A new MAF survey that says the chances of an outbreak of poisoning  in New Zealand, similar to the recent E.Coli infection in Germany is unlikely.

The  New Zealand survey was conducted over 2009-2010 and examined bacteria such as E.Coli, Enterococcus, Campylobacter and Salmonella, and was designed to establish the extent of resistance to antimicrobial drugs found in bacteria in animals, and fresh produce.

There is a risk that overuse of antibiotics in animals can lead to resistance in bacteria, and the possibility of infection in humans, but the MAF survey shows this is not the situation in New Zealand.

The results compared well with countries like Denmark, renowned for its efforts in controlling antimicrobial resistance.

Professor Jacqueline Rowarth, Director of Agriculture at Massey University says this is good news for domestic consumers.

She says New Zealand ranks with the best-practice countries for food safety, reflecting educated farm workers, complying with excellent drug use regulations.

‘Our veterinary professionals do a great job’ she says, ‘the proof is in the testing’.