Avoiding antibiotic residues in food is essential when producing safe products for human consumption. There is a high chance for allergic reactions in sensitive individuals if antibiotics are more commonly found in foods. With greater exposure to these substances, individuals may also develop increased resistance to the antibiotics causing them to become less effective when prescribed for medical reasons in the future.
This has led to a growing body of legislation across the world. Legislations, such as the 'Maximum Residue Limits' regulations, were imposed by the EU and the US in 1990 and 1991, respectively.
Worldwide concern about the effect of antibiotic residues in food has created a need for testing muscle meats including Chicken, Fish, and Shellfish. Other products of animal origin include Pet Treats, Animal Feeds, Fish and Poultry Meals, Dairy Products, and Honey. Other products that may contain drug residues include Dried Distiller Grains (DDG) and Enzymes. Our network has responded to this need by significantly increasing the number of antibiotics for which we can screen.
FDA Approved Antibiotics by Class:
Aminoglycosides - Amphenicols – Avermectins - Beta-lactams – Coccidiostats - Macrolides - Sulfonamides - Streptomycin - Tetracyclines
Banned Antibiotics by Class:
Chloramphenicol - Fluoroquinolones and Quinolones - Nitrofurans and Nitrofuran Metabolites -Nitroimidazoles - Triarylmethane Dyes
Beta Agonists:
Cimaterol - Clenbuterol - Lubabegron - Ractopamine - Salbutamol - Zilpaterol
Hormones and Growth Promoters:
Estrogens – Gestagens – Androgens – Bacitracin – Virginiamycin
Other Drug Residues of Interest:
Antiviral drugs - Pentobarbital
Multi-Drug Panels:
Dairy – Honey – Meat – Seafood
We will continue to add to this list as new requirements are identified. Be sure to inquire about specific drugs that you do not find on these lists.