Impact evaluation of using antibiotics in animal husbandry practices-Review

Abstract

The use of antibiotics in the animal husbandry technologies is a practice known for decades, being usually included in the feed as a growth promoter and to prevent several diseases. However, the uncontrolled, excessive and unregulated use of antibiotics has shown multiple negative effects on animal growth, but also on human health and the ecosystem. Unmetabolized antibiotics contaminate the environment by releasing wastes into the soil, leading to the spread of antimicrobial resistance towards the human food chain. It is therefore important to analyze animal waste management practices in order to find other treatment solutions and to lower the negative impact of residues generated from animal husbandry on public health and the ecosystem. Health organizations have emphasized the need for improved regulatory controls for antibiotics and clear guidelines for farmers and veterinary professionals, in order to use antibiotics responsibly. The current paper evaluates the potential risks of using antibiotics in animal husbandry and identifies strategies for reducing unwanted hazards.