Boosting Livestock Productivity Can Cut Antibiotic Use: FAO

A new study led by FAO emphasizes the importance of improving livestock productivity to achieve significant reductions in global antibiotic use. The research, published in Nature Communications, suggests that optimizing livestock systems could cut antibiotic use in half by 2040.

Without targeted interventions, antibiotic use in livestock is projected to increase by nearly 30% by 2040, potentially reaching 143,481t globally. However, strategic improvements in productivity could reduce that figure to around 62,000t, a 57% decrease. By enhancing animal health, management practices, and production efficiency, the study underscores how targeted interventions can help meet global antibiotic reduction goals.

“Improving livestock production efficiency is key to curbing antibiotic use. Producing more animal-based food with the same or fewer animals can reduce the need for antibiotics in livestock and strengthen global food security,” said Alejandro Acosta, Livestock Economist, FAO and author of the study

This message aligns with global commitments to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The 2024 United Nations General Assembly Declaration on AMR calls for a notable reduction in antimicrobial use in agro-food systems by 2030. Achieving this goal will be challenging, especially in regions where livestock production is expanding to meet growing food demand.

“Livestock stakeholders must collaborate to improve disease prevention, strengthen monitoring systems, and invest in innovations that enhance animal health while reducing antibiotic reliance,” said Junxia Song, FAO Senior Animal Health Officer and co-author of the study.

To support these efforts, FAO has launched the Reducing Antimicrobial Need in Agricultural Enterprises for Sustainable Agri-Food System Transformation (RENOFARM) initiative. This program offers policy guidance, technical assistance, and capacity building to help countries reduce antibiotic use while promoting sustainable livestock transformation.

“FAO is committed to transforming agri-food systems by reducing the need for antimicrobials through initiatives like RENOFARM, promoting sustainable practices while safeguarding public health,” said Thanawat Tiensin, Deputy Director General and Director of the Animal Production and Health Division, FAO.

A key contribution of the study is the introduction of the livestock biomass conversion method, which improves the accuracy of estimating livestock biomass across species, production systems, and management practices. This allows for more precise estimates of antibiotic use intensity, helping policymakers and stakeholders develop effective strategies to optimize livestock production and minimize antibiotic dependence.