Antibiotics
The problem
Routine antibiotic use in livestock, even within legal organic limits, raises significant concerns. This includes potential for antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a global public health threat, environmental load and thus antimicrobial stewardship is a key element of the One Health consept. Antibiotics can also impact the animal’s gut microbiome and are perceived negatively by consumers, challenging organic production’s holistic approach to animal health.
What SCALE-it does
We are working on a systemic approach to reduce and responsibly use antibiotics, combining innovative advisory techniques, targeted treatments, hygiene, preventive health management measures, and medicinal-plant-based interventions. The AHWP (Animal Health and Welfare Planning) protocol for mastitis and infectious diseases in dairy cows, goats, and sheep will be refined. We also evaluate the utility of medicinal plants for gastro-intestinal disorders in calves and piglets.
Expected results
An improved AHWP Protocol for the prevention of infectious diseases in ruminants. A guide to reduce antibiotics in piglets and calves, and recommendations for medicinal plant use. A reduction in antibiotic use by 40% in adult dairy ruminants, 20% in calves, and 30% in piglets is expected, accompanied by a decrease in mortality/morbidity.
Latest news:
New SCALE-it scientific publication explores how a sustainable fungicide acts against major plant pathogens
Voices of SCALE-it: Advancing Biocontrol for Plant Health
Two EU Projects join forces to redefine organic farming
SCALE-it presented at the “Biocontrol in organic: managing plant health with complementary practices” event at the EU Parliament
SCALE-it holds its first Annual General Meeting in Granada
