Antimicrobial resistance in the vegetable industry (VG23004)

This project is investigating the risks and impacts of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in the Australian levy vegetable supply chain. The goal is to assess how AMR and chemical-resistant pathogens could evolve within the industry and identify necessary actions to mitigate this. 

Challenge 

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when microorganisms - such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites - develop resistance to treatments that were previously effective. A reliance on antimicrobial products in agriculture, the environment, and healthcare has made AMR a global concern.  

In crop production, AMR can lead to untreatable plant diseases, resulting in significant crop losses and economic setbacks. It also places regulatory pressure on affected industries and disrupts trade both domestically and internationally.  

Currently, there are no consistent regulatory measures addressing AMR in agriculture. This presents an opportunity to reevaluate both pre- and post-harvest microbial management strategies and enhance the industry’s capacity to mitigate the risks associated with AMR and chemical-resistant pathogens.  

Response  

The project will analyse various pathways, behaviours, and practices within the vegetable supply chain, including:  

Findings will be synthesised into a relative risk assessment tailored to the vegetable industry. This will account for diverse growing conditions, from production to processing, and examine various environmental factors such as neighboring properties, water and soil sources, and equipment and facility cleaning processes. 

Benefit  

The research will deliver valuable insights and practical solutions for Australian vegetable growers, supporting the implementation of effective, field-based AMR mitigation strategies.  

The project aligns with the Vegetable Strategic Investment Plan 2022-2026, driving behavioural change, adoption of best practices, and improved microbial management strategies. By implementing these measures, the industry can minimise AMR risks and uphold world-class horticultural standards.