Walmart has asked its food suppliers of meat, poultry, seafood, dairy and eggs to implement the American veterinary Medical Association's principles on the judicious use of antibiotics by supplying them with regular updates on its use. The Pew Charitable Trusts recently commended Walmart for this announcement.

Gail Hansen, a veterinarian and senior officer for Pews antibiotic resistance project, said:

As the largest grocery store chain in the United States, Walmart has taken a significant step forward in the fight against antibiotic resistance by asking that all meat sold in its stores come from animals raised in accordance with the American Veterinary Medical Associations principles for judicious use of antimicrobials. Suppliers adopting these principles should develop strategies for preventing disease, support appropriate veterinary oversight when using antibiotics, and maintain accurate records when treating sick animals. Wal-Mart is also asking suppliers to provide annual reports to monitor and track reductions in antibiotic use. All of these efforts are critical components of curtailing the use of antibiotics important to human health.

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