Antimicrobial Resistance in the Food Chain: Trends, Mechanisms, Pathways, and Possible Regulation Strategies

Area of Science:

• Food safety and security
• Global public health
• Microbiology

Background:

• Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a significant global health concern impacting food stakeholders.
• Antimicrobial-resistant bacteria (AMRB) and genes can contaminate food at any stage, from production to retail.
• Infections from AMRB are more prevalent in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the routes of AMRB entry into the food chain.
• To identify prevention and control strategies for AMRB in food production.
• To assess the impact of AMR on human health and identify surveillance gaps.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on AMR in the food chain.
• Analysis of contamination routes from farm to consumer.
• Examination of antimicrobial drug use in agriculture.

Main Results:

• AMRB contamination occurs throughout the food production continuum (farm, processing, retail).
• Effective control requires managing antibiotic use in both animal and crop agriculture.
• Gaps exist in current surveillance systems for antimicrobial use and AMR in food production.

Conclusions:

• Addressing AMR globally is essential to mitigate risks to human health.
• Integrated approaches are needed to control foodborne pathogens and enhance food safety.
• Stricter regulation of antimicrobial use in agriculture is vital.