Topic: Antibiotic Resistance

Bibliography on Antibiotic Resistance and Food Animal Production

This bibliography lists the latest published scientific and economic literature concerning the contribution of routine antibiotic use in food animals to the growing public health crisis of human antibiotic resistance. Research on how antibiotic use in food animal production contributes to the growing health crisis of antibiotic resistance dates back more than 30 years.

''Overused Antibiotics are Becoming Ineffective''

"As a nation, we need to exercise greater care with our use of antibiotics, in both humans and animals, so that these medications remain effective in treating serious bacterial infections."

''It is Vital That We Monitor Antibiotic Use in Livestock''

It used to be easy to treat healthy children with common bacterial infections; a regimen of antibiotic pills could usually wipe out the disease. Today, patients might need to go home on intravenous antibiotics because oral therapies will no longer work. Antibiotic resistance is to blame.

''Lewiston Woman Sickened by Ground Beef Rallies Against Antibiotics in Meat''

A past bout of salmonella led Maine resident Danielle Wadsworth to travel to Washington, D.C. this week to argue for stronger regulations to curtail the use of antibiotics in livestock farming. She took part Wednesday in "Supermoms Against Superbugs," an initiative of the Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming.

''Nashville Voices Take Concerns About Antibiotic Resistance to Washington''

Dr. Cecilia Di Pentima is in Washington, D.C., for “Supermoms against Superbugs” to push for laws to curtail the use of antibiotics in livestock farming — one of many fronts in the battle to preserve the effectiveness of the medicines. Family physicians in the South, including Tennessee, have also been identified as inadvertent purveyors of drug-resistant bacteria by prescribing too many antibiotics.

Antibiotics and Industrial Farming 101

Each year, tens of thousands of Americans die and hundreds of thousands are hospitalized because of bacterial infections resistant to antibiotics. Antibiotic overuse on industrial farms is a big part of the problem. The largest U.S. meat and poultry producers feed antibiotics to healthy animals over much of their lives to make them grow faster and to compensate for the overcrowded and unsanitary conditions in which they are bred and slaughtered.

Multiple Organizations - Including Pew - Support DATA Act

On behalf of the undersigned organizations representing medical, public health, scientific, agricultural, environmental, animal protection, and other organizations, we urge you to include H.R. 820, the Delivering Antimicrobial Transparency in Animals (DATA) Act, as part of the final Animal Drug User Fee Act (ADUFA). This legislation provides a reasonable, common-sense approach to better understanding antibiotic use in agriculture.

''Yes, Antibiotic-Resistant Bugs Can Jump from Animals to Humans''

"For decades, the meat industry has denied any problem with its reliance on routine, everyday antibiotic use for the nation's chickens, cows, and pigs. But it's a bit like a drunk denying an alcohol problem while leaning on a barstool for support. Antibiotic use on livestock farms has surged in recent years — from 20 million pounds annually in 2003 to nearly 30 million pounds in 2011."

''Antibiotics and the Meat We Eat''

"Scientists at the Food and Drug Administration systematically monitor the meat and poultry sold in supermarkets around the country for the presence of disease-causing bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics. These food products are bellwethers that tell us how bad the crisis of antibiotic resistance is getting. And they’re telling us it’s getting worse."

Pew Commends Senators Gillibrand and Feinstein for Working to Shine Light on Antibiotics Practices

The Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee today adopted the Animal Drug User Fee Act, which failed to include provisions from Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) that would improve the Food and Drug Administration's annual reporting of antibiotic sales for use on industrial farms.

''Breeding Bad Bugs''

"Study after study has found that the practice of feeding subtherapeutic doses of antibiotics to livestock to enhance growth is a threat to public health because it can lead to the breeding of antibiotic-resistant organisms, rendering essential drugs useless against disease-carrying organisms. Now there is alarming new evidence that unchecked antibiotic use in Chinese livestock farming has led to antibiotic-resistant genes in bacteria. China produces and uses more antibiotics than any other country, and nearly half the antibiotics it uses are fed to livestock."

''Our Antibiotics Are Less Effective; Routine Use in Farming is Cited''

"The vast majority of antibiotics developed to treat people are given to the animals people eat. Farmers add low doses to feed and water to prevent disease in crowded livestock facilities. The drugs also promote growth. A bigger cow, pig, turkey or chicken translates into more money for producers. How does this widespread use in animals affect humans? It is killing us, a growing number of scientists say."

''Antibiotics, Animals and Us''

Describing the routine use of antibiotics in meat and poultry production as a "serious threat to public health," the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2010 called on livestock operations to voluntarily reduce their reliance on the medications. But an FDA report this month indicates that, so far, the results are unimpressive: Antibiotic sales to livestock operations rose in 2011, rather than falling.

Health, Science Leaders Call on Congress for More Antibiotics Data

A broad coalition of medical, public health, scientific, agricultural, consumer, environmental and humane organizations, representing more than 11 million supporters, wrote a letter urging Congress to reauthorize the Animal Drug User Fee Act (ADUFA) and include in it provisions to help preserve the efficacy of antibiotics vital to protecting public health.

Antibiotics in Food Animal Production: Pew’s Response to Raymond Op-Ed

In his attempt to clarify the issue of antibiotic use in meat and poultry production, Dr. Richard Raymond confuses matters. Most importantly, Dr. Raymond mischaracterizes the value of tetracyclines and the dangers of their overuse.

A New Year's Resolution: Put Animals on an Antibiotics Diet

As Americans ring in the new year, many of us will resolve to get healthy. Meat and poultry producers can help -- by making a resolution to put their farm animals on an antibiotics diet.

''The One Issue Food Activists Should Focus On''

''Ask a dozen food activists what political change they want to see in 2013 and you’ll get a dozen different answers, maybe two dozen: Restrict sodium in packaged foods. Label genetically modified ingredients. End subsidies to big farms. All are critical. What did meet all the requirements was this: Get antibiotics off the farm and out of the food supply."

Pew Comments on Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking ''Antimicrobial Animal Drug Sales and Distribution Reporting''

The Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming submitted a letter to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, urging the FDA to strengthen regulations pertaining to record-keeping and public reporting of antibiotic use in food animal production.

Public Health and Consumer Groups Call for Participation in Antibiotic Use Meetings

On Nov. 2, 15 public health and consumer organizations sent a joint letter to the FDA requesting to join in discussions to consider how the misuse and overuse of antibiotics in livestock and poultry are significant contributing factors to antibiotic resistance in humans.

Mr. President: Pardon the Turkey, Not Industrial Animal Agriculture

In just a few days, Americans will prepare and serve about 45 million turkeys. This bounty is worthy of our thanks, but the conditions in which most of these birds were raised are not.

''Fighting Superbugs''

"One of the most urgent global public health problems is the increasing capability of bacteria to resist antibiotic drugs. The crisis of antimicrobial resistance is particularly acute in hospitals, where superbugs able to resist multiple drugs have spawned. More than 70 percent of the bacteria that cause hospital-related infections are already resistant to at least one type of antibacterial drug."

