New Anthoney’s Farms is pioneering a zero-antibiotic future in Sri Lanka, tackling antimicrobial resistance (AMR) at its roots. Through sustainable poultry practices and multi-level advocacy, the company demonstrates how responsible farming safeguards public health and strengthens food systems.
Discover how New Anthoney’s Farms combats AMR in Sri Lanka
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is rapidly emerging as one of the most pressing global health challenges of the 21st century, threatening the effectiveness of life-saving medicines, food security, and public health. In response, New Anthoney’s Farms is taking decisive action in Sri Lanka, demonstrating that sustainable, antibiotic-free poultry production is both achievable and essential.
Leading the National Conversation on AMR
The company recently organized the Forum on Antimicrobial Resistance at The View, Waters Edge Colombo on 24 November 2025. Bringing together policymakers, healthcare professionals, veterinary experts, development partners, and media representatives, the forum reflected New Anthoney’s Farms’ commitment to fostering cross-sector collaboration.
Chief Guest Dr. Anil Jasinghe, Secretary of Health, and Guest of Honor Dr. Momoe Takeuchi, Officer in Charge of WHO Sri Lanka, participated alongside representatives from the FAO and private industry. The event served as a platform for knowledge sharing and actionable recommendations to curb AMR in both human and animal health sectors.
A distinguished panel of experts addressed the issue from multiple perspectives. Dr. Palika S. Fernando focused on veterinary bacteriology, regulatory frameworks, and antimicrobial alternatives. Dr. Renuka Jayatissa discussed public health nutrition and stewardship programs. Dr. Susil Silva highlighted sustainable animal nutrition and antibiotic-free livestock production, while Dr. Kushlani Jayatillake emphasized the human health impacts and national surveillance strategies. Moderated by Dr. Vindya Perera, the discussion underscored the interconnectedness of human and animal health in combating AMR.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Complementing high-level policy engagement, New Anthoney’s Farms emphasizes grassroots education. In collaboration with the Faculty of Agriculture at the University of Ruhuna, the company conducted an AMR Awareness Session for students.
Experts including Dr. Subodha Wickramasinghe, Dr. Chandima Gajaweera, Prof. Indunil Pathirana, and veterinary surgeon Dr. Lahiru Sandaruwan engaged students in interactive discussions, case studies, and practical demonstrations. The session emphasized antimicrobial stewardship, responsible food production, and the broader societal implications of antibiotic misuse, cultivating a new generation of informed agricultural professionals.
Empowering Employees for Change
Internal engagement is central to New Anthoney’s Farms’ AMR mission. At its Hanwella premises, staff participated in an awareness program highlighting the dangers of antibiotic misuse and the importance of truly antibiotic-free poultry production.
The session showcased the company’s Harithahari line of chicken, raised entirely without antibiotics, educating employees on practices, monitoring, and ethical considerations. Embedding AMR awareness into corporate culture ensures every team member contributes to public health and sustainable food production.
A Comprehensive Approach
Aligned with World AMR Awareness Week 2025, New Anthoney’s Farms demonstrates a comprehensive strategy combining policy advocacy, public awareness, education, and corporate responsibility. The company exemplifies how coordinated efforts among government, industry, academia, and civil society can tackle systemic public health threats effectively.
Central to this strategy is the production of 100% antibiotic-free chicken, addressing a root cause of AMR. By reducing the risk of resistant bacterial strains in the food supply chain, the company benefits consumers, strengthens public health, and sets a benchmark for ethical farming practices in Sri Lanka.
Looking Forward
New Anthoney’s Farms is shaping Sri Lanka’s AMR narrative through multi-faceted initiatives. Policy dialogue, student engagement, and employee education position the company as both leader and catalyst for change. By promoting best practices and collaboration, the company enhances resilience in food and health systems, ensuring antibiotics remain effective for future generations.
The company aims to expand advocacy, engage additional stakeholders, and continue setting standards in antibiotic-free poultry production. Its vision is a Sri Lanka leading the region in sustainable livestock farming, informed by science, guided by ethics, and committed to public health.
Through these efforts, New Anthoney’s Farms provides a blueprint for responsible agriculture, showing that ethical practices, consumer trust, and commercial success can coexist while combating one of the most critical global health threats of our time.