Research shows that Indonesian egg production is still contaminated by germs resistant to antibiotics.hy

 In the bustling world of supermarket shelves and local farms, a recent study conducted by researchers at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Universitas Gadjah Mada in Indonesia has cast a shadow over a seemingly innocuous item on our grocery list: eggs.

Salmonella, a pervasive bacteria notorious for causing illness and even death globally, has been identified in eggs sold across Indonesian supermarkets. What’s more alarming is the discovery that a significant portion of these eggs, a staggering 87.5%, harbors antibiotic-resistant strains of Salmonella. The culprit? Oxytetracycline, a vital antibiotic used to combat various ailments, including relapsing fever, malaria, respiratory infections, and acne.

The study’s revelations go beyond a simple concern; they uncover a deep-seated issue of irresponsible antibiotic use in the country’s egg production. The term “multi-drug resistance” echoes through the findings, indicating that these bacteria can withstand multiple medications, posing a grave threat to public health.

Aisah Nurul Fitri, Animal Welfare Manager at Act for Farmed Animals, expressed deep concern over these findings, emphasizing the potential severity of infections and the higher rates of hospitalization and death associated with drug-resistant Salmonella. The situation demands immediate attention and regulatory measures to curb the reckless use of antibiotics in food production.

The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that antibiotic misuse in animal agriculture, accounting for up to 80% of the total use of medically important antibiotics in some countries, could surpass the death toll of cancer in the near future. The misuse of antibiotics in factory farms, where animals are confined in stressful environments, creates a breeding ground for antibiotic-resistant “superbugs.”

In Indonesia, the majority of laying hens endure a life of confinement in battery cages, spaces smaller than an A4 sheet of paper. The extreme conditions not only compromise the welfare of these animals but also contribute to higher rates of Salmonella contamination. It’s a pressing issue that extends beyond the realm of animal welfare; it’s a risk to public health.

The call for change is not falling on deaf ears. Organizations like Act For Farmed Animals Coalition (AFFA) and Sinergia Animal are pushing for responsible practices, urging egg producers and food companies to move away from intensive animal production systems and phase out the use of battery cages.

While the challenges are immense, there is hope. Companies like Kerry Group, Ascott, Hokkaido Baby, Ismaya Group, and Potato Head have committed to eliminating caged eggs from their supply chains. These steps, along with ongoing research supported by organizations like the Tiny Beam Fund, contribute to building a future where science-based information influences positive changes in animal welfare and public health.

The story of Indonesia’s egg production serves as a stark reminder that the choices we make at the grocery store impact not only our health but also the well-being of animals and the sustainability of our food systems. It’s time to crack down on irresponsible practices and foster a future where our eggs come with a promise of safety and responsibility.