This free service which provides information on the prevention of residue in animal products is provided by the Rof Codina Foundation in collaboration with the Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, USC.
The service forms part of the international network FARAD (Food Animal Residue Avoidance Databank) that counts with a database created, managed, and revised by pharmacologists, toxicologists, and veterinarians about:
- Drugs used by veterinarians
- Residue of drugs in food products (eggs, meat, milk, etc.)
- Maximum limits of residue (MRL)
- Environmental toxins and contaminants
This service also provides guidance for veterinarians when establishing waiting periods after a certain drug and/or dose has been administered, depending on the animal species, disease, or type of intoxication.
A service for guidance on drug surveillance and also a way to log all incidents in this area is to be provided soon.
MRL & WITHDRAWAL PERIODS
After the administration of a medicine or after an accidental intoxication, the active ingredient is absorbed, distributed and accumulated in the organism. This drug or its metabolites can remain in food-producing animals and become residues. In order to mitigate any harmful effects that these residues might have in the food supply, maximum residue limits (MRL) have been established.
Upon completion of a treatment, or if an animal becomes intoxicated, the time that must elapse until the animal metabolizes or eliminates the drug or toxin to levels under the MRL is called the withdrawal or waiting period. During the withdrawal period these animals may not be used for human consumption nor may any food product coming from this animal (meat, milk, eggs) be sold. Extending the withdrawal period longer than necessary might cause economical setback to the producer, while reducing it too much might mean a health risk.
For any doubts, please contact:
sirfa@rofcodina.org
Servicio de Información sobre Residuos de Fármacos en Alimentos
Hospital Veterinario Universitario Rof Codina
Estrada da Granxa S/N, 27002 Lugo
Teléfono: 982 820 920
Fax: 982 285 893
Departamento de Farmacología
Facultad de Veterinaria de Lugo.
Red FARAD
