Antibiotic Overuse On UK Factory Farms ‘Could Kill Over 52,000 Humans By 2050’

Antibiotic overuse on UK factory farms is causing human deaths and economic losses, with almost 2,000 deaths in 2021 and an estimated 52,000 deaths predicted by 2050 unless action is taken. The European Union has banned the routine preventative use of antibiotics on farms, and World Animal Protection UK is advocating for the UK government to do the same to prevent antimicrobial resistance and protect public health.

Factory farming not only affects human health but also inflicts cruelty on animals, with investigations revealing mistreatment such as pigs with cut tails and chickens struggling to breathe. Despite reductions in antibiotic usage per kilo of animal, antibiotic use is expected to increase by 6.9 percent by 2050, highlighting the urgency for stricter regulations. The report also details the economic impact of antibiotic overuse, with the UK losing £1.32 billion in 2022 and estimated losses of £37.55 billion by 2050, further emphasizing the need for immediate action to address this urgent issue.