Antibiotics only as a last resort: How do the Perutnina Ptuj look after healthy flocks?

The European Union has banned imports of Brazilian meat and several other animal-derived products intended for human consumption, effective September 3, 2026. This decision was made after authorities determined that Brazil had failed to provide sufficient evidence that its exports meet strict EU standards regarding antibiotic use in livestock farming. The move reignites debate over food safety and unequal production conditions. European farmers must consistently adhere to stringent rules concerning food production and the use of various substances. In contrast, food from countries outside the EU often originates under much less rigorous conditions. The issue becomes particularly prominent in light of the trade agreement with Mercosur countries, which opens the door to larger-scale imports of cheaper food from South America into European markets. The European Commission aims to protect domestic producers and consumers while preventing the spread of antimicrobial resistance caused by excessive antibiotic use in animals. Hrvatski European Parliament member Marko Vešligaj highlights the problem of inconsistent production standards between the EU and Mercosur countries. He argues that the latest Brussels decision represents yet another strong argument against the current form of the trade agreement. "I have repeatedly warned that the main problem with the agreement with Mercosur countries lies in unequal rules and double standards in production," he says. The group of members sent the agreement to the Court of Justice of the European Union due to these concerns, but the European Commission forced its temporary implementation despite this. The import ban does not apply solely to beef and other meats, but also includes animals raised for food production. The measure encompasses poultry, eggs, honey, and even intestines used in meat product manufacturing. European inspectors listed Brazil on a list of countries that do not respect EU rules on antibiotic use in animals back in May. These rules represent a key part of broader European policy combating bacterial resistance to medicines. Vešligaj warns that the new ban reveals serious issues with monitoring compliance with EU standards. He believes that merely reacting to violations identified by the European Commission is insufficient for long-term safety. After numerous criticisms of the agreement coming both from the European Parliament and European farmers themselves, the European Commission now tries to prove that it successfully monitors imports. However, many experts and politicians demand stricter preventive measures. Brazil was the second-largest supplier of beef to the European Union in 2025, making the question of production standards exceed just trade policy and become a critical public health issue. "We really need to ask ourselves what kind of food we eat and whether we succeed in protecting our producers and consumers," concludes Vešligaj, calling on European institutions for greater caution and consistency. In Ptuj, Slovenia, Perutnina Ptuj follows a principle of raising poultry without routine antibiotic use, ensuring healthy flocks and contributing significantly to safe food production and responsible use of antibiotics. "Raising without preventive use of antibiotics means that antibiotics are not given routinely to healthy animals, such as through water. They are used only when necessary due to illness, based on veterinary diagnosis and in accordance with existing legislation," explains Tereza Korez, director of the Veterinary Ambulance at Perutnina Ptuj. Products labeled "Raised Without Antibiotics" guarantee this approach. "Customers of Perutnina Ptuj products with the label 'Raised Without Antibiotics' can be assured. Such chickens did not receive antibiotics at any stage of rearing. If a product lacks this label, it could mean the animal was treated with antibiotics, but always in accordance with withdrawal periods. This means that the prescribed time has passed since treatment until the meat reaches the market, allowing the medication to be fully eliminated from the organism, making the products completely safe for human consumption," emphasizes Korez. Health of animals begins with disease prevention. At Perutnina Ptuj, they believe the best treatment is prevention, hence animal health is based on a comprehensive approach including strict biosecurity measures, appropriate rearing conditions, quality feed, intestinal supplements, and continuous monitoring of the animals' health status. Key biosecurity measures include thorough cleaning and disinfection of facilities, controlled access to pens, use of protective clothing and footwear, prevention of pests, and care for equipment cleanliness. Important is also the principle of "everything in - everything out," where after each cycle, pens are thoroughly cleaned, disinfected, and prepared for the next flock. However, this is not all. Appropriate rearing conditions, adequate temperature, ventilation, humidity, lighting, and stocking density, as well as quality feed and drinking water are essential. Preventive programs also include vaccinations against certain diseases and daily monitoring of the animals' health status. "Healthy flocks are not guaranteed by a single measure. It involves a combination of factors, from biosecurity and quality rearing conditions to proper nutrition, vaccinations, and constant monitoring of the animals' health status. When all these work together, the risk of disease occurrence is significantly reduced," explains Tereza Korez. Antibiotics are a last resort, not the first solution. A crucial role in ensuring animal health is played by the Veterinary Ambulance at Perutnina Ptuj, which employs 16 veterinarians and veterinary technicians who monitor the health status of flocks throughout the entire rearing process. Veterinarians diagnose illnesses, assess the need for treatment, and determine the most suitable method of treatment only when it is truly necessary. They select the appropriate antibiotic, determine the correct dosage and duration of treatment, and ensure compliance with all legal requirements, including withdrawal periods. They also monitor health trends on farms and work with farmers to implement preventive measures that reduce the need for treatment. "The task of the veterinary service is not only treating animals. More importantly, it is prevention, monitoring health status, early identification of potential risks, and advising farmers on implementing biosecurity measures. Our goal is for antibiotics to remain a last resort, not the first solution," emphasizes Korez. Animal welfare is the foundation of their health. Perutnina Ptuj pays considerable attention to animal welfare, which is not only important for responsible rearing but also directly affects their health status. Overcrowding, inadequate conditions, and poor management can lead to stress, disease, and decreased productivity. Ensuring optimal living conditions is vital for maintaining the health and productivity of the animals.