Extended spectrum beta lactamase producing multidrug resistant Enterobacteriaceae in livestock-derived foods: global trends, threats, impact and mitigation

The emergence of Extended Spectrum Beta Lactamase (ESBL) producing multi-drug resistant Enterobacteriaceae (MDR-E) in livestock-derived foods particularly milk and meat pose a significant threat to global food safety and public health. This review synthesizes global evidence on the prevalence, transmission pathways, molecular characteristics, public health implications, and mitigation strategies associated with ESBL-producing Enterobacteriaceae in milk and meat. Relevant literature published between 2005 and 2025 was retrieved from major scientific databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, along with surveillance reports from international organizations. Studies from Asia, Africa, Europe, North America, South America, and Oceania were examined to identify regional trends in prevalence, risk factors, and antimicrobial use patterns. The findings indicate substantial geographic variation in ESBL prevalence, with higher burdens frequently reported in regions characterized by intensive livestock production, inadequate antimicrobial stewardship, and limited food safety infrastructure. Several modifiable risk factors contributing to contamination were identified. ESBL-E contamination has led to significant public health burdens and economic losses including trade restrictions. The review also highlights the molecular diversity of ESBL genes, including blaCTX-M, blaTEM, and blaSHV, and the role of mobile genetic elements (MGEs) in resistance dissemination. The adoption of good agricultural practices (GAP), and good hygienic practices (GHP), aligned with hazard analysis and critical control point (HACCP) and international organization for standardization (ISO) 22,000 standards across the milk and meat value chains, is crucial. Strengthening antimicrobial stewardship, improving farm biosecurity, and implementing integrated One Health surveillance systems are critical strategies to mitigate the spread of ESBL-producing pathogens in livestock-derived foods. This review strongly emphasizes that failure to control ESBL-producing MDR-E in milk and meat may undermine food security and compromise global health initiatives.