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what’s the problem: researchers are trying to find alternative remedies to antibiotics that are used to feed animals. This would make farmers switch to natural solutions instead of using the actual chemical medicines.
possible solution: a European Union ban on antibiotics is due to come into force in 2006. This could orient research towards alternative remedies fo exemple essential oils extracted from plants such as thyme, garlic and cinnamon, which might have the same effect of antibiotics in killing harmful bacteria. The E.U. ban was introduced mainly to prevent the further spread of antibiotic-resistant ‘superbugs’, some of which can affect humans and have become a growing problem for treating hospital patients.
much is still to be done: according to the Britain’s Soil Association (active in promoting organic farming) the ban, which still allows veterinary use of antibiotics, did not go far enough. Yet, as policy adviser Richard Young said, “the reality is that if you keep animals in good conditions, you don’t need the routine use of drugs”.
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