The National Pork Board recently launched the program, “Take Care — Use Antibiotics Responsibly.” It is designed to encourage producers and their veterinarians to follow specific principles and guidelines to reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance while preserving animal health and protecting human health.

The pork checkoff-funded program assesses the need for antibiotics and their appropriate use and disposal. Also incorporated are practices contained in the Pork Quality Assurance program.

Pork producers, veterinarians, pharmaceutical and feed industry officials and government leaders developed the antibiotics program.

To obtain a copy of the Take Care manual, call (800) 456-PORK.