The Take Care program and responsible use of antibiotics.

While the contribution of antimicrobial use in pork production to resistant bacteria in human health is uncertain, pork producers have the responsibility to deliver safe and wholesome pork to consumers. The development of a comprehensive producer education and awareness program focused on the responsible use of antimicrobials in pork production is described. The Take Care - Use Antibiotics Responsibly program is based on principles and guidelines that provide the producer and veterinarian the basis for antibiotic use decision-making. The goal of the program is to protect public health while preserving animal health and welfare.