Chile’s Agricultural and Livestock Service (SAG) Head of Medicine Registration and Control, Carolina Marambio, participated in the inaugural ChileCarne Talks, where she shared insights from her 16 years of public service. Marambio emphasized the importance of disease prevention and alternatives to antimicrobials to combat resistance, as well as SAG’s role in implementing international regulations and collaborating on the National Plan against AMR to safeguard animal health and welfare.
– What do you see as the most significant advances in AMR and the responsible use of antimicrobials?
The initial progress we observed—since I have been in this department for 16 years—was in regulation. We’ve shifted from national regulations to international standards, which allows us to access diverse markets, offer assurances to trading partners, and enhance animal health. We’ve strengthened regulations in line with these standards and with the global and national AMR plans, sharing this information with industry professionals, veterinarians, and animal owners.
– What is SAG’s role in the National Plan against AMR, and which other public or private agencies contribute to its implementation?
The National Plan follows the “One Health” model, encompassing human health, animal health, and environmental factors. SAG is involved in both animal health and food safety. We collaborate with various sectors, including fisheries, and work alongside the Ministry of Health in training and food safety initiatives. These activities include studies and public awareness campaigns on how AMR can impact consumers.
– What alternatives to antimicrobials, such as vaccines or probiotics, are being promoted, and what role does SAG play in validating them?
In terms of validation, the market offers options like vaccines, probiotics, prebiotics, immune modulators, and phages. SAG authorizes the use of vaccines, which we prioritize and rigorously evaluate, given that disease prevention is the primary goal. Vaccines are essential in this effort. SAG also authorizes the use of modulators, probiotics, and prebiotics, and there’s significant interest in further developing these options.
– What message would you like to share with producers and veterinarians regarding responsible antimicrobial use and its role in preventing resistance?
Prevention is key. By preventing disease and adhering to stringent biosecurity standards —including health, management, and vaccination—we can improve overall animal health. Healthier animals are less likely to fall ill, reducing the need for antimicrobials and, in turn, the risk of resistance. There are also economic benefits, as many production losses stem from disease. When discussing resistance, people often think about human impacts, but the animal sector is also affected by production losses and higher costs linked to antimicrobial resistance. Promoting animal health is essential, and it’s also a fundamental component of animal welfare.
