Antibiotic Residues in fresh Chicken, Fish and Beef Meat samples in Maiduguri, Nigeria

Abstract

Prudent use of antibiotics in animal industry is essential for treatment of diseases and preventive measure. However, uncontrolled use of  these agents in large amounts and consistently could result in the formation of antibiotic residues in muscle and organs of animal. This  study aimed to determine the occurrence of antibiotic residue in fresh meats in Maiduguri. A crosssectional study was conducted from  September 2022 to December 2022 to determine the antibiotic residue in 3 sources of meat samples. A total of 150 fresh meat samples  (chicken, fish and beef) were collected from different sale points Maiduguri, and analyzed using a Premi® Test kit (R-Biopharm AG,  Germany), a microbial screening commercial test kit for the detection of antibiotic residues. The results showed an overall antibiotic  residue of 127/150 (84.7%) meat samples were positive for antibiotic residues. High antibiotic residues were found in Chicken meats  47/50 (94%), followed by fish 43/50 (86%), and beef 37/50 (74%). The results in this study show the presence of antibiotic residues in meat.  Therefore, it is recommended that effective legislation on antibiotic use in animals should be enforced.