FDA: Antibiotic sales for livestock fell 2% in 2023
According to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), sales of antibiotic drugs for food animals continue to decline in 2023. This trend is in line with stricter regulations to prevent antibiotic use in livestock.
The FDA reports a 2% decrease in sales of medically important antibiotics for livestock compared to 2022. While consistent annual declines aren’t expected, sales have dropped a significant 37% since their peak in 2015.
The data shows variations in antibiotic sales among different types of livestock: 41% for cattle, 44% for swine, 10% for turkeys, and just 2% for chickens. However, FDA spokesperson Anne Norris advises caution in comparing sales across species due to factors such as differences in population sizes and lifespans. For instance, cattle and swine tend to have longer lifespans, which could influence their antibiotic needs compared to shorter-lived poultry
"Our primary goal is to promote good antimicrobial stewardship practices to slow the development of resistance," says Norris.
While the reduction in sales is viewed positively in terms of combating antimicrobial resistance, the FDA recognizes the need for improved data on actual antibiotic use. This data is critical for establishing effective future goals and strategies. As part of their 2024-2028 antimicrobial stewardship plan, the FDA aims to enhance monitoring systems for antibiotic use and the spread of resistant bacteria