Sulpha Compound Residues in Slaughter Animals and Deadstock

Sulpha compounds are antimicrobial agents used in the prevention and treatment of animal diseases. There are eight sulpha compound groups. Antimicrobial agents have been used for many years by the livestock industry and are currently available in many medication products. These products may be administered orally (drench or bolus), in feed or water, or by injection, and have a recommended label withdrawal period that will vary with different products, between 4 days to 30 days.

Best Management Guidelines for Prevention

Do

• Read labels on feeds and veterinary drugs to see if they contain sulpha products. Be aware of what you are using.
• Ask your veterinarian for alternatives to sulpha-based products where and when applicable.
• Develop a protocol with your veterinarian when using sulpha-based products. When in doubt, ask.
• Consult with your veterinarian on whether treatment is the best strategy. Determine if and when an animal is to be culled before you start treatment.
• Keep proper records and identify animals that may contain residues, to protect the food chain and the environment. .
• May need to develop a separate handling protocol and disposal plan for dead animals that may contain sulpha compound residues and ensure all employees and family members are aware of the procedures to follow. Communication is key to prevention.
• Improve your awareness. The Livestock Medicines Education Program (LMEP), Environmental Farm Plan (EFP), on-farm food safety training and species-specific medication lists provide valuable information. Knowledge is the key to residue prevention.

Don't

• Never place market animals in pens where other animals have been housed and treated with sulpha compounds before facilities are thoroughly cleaned and dried.
• Do not ship animals prior to withdrawal time on label.
• Never use a vehicle to transport market animals that has been used to transport animals containing sulpha products without first thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting the vehicle.
• Never use equipment or utensils in the feeding or treatment of animals that have been previously used to administer sulpha products without first thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting.
• Never administer any medication before reading the label.
• Never exceed recommended labeled dosage without first consulting your veterinarian as the withdrawal period may be extended.