Some poultry farmers in Zimbabwe have reportedly been using anti-retroviral (ARV) drugs meant for people living with HIV as chicken feed, claiming the medication helps broiler chickens grow faster and reach the market earlier.
According to reports, some farmers have been mixing ARV tablets with chicken feed, saying they noticed faster growth among their birds. However, the practice has raised serious concerns among health experts over the misuse of life-saving medicines and possible risks to consumers.
Medical and agricultural authorities have warned that ARVs are designed for treating HIV in humans and are not approved for use in animal production. Experts say more research is needed to understand any possible effects on poultry health, food safety and people who consume the meat.
The reports have sparked debate in Zimbabwe, where poultry farmers continue to face challenges such as high feed costs and the need for affordable ways to increase production.
Health officials have described the alleged practice as dangerous, especially in a country where many people depend on access to ARV medication for HIV treatment
