Tetracycline residues in retailed pork meat and liver in public markets of Davao city, Philippines

The misuse of antibiotics, including tetracycline, is a significant issue in veterinary medicine because of their widespread use, leading to antibiotic residues in animal tissues. Residues pose health risks to consumers and promote antimicrobial resistance. This study aimed to detect tetracycline residues in retail pork meat and liver samples from selected public markets in Davao city. A total of 146 pork samples were tested, comprising 74 meat and 72 liver samples. Detection was performed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The results showed that all samples were positive for tetracycline residue with a mean concentration level of 67.12±11.29 ng/g for meat samples and 74.01±16.43 ng/g in liver samples. However, none reached or exceeded the maximum residue levels of 200 ng/g and 600 ng/g for meat and liver, respectively. Liver samples had significantly higher mean tetracycline concentrations than meat samples from three public markets in Davao city. The detected levels were within the regulatory limits, and the significant difference between liver and meat samples highlights the need for continued monitoring of antibiotic residues in different animal tissues.