The guidelines were launched today (Fri) in London by the Responsible Use of Medicines in Agriculture (RUMA) Alliance.

Farmers, along with their vets, have a major role to play in making sure their welfare standards are of the highest while at the same time making sure antibiotics are properly used.

Stewart, himself a pig producer, said: "The industry is committed to producing top quality, safe food and this is an integral part of that.

"It is, however, important to remember that antibiotics have an important role to play in treating disease in animals so there is a large welfare component there.

"Antibiotics can only be administered to pigs under the supervision of the vet and there are many other controls to ensure safety.

"The industry has also responded positively to the challenge of removing antibiotic growth promoters from feed in January 2006.

"BPEX has an extensive research and farm advice programme on achieving this change while maintaining high standards of pig health and welfare."

One information booklet for farmers has already been published and another is in production. Research into successful weaner pig management without AGPs is under way and preliminary results are due early next year.

The RUMA guidelines for pigs are being sent out to producers and more information is available on the RUMA website, www.ruma.org.uk.

Source: BPEX - 3rd December 2004