Avoiding Milk Antibiotic Residues
Avoiding Milk Antibiotic Residues
A practical guide to avoiding milk antibiotic residues is available via a poster from the BCVA (British Cattle Veterinary Association), with pointers on how dairy farmers can make sure their milk always meets the stringent antibiotic residues standards.
Unless advised by your veterinary surgeon, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct number of treatments, between treatments and withholding time. If in doubt, consult your veterinary surgeon, who may recommend the use of an antibiotic residue test.
You must ensure milk is clear of antibiotics and this is part of your milk contract. Follow data sheet and vet advice on all treatments. If you vary treatment (combinations of products, or vary dose, frequency or prolong treatment) this can affect withdrawal times. A minimum seven day milk withdrawal must be applied and the milk tested before being put in the tank.
Further training and information on avoiding antibiotic residues in milk is available via MilkSure, a training and veterinary certification programme for dairy farmers led by Dairy UK and developed in conjunction with BCVA. While centred on residue avoidance in milk, MilkSure covers other areas of good medicine stewardship, such as adhering to correct treatment protocols, medicine storage, and reducing the risk of antibiotic resistance.
