Tetracycline Antibiotics in Raw Cow'S Milk Produced in Samsun Province, Turkey

Abstract

Due to their broad spectrum of activity and cost effectiveness, tetracyclines are among the most commonly used antibiotics used in worldwide. In this study, the levels of tetracycline, oxytetracycline and chlortetracycline residues in 100 raw milk samples collected in public markets in Samsun Province were investigated. Oxytetracycline was detected in nine samples (11.62-45.56 mu g L-1), tetracycline in 35 samples (2.21-135.32 mu g L-1) and chlortetracycline in 40 samples (20.06-98.30 mu g L-1). The residue level was above the legal limit (100 mu g L-1) in only in one sample (tetracycline; 135.32 mu g L-1). Given the overall results of this study, it is concluded that due to the detection of tetracycline antibiotics in many samples, they should be frequently monitored in milk and also in other foods of animal origin. In addition, the possible risks to human health of tetracycline residues should be further assessed and producers and consumers should be better informed.