International Consortium for Antimicrobial Stewardship in Agriculture (ICASA)

Addressing Antibiotic Stewardship in Animal Agriculture

Antibiotics are extremely valuable tools for preventing, treating and controlling disease in livestock production.

Yet, maintaining the efficacy of antibiotics is a highly complex issue, affecting both human and animal health. The responsible and judicious use of antibiotics is a top priority for livestock producers.

We established ICASA in 2019 with an initial $7.5 million investment to fund antimicrobial research that promotes targeted antibiotic use, advances animal health and welfare and increases transparency in food production practices. Private sector participants match our funds, resulting in a total investment of $15 million.

Unlike other groups working on antibiotic stewardship, ICASA participants represent all stages of the U.S. livestock supply chain. Only through this level of collaboration can we significantly impact antibiotic use across the supply chain.

ICASA participants guide decisions on new projects and the consortium’s research direction. The Consortium collaboratively investigates the underlying causes of animal health issues, develops practical solutions that protects that efficacy of these medications and improves our understanding of the factors that contribute to the development of antibiotic resistance.

ICASA’s Vision

Producing healthier livestock

ICASA’s investment in research creates practical solutions, such as new technologies and management practices that promote judicious use of antibiotics, produce healthier livestock and improve animal welfare.