Antimicrobial resistance (AMR), is a growing global challenge with significant implications in dairy and poultry production. The overuse and misuse of antibiotics in livestock farming, often for disease prevention, growth promotion, or routine prophylaxis, has contributed to the emergence of resistant bacterial strains. These resistant pathogens can be transmitted to humans through contaminated milk and meat products or direct contact with animals, posing serious risk to public health, food safety, and sustainable agriculture. The problem of AMR is further compounded by inadequate surveillance, inconsistent regulations, and lack of effective alternatives to antibiotics.
Addressing AMR in dairy and poultry production requires a multi-faceted approach, including antimicrobial stewardship, and development of alternatives to antibiotics (such as probiotics, prebiotics, vaccines, bacteriophages and phytochemicals). Furthermore, enhancing surveillance systems, strong regulatory frameworks and consumer demands for antibiotic-free dairy and meat products can drive changes in industry practices. Fostering collaboration between the food industry, public health, veterinary, and agricultural sectors are critical in mitigating the problem of AMR. The goal is to identify science-based solutions that protect human and animal health while ensuring the safety and sustainability of the global food system.
This research topic aims to explore the challenges and solutions associated with AMR in dairy and poultry production, highlighting innovative strategies to reduce antibiotic use, ensure food safety, and protect human and animal health. Topics of interest include solutions that minimize the reliance on antibiotics, the role of vaccines in reducing AMR, surveillance and monitoring systems for resistant pathogens, and regulatory frameworks to limit antibiotic use. We also welcome topics on the environmental impact of AMR, zoonotic transmission pathways, and consumer-driven changes in the demand for antibiotic-free milk and meat products. This Research Topic welcomes
B and C Type manuscripts that provide new insights into reducing AMR in meat and poultry production while ensuring food safety and public health. Interdisciplinary approaches, combining veterinary, microbiological, food science, environmental, and policy perspectives, are strongly encouraged.