EU suspends Brazilian meat imports over antibiotic concerns

The European Union has suspended imports of Brazilian meat and other animal products over concerns about antibiotic use in livestock, effective Thursday. The measure covers poultry, beef, eggs, honey, and animal casings for human consumption. Brussels says Brazil has not provided sufficient guarantees that its exports meet EU standards designed to prevent antimicrobial resistance. Brazil was added to an EU non-compliance list in May, and an audit of its poultry and honey sectors concludes Friday. Poultry exports could resume within weeks if audit findings are favorable, while beef shipments will take longer. The suspension comes as the EU promotes its January free trade deal with Mercosur, with Brazil being the bloc's second-largest beef supplier in 2025.