classes of antibiotics use in humans livestock
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Episode 003 of the Agriculture Proud Podcast features a discussion on a hot topic for both consumers and agriculture producers today. At the end of 2016, we will see the mandatory implementation of rules that will change how antibiotics are used in livestock. Veterinary Feed Directives (VFDs) are a result of changes to FDA’s Guidances #209 and #213, which were finalized in the summer of 2015. Information about the changes can be found on the FDA’s website.

In this this podcast episode, I pull a file out of the archives from my time with MSGA, and have a conversation with Dr. Bruce Hoffman of Elanco Animal Health. Dr. Hoffman does a good job of addressing the larger context of issues surrounding antibiotics use in livestock today, how this use relates to consumer concerns about food safety, and gives us good tips on how to prepare for pending changes for antibiotics use.

A few important points to pull out of our conversation regarding antibiotics and Veterinary Feed Directives:

  1. VFDs will not be difficult to comply with if we prepare for and become familiar with the requirements.
  2. These changes affect shared class antibiotics.
  3. Livestock producers still have the ability to use antibiotics for the use of control, treatment and prevention of diseases.
  4. These changes will encourage a better working relationship between producers, veterinarians and nutritionists.
  5. Producers should take this as an opportunity to learn more about antibiotic messaging and consumer concerns on the topic.

More information about VFDs can be found in the VFD Central section at Feedstuffs.com. Learn more about the implementation of VFDs here.

You can also learn more about Elanco’s work to address global hunger at EnoughMovement.com. (that address is a correction after the audio was recorded)

I hope you enjoy this episode of the Agriculture Proud podcast. Check out all my episodes at AgricultureProud.com/podcast.

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Published by Ryan Goodman

Ryan Goodman works in grassroots advocacy as a communications consultant with beef cattle farmers and ranchers across the United States. He is a proud alumnus of Oklahoma State University, with studies focusing on cattle reproduction and nutrition. Ryan's experience in the beef industry range from family farms and ranches in several states to large feedlots and non-profit policy organizations. Ryan is an avid trail and ultrarunner, proudly showing how beef can be an important part of a healthy diet and active lifestyle. Find Ryan on social media as @BeefRunner.