A recent study conducted by the UK Royal Veterinary College and the West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences has raised concerns about the inability of poultry breeding companies to prevent chicks from being infected with bacteria. This has led to the early use of antibiotics, especially in West Bengal and other eastern parts of India. However, industry officials in the poultry sector have refuted these claims, stating that the use of antibiotics does not pose a risk to human health and that the issue is being exaggerated.
According to a senior scientist from an ICAR body, antibiotics are crucial for the treatment of bacterial diseases in animals, including poultry, similar to their use in humans. While antibiotics were previously used in low levels for growth promotion in poultry, this practice has been banned in India and is no longer widely practiced. Currently, antibiotics are primarily used for disease treatment and prevention in animals, with veterinary doctors prescribing them based on professional knowledge and specific animal needs. Alternatives like herbal products, probiotics, and prebiotics are also being increasingly used as growth promoters in the industry.
There is a focus on monitoring residue levels in meat, especially for export purposes, to discourage excessive antibiotic use. In line with global concerns about antimicrobial resistance, the Union Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying has recently released detailed guidelines for the prudent use of antibiotics in livestock and poultry. This initiative aims to ensure that antibiotics are used judiciously to minimize the risks of overuse and misuse, thus contributing to food safety.
Industry leaders like Suresh Chitturi of Srinivasa Farms and K Anand of Venkateshwara Hatcheries emphasize the importance of judicious antibiotic use in poultry farming. They point out that antibiotics are only used when necessary, and industry practices are well within prescribed norms. Measures such as vaccination and maintaining biosecurity help in preventing the need for antibiotics in broilers, with layer birds requiring antibiotics only in certain cases.
Despite the reassurances from industry insiders, concerns remain about the potential for antibiotic resistance in humans due to the use of antibiotics in poultry. Stakeholders in the poultry sector stress the need for stringent government regulations and increased caution in antibiotic use to safeguard human health. While some instances of antibiotic misuse may exist, the majority of poultry producers adhere to responsible antibiotic practices to ensure food safety and public health.
In conclusion, the poultry industry in India is taking steps to address concerns about antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance. By promoting responsible antibiotic practices and adopting alternative growth promoters, the industry aims to maintain food safety standards and protect human health.
