Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses an emerging and urgent threat to global public health, with its increasing presence in the food supply chain becoming a growing concern. AMR occurs when bacteria evolve to survive antimicrobial drugs, rendering them ineffective in treating infections. In agriculture, overuse of antibiotics treats sick animals and promotes growth and disease prevention, which accelerates bacterial mutations. These resistant strains can infiltrate the food supply, posing serious risks to human health. Understanding how antimicrobial-resistant bacteria enter the food chain is crucial for mitigating their spread.

How Antimicrobial-Resistant Bacteria Enter the Food Chain

The overuse of antibiotics, particularly in agriculture, drives bacterial resistance. In livestock farming, farmers use antibiotics not only to treat illness but also to promote growth and prevent disease in healthy animals. This widespread use accelerates bacterial mutations, allowing resistant bacteria to enter the food we consume. The main pathways through which these resistant bacteria infiltrate the food chain include:

Contaminated Meat and Animal Products: During slaughter and processing, bacteria from animal intestines spread to meat. Inadequate sanitation of equipment and surfaces allows these resistant bacteria to proliferate, especially when meat is undercooked or mishandled.

Contamination of Fruits and Vegetables: Produce becomes contaminated through exposure to soil, water, or fertilizer affected by animal waste containing resistant bacteria, thus increasing risks for consumers.

Environmental Spread: Animal waste containing resistant bacteria can contaminate water sources, affecting crops and drinking water. People risk infection through direct consumption or recreational activities in these waters.

Direct Animal Contact: Agricultural workers and farmers who handle animals directly risk contracting resistant infections through exposure.

The Impact of Antimicrobial Resistance in Foodborne Illnesses

AMR infections often lead to more severe health complications, requiring longer treatment or hospitalization. Foodborne pathogens like Salmonella, Campylobacter, and Escherichia coli frequently exhibit resistance. As a result, infections caused by these bacteria last longer, are harder to treat, and may result in serious complications or death. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that foodborne illnesses cause over 400,000 deaths each year, with children under five accounting for a third of these fatalities. Without significant intervention, AMR could lead to millions of additional deaths by mid-century.

FSSAI’s Action Plan to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance in India

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)’s Central Advisory Committee (CAC) has launched an action plan to tackle AMR and improve food safety practices. Unveiled during the 43rd CAC meeting in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, the plan outlines several strategies aimed at raising awareness and fostering healthier food environments. Key initiatives include

AMR Awareness and Surveillance: Educating farmers on responsible antibiotic use in livestock, aquaculture, and poultry, as part of the AMR National Action Plan-II. FSSAI also advocates for surveillance of antimicrobial susceptibility in food to protect consumer safety.

 Healthy and Hygienic Food Streets: Encouraging Food Safety Commissioners across States and Union Territories to develop 100 food streets with a focus on health and hygiene.

Surveillance Sampling and State Initiatives: Directing states to create surveillance plans and work with state labs to prioritize food safety through regular sampling.

Clean Marketplaces and School Health Initiatives: Promoting clean marketplaces and establishing health clubs in schools. FSSAI is also developing app-based models and literature in regional languages to raise health awareness among youth.

 Awareness of Fortified Rice: Urging states to promote the health benefits of fortified rice and ensure regular sampling of Fortified Rice Kernel (FRK) in line with the FSS (Fortification of Foods) Regulation, 2018.

Food Handler Training: Introducing a guidance document for training food handlers in universities, colleges, and hostel canteens, aiming to train around 1.1 million food handlers over the next two years.FSSAI’s action plan underscores the organization’s dedication to public health by emphasizing surveillance, education, and building robust infrastructure to ensure food safety across India.

Consumer Role in Minimizing AMR Risks

Consumers play a vital role in reducing the risks of AMR. By adopting simple, effective practices, they can prevent infections and limit the spread of resistant bacteria:

Cook Meat Thoroughly: Cooking meat, seafood, and eggs to safe temperatures kill harmful bacteria, including resistant strains.

Wash Produce: Rinsing fruits and vegetables thoroughly removes contaminants that may carry resistant bacteria.

Practice Hand Hygiene: Washing hands after handling raw food, working with animals, or being in environments with animals prevents the spread of bacteria.

Stay Informed: Keeping up with food recalls and safety advisories enables consumers to make safer, informed choices.

By following the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommendations and using antibiotics responsibly, agriculture can reduce the spread of AMR, ensuring the preservation of these critical treatments for future generations.

Key Takeaways