Their use is linked to an increase in fluoroquinolone-resistant Campylobacter in chicken. Despite the dangers of resistant bacteria, the proposed FDA ban has yet to take full effect. Today, poultry consumers are far more likely to become ill from antibiotic-resistant Campylobacter than they were five years ago. Unless the use of fluoroquinolones in poultry is banned, foodborne infections in humans will become harder and harder to treat. Bayer should stop marketing Baytril for use in poultry to protect public health.
Harmful bacteria is killed with proper cooking and handling.
CSPI reminds holiday food preparers that they can help avoid food poisoning by washing their hands frequently, keeping turkeys refrigerated, and washing counters thoroughly with hot soapy water before and after handling the turkey.