Under the "Action to support implementation of Codex AMR (ACT)" initiative, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has introduced a new publication titled "Pakistan in ACTion." With a population exceeding 240 million, Pakistan boasts robust agriculture and farming traditions. To address the demands of its growing population, traditional farming methods have shifted towards intensive practices heavily relying on antimicrobials for productivity, profitability, and animal health.
The widespread use of antibiotics and other antimicrobials in humans, animals, and plants for disease treatment, prevention, and control has raised global concerns about antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This situation occurs when these drugs become less effective or stop working altogether.
The project focuses on mitigating foodborne AMR, facilitating Pakistan's adherence to international Codex Alimentarius standards, guidelines, and codes of practice. The ACT project collaborates with stakeholders such as livestock farmers, governmental livestock departments, food authorities, veterinary diagnostic laboratories, veterinary professionals, consumers, and students.
The project aims to enhance awareness of AMR among producers, consumers, and food safety officials in Pakistan, encouraging the adoption of Codex Alimentarius recommendations on antimicrobial use. This includes supporting legislation to reduce the use of antimicrobials as growth promoters. Additionally, the project aims to strengthen the capacity of food safety laboratories in testing for antimicrobial resistance.
For more details explore:
Pakistan in ACTion (fao.org)
Action to support implementation of Codex AMR Texts (ACT) | Antimicrobial Resistance | Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (fao.org)