How do antibiotics pose a risk to agriculture?
Over the last 60 years, antibiotics have been a powerful force in modern medicine. These vital drugs have turned once-lethal diseases into fully treatable, temporary sicknesses. Unfortunately, overuse of antibiotics in medical practice and the agricultural industry is now threatening the effectiveness of such drugs. New strains of bacteria are emerging that are resistant to our standard antibiotic drugs, and threaten the lives of the public.
In agriculture, antibiotics are frequently used on healthy farm animals in order to prevent potential disease outbreaks and to increase growth. Since conditions on "factory farms" are typically unsanitary, crowded and stressful for the animals, many agribusinesses have used antibiotics to eliminate potential risks and increase profits. Farmers operating under these businesses lace animal feed with low-level doses of antibiotics similar to those used to treat sick humans.
Current research, however, indicates that antibiotic use in animal agriculture may be linked to antibiotic-resistant bacteria among humans [see Key Scientific Evidence at keepantibioticsworking.com for information on these studies]. Not only is it possible for resistant bacteria cultured in meat, egg and dairy livestock to reach human hosts, it is already happening. Three studies in the New England Journal of Medicine (October 18, 2001) indicate that factory-farmed meat products represent a significant threat to public health and safety.
The best way to ensure your own health and safety is to buy from producers who refrain from using antibiotics and maintain healthy, clean farms. You can find antibiotic-free meat and animal products from the following sources:
- Many supermarkets now stock antibiotic-free animal products. Ask your local grocer or check out IATP's online directory of supermarkets that carry these products.
- Local producers, farmers markets, co-ops, and CSAs often have meat, dairy, and egg products available and pledge not to use antibiotics. You can find listings of such farms in our Find Good Food section. Also check out IATP's listing of local producers.
- Some restaurants in your area may also carry meats raised without antibiotics. Ask around and check out IATP's restaurant listing also.
- Also check out Niman Ranch
Antibiotics Resources
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