An update discussion on the current assessment of the safety of veterinary antimicrobial drug residues in food with regard to their impact on the human intestinal microbiome.

The human gastrointestinal tract ecosystem consists of complex and diverse microbial communities that have now been collectively termed the intestinal microbiome. Recent scientific breakthroughs and research endeavours have increased our understanding of the important role the intestinal microbiome plays in human health and disease. The use of antimicrobial new animal drugs in food-producing animals may result in the presence of low levels of drug residues in edible foodstuffs.

Approaches in the safety evaluations of veterinary antimicrobial agents in food to determine the effects on the human intestinal microflora.

The administration of antimicrobial agents to livestock creates potential for antibiotic residues to enter the food supply and be consumed by humans. Therefore, as a process of food animal drug registration, national regulatory agencies and international committees evaluate data regarding the chemical, microbiologic, pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic, pharmacologic, toxicologic, and antimicrobial properties of veterinary drugs to assess the safety of ingested antimicrobial residues to consumers. Currently, European, Australian and United States guidelines for veterinary drug registration require a safety assessment of microbiologic hazards from consumption of antimicrobial residues taking into account the potentially adverse effects on human intestinal microflora.

Efficacy of ceftiofur for treatment of experimental salmonellosis in neonatal calves.

Objective: To evaluate therapeutic efficacy of a high extralabel dose of ceftiofur for treatment of experimental salmonellosis in neonatal calves.

Animals: Forty-two 1- to 4-day-old Holstein bull calves.

Procedure: 36 calves were orally challenged with Salmonella enteritica serovar Typhimurium (6.

Cephalosporins in veterinary medicine - ceftiofur use in food animals.

Cephalosporins are an important class of antibacterial agents in use today for both humans and animals. Four generations of cephalosporins have evolved, all of which contain the beta-lactam sub-structure first found in penicillin. The range of cephalosporins available for use in food-producing animals, which is the subject of this review, is limited compared to humans.

Evaluation of veterinary drug residues in food for their potential to affect human intestinal microflora.

The use of veterinary drugs in food-producing animals may result in trace quantities of the drugs or their metabolites being present as residues in food. The effects of veterinary drugs intended for use in food-producing animals on intestinal microflora are evaluated in drug registration since these residues may pose a risk due to their antibiotic activity. This article reviews the different in vivo and in vitro experimental test systems and approaches used by animal health industries, contract laboratories, and regulatory authorities to assess the safety of veterinary drug residues in foods for human consumption.