In a significant regulatory shift aimed at safeguarding public health, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has enforced a ban on the use of specific antibiotics in the production of meat, milk, poultry, eggs, and aquaculture products, effective from April 1.
The move, aligned with India’s commitment to the Muscat Ministerial Manifesto, seeks to curb antimicrobial resistance (AMR) by reducing antibiotic usage in the agri-food sector by 30% to 50% by 2030. M Balaji, coordinator of the Tamil Nadu Veterinary Graduate Federation, shares the following tips for poultry farmers:
- Enforce Strict Antibiotic Use Controls
“Antibiotics like Chlortetracycline, Penicillin, Macrolides, and Tylosin—classified as medically important—must be administered judiciously.”
To do: Use antibiotics only when prescribed by a veterinarian, especially for zoonotic infections.
Not to do: Avoid over-the-counter sales and unsupervised treatments.
- Don’t Rely on Antibiotics Alone
“Although antibiotics as growth promoters have been phased out, their therapeutic and prophylactic use without biosecurity still fuels AMR.”
To do: Strengthen biosecurity and hygiene protocols instead of preventive antibiotic use.
- Ensure Optimal Gut Health
“A microbial balance of 85% beneficial bacteria to 15% pathogens is essential for poultry health.”
To do: Promote Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium through probiotics and healthy diets.
Not to do: Avoid feed contaminants like mycotoxins, rancid fats, and poorly formulated ingredients.
- Maintain Feed and Water Safety
“15% of Salmonella contamination originates from feed.”
To do: Keep feed free from mycotoxins, store it properly, and ensure clean water pipelines. Test for biofilms and regulate pH levels in drinking water systems.
- Adopt the ‘One Health’ Approach
“Animal, human, and environmental health are interconnected.”
To do: Collaborate across public health, veterinary, and environmental sectors for AMR control. Push for state-level AMR surveillance labs and stricter monitoring.
- Educate and Empower Farmers
“Farmer education is vital to reduce antibiotic dependency.”
To do: Train farmers in antibiotic-free practices, biosecurity, and good husbandry.
- Explore Natural Alternatives
“Phytogenic compounds like thymol, cinnamaldehyde, pepper, turmeric, and essential minerals like selenium and zinc help reduce dependency.”
To do: Incorporate herbal and mineral alternatives, enzymes, and probiotics in feed.
- Follow Antibiotic Withdrawal Periods
“Strict adherence to withdrawal periods is crucial for food safety.”
To do: Ensure sufficient time lapses between antibiotic use and slaughter/milk/egg collection.
- Push for Policy Reforms and Surveillance
“Control over-the-counter antibiotic sales and improve coordination among regulatory bodies.”
To do: Advocate for stronger regulatory frameworks and on-ground implementation.
- Prioritise Long-Term Sustainability
“Without science-driven, collaborative efforts, both poultry sustainability and public health are at risk.”
To do: Build a resilient, responsible poultry sector that protects both animal and human health.
Source: DT NEXT
by M. Balaji, Tamil Nadu Veterinary Graduate Federation
