Rome: The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has developed a new tool designed to assist countries, particularly low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), in addressing the growing issue of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) by enhancing the monitoring of veterinary drug residues in food.
According to EMM, the FAO has introduced the Residues of Veterinary Drugs in Foods (RVDF) Tool through a newly released factsheet. This tool provides a practical approach to help countries strengthen their national food safety systems by improving the monitoring of veterinary drug residues, a critical step for many LMICs.
Veterinary drugs, including antimicrobials, are crucial in maintaining animal health and supporting food production. However, improper or excessive use of these drugs can lead to harmful levels of residues in food, potentially accelerating the development of AMR, which is a global health concern. The RVDF Tool addresses the increasing demand from LMICs for practical support in identifying gaps, enhancing capacity, and aligning national practices with international standards.
The assessment conducted by the FAO found that while laboratories and trained personnel were often available, there were still gaps in standard operating procedures and intersectoral coordination. The RVDF assessment initiated important discussions among veterinary services, food safety authorities, and academia, culminating in a defined national pathway for effective residue monitoring in alignment with Codex Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs).
The tool emphasizes that residue testing goes beyond merely staying below MRLs. It involves understanding which drugs are used, their usage patterns, and potential risks. The RVDF Tool aids countries in identifying these patterns and connecting their food safety systems to broader public health objectives.
With its modular design, the RVDF Tool can be adapted to different country contexts, even in the absence of centralized monitoring systems. It aids donor agencies and development partners in customizing capacity development efforts to meet specific national needs.
By promoting data-driven decision-making, improved risk assessment, and alignment with Codex and Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) standards, the RVDF Tool helps countries build resilient food safety systems. This not only protects consumers but also enhances trade and contributes to AMR mitigation under the One Health framework.