Buying meat from farmers markets and butchers will reduce risk of contracting MRSA

Confined animal feeding operations (CAFOs) are characterised by large scale, centralized, low profit margin production.

The consequence of raising animals on factory farms rather than raising them properly is antibiotic resistance disease.

A new variant of MRSA has emerged in CAFO animals (primarily pigs but also cows and chickens). It can be transmitted to humans.

Besides antibiotic overuse, which threatens human health, CAFOs also promote animal diseases that would not occur in the organic model, through the unnatural diet used in the CAFO set-up.

LA-MRSA is highly contagious and can be contracted by touching a contaminated animal. Hence pig farmers are particularly at risk.

In a recent investigation by The Guardianm out of 100 pork samples purchased in the UK, nine tested positive for MRSA. Eight of then originated in Denmark and one in Ireland.

Considering the fact that food is exported between nations across the globe (we are now buying beef from China) the health risks associated with MRSA are no means localised.

What can we do as individuals? Wherever possible (affordability allowing) buy meat from farmers markets and local butchers.

Question supermarkets on where their meat is sourced and how it is reared.

KATE TRAVERS

High Street

Sutton

Via e-mail