Analysis of Factors Affecting Tetracycline Antibiotic Residue in Broiler Chickens Meat in Asahan District, Sumatera Utara Province

Abstract

Antibiotics are commonly used in poultry production to prevent and treat bacterial infections, enhance growth, and improve feed efficiency. To ensure food safety and prevent antibiotic resistance, only registered antibiotics are permitted, with maximum residue limits established in food products. This study aims to identify and analyze factors influencing tetracycline antibiotic residues in broiler chickens, compare residue levels across different rearing systems, and evaluate the relationships between rearing management, antibiotic usage, and environmental conditions in the barn in Asahan Regency. The research was conducted in Asahan Regency, North Sumatra Province, and at the Animal Production Science Laboratory, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sumatera Utara. Data collection through surveys across several farming areas in Asahan Regency was carried out over three months, from September to November 2025. Sampling was performed on chickens at harvest ages of 21 and 35 days. Residue test results from five markets Kartini Market, Bakti Market, Air Joman Market, Dipo Market, and Simpang 4 Market revealed high tetracycline levels in broiler chickens, detected in 100% of 21day old chicken meat samples and still present in 60% of 35day old samples across various markets. Logistic regression analysis indicated that the withdrawal period significantly influenced residue risk reduction P-value = 0.044, (P < 0.05), while farming experience exceeding five years significantly increased the likelihood of residues P-value = 0.049, (P < 0.05). Other variables, such as harvest age, dosage, and duration of antibiotic administration, showed no significant partial effects.