I entirely agree with this. However, one must also be ready to engage in open dialogue that takes into account the opinions of stakeholders as well as the concerns and demands of consumers. This may not even be achievable. It would be dangerous to ban any substance in the guise of scientific need. The more we separate science from public opinion, the more we will advance.
Antibiotics are a valuable tool in the treatment of disease.
However, we must recognise that the need to use them is an admission of failure to prevent disease. The implementation of health plans should have major beneficial effects on the care of our animals and bring about a reduction in the overall use of antibiotics. One of the first uses to be eliminated will likely be the dietary enhancers. These developments will naturally occur farm by farm and country by country. The entire industry must recognise its responsibility in the field of prudent use.