Tackling antimicrobial resistance in the food chain under the One Health umbrella: a systems thinking approach with a focus on Jordan

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has emerged as a critical public health threat and one of the most complicated global challenges due to its multi-faceted nature. In addition to health burden, AMR also drives up healthcare costs and imposes substantial indirect economic impacts. Despite the ongoing global efforts, the burden of drug-resistant infections is still growing and alarming. Although AMR has been well addressed pertaining to human health, AMR linked to pathogens in other pillars of the food chain has been a hidden menace and a growing public health concern. AMR may arise in the food chain through various pathways, with foodborne drug-resistant pathogens being reported in the literature. Tackling and combatting AMR in the food chain requires a multi-faceted comprehensive approach under the One Health umbrella. This approach is crucial not only to protect public health but also to ensure the sustainability and safety of all components of the food chain.