Analysis of Antibiotics Residue in Raw Cow Milk in Randomly Selected Farms in Moyo District, Northern Uganda.

Abstract

Antibiotic are commonly used veterinary medications but these residues especially in raw milk as in this study represent a significant public health concern due to their potential to causing allergic reactions, disrupt human gut micro biota, and most importantly contributing to the growing problem of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This study aimed to analyze antibiotic residues in raw cow milk from randomly selected farms in Moyo District, Northern Uganda, and to investigate the correlation between antibiotic usage patterns and residue levels. Data collected from farmer surveys revealed that beta-lactams and tetracyclines are the most commonly used antibiotics, with many farmers lacking adequate knowledge of proper administration and withdrawal periods. Milk samples were screened using FTIR spectroscopy, detecting residues of both antibiotic classes in all samples. Residue levels ranged from 0.000737 to 0.024131 µg/kg for beta-lactams and 0.000131 to 0.123993 µg/kg for tetracyclines in farms that did not observe withdrawal periods, compared to significantly lower levels in farms that did. Though statistical analysis confirmed a strong, significant association (p < 0.05) between failure to observe withdrawal periods and elevated residue contamination, the residue levels were below the global Maximum Residue Levels but continued mismanagement could lead to future consequences. The study therefore highlighted critical gaps in farmer awareness and residue monitoring, emphasizing the urgent need for targeted interventions to improve antibiotic stewardship in order to ensure milk safety, and mitigate AMR risks in rural parts of Uganda that are mostly neglected.