For the fifth year in a row, New Zealand reports a consistent drop in veterinary and horticultural antibiotic sales, which is an incredible accomplishment.
For the fifth year in a row, New Zealand reports a consistent drop in veterinary and horticultural antibiotic sales, which is an incredible accomplishment.
According to the recently released 2022 Antibiotic Agricultural Compound Sales Analysis by New Zealand Food Safety, there was a significant drop of 12,389 kilograms (kg) in total antibiotic sales quantities in 2022, marking a substantial 23% reduction.
This trend reflects an impressive 42% decrease since 2017. Critically important antibiotics, essential for both human and animal health and considered a last resort for treating animal infections, also saw a notable decrease of 563 kg (8%) from 2021 and a commendable 30% reduction since 2017.
Dairy cattle accounted for the majority of veterinary antibiotic sales, making up 57% of the total, followed by pigs at 16%, and horses at 9%. Beef cattle, meat poultry, sheep, as well as companion and non-production animals each contributed 4% to the overall veterinary antibiotic sales.
This substantial achievement in reducing veterinary and agricultural antibiotics can be attributed to the implementation of the 2017 New Zealand Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Action Plan. This initiative, a collaborative effort involving New Zealand Food Safety, the Ministry of Health, and various stakeholders from the human health, animal health, and agriculture sectors, has yielded impressive results.
Vincent Arbuckle, deputy director-general, expressed his satisfaction with the progress, stating, “The ongoing decrease in the use of antibiotics can be put down to a concerted effort from industry and New Zealand Food Safety to ensure these important medicines are used appropriately.” He further emphasized the critical role played by veterinarians, farmers, and other industry stakeholders in maintaining vigilance.
Looking ahead, New Zealand Food Safety is actively engaged in reviewing the regulatory oversight of antibiotics utilized in plants and animals for the forthcoming 5-year AMR action plan, slated for release next year. This review is expected to pave the way for even more significant reductions in veterinary and agricultural antibiotic usage, demonstrating New Zealand’s commitment to responsible antibiotic stewardship.
This collective effort not only showcases New Zealand’s dedication to safeguarding public health but also sets a commendable example for the global community. With the prudent use of antibiotics, New Zealand is not only protecting the well-being of its citizens but also contributing to the global fight against antimicrobial resistance—a challenge that requires collective action on a global scale.