Residues of antibiotics in yeasts from ethanol production: a possible contamination route for feedingstuffs.

The research examines the risk of antibiotic residue in animal feed ingredients, particularly sugarcane yeast and brewer’s yeast from ethanol production in Brazil, potentially causing non-compliance and toxicity issues.

Introduction to the Problem

• The research focuses on the potential risk of antibiotic contamination in yeasts used for animal feed. The yeast derived from ethanol production, particularly sugarcane and brewer’s yeast, are commonly used in animal feed production in Brazil.
• It’s common practice in ethanol production refineries to use antibiotics to prevent the must contamination. As such, there is a risk of having antibiotic residues from yeasts used to produce animal feeds.
• Unintentional addition of these residues to animal feeds could lead to non-compliant feed production due to regulatory issues around antibiotic use and potential toxicity risks for animals.

Analysis of Antibiotic Residues

• The study undertook an exploratory program assessing the occurrence of over 60 antibiotics and other pharmaceuticals in 27 samples of sugarcane yeast and brewer’s yeast.
• Among the samples, Monensin was found present in seven, with concentrations ranging from 0.47 to 263.5mg per kg. Other antibiotics like virginiamycin (2.25mg per kg) and amprolium (0.25mg per kg) were also quantified.

Implications of the Findings

• The presence of Monensin in sugarcane yeast could pose a risk for feeds production, most notably for sensitive species such as equines and rabbits as Monensin has toxic effects on them.
• Results of this research highlight the need to regulate and monitor the use of antibiotics in ethanol production, given their potential carryover to animal feeds and subsequent health risks. Failure to manage this situation could lead to non-compliant feed products and toxicity issues for animals.

Concluding Remarks

• The unintentional inclusion of antibiotic residues in animal feeds is a significant concern that warrants further attention from the industry and regulators. Plus, the potential health risks for animals consuming these feeds is a matter that needs addressing urgently.
• Future research should focus on developing guidelines and best practices to control the use of antibiotics in ethanol production, thereby safeguarding animal health and ensuring the production of compliant feeds.