''Farm Use of Antibiotics Defies Scrutiny''

"Eighty percent of the antibiotics sold in the United States goes to chicken, pigs, cows and other animals that people eat, yet producers of meat and poultry are not required to report how they use the drugs — which ones, on what types of animal, and in what quantities. This dearth of information makes it difficult to document the precise relationship between routine antibiotic use in animals and antibiotic-resistant infections in people, scientists say."

Save Antibiotics August Newsletter (2012)

What's in your Lunchbox? & Senators Call for FDA ActionAIP Generating ActBelow is your August 2012 newsletter from the Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming. This edition features a video of Supermoms visiting Capitol Hill, a new report on

Members of Congress Write Letter to FDA About Antibiotics in Food Animal Production

Twelve United States congressmen have penned a letter to the Food and Drug Administration making recommendations on improvements to the FDA's policies on food animal production and the use of antibiotics in industrial farming.

Recent Outbreak Stresses Need for New Antibiotics

On August 22, researchers at the National Institute of Health released a scientific paper detailing the use of advanced genetic technology to trace a deadly infection, untreatable by nearly every antibiotic, that spread through the NIH’s Clinical Center last year.

Recent Outbreak Stresses Need for New Antibiotics

''Get Antibiotics Off the Farm''

"Earlier this month, a federal magistrate judge in New York told the Food and Drug Administration to quit dillydallying on its three-decade effort to curb indiscriminate use of antibiotics in farm animals to spur their growth. He set a timetable for the agency to follow in withdrawing two important drugs — penicillin and two forms of tetracycline — from widespread use in animals. The trouble is, that timetable will give the FDA. five more years to complete the process."

U.S. Senators' Letter to FDA Commissioner Margaret Hamburg

Thirteen U.S. Senators, including Sen. Dianne Feinstein and Sen. Susan Collins signed a letter to U.S. Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Margaret Hamburg calling for improvements to Guidance for Industry 209 -- which proposes voluntary reductions in the use of antibiotics in food animal production.

Human Health and Industrial Farming 101

Are you interested in writing about the overuse of drugs in food animal production? Below you can find background information, key facts, photos, and other resources.

''Will Humans Lose the Battle With Microbes?''

Bacteria have become increasingly resistant to the drugs we've come to rely on. Only a concerted effort can avert a public health crisis.

Leading Physicians and Scientists Ask FDA to Rein in Drug Use in Food Animals

Several recognized leaders in the U.S. scientific and medical community have signed a letter to President Obama and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, urging the FDA to implement stronger regulations regarding the use of antibiotics in food-producing animals.

A Supermom Goes to Washington

Everly Macario lost her son Simon to a drug-resistant infection when he was only one-and-a-half years old. Since then, she’s been a strong voice in the fight to conserve antibiotics.

Save Antibiotics July Newsletter (2012)

Below is your July 2012 newsletter from the Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming. In this edition we offer two new videos highlighting chefs and farmers encouraging responsible use of antibiotics, we urge President Obama to keep his promise and fix the dangerously outdated food safety system, and much more.

Save Antibiotics June Newsletter (2012)

Here is your June 2012 newsletter from the Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming. In this edition, we ask that you urge the FDA to strengthen its antibiotic policies, the Consumers Union asks grocery stores, "where’s the meat raised without antibiotics?" and the FDA's updated plan on food safety.

Pew Seeks More Veterinary Oversight of Antibiotic Use on Industrial Farms

Gail Hansen, a senior officer with the Pew Health Group, thanks the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for issuing draft codified language expanding the Veterinary Feed Directive (VFD). She also raises several concerns with the language that should be addressed.

Pew Asks FDA to Close Loopholes in New Guidelines to Protect Antibiotics From Overuse

Pew's Laura Rogers, program director of the Human Health and Industrial Farming initiative, commended the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for issuing Draft Guidance 213 for industry on antibiotics in animal feed and water and urged the agency to consider improvements that would better protect public health.

Pew Asks FDA to Strengthen Guidelines on Antibiotic Use in Food Animals

Pew's Human Health and Industrial Farming team has applauded the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for issuing Guide 209. However, they would like to see additional strengthening measures, which can help begin the process of making progress toward reducing the development and spread of antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections in people.

Businesses to FDA: End Overuse of Antibiotics in Food Animals

Several business leaders, including the CEO of Chipotle, wrote a letter to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requesting that the FDA increase its efforts to curtail the misuse of antibiotics in food animal production.

359 Health Professionals Ask FDA to Better Protect Antibiotics

In this letter to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 359 health professionals requested that the federal government accelerate and expand actions to curtail the overuse and misuse of antibiotics in food animal production.

Hospitals Seek Stronger Guidelines for Antibiotic Use in Food Animals

Several hospitals and medical centers across the United States joined forces in a letter to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to accelerate and expand actions to curtail the overuse and misuse of antibiotics in food animal production.

58 Health and Consumer Groups Tell FDA to Close Loopholes in Antibiotic Guidelines

Over 50 health and consumer groups plead to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration that the federal government accelerate and expand actions to curtail the overuse and misuse of antibiotics in food animal production. Despite overwhelming scientific evidence that these practices threaten human health, the routine administration of antibiotics in industrial meat and poultry operations continues unabated, putting the health of all Americans at risk for dangerous antibiotic-resistant infections.

Food Animal Production and Antibiotic Resistance

Antibiotics are one of the most important tools in modern medicine. These drugs can mean the difference between life and death when humans contract a bacterial infection—from staph to salmonella to bacterial pneumonia. But overuse and misuse of these drugs are making bacteria more quickly resistant to essential antibiotics.

''Dear F.D.A.: Stop Drugging Animals''

"The comment period for the F.D.A.’s ruling on antibiotic use in animals closed yesterday, and at least 200,000 people have told the agency that the routine use of drugs in animal rearing must be restricted. The agency, which has stalled on this for 30 years, has been ordered by two judges to act now."

Chefs Highlight Need to End Overuse of Antibiotics in Food Animal Production

Celebrity chefs and restauranteurs Suzanne Goin and Mary Sue Milliken, who serve only antibiotic-free meat in their establishments, came to Washington, D.C., on May 15 to address the overuse of antibiotics in food animal production.

Supermoms Take on Washington to Protect Antibiotics

On May 15, the Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming and the American Academy of Pediatrics hosted a Supermoms Against Superbugs Advocacy Day in Washington, D.C., to celebrate and unite these individuals across America who are living this issue and working to preserve the effectiveness of antibiotics for their children and families.

Committed to Farming, Committed to Health

Illinois farmers Allan Sexton, a retired veterinarian, and his wife Jeanne explain why they choose to raise their livestock without misusing antibiotics.

