Feather analysis to monitor antibiotic usage

Researchers at the Polish national veterinary research institute evaluated feather analysis as a non-invasive alternative to tissue sampling for the surveillance of doxycycline use on poultry farms. It seems that bird exposure to antibiotics is best indicated by testing feathers, as antimicrobials have the potential to accumulate in poultry feathers. Antibacterials are commonly used in poultry to treat microbial diseases and to ensure the health and welfare of birds. In intensive poultry produc