Indiscriminate Antimicrobial Use in Bangladeshi Chicken Farms Poses Health Threat to Humans and Animals

Strategic Insights -

A new study conducted by researchers at the Institute of Epidemiology has highlighted the alarming use of antimicrobials in Bangladeshi chicken farms, putting both human and animal health at risk. The research, which involved a cross-sectional study of 340 commercial chicken farms, found that 93.2% of farms administered at least one antimicrobial to chickens during the production cycle. The study's findings have significant implications for public health, as the indiscriminate use of antimicrobials can lead to antimicrobial resistance and residues in food products.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study found that 93.2% of Bangladeshi chicken farms used at least one antimicrobial during the production cycle, with 67.0% of farmers using antimicrobials in the 14 days before data collection.
  • The usage of antimicrobials was higher in meat-type chickens (78.0% in broiler and 67.2% in Sonali) compared to egg-type chickens (41.3% in layer).
  • The study identified several factors associated with the use of antimicrobials, including farming experience, poultry production type, knowledge gaps in proper antimicrobial use practices, the person managing the farm, reuse of leftover antimicrobials, and compliance with veterinarians' recommendations.
  • The research emphasized the need for farmer training on proper antimicrobial use practices to protect animal health, human health, and the ecosystem.
  • The study's findings have significant implications for public health, as antimicrobial resistance and residues in food products can have detrimental consequences.
  • The study's authors highlighted the importance of increasing farmers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding antimicrobial use to mitigate the risk of antimicrobial resistance.
  • The study's conclusions were based on a cross-sectional study in 340 commercial chicken farms in seven districts of Bangladesh from September to October 2021.

Statistics:

  • 93.2% of Bangladeshi chicken farms used at least one antimicrobial during the production cycle.
  • 67.0% of farmers used antimicrobials in the 14 days before data collection.
  • 78.0% of broiler farms and 67.2% of Sonali farms used antimicrobials compared to 41.3% of layer farms.
  • 317 out of 340 (93.2%) farms administered at least one antimicrobial to chickens during the production cycle.
  • 67.0% of farmers used antimicrobials in the 14 days before data collection.

Sources:

  • "Determinants of indiscriminate antimicrobial use in commercial chicken farms in Bangladesh and their impact on food safety and public health." Scientific Reports, 2025,15(1):1-15.
  • NewsRx. Study Findings from Institute of Epidemiology Advance Knowledge in Chicken Farms (Determinants of indiscriminate antimicrobial use in commercial chicken farms in Bangladesh and their impact on food safety and public health). Agriculture Week. September 4, 2025; p 469.