No Major Issues Expected as Result of FDA Guidance

The Food and Drug Administration says 25 to 27 companies will be affected by the new guidance issued last week (week of December 9) – which establishes a three-year timeline for phasing out growth-promotion uses of antibiotics important in human medicine and phasing in veterinary oversight. Zoetis and Elanco have both said they plan to adopt the voluntary guidelines and don’t expect a significant impact on overall sales.

From the rancher’s side of things – National Cattlemen’s Beef Association spokesman Chase Adams has said no major issues are expected, as this move from the FDA has been anticipated. The FDA worked with groups representing drug companies, the feed industry, livestock producers, veterinarians and consumer groups in putting this guidance together,  so most in agriculture have responded favorably to the guidance from FDA. The American Veterinary Medical Association applauded the FDA’s Final Guidance 213 – but still says claims that use of antibiotics in animals harms human health are misguided.

Source: NAFB News Serivce