Superbugs Sneaking into Our Seafood?

In a shocking revelation, researchers have found that imported shrimp and scallops from markets in Atlanta are harboring deadly colistin-resistance genes. This alarming discovery raises significant concerns about our food's safety and the potential to exacerbate global antimicrobial resistance.

The Deadly Nature of Colistin Resistance

Colistin is often our last line of defense against life-threatening bacterial infections that have developed resistance to other antibiotics. However, the rise of colistin-resistant strains is diminishing our treatment options and increasing the risks for those infected. As global antimicrobial resistance escalates, it’s crucial to remain vigilant.

Groundbreaking Findings from University of Georgia

Microbiologist Issmat Kassem, Ph.D., and his team at the University of Georgia have reported their groundbreaking findings at the ASM Microbe 2025 conference. Their research marks the first instance of isolating colistin-resistance genes from seafood, specifically from imported shrimp and scallops purchased across eight food markets in Atlanta.

What You Need to Know About Imported Seafood

Did you know that about 90% of shrimp consumed in the U.S. is imported? While imported seafood undergoes screening for contaminants, the screening doesn’t always catch antimicrobial resistance genes. Kassem emphasizes that these dangerous bacteria, often sent as a hidden passenger, aren’t typically tested for before reaching our plates.

Global Consequences of Antibiotic Resistance

Antimicrobial-resistant infections result in hundreds of thousands of deaths worldwide each year. The World Health Organization classifies colistin as a critically important antibiotic, vital for treating severe infections. Despite being banned in the U.S. since the 1980s, colistin is still in use in other countries for agricultural purposes, which leads to concerns about resistance crossing borders via global trade.

Mobile Resistance Genes and Our Food Supply

The discovery that colistin resistance can be transferred among bacteria via plasmids—small genetic circles—had previously puzzled researchers. It was believed that this resistance was inherited rather than shared. However, Kassem's research indicates that our food sourcing from various countries, each with different antibiotic regulations, plays a significant role in the spread of these dangerous genes.

A Call for Global Action

While Kassem's team confirmed a clear link between imported seafood and colistin resistance, they caution that this may just be the tip of the iceberg. With the global movement of people and food, other sources of resistance are likely spreading. This highlights the urgent need for enhanced monitoring systems and international collaboration to combat the rising tide of antimicrobial resistance.

Local Seafood: A Safer Alternative?

In a silver lining, Kassem noted that locally produced seafood tested negative for colistin resistance genes. Choosing local options may be one way to mitigate these risks while enjoying our beloved seafood.