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Determination of Antibiotic Residues in Chicken Meat: A Case Study of Nakawa Division, Kampala Capital City Authority

Abstract

This study investigated the prevalence and concentration of antibiotic residues in chicken breast, liver, and gizzard sourced from local markets in Nakawa Division, Kampala. Using structured questionnaires and advanced analytical methods, including LC-MS/MS, the study identified the frequent use of antibiotics such as tetracycline, enrofloxacin, chloramphenicol, penicillin G, and oxytetracycline by poultry farmers. The analysis revealed that 32.67% of the sampled broiler tissues contained antibiotic residues, with liver samples showing the highest concentration. Banda and Nakawa markets had the most contaminated samples. Although mean concentrations were mostly within Codex MRLs, some exceeded permissible limits, indicating risks to public health. The findings emphasize the urgent need for stricter regulation, monitoring, and education on antibiotic use and withdrawal periods.

1. Introduction

Poultry production plays a vital role in Uganda’s food security and economic stability. With rising urban demand, especially in populous areas like Nakawa Division, the pressure on poultry farmers to maintain constant supply has led to extensive antibiotic use. While antibiotics aid in disease prevention and growth promotion, their misuse and the failure to observe withdrawal periods can result in harmful residues in poultry meat.

2. Objectives

General Objective:
To investigate the presence of antibiotic residues in chicken meat sold in Nakawa Division, Kampala.

Specific Objectives:

Identify antibiotics commonly used by poultry farmers.
Quantify and assess antibiotic residues in liver, breast muscle, and gizzard from market samples.

3. Methodology

A mixed-methods approach was used:

Data Collection: 50 questionnaires were administered to poultry farm staff to assess antibiotic usage.
Sample Collection: 150 broiler samples (liver, breast, gizzard) were randomly obtained from Banda, Luzira, Nakawa, Bugolobi, and Ntinda markets.
Sample Preparation: Tissues were extracted, filtered, and analyzed using LC-MS with a triple-quadrupole mass spectrometer.
Antibiotics Analyzed: Tetracycline, Oxytetracycline, Enrofloxacin, Penicillin G, and Chloramphenicol.
Analysis: SPSS was used for statistical analysis, including ANOVA to compare residue levels across tissues.

4. Results

4.1 Antibiotic Use in Poultry Farms

Tetracycline (82.2%) was the most frequently used, followed by Penicillin G (68.9%), Chloramphenicol (62.2%), and Enrofloxacin (57.8%).
Most antibiotics were administered by veterinary doctors (84.4%).
Veterinary drug shops and doctors were the primary sources.

4.2 Residue Levels in Chicken Meat

Liver: Showed the highest presence of residues (43.49%), followed by breast muscle (28.07%) and gizzard (28.45%).
Market Contamination: Banda (54.78%) and Nakawa (32.55%) had the most contaminated samples.
One gizzard sample from Banda exceeded the Codex MRL for Penicillin G (212.64 ppb vs. limit of 200 ppb).

5. Discussion

Antibiotic residues were found in a significant portion of tested poultry meat, highlighting a common trend of non-compliance with recommended withdrawal periods. This trend is attributed to:

High demand in urban markets like Banda and Nakawa.
Lack of regulatory oversight and awareness among farmers.
Use of antibiotics for both therapeutic and growth-promotion purposes.

The presence of residues, particularly in the liver, reflects its central role in drug metabolism and accumulation. Continued exposure to such residues can lead to antimicrobial resistance, allergic reactions, and long-term health issues in consumers.

6. Conclusion

This study confirms the widespread use of antibiotics in poultry farming in Nakawa Division, with detectable residues in retail chicken meat. While most levels are within MRLs, exceptions pose a tangible public health risk. The results emphasize the need for improved monitoring, enforcement, and awareness campaigns to reduce residue levels and protect consumers.

7. Recommendations

Policy Enforcement: Strengthen NDA’s regulatory oversight and capacity to inspect poultry farms.
Farmer Education: Conduct training on proper drug usage and withdrawal period compliance.
Routine Screening: Establish systematic residue testing in urban markets.
Alternative Practices: Encourage organic and antibiotic-free poultry production models.
Further Research: Extend the study to other districts and investigate additional antibiotics.

Keywords

Antibiotic Residues, Chicken Meat, Poultry, LC-MS, Nakawa Division, Public Health, Withdrawal Period, Uganda