''Meat and ‘superbugs’''

"The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced in 1977 that it would begin prohibiting the use of some antibiotics in agriculture, but Congress objected and nothing happened. Since then, the need for restraint has grown. The wonder drugs of the 20th century have been so widely used that germs are becoming resistant to them, giving rise to “superbugs,” bacteria that are immune to one or more antibiotics. Tens of thousands of people die every year from hospital-acquired infections, the vast majority of which result from such resistant bacteria."

''Next steps to thwart 'superbugs'''

"An old saying goes, you don't miss your water till your well runs dry. When it comes to antibiotics, we're not only running out of water but there are no rain clouds on the horizon. The overuse and underdevelopment of these drugs have brought us close to the brink of a world without cures for deadly infections."

''Infection cases stir debate on antiobiotic use''

"Food safety activists and some medical professionals argue that overuse of antibiotics in people and food animals is causing drug resistance, and they want regulations to curb their use. Anytime antibiotics are used, whether in humans or animals, resistance can build, said Dr. Gail Hansen, a veterinary public health officer with the Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming in Washington, D.C."

''Superbugs''

"Since the 1950s, most American food animals have been routinely dosed with antibiotics, through their feed and water, in order to hasten their maturation and prevent disease from spreading in the close quarters of factory farms. According to the FDA, 80 percent of all antibiotics sold in this country are administered to livestock, most of them healthy."

''Antibiotics Are Not Candy''

"Americans take antibiotics carelessly, prophylactically, almost recreationally, and our overuse is creating superbugs that no drug will be able to kill. Another major contributing factor in this crisis is the overuse of antibiotics in the farming industry."

Save Antibiotics May Newsletter (2012)

"Supermoms" from Maine to Hawaii came to Washington, D.C., this week to press the Obama Administration and Congress to do more to rein in the overuse of antibiotics on America's industrial farms, a practice that breeds antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Moms for Antibiotic Awareness Newsletter (2012)

"Supermoms" from Maine to Hawaii came to Washington, D.C., this week to press the Obama Administration and Congress to do more to rein in the overuse of antibiotics on America’s industrial farms, a practice that breeds antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Supermoms Take on Washington to Protect Life-Saving Antibiotics

A special thank you message from the Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming

''How Cheap Meat Practices Beef Up Superbugs Like MRSA''

"As 1½ year old Simon Sparrow lay dying in a hospital in April 2004, doctors were perplexed as to what was causing his illness."

''Mothers, Farmers and Chefs Against Antibiotic Misuse''

"Today, Everly and a number of other women — mothers of drug-resistance victims, and mothers who themselves were victims of resistant bugs — brought their campaign to Capitol Hill."

“Supermoms Against Superbugs” Take Washington by Storm

Moms from Maine to Hawaii have come to Washington, D.C., today to press the Obama Administration and Congress to do more to rein in the overuse of antibiotics on America’s industrial farms, a practice that breeds antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

A Mother Fights Against Antibiotic Resistance

Chicago-based mother Everly Macario describes her drive to curb overuse of antibiotics after losing her son to an antibiotic-resistant infection.

Chicago Public School Student-Chefs Treat Congress to Chicken Raised without Antibiotics

Six high school students from the Chicago Vocational Career Academy served Congress a lunch that features chicken raised without antibiotics, just like much of the chicken now on the menu in public schools back home in Chicago.

Meet Our Supermoms

We're excited to introduce you to our "Supermoms," passionate advocates from across the country who are raising awareness about the overuse and misuse of antibiotics in food animal production and its impact on human health.

BlogHer '12

The Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming will have an informational booth at BlogHer ’12. Come out and meet us and collect some information and ideas on how to get involved.

LULAC National Convention and Expo

The Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming will have an informational booth at the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) National Convention & Expo.

National PTA Convention

The Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming will have an informational booth at the National PTA Convention.

BlogHer Food '12

The Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming will have an informational booth at BlogHer Food ’12. Come out and meet us and collect some information and ideas on how to get involved.

Moms for Antibiotic Awareness April Newsletter (2012)

Below is your April 2012 newsletter from Moms for Antibiotic Awareness. In this edition: FDA Takes Important Step to Curb Antibiotic Overuse in Food Animal Production.

Save Antibiotics April Newsletter (2012)

Below is your April 2012 newsletter from the Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming. In this edition: FDA Takes Important Step to Curb Antibiotic Overuse in Food Animal Production.

''Antibiotics Off the Farm''

"Two important events in recent weeks a regulatory guideline and a federal court decision have raised hopes that progress can be made in curbing the widespread use of antibiotics ... "

Expert Profile: Gail Hansen

Gail Hansen, Senior Officer, Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming

Antibiotic Innovation: The Threat and the Pipeline

The Superbug Threat explores the emergence of antibiotic resistant bacteria and its impact on human health, as well as the shrinking pipeline of new antibiotics.

Earl Hafner Guides a Tour of his Iowa Farm

Earl Hafner of Hafner, Inc. guides Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming staff on a tour of his farm in Panora, Iowa. Hafner practices responsible use of antibiotics in raising his farm animals.

Expert Profile: Laura Rogers

Laura Rogers, Project Director, Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming

Moms for Antibiotic Awareness March Newsletter (2012)

Below is your March 2012 newsletter from Moms for Antibiotic Awarness. In this edition: "Supermoms Against Superbugs" Take Washington By Storm Contest!; FDA Finds Rise in Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria on Meat and Poultry

Save Antibiotics March Newsletter (2012)

Below is your March 2012 newsletter from the Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming. In this edition: "Supermoms Against Superbugs" Take Washington By Storm Contest!, FDA Finds Rise in Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria on Meat and Poultry

''Antibiotic Resistance: An Emerging Food Safety Concern''

"Antibiotics are drugs capable of killing bacteria or disrupting their reproduction without harming their host, and have been used for more than 70 years to treat people with infections and for more than 50 years in veterinary medicine."

Moms for Antibiotic Awareness February Newsletter (2012)

In this edition: Urgent Action Opportunity: Sign "We The People" Petition, FDA Takes Measures to Preserve Effectiveness of Cephalosporins, and HHIF Staff Visits the CDC.

Save Antibiotics February Newsletter (2012)

In this edition: Urgent Action Opportunity: Sign "We The People" Petition, FDA Takes Measures to Preserve Effectiveness of Cephalosporins, and HHIF Staff Visits the CDC.

Managing the Risk of Foodborne Hazards: STECs and Antibiotic-Resistant Pathogens

The Pew Charitable Trusts and the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) co hosted a one day conference titled, Managing the Risk of Foodborne Hazards STECs and Antibiotic Resistant Pathogens, in Washington, D.C. on January

Moms for Antibiotic Awareness January Newsletter (2012)

The January, 2012 newsletter for the Moms for Antibiotic Awareness campaign includes the latest news on a new FDA measure banning cephalosporins, a new story about Ruby, a baby affected by foodborne illness, and an update on our growing group of 23,000 supportive moms.

