WARNING: Pork & Chicken have ARVs Content, says NDA

Uganda’s Drug regulator, National Drug Authority has (NDA) has confirmed the use of ARV’s in mixing chicken and pig feeds by Uganda poultry farmers.

This was revealed by the NDA Senior Regulatory Officer, Mr,Amos Atumanya while appearing before the Parliament Committee on HIV/AIDS and Related Matters.

Today, officials from the National Drug Authority appeared before the Committee on HIV/AIDS and related matters to respond to allegations of use of HIV drugs by farmers to fatten  chicken and pigs in the country.

when asked about the allegations, Mr.  Atumanya from NDA shocked members of parliament when he confirmed that its true.

“We also confirmed the use of ARV’s in mixture of feeds by farmers but we couldn’t rash to make statements in the public because this would lead to losses. Remember we export these feeds, chicken and pork to other countries, this would kill our international market if such information is in circulation”- Atumanya.

History:

In July 2023, the Poultry Association of Uganda opened up on alleged chicken laced with antiretroviral (ARVs) on the market.

This follows a news story in the media suggesting that ‘Chicken Laced With ARVs’ is flooding the Ugandan market.

The story quoted a report which discussed a study conducted by Makerere University revealing the presence of antiretroviral (ARV) drugs in chicken tissue and feed, raising significant concerns among consumers.

In a statement, the Association said the Poultry Association and “its members upheld the highest standards of ethical conduct and comply with all established industry norms and government regulations.”

According to the Association, the welfare of poultry and the quality of products are their foremost commitment.

They add that the practices mentioned in the media are not representative of the operations within the Association.

“We wish to clarify that the use of ARVS to stimulate weight gain in poultry is not only unethical, but its effectiveness is also scientifically dubious. Importantly, it poses significant public health risks, as underlined in the article by Dr. Hussein Oria and Dr. Nelson Musoba. All our Association members manage the entire poultry value chain, from feed production to processing and packaging of meat. They follow strict guidelines and regulations to ensure that our poultry and products are safe and healthy. Misusing ARVS not only contravenes these guidelines, but it also detracts from the vital role these drugs play in treating individuals with HIV/AIDS,” the statement reads in part.

They, however, appreciate the role of the media in ensuring consumer safety and promoting ethical practices.

They urge a comprehensive and balanced representation of all industry players in these reports.

“We are deeply concerned about the potential implications of this report on ARV shortages in Uganda and its effects on those who genuinely need these medications. Our Association is committed to educating our members and promoting best practices to prevent such unethical practices. We are also intensifying our collaboration with regulatory bodies to guarantee full compliance among our members. We encourage the public to maintain an open dialogue with us, as we believe in transparency and accountability. We are ready to provide additional information about our practices to alleviate any concerns. In conclusion, we assure all our consumers that the practices highlighted in the article are not endorsed by the Poultry Association and its members,” the Association says.

The Association pledges commitment to providing high-quality, safe poultry products in the most ethical and responsible manner.