Evaluation of guidelines on antimicrobials use in food-producing animals: a systematic review

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global public health problem due to misuse/overuse of antimicrobials. The interplay between humans, animals, and the environment requires a One Health approach for effective AMR control. We focused this research on antimicrobial use in food-producing animals (bovine, caprine, equine, ovine, and swine) to assess the compliance of Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries (members, partners, and candidates) with international guidelines: Codex Alimentarius: Code of Practice to Minimize and Contain Foodborne Antimicrobial Resistance, and the Terrestrial Animal Health Code.

For this systematic review (PROSPERO CRD42024535461), between February 1 and June 30 of 2024, guidelines were searched on: governmental websites associated with health and veterinary sectors, veterinary organizations specified by the government or included in the country's National Action Plan for AMR, and the global repository of available guidelines for responsible use of antimicrobials in animal health. Three researchers performed data extraction and AGREE II appraisal was conducted by two researchers.

Of the 49 OECD countries, 37 presented guidelines (n = 82) for responsible antimicrobial use in the analyzed species, with bovine and swine being the most represented. The highest number of published guidelines was observed between 2017-2020. The number of clinical and non-clinical guidelines were 43 and 37, respectively, emphasizing the need for veterinarian-directed recommendations.

The AMR challenge, the interdependence of countries, and the trade of animal-derived products should encourage national initiatives to develop and implement guidelines for the judicious use of antimicrobials in animal production. Due to OECD countries' disparities in terms of culture, internal policies, attitudes and perceptions about AMR, and financial resources, this process needs to be gradual and tailored for each case. Therefore, communication and collaboration between countries and stakeholders are essential.