E703 – Oxytetracycline

Description

Broad-spectrum antibiotic used in animal feed to promote growth and prevent disease

Risks

Notes

Tylosin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that's produced naturally by a type of soil bacteria called Streptomyces fradiae. It's manufactured through fermentation, where these bacteria are grown in large tanks under controlled conditions, similar to how we produce other antibiotics like penicillin. The bacteria naturally produce tylosin as part of their biological processes, and it's then extracted and purified for use. Unlike most food additives that go directly into human food, tylosin is primarily used in animal feed to prevent and treat bacterial infections in livestock, particularly poultry, swine, and cattle. It helps keep farm animals healthy and can improve their growth rates. While it has an E-number, you won't typically see it listed on food labels because it's used in animal production rather than added directly to processed foods. Tylosin raises important considerations about antibiotic use in agriculture. While it helps maintain animal health, there are ongoing discussions about antibiotic resistance and the potential for antibiotic residues in meat and dairy products. Many countries have strict regulations about withdrawal periods—the time that must pass between giving animals antibiotics and using them for food production. Some regions have banned or restricted its use, and there's a growing movement toward antibiotic-free animal agriculture. Consumers concerned about antibiotic use can look for meat and dairy products labeled as antibiotic-free or organic.