Alternative approaches to minimising antibiotic use in dairy - Poultry World

Chemicals play a role in the quest for global environmental sustainability and overall well being by humans and animals alike – but their usage comes with challenges that cannot be overlooked or underestimated. Livestock intensification and the prevailing policies present a pressing concern; the escalated threat of resistance (AMG). With high rates of livestock diseases and mortality looming over farmers livelihoods like clouds on a stormy day – seeking solace in antimicrobials and other chemicals becomes a common recourse, for them; such as using insecticides to control ticks. Within the realm of dairy farming resides an issue; udder infections known as mastitis trigger excessive use of antimicrobial agents which in turn contribute to the development of AMG concerns that cannot be ignored.

The various impacts of misusing antibiotics and insecticides include harming the environment by disrupting biodiversity and soil ecosystems. Furthermore livestock are increasingly susceptible to microbes and parasites like ticks, which can detrimentally impact animal welfare. Additionally milk products in middle income nations often contain traces of antibiotics and chemicals leading to adverse effects on human health. Moreover the rising costs and decreasing effectiveness of antibiotics have an impact, on farmers livelihoods and cattle disease levels.

In response to these challenges faced in the agricultural sector today the Natural Livestock Farming Foundation (NLF) advocates for the adoption of natural methods in dairy farming as part of modernizing agroecology practices.This approach aims to yield high quality milk while minimizing the reliance on antibiotics and synthetic chemicals. The NLFs initiatives are rooted in efforts across different countries such as India, the Netherlands, Ethiopia, Uganda and Kenya which collectively account for more, than a quarter of global milk production. In practice this involves recording and testing methods like the approved use of herbs within a holistic approach, to animal health care.

Since 2015 the Natural Livestock Farming Foundation has been promoting the adoption of a 5 layer strategy incorporating animal care practices and breeding methods along with the use of herbs and ensuring milk quality and farm profitability to tackle crucial health issues faced by cattle herds. The primary focus is placed on maintaining livestock health through measures rather than relying solely on treatments post infection. This initiative involves educating and establishing collaborations with farmers and veterinarians to introduce a novel approach in dealing with prevalent cattle health issues such, as mastitis and foot and mouth disease (FMD) among others. Practical solutions to health issues, in cattle and the problem of overusing antibiotics are offered and confirmed in this manner.

NLF works closely with partners such as the University of Trans Disciplinary Health Science and Technology (TDUT) based in Bangalore, India. TDUT has spent the two decades successfully recording and advocating for verified information regarding the benefits of herbal remedies for livestock health. Their Ethno veterinary Practices (EVP) in partnership with farmers, veterinarians, dairy cooperatives and the National Dairy Development Board offer a solution to reduce reliance on antimicrobials, in dairy farming.

In India and Ethiopia alike progress has been made in pilot programs embraced by farmers and supported by governmental bodies such as the National Dairy Development Board and veterinary education institutions... The outcomes have been truly remarkable with reductions in antibiotic residues in milk by over 88% a noteworthy 50 % boost in milk production and a substantial decrease of 71 % in cattle health care expenses among small scale dairy farmers... This positive shift, towards practices has been well received by farmers and dairy industry players alike. The professional veterinary community lacks knowledge in international research and education as well as livestock development projects.

In 2025 in Bangalore Indias TDU will host the inaugural Natural Livestock Farm Certificate program focusing on Ethno Veterinary Science and Practice. The course spans three weeks. Covers Ethno Veterinary Practices as well, as the Documentation of local health customs to enhance livestock health and milk quality.