Farm Animals

Livestock Antibiotic Stewardship and Welfare

Responsible antibiotic use in livestock is both a human health and animal welfare priority, requiring welfare improvements that reduce disease and thus antibiotic dependence.

Key Facts

Agriculture accounts for approximately 70% of global antibiotic consumption
The UK has successfully reduced veterinary antibiotic use by over 50% since 2014
Better welfare reduces disease incidence and therefore antibiotic need
Prophylactic group treatment is being phased out in many countries
The EU banned prophylactic antibiotic use and growth promotion antibiotics in 2022

Welfare Considerations

Antibiotic stewardship and animal welfare are deeply interconnected - better welfare reduces disease burden, while reducing antibiotic use requires addressing the underlying welfare problems that cause disease. The most effective stewardship programmes are those that invest in welfare improvements alongside prescription controls.

What You Can Do

Support meat and dairy certified for responsible antibiotic use
Advocate for antibiotic stewardship requirements in farming assurance schemes
Learn about the connection between animal welfare and antibiotic resistance
Support research into welfare-based interventions that reduce antibiotic need
Engage with retailers about their antibiotic use policies in supply chains