Growth of antibiotic resistant bacteria occurs when bacteria are exposed to low doses of an antibiotic that kill only a portion of the bacteria present. Some of the bacteria that survive will transfer one or more resistant genes to their offspring, and they become more resistant to the effect of the drug. The development of antibiotic resistant microbes is occurring more rapidly than the development of new antimicrobial drugs. The scarcity of new antimicrobial drugs limits treatment options, particularly for patients with infections caused by multidrug-resistant organisms. When this occurs, another drug that the bacteria do not exhibit a resistance to will have to be administered if available.

In recent years, consumers have voiced growing concern about drug-resistant bacteria. As a result, certain meat producers (beef, pork, and poultry) have started to phase out the practice of administering antibiotics to healthy animals. However, until all producers discontinue this practice, consumers should be proactive and buy antibiotic-free foods that bear a label such as USDA Organic/Certified Organic, Food Alliance Certified, Animal Welfare Approved, and American Grassfed Certified. Consumers should also understand the term “Natural” doesn’t always mean no antibiotics, and phrases like “Antibiotic-free,” “No antibiotic residues,” and “No antibiotic growth” are NOT approved by USDA and don’t ensure that no antibiotics were used during the animal’s life.

The State of California recently passed a law that prohibits the administration of medically important antimicrobial drugs to livestock unless ordered by a licensed veterinarian. This new law, which takes effect on January 1, 2018, is designed to protect the health and safety of animals and consumers. Under the law, antibiotics may be administered to animals if used to treat or control the spread of a disease or infection, as an enhancement to surgery or medical procedures, or as a prophylactic measure to lower the risk of contracting a disease or infection. However, the law specifically prohibits administration of antibiotics solely to promote weight gain or improve feed efficiency. Consumers should urge elected officials at the state and federal levels to pass similar legislation to ensure the judicious use of antibiotics.