What are the laws regulating the use of antibiotics in food production?

In Virginia, the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) regulates the use of antibiotics in food production. All antibiotics used in food production must be approved by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) and the use must be in accordance with the label directions. Antibiotics are used in food production to prevent or treat diseases in animals, and must be used judiciously. Any antibiotic given to food animals must be administered under the direct supervision of a licensed veterinarian. Also, antibiotics used in food animals must be documented, and a drug residue testing program must be in place. All food animals must be tested for antibiotic residue before the product can enter the food chain. Animals must be cleared of any antibiotic residues before they can enter the food chain, with established tolerances, withdrawal periods, and laboratory methods for determining the level of residues in the animal. In addition, all labels for animal feed that contain antibiotics must state that the product is for veterinary use only, and may not be given to animals intended for food or feed. Any food animal treated with an antibiotic must have a withdrawal period before the product is considered safe for human consumption. It is also important to note that any antibiotic residues that are found in food products must be reported and investigated. If residues are found to exceed established standards, the product must be recalled and corrective action must be taken. Regulations are in place to ensure the safety of foods for human consumption.

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What are the laws regulating the use of antibiotics in food production?

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