Save Antibiotics January Newsletter (2012)

The January, 2012 newsletter for the Save Antibiotics campaign includes the latest news on a new FDA measure, a new story about Ruby, a baby affected by foodborne illness, and an update on our growing group of 43,800 supporters.

''Fatter cows, sicker people''

"The FDA has restricted the use of a minor antibiotic used by the meat industry. It's a small step to counter the widespread overuse of antibiotics on healthy animals, which helps create antibiotic-resistant bacteria that harms humans."

''F.D.A. Creeps Forward''

"Last week, the Food and Drug Administration took a small step toward reducing the routine use of antibiotics in livestock, a practice that creates drug-resistant pathogens and threatens the effectiveness of some antibiotics in human medicine."

''FDA changing course on antibiotics in livestock''

"The debate over the drug use in food animals continues as federal regulators tackle the issues of drug-resistance and shorter supplies."

''Danger: Contaminated meat''

"A nonprofit research center based in Phoenix analyzed 80 brands of beef, pork, chicken and turkey in five cities -- and found that 47 percent contained staphylococcus aureus, which can cause everything from skin infections to pneumonia to blood poisoning. Of the staph germs detected, half were antibiotic-resistant."

''The F.D.A.’s Token Gesture''

"After withdrawing its own 34-year-old request/promise to restrict the routine use of penicillin and tetracyclines in farm animal feed, the F.D.A. made it crystal clear that, despite the increasingly common threat of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in supermarket meat, it would leave the regulating up to industry itself."

''FDA takes step in right direction''

"Wednesday's announcement that federal drug regulators will now require U.S. farmers and ranchers to limit their use of certain antibiotics in cows, pigs, chickens and turkeys is a long overdue positive ruling that should help reduce the growing threat that antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections pose to humans. Welcome as the edict is, it does not go far enough. Additional restrictions or, preferably, bans on their use are necessary to properly safeguard public health."

''Antibiotics and agriculture''

"Federal drug regulators Wednesday announced new rules requiring farmers and ranchers to restrict their use of a critical class of antibiotics known as cephalosporins in cattle, pigs, chickens and turkeys."

''Natural Law''

"No act of Congress, no executive edict, no environmental permit or court ruling, has the power to overturn the laws of nature. Two recent news items illustrate why this matters."

Pew Applauds FDA Measure to Preserve Effectiveness of Critical Antibiotics

The Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming today praised the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for limiting the use of cephalosporins in food animal production.

''FDA curbs use of certain antibiotics in animals''

"After long delays, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued an order today prohibiting certain uses of the cephalosporin class of antimicrobial drugs in cattle, swine, chickens and turkeys."

''Citing Drug Resistance, U.S. Restricts More Antibiotics for Livestock''

Federal drug regulators announced on Wednesday that farmers and ranchers must restrict their use of a critical class of antibiotics in cattle, pigs, chickens, and turkeys because such practices may have contributed to the growing threat in people of bacterial infections that are resistant to treatment.

''FDA limits some antibiotics in livestock''

"The Food and Drug Administration on Wednesday ordered farmers to limit the use of a type of antibiotics they give livestock because it could make people more resistant to a key antibiotic that can save lives, encouraging news for public health advocates who say such animal antibiotics are overused."

Gail Hansen

Dr. Gail Hansen serves as a senior officer for the Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming, a project aimed at phasing out overuse of antibiotics in food production.

Laura Rogers

Laura Rogers serves as the project director for the Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming, phasing out overuse of antibiotics in food production.

Moms for Antibiotic Awareness December Newsletter (2011)

The Chicago Public Schools (CPS), through its food provider Chartwells-Thompson Hospitality, has begun serving local chicken raised without antibiotics to students in 457 schools. No other district in the nation is serving this kind of poultry regularly at such a scale.

Save Antibiotics December Newsletter (2011)

''Amish-raised chicken on CPS lunch menu''

"Drumsticks from chickens raised on Amish farms without the use of antibiotics will be served at the 473 schools catered by Chartwells-Thompson. The company plans to buy about 1.2 million pounds of unprocessed Amish chicken this year for CPS, the largest district in the nation to make such a commitment."

Chicago Public Schools Largest District to Serve Chicken Raised without Antibiotics

Chicago Public Schools (CPS) today began serving local chicken raised without antibiotics to students in 473 schools. This development comes on the heels of a fresh chicken purchase direct from the USDA earlier this fall.

''Meat industry unhappy over limiting the use of antibiotics''

"For decades, factory farms have used antibiotics even in healthy animals to promote faster growth and prevent diseases that could sicken livestock held in confined quarters. But a firestorm has erupted over a federal proposal recommending antibiotics only when animals are actually sick."

''Rising antibiotic use on farms prompts renewed push for federal restrictions''

"Public health advocates are renewing their push for stronger restrictions on antibiotics in food production after a Pew Health Group analysis of federal data found that their use was up 6.7 percent in 2010."

Moms for Antibiotic Awareness October Newsletter (2011)

Moms for Antibiotic Awareness October Newsletter (2011) Below is your October 2011 newsletter from Moms for Antibiotic Awareness. In this issue, you will find updates on the release of an important new report on antibiotics in food animal production, information on a critical class of drugs

Save Antibiotics October Newsletter (2011)

Below is your October 2011 newsletter from The Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming. In this issue, you will find updates on the release of an important new report on antibiotics in food animal production, information on a critical class of drugs FDA is expected to protect from overuse on farms, and several action opportunities to tell FDA, Congress and the White House why this issue is important to you.

''Senate panel wants quick FDA action on drug-resistant diseases''

"The agriculture spending bill that Senate appropriators unanimously approved Wednesday directs regulators to hurry up with their recommendations for limiting the use of antibiotics in farm animals."

New Ad: The Facts are Clear

Hundreds of scientific studies conducted over four decades have shown that feeding low doses of antibiotics to healthy food animals leads to drug-resistant infections in people. In fact, America’s leading medical, scientific and public health organizations have been warning of the danger for years.

Joint letter on State of the Science Regarding Antibiotic Use in Food Animals

The undersigned medical and public health organizations wish to clarify misinformation and confusion about the state of scientific knowledge concerning the contribution of animal agriculture to human antibiotic resistance.

Moms for Antibiotic Awareness September Newsletter (2011)

Since our launch in May, we’ve had more than 15,500 individuals joined Moms for Antibiotic Awareness. More than 1,400 of you have liked us on Facebook and another 3,500 are following us on Twitter. Thanks so much for your support!

Save Antibiotics September Newsletter (2011)

The Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming (HHIF) is working to preserve the effectiveness of antibiotics by phasing out the overuse and misuse of these drugs in food animal production. Since our launch in May, we’ve had more than 15,500 mothers, fathers, grandparents and others concerned about their family's health, join our Moms for Antibiotic Awareness. More than 1,400 of you have liked us on Facebook and another 3,500 are following us on Twitter. Thanks so much for your support!

''Superbugs' in our food''

"Scientists have warned for decades that routinely feeding antibiotics to poultry and livestock would lead to new strains of antibiotic-resistant bacteria."

