Diseases in Industrial Farms

Industrial animal farms are known for their large-scale production, but they are also places where diseases thrive in conditions that jeopardize animal welfare. In particular, sow maternity farms stand out as a critical point where the precarious health of animals and the excessive use of antibiotics pose a significant risk to public health and the environment.

The Threat of Antibiotics in Livestock

A report from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) reveals an alarming fact: around 40% of antibiotics produced worldwide are used as additives in animal feed on industrial farms. This excessive use of antibiotics not only raises ethical concerns regarding animal welfare but also triggers a serious threat to global health.

Antibiotic Resistance: An Imminent Danger

The unrestrained consumption of antibiotics through meat and dairy products on industrial farms has led to the emergence of bacteria resistant to conventional treatments. This antibiotic resistance is a risk that humanity is ill-prepared to face. When infectious diseases become resistant to antibiotics, standard medical treatments become ineffective, potentially resulting in more severe infections and higher mortality rates.

Spain Leads in Antibiotic Use

The situation is particularly concerning in Spain, where it leads the European Union in the use of antibiotics in livestock farming. Specifically, 402 milligrams of antibiotics are used for every kilogram of meat produced, a quantity four times higher than in Germany and nearly six times greater than in France. This unsustainable trend not only threatens public health but also jeopardizes the country's reputation in terms of animal welfare and agricultural sustainability.

Environmental and Economic Impact

In addition to the risks to human health, the excessive use of antibiotics on industrial farms also has a devastating impact on the environment and the economy. Runoff from antibiotics and related chemicals can contaminate groundwater and aquatic ecosystems, affecting wildlife and causing irreparable harm.

The issue of diseases on industrial farms, particularly in sow maternity farms, is a multifaceted challenge that affects animal welfare, public health, the environment, and the economy. Urgent action is needed to reduce the indiscriminate use of antibiotics in livestock farming and promote more ethical and sustainable animal rearing practices. The health and welfare of animals on farms must be a priority, not only for ethical reasons but also for the safety and health of society as a whole.