A Milestone in Responsible Antibiotic Use

The British Poultry Council (BPC) has recently unveiled its 2024 Antibiotic Stewardship Report, showcasing remarkable progress in the responsible use of antibiotics within the poultry meat sector. This report not only highlights the significant strides made by the British poultry industry but also underscores its pivotal role in the global fight against Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).

Impressive Achievements in Antibiotic Reduction

Since 2012, the British poultry meat sector has achieved extraordinary results in reducing antibiotic usage:

• An 81% reduction in total antibiotic use
• A staggering 98.7% reduction in the use of Medically Important Antibiotics
• Zero use of preventative antibiotics

These figures demonstrate the industry’s unwavering commitment to responsible antibiotic stewardship and its proactive approach to addressing public health concerns.

It’s crucial to address misconceptions about antibiotic use in poultry farming. Contrary to recent misleading claims in the news, the use of antibiotics as growth promoters is strictly illegal in the UK. Furthermore, the report emphatically states that no chickens are “pumped with growth hormones”. This commitment to transparency is vital for maintaining consumer trust and promoting a factual understanding of modern poultry farming practices.

A Pioneer in Responsible Antibiotic Use

The British poultry meat industry has been at the forefront of antibiotic stewardship since 2011, when it became the first sector to voluntarily develop a strategy for the responsible use of these vital medicines. This forward-thinking approach has positioned the UK poultry industry as a global leader in sustainable farming practices.

The report emphasises the importance of ongoing collaboration and engaging communication across the British poultry meat sector. By sharing data and best practices, the industry has been able to achieve its impressive reduction targets while ensuring the health and welfare of poultry.

Global Impact and Leadership

The BPC’s efforts extend beyond national borders. By endorsing the International Poultry Council’s Antimicrobial Stewardship Principles and promoting transparency, the British poultry industry is playing a crucial role in shaping global standards for responsible antibiotic use in livestock farming.

The BPC remains committed to challenging antibiotic use levels while operating under Government-approved RUMA species-specific sector targets. This approach ensures that the industry continues to make progress in reducing antibiotic use without compromising on animal welfare or food safety.

The British Poultry Council’s 2024 Antibiotic Stewardship Report marks a significant milestone in the responsible use of antibiotics in livestock farming. By dramatically reducing antibiotic use, promoting transparency, and collaborating on a global scale, the British poultry industry is setting a sterling example for sustainable and responsible farming practices worldwide.

As consumers, we can take pride in supporting an industry that prioritises both public health and animal welfare. The BPC’s achievements demonstrate that with dedication, innovation, and collaboration, it is possible to produce high-quality poultry while safeguarding the effectiveness of antibiotics for future generations.

Read The Full Report here.