Last Updated on April 3, 2025 by The Health Master
Chloramphenicol and Nitrofurans
The Union Health Ministry has imposed an immediate ban on the import, manufacture, sale, and distribution of antibiotics in the chloramphenicol and nitrofurans class of drugs for use in any food-producing animals.
The Union Health Ministry has banned Chloramphenicol and Nitrofurans for food producing animals via notification No. S.O. 1158(E) dt 12-03-2025 under Section 26A of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.
This ban aims for food safety and protecting public health in India.
This ban shows the government’s commitment to stop the misuse of harmful products (chloramphenicol and nitrofurans) used in poultry, etc., which directly have an impact on the quality and safety of food products used by consumers.
Why the Sudden Ban?
This ban has been done after the important observations made by the Drugs Consultative Committee (DCC), which highlighted the misuse of these drugs in poultry and other animal feed supplements.
This misuse is a major reason for high risks to human health, as residues of these antibiotics may find their way into the food chain.
Government’s Stance
The notification states as under:
“Central government is satisfied that it is necessary and expedient in the public interest to prohibit the import, manufacture, sale, and distribution of all formulations containing chloramphenicol and nitrofurans drugs for use in any food-producing animal rearing system.”
The process of the Ban
The ban followed a process that included:
Representation by the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA):
MPEDA has pointed out the issue in May 2023 for the attention of the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying and highlighted that these drugs are very dangerous for the animals.
Empowered Committee on Animal Health (EACH) Deliberations:
The EACH considered whether to restrict bulk packing or implement a complete ban.
Ultimately, they opted for a total ban to ensure maximum safety.
Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying Memorandum:
In October 2023, the ministry confirmed its support for a complete ban, further solidifying the decision.
FSSAI Notification:
The Food Safety and Standard Authority of India (FSSAI) had already issued a notification in 2018, prohibiting the use of these drugs in meat, poultry, eggs, and seafood, setting stringent residue limits.
Specifically, 0.001 mg/kg for nitrofurans, and 0.0003 mg/kg for chloramphenicol.
Understanding the risks:
Chloramphenicol: This antibiotic, while effective against bacterial infections, carries the risk of serious side effects, including bone marrow suppression and diarrhea.
Nitrofurans: Used to treat urinary infections and as antibacterials in food-producing animals, these drugs also pose potential health risks when residues are consumed.
Addressing Misuse
The DCC’s observation that these drugs are frequently misused in poultry and animal feed supplements highlights the urgency of this ban.
By eliminating the availability of these substances for use in food-producing animals, the government aims to curb this misuse and protect consumers from potential harm.
Q: What are the potential risks of consuming food with chloramphenicol or nitrofurans residues?
A: These drugs can cause various health problems, including bone marrow suppression (chloramphenicol) and other adverse reactions.
Q: Why was this ban implemented now?
A: The ban was implemented after thorough review and evidence of misuse, with the goal of protecting public health.
Q: Are there alternatives to these antibiotics for animal rearing?
A: Yes, the government has stated that safer alternatives are available.
Q: What is the residue limit set by FSSAI?
A: The extraneous maximum residue limit of 0.001 mg/kg will be applicable except for chloramphenicol for which it shall be 0.0003mg/ kg.
Disclaimer: This article contains information obtained from the source mentioned below. Our team made changes in the format to rewrite and present the news or article in a unique format.
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