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RS CXC 61: 2005
Code of practice to minimize and contain foodborne antimicrobial resistance

Abstract

This code of practice provides risk management guidance to address the risk to human health of the
development and transmission of antimicrobial resistant microorganisms or resistance determinants through
food. It provides risk-based guidance on relevant measures and practices along the food chain to minimize
and contain the development and spread of foodborne AMR, including guidance on the responsible and
prudent use of antimicrobial agents in animal production (terrestrial and aquatic) plant/crop production, and
references other best management practices, as appropriate.
This document includes guidance for all interested parties involved in the authorization, manufacture, sale and
supply, prescription and use of antimicrobial agents in the food chain together with those involved in the
handling, preparation, food processing, storage, transport, wholesale and retail distribution and consumption
of food who have a role to play in ensuring the responsible and prudent use of antimicrobial agents and/or who
have a role with limiting the development and spread of foodborne antimicrobial resistant microorganisms and
resistance determinants.
Most of the recommendations in this code of practice focus on antibacterials, however some recommendations
may also be applicable to antiviral, antiparasitic, antiprotozoal, and antifungal agents, where there is scientific
evidence of foodborne AMR risk to human health.
As there are existing Codex or internationally recognized guidelines, the following areas related to antimicrobial
agents or AMR are outside the scope of this document: residues of antimicrobial agents in food; AMR marker
genes in recombinant DNA plants/crops1 and recombinant DNA microorganisms,2 non-genetically modified
microorganisms (for example, starter cultures) intentionally added to food with a technological purpose; certain
food ingredients, which could potentially carry AMR determinants, such as probiotics;3 and biocides. In
addition, AMR from non-food animals, non-food plants/crops, or non-food routes are also outside the scope of
this document.

General Information