The National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management (FARM) Program today released its 2026-2027 Milk & Dairy Beef Drug Residue Prevention Reference Manual, equipping farmers with an educational tool that promotes best management practices for responsible and judicious use of antimicrobials in dairy cattle.
The updated manual has timely information about the FDA’s conditionally approved and emergency use authorizations of drugs to combat New World screwworm. It also includes the Food and Drug Administration’s Guidance for Industry No. 273: “Defining Durations of Use for Approved Medically Important Antimicrobial Drugs Fed to Food-Producing Animals” (GFI No. 273), finalized and announced in February.
“The U.S. dairy industry is committed to antibiotic stewardship and judicious use of all medications used for dairy cattle,” says Dr. Jamie Jonker, National Milk Producers Federation’s chief science officer. “The Drug Residue Prevention Manual continues to be a trusted resource for dairy farmers when making educated choices with their veterinarians to care for their animals.”
When dairy animals get sick or injured and treatment is necessary, producers and veterinarians use antibiotics and other drugs prudently. The manual serves as a resource for producers and veterinarians, and includes information on:
- Residue prevention best practices
- Record keeping and herd health
- Drug administration
- Culling of animals
- Residue testing
- Drug classes
- Approved drugs and screening tests
The Milk & Dairy Beef Drug Residue Prevention Manual and the associated pocket guide are sponsored by Zoetis. Their sponsorship supports the development of on-farm resource development for U.S. dairy farmers.
The manual is available for download on the FARM Program website. The pocket guide will be available later this month. Through educational resources and training, the FARM Program advances its mission of fostering a culture of continuous improvement by demonstrating U.S. dairy farmers are committed to producing high-quality, safe milk with integrity.
