AVN Report
Increasing global threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), where bacteria evolve to resist antibiotics, requires effective strategies to combat this issue AMR, as it poses a significant public health challenge and economic burden, with an estimated 4.95 million deaths annually linked to to it, potentially rising to 10 million by 2050.
Poultry, including chicken and eggs, is a staple worldwide due to its high protein content and versatility. By 2032, global poultry consumption is expected to reach 91 million tonnes. However, high consumption levels also pose food safety concerns, as raw chicken and eggs can harbor pathogens like Campylobacter, Salmonella, and Clostridium perfringens, often spread during slaughter and processing. Traditionally, antimicrobials have controlled these pathogens, but their misuse has accelerated AMR.
Despite awareness and regulatory measures, such as banning antibiotic growth promoters in animal feeds, resistance rates remain high. Recent EU data (2021-2022) shows high resistance levels among poultry isolates to critical antibiotics like ciprofloxacin, with resistance rates around 55.5pc in broilers and even higher in Salmonella Kentucky isolates.
Addressing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in poultry production requires a comprehensive strategy that extends beyond merely reducing antibiotic use. Effective measures include implementing enhanced biosecurity protocols, such as stringent sanitation and careful waste management.
Judicious antibiotic use under veterinary supervision and eliminating antibiotic growth promoters are crucial steps. Developing robust vaccination programs and maintaining vigilant disease surveillance are also essential. Additionally, ensuring optimal nutrition and exploring alternatives to antibiotics to promote gut health play significant roles in this comprehensive approach.
MRF, a yeast-cell-wall-derived product, shows promise as an alternative to antibiotics, benefiting gut health and the microbiome.
Research by Smith et al. (2017, 2020, 2022) highlights MRF’s potential in controlling pathogens like Salmonella and E. coli and enhancing antibiotic efficacy against resistant strains.
MRF supplementation alone reduced resistant strain growth by 46pc, and when combined with antibiotics, this reduction increased to 73pc. MRF was found to upregulate key TCA-cycle proteins and increase reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, contributing to improved antibiotic susceptibility.
Given poultry’s critical role in global nutrition, ensuring the safety of poultry products is paramount. A holistic approach integrating improved biosecurity, reduced antibiotic use, and innovative solutions like MRF can significantly mitigate AMR spread. This comprehensive strategy enhances food safety, reduces public health impacts, and lessens the economic burden of antimicrobial resistance.
