# Antimicrobial Resistance in the Food Chain: Bridging Knowledge Gaps for Effective Detection and Control

## TL;DR

This paper reviews how antimicrobial resistance spreads through the food chain and explores new detection methods and strategies to control it.

## Contribution

The paper bridges knowledge gaps by analyzing detection methods and mitigation strategies for AMR in the food chain from a One Health perspective.

## Key findings

- Molecular tools like WGS and CRISPR-Cas diagnostics offer faster AMR detection compared to traditional methods.
- Challenges such as matrix interference and genotype-phenotype disconnect remain in AMR detection.
- Integrated strategies including antimicrobial stewardship and improved hygiene are essential for controlling AMR.

## Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a critical global public health threat, with the food chain serving as a significant transmission route connecting animals, environment, and humans. This review adopts a One Health perspective to analyze the key drivers of AMR dissemination across animal agriculture, aquaculture and food processing. We evaluate detection methodologies, contrasting the regulatory gold standard of culture-based phenotypic testing with rapid molecular advancements, including Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS), metagenomics, and emerging CRISPR-Cas diagnostics. While molecular tools offer unprecedented speed and resolution, challenges such as matrix interference, the viable but non-culturable (VBNC) state, and the genotype-phenotype disconnect remain. Finally, integrated mitigation strategies are also described, ranging from on-farm antimicrobial stewardship and innovative biofilm control to consumer hygiene practices. It is essential to bridge the technical and regulatory gaps in AMR surveillance in order to develop effective interventions and ensure a safer food system.