Nitrofurans
are antibiotic drugs, which were widely used
in food animal production. Due to concerns about
their carcinogenicity and mutagenicity, they
have been banned in Australia and many countries
overseas. Nirofuran Antibiotics are still available
and in use in a number of countries around the
world. Nitrofurans have been widely used in
the dairy, livestock, poultry and aquaculture
production industries.
Nitrofuran residues have been detected
in a range of food products including -
Pork | Lamb | Beef | Dairy | Chicken
| Duck | Turkey | Fish | Shrimp
Nitrofuran Drugs were inexpensive and effective
veterinary medicines which were widely used.
They are still manufactured used in many places
around the world for food animal production.
Nitrofuran Antibiotics include:
- Furazolidone
- Furaltadone
- Nitrofurantoine
- Nitrofurazone
Nitrofurans are still widely available
for use as broad spectrum antibacterials
and fungicides.
Although most instructions state the products
should not be used for food animal production,
some instructions still state "it
can also be used as a vet drug, feed additive
and antiseptic". |
The Nitrofuran parent compounds degrade rapidly
in the treated animal and are stored in the
tissue and products where they can remain long
after treatment.
Studies have found that these metabolite residues
are very stable, have a long half life and do
not degrade significantly during cooking or
processing.
Analysis of Nitrofuran metabolites is the only
way to ensure detection long after treatment
of the animal has occurred. Analysis of the
metabolites is a very specialised procedure
requiring analysis using an LC/MS (Liquid Chromatography
Mass Spectrometry) System.
Leeder Consulting has validated laboratory
procedures available now which can assist importers,
local producers, regulators and governments
with the detection of these potentially harmful
substances in foods.
Leeder Consulting offer a range of specialised
high-tech, non-routine and on-site services.
Access to leading edge technology and expertise
in Australia and overseas guarantees results
when and where you require. To discuss your
requirements or for more information contact
us now.
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