A fresh analysis of scientific opinion on measures to reduce the need to use antimicrobial agents in animal husbandry in the EU will be a featured discussion topic during a major food safety meeting in Brussels in early March.
According to the draft agenda for a two-day meeting of the Scientific Panel on Animal Health and Welfare (AHAW) of the European Food Safety Authority (Efsa), an examination of antimicrobial usage will be given its own designated debate session.
Meeting delegates will consider the results of a joint Efsa and European Medicines Agency (EMA) examination of the “measures to reduce the need to use antimicrobial agents in animal husbandry in the EU and the resulting impacts on food safety”.
Efsa has also announced that, in addition to official delegates, observers will be welcome to attend the meeting in Brussels on March 9 & 10.
The meeting will also review scientific opinions on animal welfare aspects in relation to the slaughter of pregnant livestock (cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, horses) and current entry routes into the EU of vector borne diseases.