In a significant decision, the United Nations has rejected a proposal aimed at mandating reductions in antimicrobial use on farms, marking a notable victory for U.S. pork producers and veterinarians.
The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) spearheaded the opposition against the proposed mandate, advocating for the importance of the Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR) in managing herd health effectively.
Dr. Ashley Johnson, NPPC director of food policy, stated, “Pork producers care about the health of their pigs, as healthy pigs ensure safe pork. Non-scientific mandates could undermine animal care and welfare.”
This decision aligns with recent data from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, which indicates a decline in the domestic sales of medically important antimicrobials for food-producing animals. This trend reflects a growing commitment among producers to use these substances more judiciously, prioritizing animal health while addressing public health concerns related to antimicrobial resistance.
The UN’s stance is expected to foster continued dialogue on responsible antimicrobial use in agriculture while supporting producers in their efforts to maintain herd health and food safety.
