DCC Approves Ban on Harmful Antibiotics in Food Products

The presence of antibiotics residues in food products poses a significant health risk to consumers

April 16, 2024

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Last Updated on April 23, 2024 by The Health Master

Antibiotics

Antibiotics: The Drugs Consultative Committee (DCC), a key regulatory body in India, has taken a significant step towards safeguarding public health by recommending a complete ban on the import, production, distribution, and sale of chloramphenicol and nitrofurans for use in food animals.

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Rising Concerns over Antibiotic Misuse

This decision comes after a lengthy review process prompted by a proposal from the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) in May 2023.

The proposal highlighted growing concerns over the misuse of these antibiotics in animal feed supplements, particularly for poultry and other food-producing animals.

The Empowered Committee on Animal Health (EACH) also weighed in on the issue, ultimately supporting the proposal for a complete ban.

This move reflects a global shift towards stricter regulations on antibiotic use in food animals due to the serious threat of antibiotic resistance.

Read and Download minutes of all meetings of DCC

Potential Health Risks

The DCC’s decision aligns with existing regulations established by the Food Safety and Standard Authority of India (FSSAI) in July 2018.

These regulations explicitly prohibit the use of chloramphenicol and nitrofurans (including furaltadone, furazolidone, nitrofurantoin, and nitrofurazone) throughout the entire processing chain of food products like meat, poultry, eggs, and seafood.

The presence of antibiotics residues in food products poses a significant health risk to consumers.

Chloramphenicol, in particular, can cause serious side effects, including bone marrow suppression and diarrhea.

The widespread use of these antibiotics in animal agriculture can also contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, making it increasingly difficult to treat human infections.

A Crucial Step Towards Safer Food

The DCC’s decision represents a vital step towards ensuring the safety of our food supply.

By eliminating the use of chloramphenicol and nitrofurans in food animals, we can minimize the risk of antibiotic resistance and protect public health.

Sustainable Solutions in Animal Husbandry

This ban necessitates the development of alternative solutions for disease prevention and growth promotion in animals.

Encouraging research into non-antibiotic feed additives, improved hygiene practices, and vaccination programs can play a crucial role in promoting sustainable and responsible animal husbandry practices.

This article provides a detailed and informative explanation of the DCC’s decision, highlighting the key concerns, potential health risks, and the importance of ensuring food safety.

It also sheds light on the need for alternative solutions in animal agriculture moving forward.

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