Antibiotics Overuse In Poultry Can Be Health Hazard For Humans, Says Boehringer India

Boehringer Ingelheim, which is based out of Ingelheim in Germany, is a global pharmaceutical company with presence in both human and animal health segments. Boehringer Ingelheim India, its Indian arm, has a significant presence in animal health segment which is growing rapidly. It offers a range of animal health solutions for segments like livestock (such as poultry) and pets. The company has a broad portfolio of vaccines designed to prevent zoonotic, transboundary, and emerging diseases, ensuring both animal health and public health. “The increased use of antibiotics in poultry can have several potential side-effects, particularly concerning antimicrobial resistance. Overuse or misuse of antibiotics can lead to the development of resistant bacteria, which can be transmitted to humans through the consumption of contaminated meat or through environmental exposure. This resistance can make infections in humans harder to treat”, Dr Vinod Gopal, Head of Animal Health Business, Boehringer Ingelheim India, tells Bizz Buzz in an exclusive interaction

How is India’s livestock sector performing at present?

India’s livestock sector is experiencing significant growth, driven by advancements in farming practices and technology. The poultry industry, in particular, has undergone a transformation, moving from conventional to commercial production systems with modern technological interventions. India is the world’s second-largest egg producer, producing around 138 billion eggs annually. This rapid expansion in poultry production reflects the sector's increasing efficiency and output, contributing to India’s overall livestock growth.

What is the size of the animal health market in India, and how is it evolving?

The animal health market in India is growing rapidly, driven by increasing awareness, rising livestock productivity, and rising pet ownership. The market is expanding due to the rising demand for animal health solutions for livestock (especially poultry) and pets, as well as growing concerns about zoonotic diseases, biosecurity, and food safety. In particular, the companion care market is witnessing substantial growth, projected to surpass Rs 7,500 crore by 2026. This growth is also fueled by India's increasing focus on animal health, with investments in innovative solutions like vaccines and parasiticides.

What are the key drivers contributing to the growth of the animal health market in India?

Several key drivers are contributing to the growth of the animal health market in India. Increased demand for meat and eggs, particularly from growing urban populations, obviously boosts the need for effective animal health solutions. Besides, humanization of pets and the growing number of pets in urban households create a strong demand for pet health products and veterinary care. Concerns about food security, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and the spread of zoonotic diseases also drive the need for preventive health solutions. Innovation in vaccines, diagnostics, and health management solutions, such as AI-based tools for early disease detection, support the growth of the sector in the long run.

What challenges is the animal health market currently facing in India?

The animal health market in India faces several challenges. Outbreaks of zoonotic and transboundary diseases like African Swine Fever, Foot and Mouth Disease, and Avian Influenza continue to threaten both animal populations and human health. Growing concerns over the overuse of antibiotics, particularly in livestock farming, pose significant public health risks as it leads to antimicrobial resistance. Furthermore, stricter regulatory requirements and the need for faster approval of new products can slow down market growth. While awareness is increasing, educating farmers and pet owners about the benefits of preventive health care and vaccinations remains a challenge, particularly in rural areas.

Where does Boehringer Ingelheim India stand in terms of market share in the Indian animal health industry?

Our company is a significant player in India’s animal health market. While specific market share figures are not provided in the provided data, the company is known for its leadership in animal health, particularly in the segments of livestock (such as poultry) and pets. The company is committed to the Indian market, with plans to launch 10 new products over the next two to three years, further strengthening its presence and market share.

What solutions does Boehringer Ingelheim India offer in this sector?

Boehringer Ingelheim India offers a range of solutions in animal health, including Prevexxion RN+HVT+IBD which is a unique three-in-one solution for disease prevention in poultry, combining protection against Newcastle Disease, Marek's Disease, and Infectious Bursal Disease in one injection.

We also offer parasite control products for dogs that treat external and internal parasites, preventing diseases like Lyme disease and heartworm. Our Broadline and Frontline Plus products are effective for parasite control in cats and dogs, preventing ticks, fleas, and other harmful parasites.

We have a broad portfolio of vaccines designed to prevent zoonotic, transboundary, and emerging diseases, ensuring both animal health and public health.

What products and solutions do you plan to launch in the next one to two years?

Boehringer Ingelheim plans to launch 10 new products in the next two-three years, with a focus on pets, poultry, and livestock. These products will address the unmet needs of animal health, with a particular emphasis on preventive health, disease control, and the protection of animal welfare. New solutions are likely to include vaccines, parasiticides, and advanced health management products that align with emerging trends like antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and zoonotic disease prevention.

Telangana is one of India’s largest poultry markets. How is the segment performing in the State at the moment?

Telangana is one of India’s key poultry markets, ranking among the top States for meat production. The State has a large and well-established poultry industry, driven by technological advances in farming practices. With significant contributions to India’s egg and meat production, Telangana is poised for continued growth, making it a key area for Boehringer Ingelheim’s operations and product offerings.

There has been an increase in the use of antibiotics in poultry. What potential side-effects might this have on consumers?

The increased use of antibiotics in poultry can have several potential side-effects, particularly concerning antimicrobial resistance. Overuse or misuse of antibiotics can lead to the development of resistant bacteria, which can be transmitted to humans through the consumption of contaminated meat or through environmental exposure. This resistance can make infections in humans harder to treat, leading to longer hospital stays, increased medical costs, and higher mortality rates. Hence, it's critical to use antibiotics responsibly and promote alternative methods, like vaccines and parasite control, to ensure safe and sustainable poultry production.