Low Levels of Antimicrobial Resistance Found in Fresh Meat: A Study by FSANZ

A comprehensive study conducted by Food Standards Australia and New Zealand (FSANZ) has revealed only minimal levels of antimicrobial resistance in samples of fresh beef and other proteins. This finding is reassuring, indicating a low risk of food-borne bacteria leading to resistant infections in the population.

Survey Overview

The national survey analyzed 4,000 samples from various sources, including major supermarkets and independent butchers, covering beef, pork, and chicken. The results showed that bacterial resistance to antibiotics critically important to human health remains low across the board.

Understanding Antimicrobial Resistance

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria resistant to the antibiotics intended to treat them emerge, posing one of the biggest global health challenges. The recent FSANZ survey is the largest of its kind since 2008 and found that nearly two-thirds of the bacteria isolated from raw meat samples showed no resistance to any of the tested antibiotics.

Findings and Implications

The study emphasizes the effectiveness of antibiotic stewardship in Australian food production, indicating a low risk of resistant bacteria reaching consumers. Christel Leemhuis, acting FSANZ chief executive, stated that the study provides a clearer national picture of AMR than previous efforts due to improved testing methods and an expanded sample size.

According to Ms. Leemhuis, “Raw retail meat is a critical component of AMR surveillance because it can expose individuals to bacteria from animals, humans, or the environment.” She added, “The same safe production, handling, and cooking practices that lower food-borne illness risks also reduce the risk of resistant infections in people.”

Key Results

The study identified moderate resistance to ciprofloxacin in Campylobacter jejuni bacteria from chicken samples. It is important to note that antibiotics in this class are not permitted for use in Australian food-producing animals, yet this finding aligns with global trends, emphasizing the necessity for ongoing vigilance.

Overall, multi-drug resistance was found to be low and mostly involved antibiotics deemed less crucial for human health. “These results establish a vital benchmark for future surveillance,” Ms. Leemhuis stated. “Tracking changes over time is essential for ensuring the safety of Australia’s food supply and helps maintain our stellar global reputation for food safety and quality.”

Ongoing Efforts and Collaboration

The findings support Australia’s One Health approach to managing AMR, fostering ongoing collaboration between the government, research entities, and industry stakeholders to ensure the health of humans, animals, and the food supply chain.

The Australian Government’s response to AMR is guided by the National Antimicrobial Resistance Strategy — 2020 and beyond, led by the Australian Centre for Disease Control in cooperation with various governmental branches and agencies.

FSANZ emphasized that it will continue to collaborate with governmental partners and scientific experts to bolster surveillance and the ongoing fight against AMR in the food sector.

To learn more about Australia’s response to antimicrobial resistance, click here.