The recent online gathering by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) regarding antibiotic usage within the dairy industry has raised some pressing concerns. Experts from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), the World Health Organization (WHO), the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), among others were in attendance. The main focus was on the unchecked antibiotic residues present in both direct consumer milk and processed packaged milk.
The Indian Dairy Landscape
India holds the title for the world’s largest milk producer, having produced 188 million tonnes of milk in 2018-19. On top of that, milk is an essential component of the Indian diet, particularly for children. Urban areas account for 52% of consumption, with the unorganised sector – consisting of milkmen and contractors – catering to approximately 60% of these consumers. Dairy cooperatives and private dairies, the organised sector, meet the remaining demand.
Testing: An Area of Neglect
A significant concern raised at the CSE meeting was the lack of attention devoted to the testing for antibiotic residues in milk. State federations that collect, process, and sell milk as packaged products often neglect this crucial step.
Widespread Misuse of Antibiotics
The misuse of antibiotics within the dairy sector is extensive and concerning. The use of such chemicals in food can contribute to the troubling trend of antibiotic resistance. Farmers often self-administer animal injections based on perceived signs and symptoms of disease, bypassing veterinary supervision entirely.
Indiscriminate Use of Antibiotics
Dairy farmers widely misuse antibiotics, frequently employing them to treat diseases like mastitis – an infection or inflammation of the udder commonly found in dairy animals. The antibiotics utilised often fall under the category of Critically Important Antibiotics (CIAs) for humans. The WHO has issued warnings regarding the essential nature of these CIAs as antibiotic resistance increases. Unfortunately, farmers often sell milk even while the producing animal is under treatment, a practice that escalates the risk of antibiotic residues.
Easy Accessibility of Antibiotics
Another worry is the easy availability of these antibiotics. Dairy farmers can readily secure them without needing a prescription from a registered veterinarian. As such, antibiotics are frequently stocked on dairy farms, increasing the chance for misuse.
Overall, the issue of antibiotic use and residue in milk is an area of growing concern. It calls for immediate and coordinated action to ensure food safety and prevent the potential health risks associated with antibiotic resistance.
