Data collected using the UK medicine e-book (eMB) shows that antibiotic use in 2018 fell another 16 percent from 2017, reaching 110 mg / PCU, approaching the 2020 industry target of 99 mg / PCU.

Data from eMBs represent 89 percent of pigs slaughtered in the UK and show a decrease from 131 mg / PCU to 110 mg / PCU between 2017 and 2018.

It is important to note that the use of critical antibiotics (CIAs) has also decreased. Use of CIAs is reported at 0.06 mg / PCU, of which Colistin represents only 0.004 mg / PCU.

This year’s success can be explained by several factors. Red Tractor has added the antibiotic entry in eMB to its pig standards, AHDB has developed a new benchmarking tool in eMB, and the wider industry has continued to improve biosafety.

AHDB Senior Veterinary Manager Mandy Nevel said: “Recent cutbacks in antibiotic use in the pig sector in the UK reflect the tremendous efforts of pig producers and their veterinarians to support responsible antibiotic use.

As we approach the goal set by the British pig industry, it is important that producers work with their veterinarians so that further reductions do not jeopardize animal welfare. "Antibiotics are a vital tool that allows veterinarians to control diseases in pigs, and early treatment, where necessary to ensure their well-being."

Angela Christison, Director of Pig Production Strategy at AHDB, said: “This is truly positive progress and demonstrates the sector’s relentless commitment to use antibiotics responsibly.”