A survey of sulfonamides in meat and honey in Vojvodina Market, Serbia

Sulfonamides are a class of antimicrobials used for the treatment of food producing animals. Administration of sulfonamides is governed by relevant legal framework and they are prohibited from use in certain animal species (e.g. honeybees, laying hens). The objective of this study was to compare the presence and contents of sulfonamide residues in products originating from the animals that are not allowed to be administered sulfonamide and the animals for which sulfonamides are used as allowed substance. A total of 295 samples (180 honey samples and 115 meat samples) were examined using HPLC with fluorescence detector (HPLC/FLD). The presence of residues was detected in seven (6.1 %) meat samples. The amount of sulfonamide residues was less than 100 mu g/kg, which is considered permissible residue level. The prohibited sulfonamide residues were found in six (3.3 %) honey samples. Unauthorized administration of veterinary drugs is obvious and can result in a high level of residues in foodstuffs and high risk for human health. Out of six honey samples with residues, even 42.8 % had sulfonamide levels higher than 100 mu g/kg. Compliance with guidelines for good production practice in primary production ensures safety of foodstuffs on the market. Prevention of illegal administration of veterinary drugs is particularly difficult. However, relevant measures should be taken to minimize it through adequate education of farmers and animal breeders about the threat they pose for consumers and community.