Veterinary Feed Directive: What you need to know

On Jan. 1,2017, Food and Drug Administration will implement their Guidance for Industry (GFI) 209 and GFI 213, which will phase out the use of medically important antimicrobials for production or performance purposes, and the new veterinary feed directive (VFD) rule, which requires veterinary oversight for the use of medically important antibiotics delivered in feed. Producers should plan to work with their local veterinarian to make sure they are in compliance with the new rules.Here is the latest coverage of the VFD impact to producers and veterinarians: Start Horn Fly Control Earlier than Later Availability of certain IGR mineral supplements might require a prescription if antibiotics are included. Some companies are registering IGR-only products without antibiotics. FDA commissioner discusses antibiotics in agriculture Food and Drug Administration director Robert Califf says antibiotics are often overused in human patients, and he thinks the situation is probably similar in animal agriculture. Seeking clarity on antibiotic rules Farm Foundation and Bovine Vet seek answers to common questions from producers, veterinarians and industry partners. Here are summaries of answers to key questions. Prepare for VFD changes Kansas State University veterinarian Mike Apley, outlines some of the challenges and opportunities as veterinarians to help clients prepare for new veterinary feed directive rules. VFD brochures outline each sector?s responsibilities The FDA has released a series of Veterinary Feed Directive (VFD) brochures, which list the specific responsibilities of veterinarians, clients and distributors such as feed mills for compliance with the new VFD rules. VFD webinar outlines requirements, next steps A June 17, 2015, webinar, available from BovineVetOnline, outlines key rules and responsibilities of veterinarians in prescribing and administering medically important antimicrobials in feed and use of medically important antibiotics in water. Other resources:GlobalVetLINK plans VFD webinar Livestock antibiotic label changes eliminate over-the-counter availability University of Missouri Extension Veterinary Feed Directive coming soon to an antibiotic you may use University of Arkansas Extension