Gram-negative β-lactamase-producing bacteria in food systems in Brazil

ABSTRACT: β-lactams play a fundamental role in the antibiotic arsenal for treating Gram-negative bacteria (GNB), which are important causative agents of infection. β-Lactamase producing Gram-negative bacteria (BL-GNB) are a public health problem because they limit infection treatment options. Several types of food can be reservoirs of BL-GNB, contributing to the dissemination of different types of genes encoding resistance to β-lactams. This research conducted a literature review that addresses the characteristics and dynamics of BL-GNBs in foods produced in Brazil and possible control actions implemented to combat antimicrobial resistance (AR) in the country. The presence of BL-GNBs in food sources highlighted the implications of the One-Health approach in Brazil, a global concept that consolidates and unifies human, animal, and environmental health. AR has not yet been a political priority in the country. In this sense, the application of measures to reduce and control AR is essential, especially in Brazil, which has an economic base in agribusiness.