To address critical issues affecting the pork and poultry export sectors, ChileCarne has launched a new series called “ChileCarne Talks.” This platform aims to facilitate discussion on essential topics such as sustainability, public health, and animal welfare.

On October 23, ChileCarne inaugurated its new series “ChileCarne Talks” with a session titled “Antimicrobial Resistance: Current and Future Challenges in Pig and Poultry Production,” reflecting a key concern for the global white meat industry.

Hosted at ChileCarne’s headquarters, the event featured prominent experts: Dr. Shabbir Simjee, Dr. Alicia Gallardo, and Carolina Marambio, Head of Veterinary Medicine Registration and Control at Chile’s Agricultural and Livestock Service (SAG). The audience included sector professionals such as veterinarians, academics, government officials, and students.

Dr. Shabbir Simjee, Senior Technical Advisor for Microbiology and Antimicrobials at Elanco Animal Health, provided an in-depth analysis of the challenges of antimicrobial use in animal production. Drawing from his extensive experience in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) research, Dr. Simjee emphasized the need for prudent, regulated use of antimicrobials in animals to prevent resistance that poses risks to global public health. He shared research findings and case studies illustrating AMR’s implications within the food chain and explored solutions the industry should adopt to address this issue.

Dr. Alicia Gallardo, President of the World Organization for Animal Health’s (WOAH) Aquatic Animals Commission, discussed the role of regulators and international policies in combating antimicrobial resistance. Gallardo highlighted the importance of establishing robust regulations and monitoring systems to ensure sustainability in the meat and aquaculture sectors. She further emphasized the need for collaboration between the public and private sectors to address this health challenge, which impacts both industry and consumers.

Carolina Marambio, who leads SAG’s Medicine Registration and Control Subdepartment, shared insights from her 16 years in public service. Her work has been instrumental in implementing international regulations and fostering a culture of prevention and responsible antimicrobial use—vital elements in addressing AMR.

The inaugural ChileCarne Talk offered more than presentations; it fostered interaction by allowing attendees to engage with experts on how these insights could be practically applied in the Chilean context. Held in an intimate setting, the event provided an ideal environment for knowledge-sharing and building connections within the technical and scientific communities of the sector.

This monthly series will continue on November 15 with a session on “New Paths to Sustainability: Finance, Climate, and Responsible Production,” followed by a discussion on “Gestation Crates” on December 5. Both sessions will maintain the small-group format, enabling in-depth exploration of these topics and encouraging dialogue with leading experts.