''Salmonella Strain In Turkey Recall Resists Antibiotics''

Gail Hansen, senior officer at Pew Health Group, is interviewed in an NPR segment about the debate on the practice of dosing farm animals with antibiotics.

Moms for Antibiotic Awareness August Newsletter (2011)

Thank you for joining Moms for Antibiotic Awareness, a group of mothers, fathers, grandparents and others concerned about their family's health. Specifically, we are dedicated to stopping a common industrial farming practice: feeding antibiotics to cows, pigs, chicken and other food animals that are not sick -- the drugs help to compensate for overcrowded and unsanitary conditions and spur faster growth. Unfortunately, this practice is breeding antibiotic-resistant bacteria that can infect people.

Save Antibiotics August Newsletter (2011)

FDA can issue what’s called a guidance document and advise agricultural and pharmaceutical companies against the misuse of antibiotics on industrial farms. The agency issued a first draft of this guidance—Guidance #209, The Judicious Use of Medically Important Antimicrobial Drugs in Food-Producing Animals—in June 2010.

''The end of the era of antibiotics''

"For decades, we have lived in blissful ignorance of the infectious diseases that tormented earlier generations. Just take a pill, or get a shot, and they will go away. But the miracle drugs are starting to fail, even for common diseases - and we have ourselves to blame."

''A Better Sort of Pig''

"To me, the biggest issue is not whether pigs are raised organically or "naturally"; it's whether they're raised well."

Save Antibiotics - The Link Fact Sheet

The overuse and misuse of antibiotics have precipitated an emerging health crisis—bacteria are more quickly adapting to and resisting common antibiotics, posing a serious challenge to human health. In the U.S., entire herds or flocks of food animals are often administered antibiotics in their feed or water to promote growth and weight gain—a practice that has been identified as a contributor to antibiotic resistance.

Save Antibiotics - The Challenge Fact Sheet

Whenever antibiotics are used, some bacteria may adapt and become resistant to these commonly used drugs. Today, the world’s leading public health and medical organizations are concerned that overuse and misuse of antibiotics are causing bacteria to develop resistance more quickly. That is why the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified antibiotic resistance as one of its top concerns.

Pew Applauds Introduction of Bipartisan Bill in Senate to Preserve Effectiveness of Antibiotics

The Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming (HHIF) today applauded U.S. Senators Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Jack Reed (D-R.I.) and Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.) for introducing S. 1211, the Preservation of Antibiotics for Medical Treatment Act of 2011 (PAMTA). The bill amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to withdraw seven classes of antibiotics critical for treating infections in humans from use on industrial farms unless animals or herds are sick with disease.

Joint letter on pending FDA rule to ban the extra-label use of cephalosporins in food animal production

We, the undersigned groups, are writing to ask you to quickly move forward with issuing a revised order of prohibition on extra-label use of cephalosporin drugs in food-producing animals as stated in the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Strategic Priorities for 2011-2015.

''The High Cost of Cheap Meat''

"The point of factory farming is cheap meat, made possible by confining large numbers of animals in small spaces. Perhaps the greatest hidden cost is its potential effect on human health."

''Antibiotic Resistance: One Mother's Fight''

"It is not possible for me to "wake up" from this nightmare. But we as a society must wake up and prevent other nightmares from occurring by preserving the efficacy of our antibiotics...There is something you can do to help honor Simon, and make sure that other mothers don't face the pain of losing a child to a malicious bacteria. Please join the new group, Moms for Antibiotic Awareness -- an initiative of the Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming. We are working to raise awareness across the country on the routine use of antibiotics in food animal production and to engage moms and those concerned about their family's health to take action for more judicious use of these drugs."

Did You Know? Get the Facts on Antibiotic Resistance

Up to 70 percent of all antibiotics sold in the U.S. are used on industrial farms in healthy food animals, according to the Union of Concerned Scientists. This makes the U.S. one of the biggest users of antibiotics in food animal production in the world.

What Moms Need to Know About Antibiotic Resistance and Food Animal Production

The antibiotics our families depend on to treat dangerous infections are rapidly losing their effectiveness, posing a particular threat to our children, the elderly and people with chronic diseases. Part of the problem has been the misuse of these drugs in humans, but another key contributor is
antibiotic overuse in food animal production.

Moms Across America Uniting to Preserve Effectiveness of Antibiotics

The Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming today launched "Moms for Antibiotic Awareness," a grassroots movement of moms working to preserve the effectiveness of antibiotics for their children and families.

''New study adds to concerns about animal-to-human resistance to antibiotics''

"On April 15, scientists reported that the meat bought at supermarkets is often contaminated with Staphylococcus aureas bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics used to fight human disease."

Tips for Writing a Letter to the Editor

Send a letter to your local newspaper to stress why antibiotics are important to you and your family.

Save Antibiotics - The Campaign Fact Sheet

Pew Applauds Introduction of Preservation of Antibiotics for Medical Treatment Act of 2011

The Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming (HHIF) today applauded U.S. Representative Louise Slaughter (D-N.Y.) for introducing H.R. 965, the Preservation of Antibiotics for Medical Treatment Act of 2011 (PAMTA). The bill amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to withdraw seven classes of antibiotics critical for treating infections in humans from use on industrial farms unless animals or herds are sick with disease.

''Potential for 'Super Bugs' in Meat, Dairy Products Alarms Regulators''

"At a one-day conference in Washington, D.C., co-sponsored by the nonprofit consumer group Center for Science in the Public Interest and The Pew Charitable Trusts, food safety experts and officials agreed that decades-long misuse of antibiotics on the nation's farms has been largely responsible for the steady increase in e.coli, salmonella and other food-related outbreaks in recent years."

Health Care and the Antibiotic Resistance Crisis

Many public health officials and medical organizations are increasingly concerned about the rising incidence of antibiotic-resistant infections in the United States. According to the Interagency Task Force on Antimicrobial Resistance, unless antibiotic resistance ―problems are detected as they emerge—and actions are taken quickly to contain them—the world may soon be faced with previously treatable diseases that have again become untreatable, as in the pre-antibiotic era.

''The Antibiotics Crisis''

"Crisis" is not too strong a word for describing what has happened to antibiotics. As our use of the drugs rises every year in the United States, bacterial resistance has risen right alongside it: there isn't a single known antibiotic to which bacteria have not become resistant ..."

Nearly 200,000 Tell FDA to Save Antibiotics

Nearly 200,000 letters were recently submitted to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) responding to the agency’s request for comments on rules governing the use of antibiotics on industrial farms. These letters made it clear to the FDA that:

Getting Smart About Antibiotic Resistance

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has proclaimed November 15-21, 2010 as "Get Smart About Antibiotics Week." This event is an opportunity for Americans to learn about the importance of these life-saving drugs.

