22.08.2014

The new regulations are said to allow the relevant authorities assess the frequency of antibiotic usage on a farm and draw comparisons with other livestock holders. Livestock farmers are now required to report to the competent authority every six months on what antibiotics they have administered to which animals in that period including the quantities involved.
Supervisory authorities will assess the frequency of antibiotic therapy on a farm and make comparisons with other farms. Following comparisons, a farmer can be required to take action deemed necessary.
The change, aimed at gradually reducing the use of antibiotics in livestock farming, is part of the 16th Act amending the German Drug Act, which came into force in July, and applies to chicken, turkey, pig and cattle farmers.
Under the new system, supervisory authorities will assess the frequency of antibiotic therapy on a farm and make comparisons with other farms. Following comparisons, a farmer can be required to take action deemed necessary.
Failure to comply could result in fines or a suspension from keeping animals.