In May 2024, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released its latest report on products denied entry into the country, with a significant focus on shrimp imports from India. The FDA identified the presence of banned antibiotics, such as nitrofurans and chloramphenicol, in these shrimp products. These substances have been prohibited in food production and food-producing animals in the US since the 1980s and early 1990s.
The FDA flagged Import Alerts 16-124 and 16-129 to target the detection of these antibiotics in seafood. An entry line refers to a specific type of product within a container, and a single container can contain various types of shrimp, categorized by size and processing type. In May, 5% of the rejected imports were shrimp, found to contain these illegal substances.
India faced the highest number of shrimp rejections in 2024, with 39 entry lines refused so far. An analysis by the Southern Shrimp Alliance revealed a 14% increase in rejections from India compared to 2023. Notably, 88% of shrimp entry line rejections in May were from India.
Despite inspection protocols by Indian authorities like the Coastal Aquaculture Authority and the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA), the presence of banned antibiotics persists. Indian agencies monitor antibiotic use in shrimp farming, yet detection capabilities lag behind those of the European Union, which can detect antibiotic residues at much lower concentrations.
The misuse of antibiotics in aquaculture can lead to antibiotic-resistant bacteria, posing significant health risks. Additionally, antibiotic residues from shrimp farms can contaminate the environment, similar to concerns raised in the poultry industry. These issues highlight the broader problem of antimicrobial resistance, which is becoming a critical global health priority.
Experts are calling for improved regulations and detection infrastructure in India. There is a need for increased awareness among farmers and consumers, stricter biosecurity measures, and better veterinary oversight. Addressing these issues is crucial for public health and environmental protection.
The FDA’s recent actions underscore the need for stronger enforcement of regulations to ensure the safety of imported seafood. Tackling antibiotic contamination in shrimp exports is vital for safeguarding both human health and the environment.