Integrated approaches to antibiotic residues and antimicrobial resistance in the food chain

The extensive use of antibiotics in livestock has raised significant public health concerns, particularly regarding the retention of antibiotic residues and the development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This review aims to assess the current understanding of the prevalence, pharmacokinetics, and mitigation strategies for antibiotic residues in meat, dairy, poultry, and aquaculture products. It emphasizes the intricate relationship among veterinary medication metabolism, agricultural management methods, and socio-economic factors that affect residue persistence and consumer exposure. We aimed to highlight the health hazards associated with residue ingestion, including hypersensitivity reactions, changes in gut microbiota, and the development of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains. It assesses current mitigation measures, including precision livestock farming, alternative therapies (e.g., probiotics, vaccinations, phytogenics), and improved surveillance systems, highlighting their practicality and potential for implementation across various production systems. The assessment advocates for a One Health approach that necessitates coordinated, cross-sectoral collaboration among veterinarians, public health professionals, and environmental specialists. It delineates essential information deficiencies, including in pharmacokinetic models, surveillance systems, and agricultural practices, and suggests prospective strategies to enhance residue management and preserve the effectiveness of antimicrobials. Ultimately, guaranteeing residue-free animal-derived foods is a collective worldwide obligation vital to food safety and public health.