Avoiding Antibiotic Resistance: Denmark's Ban on Growth Promoting Antibiotics in Food Animals

Recognizing the potential for a health crisis, Denmark began restricting the administration of antibiotics used for growth promotion (i.e., non-medical uses) in cattle, broiler chickens and swine in 1998. The World Health Organization found that the ban reduced human health risk without significantly harming animal health or farmers' incomes.

Antibiotics Overuse: Why Healthcare Should Care about Agriculture Use

Of all the antibiotics consumed each year in the U.S. only an estimated 15 percent are used for human therapy.

''We Are What We Eat''

"Most of the antibiotics sold in the United States — 70 percent — go to the animals we eat, especially pigs and chickens. To speed up growth and to prevent the spread of disease in crowded conditions, growers put small amounts of antibiotics into animals’ daily feed."

Effects of Banning the Use of Antibiotics as Growth Promoters in Denmark and Scandinavia

A listing of major reports and journal articles regarding the effects of banning the use of antibiotics as food animal growth promoters in Denmark and Scandinavia.

Testimony: Gail R. Hansen before the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, Subcommittee on Health

Antibiotics are overused in industrial farming to the detriment of human health. Antibiotic overuse has spurred generations of bacteria that are causing life threatening illnesses that were once easily treatable with antibiotics. Effective alternatives are available to agribusiness. Congress has the opportunity to enact legislation that will curtail the use of antibiotics in industrial food animal production without having significant economic impact on the industry.

Official Text: Hearing on Antibiotic Resistance and the use of Antibiotics in Animal Agriculture

The CDC lists control over infectious disease as one of its top 10 great public health achievements of the last century, and antimicrobials are crucial to that accomplishment. And yet we must collectively be alarmed that we are undermining the power of antibiotics by failing to use them judiciously.

Supporting Materials: Hearing on Antibiotic Resistance and the use of Antibiotics in Animal Agriculture

On July 14, 2010, the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health held a hearing to examine the use of antibiotics in animal agriculture. View PDF files of some of the materials entered into the hearing record by organizations and health and agricultural professionals.

Pew and Health Care Without Harm Hold Audio News Conference Calling for an End to the Overuse of Antibiotics in Food Animals

On the eve of a July 14 hearing conducted by the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health to examine the use of antibiotics in animal agriculture, the Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming, in collaboration with Health Care Without Harm, held an audio news conference on the need to end the overuse of these drugs in meat production.

''Antibiotics, meat a risky mix''

"Federal regulators have tip-toed around the issue of antibiotics in the nation's meat supply for years."

''Our view on food safety: To protect humans, curb antibiotic use in animals''

"Antibiotics are modern wonder drugs, but their weakness is that they can gradually put themselves out of business."

''Resistant to urgent action''

"Antibiotics, it’s what’s for dinner. Antibiotics, the other white meat. Antibiotics, it’s whatever the poultry industry’s slogan is."

''Antibiotics and meat don't mix''

"For the American public's health, it's time for the meat industry to stop administering the drugs preventively but only to animals already ill."

Pew Calls FDA Announcement a Small, Overdue Step Towards Ending the Overuse of Antibiotics in Food Animal Production

Laura Rogers, project director of the Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming, issued the following statement today on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) draft guidance on "The Judicious Use of Medically Important Antimicrobial Drugs in Food-Producing Animals."

''Legislators Ask USDA to Up Antibiotics Monitoring''

''Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) and Congresswoman Louise Slaughter (D-NY) sent a letter to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Monday urging the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to expand efforts to gather data on antibiotic use in agriculture and take steps to reduce usage.''

''FDA Recommends New Limits on Livestock Drugs''

To prevent development of drug-resistant bacteria that could infect people, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommended on Monday that livestock farmers use the drugs solely to cure or prevent disease in animals, phasing out their use to promote growth.

Capitol Hill Briefing: Reducing Antibiotic Resistance

On May 5, 2010, Pew hosted a briefing on Capitol Hill in collaboration with Sen. Dianne Feinstein, Rep. Louise Slaughter, and Rep. Howard Berman. Panelists included an official from the World Health Organization, a veterinarian from Denmark's Technical University, the proprietor of a Danish hog farm and a scientist from Denmark's State Serum Institute.

Avoiding Antibiotic Resistance

Denmark's Ban on Growth Promoting Antibiotics in Food Animalssaveantibiotics_org_denmark_htmlAntibiotics are the crown jewels of medicine. These life saving drugs are vital to human health—treating everything from strep throat to skin infections to bacterial pneumonia.

Pew Statement on Congressional Hearing Regarding Antibiotic Resistance and the Threat to Public Health

Laura Rogers, project director of the Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming, issued the following statement today, commenting on a hearing of the U.S. House Energy & Commerce Subcommittee on Health, where representatives of the Obama administration are expected to present testimony regarding the need to protect Americans from the growing problem of antibiotic resistance.

''Ban Antibiotics for Healthy Food Animals''

"Last year, an estimated 65,000 people in the U.S. were killed by drug-resistant infections—almost the number of people who succumbed to breast cancer and prostate cancer combined."

''Cows on Drugs''

"Now that Congress has pushed through its complicated legislation to reform the health insurance system, it could take one more simple step to protect the health of all Americans."

''Antibiotic Idiocy''

''The U.S. Food and Drug Administration says it is getting serious about the threat routine use of antibiotics in livestock poses to human health.''

''Pearls before swine: It's time to cut the use of antibiotics in farm animals''

"Everybody knows that it is possible to have too much of a good thing -- and that is true also of antibiotic drugs, the great lifesavers of modern medicine."

Testimony: House Committee on Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies

Antibiotic-resistant infections have been identified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as one of the top public health challenges in the United States. Massive use of medically important antibiotics like penicillin and tetracycline in food animal production is a significant contributor to this problem.

''Healthy livestock, sick people''

"Year after year, legislation intended to preserve the effectiveness of available antibiotics by limiting their use in livestock is shot down."

''The Spread of Superbugs''

"Until three months ago, Thomas M. Dukes was a vigorous, healthy executive at a California plastics company."

Capitol Hill Briefing: Alternatives to Routine Antibiotic Use in Food Animals

On March 2, 2010, Pew hosted a briefing on Capitol Hill with Bill Niman, founder of Niman Ranch; Steve Ells, co-CEO of Chipotle Mexican Grill; and other successful livestock producers and businesspeople who discussed how they sustain profitable ventures based on antibiotic-free meat production.

Alternatives to Routine Antibiotic Use in Food Animals

Talk with Bill Niman, founder of Niman Ranch; Steve Ells, co-CEO of Chipotle Mexican Grill; and other successful livestock producers and businesspeople who sustain profitable ventures based on antibiotic-free meat production.

Antibiotic-Free Food Animal Production

As a result of increasing consumer demand, organic products have become more mainstream, appearing now in an estimated 73 percent of grocery stores.As availability of organic products has grown, consumption patterns have shifted to reflect this availability. Where consumption of organic goods used to be the lifestyle choice of a small group of consumers, today more than two-thirds of Americans admit to purchasing organic products occasionally.

