Labelling and quality of antimicrobial products used in chicken flocks in the Mekong Delta of Vietnam

Abstract

Abstract Background The Mekong Delta of Vietnam is a hotspot of antimicrobial use (AMU), but there is no information on the quality of the labelling and strength of antimicrobial products used in poultry production. Methods Based on a large random sample of farms, we identified the 20 most used antimicrobial products in the area, and investigated their antimicrobial active ingredient (AAI) content by UPLC‐MS/MS (91 analytical tests). Results Only 17/59 (28.8%) batches contained all AAIs within 10% of the declared strength. Worryingly, 65.0% products provided in their label preparation guidelines for both therapeutic and prophylactic use. Withdrawal times for both meat and eggs were stated in 8/20 (40%) products. Conclusion Results highlight deficiencies in quality and labelling contents that undermine authorities’ efforts to discourage inappropriate use of antimicrobials.