Regulatory aspects for the drugs and chemicals used in food-producing animals in the European Union

Abstract

This chapter summarizes the use of drugs, feed additives, biocides and chemicals in the production of food-producing animals. The marketing authorization procedure for veterinary medicinal products and feed additives in the EU is presented. Safety to consumers is utmost importance and this demands a meticulous assessment of pharmacological, toxicological, microbiological, and residues for veterinary drugs and feed additives. The possible acute and chronic effects of drugs and chemicals residues by consuming animal food on human health were also described. Carry-over of the feed of coccidiostats and other medicated feed can result in the exposure of non-target animal species and induce adverse effects and the minimum required performance limits were presented. Animal foods containing residues of any pharmacologically active substances or other undesired substances above maximum residue limits (MRLs) could potentially constitute a public health hazard. The establishment of the MRL represents one of several standard options for risk managers to limit the presence of unwanted substances, and the area of regulations covering industrial chemicals is one of increasing harmonization within the EU. Comparative setting toxicological standards for food safety are described in detail. Residues from consumption of stock feed treated with pesticides should be evaluated and established the limits for pesticide residues in feed beside those for all undesirable substances. The regulations and administrative provisions relating to the classification, packaging, and labeling of dangerous substances on the evaluation and control of the risk of existing substances are reviewed. A critical factor in the medication of all food-producing animals is the mandatory withdrawal period, defined as the time during which drug must not be administered prior the slaughter the animal for consumption. The area of regulations covering industrial chemicals is one of increasing harmonization within the EU. The regulations and administrative provisions relating to the classification, packaging and labeling of dangerous substances on the evaluation and control of the risk of existing substances are revised. Moreover the REACH Regulation on Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restrictions of Chemicals, entered in force in 2007, addresses the production and use of chemical substances, and their potential impacts on both human health and the environment.