How Antibiotic Resistance Happens

Frequent, low doses of antibiotics that are not strong enough to kill all bacteria encourage some bacteria to develop means of survival, or to become “resistant.”

Comprehensive Fact Sheet: Denmark’s Ban on Growth Promoting Antibiotics in Food Animals

In human medicine, antibiotic use is generally confined to treatment of illness. In contrast, antibiotics and other antimicrobials (drugs that kill microorganisms like bacteria) often are routinely given to food animals in the U.S. in order to grow animals faster and to compensate for unsanitary conditions on many industrial farms.

Industrial Farms and Antibiotic Resistance

Basic information on antibiotics, their use on industrial animal farms, and the problem of antibiotic resistance from the Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming.

Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria in Animals and Unnecessary Human Health Risks

In the United States, many food animals—poultry, swine and cattle—are routinely treated with antibiotics in order to grow animals faster and to compensate for unsanitary conditions on many industrial farms. Recently, major increases in antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections in human populations have led to public health concerns regarding antibiotic use for non-therapeutic purposes (i.e., not used to treat disease) in animals destined for food production.

Antibiotic Resistance and the Industrial Animal Farm

Antibiotics are commonly prescribed drugs that kill bacteria or suppress their ability to grow, allowing the human immune system to respond and heal from illness. Antibiotic resistance is a dangerous bacterial trait which enables bacteria to survive and continue to grow instead of being inhibited or destroyed by therapeutic doses of the drug. As a result, antibiotic-resistant bacteria can evade the effects of the antibiotic and multiply, with severe consequences for human health.

Food Safety and the Antibiotic Resistance Crisis

According to a first-ever study by professors at the University of Regina in the United Kingdom, U.S. food safety ranks seventh or “average” among 17 other industrialized nations. At least 76 million cases of food-borne disease occur each year in the U.S. While many health problems caused by contaminated food are not serious, some food-borne infections are much more dangerous, leading to convulsions, premature delivery and miscarriage, sepsis, or even death.

Important Human Medicines Used on Industrial Farms

Industrial animal farms commonly administer low doses of antibiotics and other antimicrobials (drugs that fight microorganisms like bacteria and viruses) to pigs, cows, chickens, sheep, and other food animal species for the purpose of growth promotion or weight gain. Typically, these sub-therapeutic doses, which are generally not high enough to fight active diseases or infections, are given directly to animals in their feed or water.

Charts Displaying Denmark's Decline in Antibiotic Resistance

These charts summarize Denmark's decline in antibiotic usage and antibiotic resistance, as well as the increase of livestock and poultry production after a ban on the nontheraputic use of antibiotics and antimicrobial drugs in food production animals.

''Drug fiends''

"One of the profound blessings in the age of modern medicine is that, when infection sets in, doctors can draw upon an array of antibiotics to knock the germs for a loop. Just imagine how it would have been for our ancestors, for whom a simple cut or bad tooth could mean "blood poisoning" and death."

''Pressure Rises to Stop Antibiotics in Agriculture''

''The mystery started the day farmer Russ Kremer got between a jealous boar and a sow in heat.''

Capitol Hill Briefing: Industrial Animal Farms and Worker Health and Safety

On December 17, 2009, Pew hosted a briefing on Capitol Hill in collaboration with Rep. Raúl M. Grijalva, Co-Chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus. Leading experts discussed the public health and sociological effects of industrial farm animal production for farm workers and rural communities.

Letter from Danish Chief Veterinarian to Congress

In Denmark the termination of non-therapeutic use of antimicrobials for growth promotion has not caused any negative impact on the animal production. The Danish animal food industry has continued to improve its productivity and to increase its output.

U.S. and European Experts Applaud Creation of New Transatlantic Task Force on Global Antibiotic Resistance Threat

Experts on both sides of the Atlantic applaud President Barack Obama and Swedish Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt, representing the European Union (EU) Presidency, for establishing a transatlantic task force to address antibiotic resistance, an urgent and growing problem that threatens patient safety and public health worldwide.

Pathways for Transferring Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria from Farm Animals to Humans

There are four major pathways in which resistant bacteria can spread from animals to humans. Most commonly, consumers or workers handling contaminated meat can acquire the bacteria on their skin or in a cut.

''What Can Danish Hogs Teach Us About Antibiotics?''

"Beautiful Denmark is known throughout the world for its pastries, furniture design and ham. Yes, ham. Denmark is the largest exporter of pork in the world. The country, not much larger than Massachusetts, produces more than 26 million hogs

Letter from Danish Technical University Professor to Speaker Nancy Pelosi

We have just had the pleasure of meeting with a delegation consisting of four members of the House of Representatives, where we presented our data on the effects of the stop for nontherapeutic use of antimicrobials for food animals in Denmark.We know that various rumours and sometimes “creative” interpretations of what has taken place in Denmark have been circulated to members of the US Congress, and we are grateful for having been given this opportunity to correct some of these stories.

''Antibiotics and meat''

"The American meat industry is addicted to antibiotics. This dates to the late 1940s, when farmers discovered that antibiotics could do more than just cure disease. Antibiotics regularly mixed into feed could help animals avoid common illnesses -- and thus grow faster as well as better withstand the crowded and sometimes unsanitary conditions on factory farms."

Letter to the Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy

Our combined memberships include the country’s foremost scientific and medical experts and represent more than eleven million concerned Americans and health professionals. Our position is based on objective health interests and concerns that dangerous drug resistant infections are rapidly increasing in hospitals and community settings adding to the economic burden of the U.S. healthcare costs.

Pew and Academy of Natural Sciences to Host Forum on Health Impacts of Antibiotics in Food Animal Production

On July 21 in Philadelphia, the Academy of Natural Sciences’ Center for Environmental Policy and The Pew Charitable Trusts will convene health, agriculture and environmental experts for a special town hall meeting on the human health impacts related to the routine use of antibiotics on industrial farms.

Pew letter to the FDA in response to their public recognition of animal agriculture's contribution to antimicrobial resistance

The Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming (Pew) would like to extend our sincere thanks to you both for taking the time to meet with us on June 23 to discuss the contribution of animal agriculture to the growing public health crisis of antimicrobial resistance. We are deeply appreciative not only of your consideration of our viewpoints, but also the expertise and dedication that you bring to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Testimony: Robert P. Martin Before the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Rules

Testimony from Robert P. Martin, Senior Officer, Pew Environment Group, before the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Rules regarding the Preservation of Antibiotics for Medical Treatment Act (PAMTA).

Pew Calls FDA Testimony on Use of Antibiotics on Industrial Farms a Key First Step, More is Needed

Laura Rogers, director of the Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming issued the following statement today, commenting on the testimony of FDA Principal Deputy Commissioner Joshua M. Sharfstein, in which he said that antibiotics used on industrial farms should be phased out for growth promotion and feed efficacy, and should be more rigorously overseen for disease control and prevention.

