Much of the antibiotics fed to livestock goes to waste — literally. “Often, 90 percent or more of the antibiotic is excreted, according to previous studies,” says Francis Zvomuya, researcher at the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg. “Manure containing these is then used as fertilizer on crops.”
Source: Midwest Ag Journal, July 4, 2016.
Zvomuya, Amarakoon and their colleagues at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada found that composting manure for 30 days reduced the concentrations of the antibiotics by at least 85 percent. Some results were as high as 99 percent. “This shows that composting manure before using it as fertilizer can reduce the spreading of antibiotics to the environment, thus reducing the risk of antibiotic resistant bacteria,” says Zvomuya.
INSIGHTS: This is a great conversation starter for veterinary teams and representatives servicing livestock producers on the subject good management practices. Proven nutrient management practices are highlighted by The Fertilizer Institute’s 4R Nutrient Stewardship program.