Dr. Ashley Johnson, NPPC’s Director of Food Policy, recently participated in the World Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Congress, a global conference where key stakeholders gather to address the growing concern of antimicrobial resistance. During the event, Dr. Johnson defended the pork industry’s responsible and judicious use of antimicrobials, emphasizing the critical role these treatments play in ensuring the health and welfare of livestock.
Dr. Johnson pushed back against initiatives that could impose blanket reductions on antimicrobial use, which may negatively impact pork producers. She advocated for science-based solutions to swine health and production, reaffirming the industry’s commitment to raising healthy animals humanely while providing safe food for consumers.
The NPPC continues to advocate for the judicious use of antimicrobials under the guidelines of a valid Veterinary Client-Patient Relationship. The upcoming high-level meeting on antimicrobial resistance at the UN General Assembly will consider global initiatives that could directly affect pork producers’ ability to responsibly manage animal health. This week’s AMR Congress served as a crucial platform for the pork industry to share its proactive efforts and defend its approach to safeguarding both animal health and food safety.
The NPPC remains steadfast in its belief that producers must have the flexibility to use antimicrobials judiciously to meet their moral obligation of ensuring the health and humane treatment of their animals.
