Dr. Ashley Johnson, Director of Food Policy at the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC), recently spoke at the United Nations’ multi-stakeholder hearing on antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The U.N. acknowledged that despite some progress over recent years, AMR continues to pose a significant health and developmental challenge, ranking among the top 10 global public health threats facing humanity.
During the session focused on livestock, Dr. Johnson defended the pork industry’s stewardship of antimicrobial use. She emphasized the industry’s commitment to judicious antimicrobial practices in collaboration with veterinarians, the training of farm employees through the Pork Quality Assurance Plus program, and other responsible measures. Dr. Johnson highlighted NPPC’s role as a scientific advocate against global antimicrobial standards and surveillance initiatives that could disrupt the vital producer-veterinarian partnerships essential for herd health.
The summary of this hearing will contribute to the preparations for a high-level U.N. meeting on AMR scheduled for September 26, 2024.
The NPPC stands firm in its belief that pork producers are dedicated to the health and well-being of their animals, raising them humanely and compassionately. Ensuring healthy animals is crucial for providing safe food to consumers. The NPPC promotes science-based approaches to swine health and production and opposes any efforts to impose prescriptive on-farm production practices.
The multi-stakeholder hearing served as a platform for exchanging views on key priorities and exploring challenges and solutions for effectively addressing AMR. Participants’ contributions will shape the agenda for the upcoming high-level U.N. meeting on this critical issue.
In New York City, United Nations participants discussed the pressing issue of antimicrobial resistance, with Dr. Johnson advocating on behalf of the U.S. pork industry.
