Antibiotics in Animals

Antibiotic use in humans is believed to contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant infections. However, it is unclear whether antibiotic use in food animals also contributes to this problem. Antibiotic-resistant infections pose a serious threat to global public health. In an article in the Food and Drug Law Institute Update (republished with permission of FDLI), Suzanne O'Shea and Christin Garcia explain the background of this issue, relevant FDA regulations and actions, and the potential for resolution in 2012.