A survey of sulfonamides in meat and honey in Vojvodina Market, Serbia
Date
2020Author
Kartalović, Brankica
Petrović, Jelena
Ratajac, Radomir
Vidaković, Suzana
Stojanović, Dragica
Mirčeta, Jovan
Đorđević, Vesna
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Show full item recordAbstract
Sulfonamides are a class of antimicrobials used for the treatment of food producing
animals. Administration of sulfonamides is governed by relevant legal framework and
they are prohibited from use in certain animal species (e.g. honeybees, laying hens). The
objective of this study was to compare the presence and contents of sulfonamide residues
in products originating from the animals that are not allowed to be administered
sulfonamide and the animals for which sulfonamides are used as allowed substance. A
total of 295 samples (180 honey samples and 115 meat samples) were examined using
HPLC with fluorescence detector (HPLC/FLD). The presence of residues was detected
in seven (6.1 %) meat samples. The amount of sulfonamide residues was less than
100 µg/kg, which is considered permissible residue level. The prohibited sulfonamide
residues were found in six (3.3 %) honey samples. Unauthorized administration of veterinary
drugs is obvious and can result in a high level of residues in foodstuffs and high
risk for human health. Out of six honey samples with residues, even 42.8 % had sulfonamide
levels higher than 100 µg/kg. Compliance with guidelines for good production
practice in primary production ensures safety of foodstuffs on the market. Prevention
of illegal administration of veterinary drugs is particularly difficult. However, relevant
measures should be taken to minimize it through adequate education of farmers and
animal breeders about the threat they pose for consumers and community