Antibiotic resistance: a global challenge, a grassroots response

Antibiotic resistance is one of the major health challenges of this century. This fight, also being played out every day on breeding farms, with concrete and measurable results.

The World Health Organisation has identified antibiotic resistance as one of the major medical challenges of the 21st century. Aware of the importance of this issue, the veal sector is fully committed to reducing it. The objective is clear: to reduce the use of antibiotics without compromising animal health. 

Breeder observing his calves one by one in a bright and well-ventilated barn

To achieve this, breeders are focusing first and foremost on prevention: improved hygiene, improved biosecurity (isolation of sick animals, flow management, controlled ventilation), systematic vaccination and daily monitoring of calves. Therapeutic alternatives such as essential oils and probiotics are also being explored. This initiative is based on a holistic approach known as “One Health” — a single health framework for humans, animals and the environment — in response to the commitments set out in the national ÉcoAntibio 3 plan (2023–2028). 

In order to accurately measure the progress made, the sector set up a long-term observatory of antibiotic use in breeding in 2016, deployed by the Agence nationale du médicament vétérinaire (ANMV) and the Institut de l’Élevage (Idele). Structured monitoring on the national level, ensuring a genuine and transparent approach. 

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