements the EU’s efforts, including the EU One Health Action Plan Against Antimicrobial Resistance.
Further information on the risks of AMR, and what the Australian red meat industry is doing to combat them, can be found at https://www.mla.com.au/ams.