Is there less use of antibiotics in the salmon industry?

The salmon farming industry is one of the most important in the country, but like any other activity, it is under public scrutiny. One of the biggest objections to it is precisely the use of antibiotics during salmon production. Therefore, we invite you to read the following article on the latest data on this subject.

Why are antibiotics used in salmon farming?

In Chile, salmon farming uses antibiotics prescribed by a veterinarian, and they are only used when disease occurs. Under no circumstances are they used preventively or to accelerate fish growth.

In addition, the National Fisheries Service (Sernapesca) must authorize and monitor the fishing process online.

Chilean salmon must contend with a bacterium that causes SRS (Salmonid Rickettsial Septicemia). This pathogen only affects fish, and so far, it has not been possible to develop a fully effective vaccine.

In addition, salmon can also be affected by sea lice. This is a parasite that is harmful to the welfare of the fish.

Therefore, the use of antibiotics is always reactive, and they are only used when strictly necessary. It should be noted that these drugs are authorized for veterinary use by the World Health Organization. Antibiotics for human use are not used.

In this context, Jorge Olivares, PhD in molecular and cellular biology, told SalmonExpert that “the impact of the use of antimicrobials in salmon farming on pathogens and bacteria related to humans in Chile has not been demonstrated.”Workers on an aquaculture platform handling nets over the water at a salmon farming site.

Antibiotic consumption in salmon on the decline

During 2023, SalmonChile members reported a 30% decrease in antibiotic use compared to the previous year.

This represents sustained progress over time in salmon farming centers. While in 2013, 603 grams of antibiotics per ton of live fish produced were recorded, in 2023 that figure dropped to 236 grams per ton.

This represents a 61% decrease in the use of this type of medication in salmon production. This form of measurement is called the antibiotic consumption index (ACI).

The salmon industry is also reducing the use of pharmacological treatments against sea lice. To this end, it has promoted new technologies such as physical removal or the use of fresh water, among others.

During 2023, SalmonChile’s member production companies recorded 5.2 grams of antiparasitics per ton of fish treated. This represents the lowest number since 2013, when 9.5 grams per ton of salmon were used.

In fact, 23% of the salmon produced underwent at least one treatment without the use of drugs against sea lice. Strict quality standards have led to a 28% reduction in the use of antiparasitics over the last 11 years. 

Thinking about everyone’s well-being

Salmon farming companies in Chile produce one million tons of this fish per year. This represents 33% of global production of this food.

For this reason, the priority is to provide a quality product. 100% of salmon biomass is certified under at least one standard. This guarantees that the production process complies with international standards.

Salmon has a key role to play in many areas for the country and the world. Therefore, innovation in all areas will be important to continue improving.In 2019, SalmonChile’s partners committed to a 50% reduction in antibiotic use. To date, they have achieved 43% of the goal.