Foodborne antimicrobial resistance (AMR): an economic concern
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Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is the ability of microorganisms to survive or proliferate in the presence of antimicrobial drugs, posing a significant threat to human and animal health. It increases healthcare and food production costs, and the misuse of antimicrobials exacerbates the problem. Effective stewardship and balancing the trade-offs between financial investments and societal benefits are crucial challenges in addressing AMR.
Bacterial resistance to antimicrobials is increasing, with foodborne transmission contributing significantly. Contaminated food accounts for nearly 20% of infections caused by resistant Escherichia coli. The economic burden of foodborne antimicrobial resistance includes productivity losses and premature deaths, estimated at USD 50 billion in 2019. The World Bank projects a decline in global GDP, livestock production, and exports due to AMR by 2050, with potential negative impacts on international trade.
In conclusion, AMR represents a genuine societal cost, affecting humans, animals, and plants. Therefore, policies are needed to minimize AMR, strengthen food control systems, support responsible antimicrobial use, and promote data sharing.