''Piggish Capitalism Endangers Us All''

"Even if you don't dig on swine, it has become impossible to avoid them."

No Economic Advantage to Industrialized Pork Production

In October 2008, a panel formed to conduct a comprehensive, fact-based examination of key aspects of the farm animal industry. The report found that the current industrial method of raising pigs for food carries no economic advantage over more natural pig farming. The researchers determined that when the costs to society and communities are taken into account – particularly the costs of waste treatment - industrial animal production actually carries a higher price tag.

''Pew Featured on Nightline - ABC News''

"Washington, D.C. - Robert Martin, senior officer with the Pew Environment Group, discusses the two main findings from the Pew Commission on Industrial Farm Animal Production's report Putting Meat on the Table: Industrial Farm Animal Production in America."

''Pew Featured on Nightline - ABC News''

''Washington, D.C. - Robert Martin, senior officer with the Pew Environment Group, discusses the two main findings from the Pew Commission on Industrial Farm Animal Production's report Putting Meat on the Table.''

''Pew Featured on CBS Evening News''

''Washington, D.C. - In response to the swine flu outbreak, Robert Martin, a senior officer with the Pew Environment Group, discusses industrial hog farms and their potential as prime breeding grounds for new virus strains.''

''Save Antibiotics to Save Human Lives''

''In 2005, an estimated 18,000 people nationwide died from MRSA, one of the growing number of infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.''

''U.S. Bracing For Swine Flu Pandemic''

''Confirming 42 cases of swine flu in the U.S., the Obama administration said Monday it was responding aggressively as if the outbreak would spread into a full pandemic.''

Chipotle CEO joins Rep. Louise Slaughter (D-NY) and leading antibiotic expert to discuss the Preservation of Antibiotics for Medical Treatment Act of 2009

On Tuesday, March 17, Rep. Louise Slaughter introduced the Preservation of Antibiotics for Medical Treatment Act of 2009 (PAMTA), nearly one year after the Pew Commission on Industrial Farm Animal Production recommended that America reform the way food animals are raised.

Pew Applauds Introduction of Preservation of Antibiotics for Medical Treatment Act

Nearly one year after the Pew Commission on Industrial Farm Animal Production released its landmark recommendations on how America should reform the way food animals are raised, U.S. Representative Louise Slaughter today introduced the Preservation of Antibiotics for Medical Treatment Act of 2009 (PAMTA).

It's Not Chicken Feed: Antibiotic resistance adds billions to health care costs

To reform health care we need to reduce health care costs, and that includes reducing the drug-resistant diseases that cost our country billions. This means stopping the misuse of the antibiotics our families rely on

Teleconference on Legislation to Help Curtail Overuse of Antibiotics on Factory Farms

Chipotle restaurant CEO joins Rep. Louise Slaughter (D-NY) and leading antibiotic expert to discuss the Preservation of Antibiotics for Medical Treatment Act of 2009.

''Pathogens in Our Pork''

"We don't add antibiotics to baby food and Cocoa Puffs so that children get fewer ear infections. That's because we understand that the overuse of antibiotics is already creating 'superbugs' resistant to medication."

''Our Pigs, Our Food, Our Health''

"The late Tom Anderson, the family doctor in this little farm town in northwestern Indiana, at first was puzzled, then frightened."

''You Can't Catch MRSA by Reading About It...''

"…as far as we know. But one of the journalistic challenges here is that we don’t know a lot about MRSA, and so the challenge in my Thursday column was how to raise public concern about a legitimate public health issue without becoming alarmist and exaggerating the danger."

''Antibiotic Misuse in Animals Hurts Human Health''

"The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is working to build public awareness regarding the dangers of people overusing antibiotics."

The problem beyond the peanuts: Feeding human antibiotics to hogs makes salmonella harder to cure.

For the hundreds of Americans who have been sickened by salmonella-tainted peanut products, life-saving antibiotics are helping to prevent a catastrophe. But if we don’t change our livestock feeding practices, soon the salmonella may win.

''End misuse of antibiotics''

"While your editorial ('Delmarva travel warning,' Tuesday) made light of the dangers of driving behind trucks transporting intensively raised chickens..."

''We need antibiotic ban in foods''

"For two years my colleagues at the Pew Commission on Industrial Farm Animal Production and I poured over volumes of data on what the Food and Drug Administration calls on its Web site 'a growing threat,' ..."

Statement from The Pew Charitable Trusts on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's reversal on antibiotics safeguards in animal farming

Laura Rogers, project director for the Pew Campaign on Human Health and Industrial Farming, today issued the following statement regarding the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's decision to reverse its plan to ban off-label usage of certain antibiotics in animal agriculture.

''Eating Safely and Mercifully''

''California voters’ overwhelming endorsement of Proposition 2 in California, a ballot initiative banning the use of battery cages in egg production, gestation crates in swine production and veal crates, shows just how far consumers will go to make sure the meat they are eating is both more humane and ultimately safer for the dinner table.''

Statement from The Pew Charitable Trusts on South Korea’s ban on using certain antibiotics in animal feed

Shelley Hearne, managing director, Health & Human Services Policy at The Pew Charitable Trusts, today issued the following statement in response to the decision by South Korea’s Ministry for Food, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries to ban the use of seven types of antibiotics in animal feed (the seven antibiotics that South Korea banned from animal feed are: Penicillin, Neomycin, Chlortetracycline, Colistin, Oxytetracycline, Lincomycin, Bacitracin zinc).

Statement from Karen Steuer, Pew Environment Group, on Antibiotic Use Reporting Requirements

Karen Steuer, director of government operations for the Pew Environment Group, today issued the following statement in response to the House Energy & Commerce Committee mark up of the Animal Drug User Fee Act.

Executive Director of Pew Commission Testifies on Resistance to Antibiotics and Banning Their Use In Food Animals

Robert P. Martin, executive director of the Pew Commission on Industrial Farm Animal Production, today reiterated the Commission’s call for a phase out and ban on antimicrobials for non-therapeutic use in food animals.

''The Worst Way of Farming''

"In the past month, two new reports have examined how farm animals are raised in this country."

''Big Farms Can Be Bad For Your Health''

"In 1950 the United States produced about the name number of hogs as it does today, on significantly more farms, smaller farms and with many more workers."

Putting Meat on the Table

The current industrial farm animal production system often poses unacceptable risks to public health, the environment and the welfare of the animals themselves, according to an extensive two and a half year examination conducted by the Pew Commission on Industrial Farm Animal Production.

Antimicrobial Resistance and Human Health

The problem of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is growing in the United States and worldwide. This report explores the scope of the AMR problem and what can or should be done about AMR from the standpoint of animal agriculture.

New Ad Campaign Asks D.C. Commuters ''Who's Hogging Our Antibiotics?''

Who's hogging our antibiotics? That's the question a new advertising campaign is posing to area commuters and people visiting Capitol Hill.