Verification of the presence of antibiotic residue in sheep meat

Abstract Antibiotics are substances with a direct action on bacteria that are used for treatment or prevention of infectious diseases. Their usage in food-producing animals may result in deposition of their residues in animal products. The sheep sector is considered an overall lower user of antibiotics, but there is still a need to monitor residues in sheep meat also. The aim of this study was to verify whether antibiotic residues are present in samples of sheep meat on the market from various local suppliers in Ireland, and if so, to tentatively identify them. Our study was carried out using two microbial inhibition tests, the tube Explorer 2.0 test with photometrical reading of the results and the multi-plate Screening Test for Antibiotic Residue (STAR), for the antibiotic group identification in the samples tested positive. Out of the 15 random samples tested, 2 samples yielded a positive result using the Explorer 2.0 test. Using the STAR, both positive samples were considered suspicious for the presence of beta-lactam antibiotics. Another fresh sample from each supplier that tested positive already had a negative result. Reliable monitoring of meat from food-producing animals in accordance with European Union law contributes to the protection of public health and strengthens consumer confidence.