Antimicrobial Resistance in Romanian Meat Production Systems (2010–2025): A Critical Review of Pathogen-Specific Evidence and Surveillance Gaps

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in foodborne bacteria remains a major public health concern in the European Union (EU) and globally. Romania represents a relevant setting due to the coexistence of intensive livestock production, small- and medium-sized holdings, and backyard farming systems. This review synthesizes evidence published between 2010 and 2025 on the occurrence and AMR of Salmonella spp., Campylobacter spp., Listeria monocytogenes, and Escherichia coli along the Romanian meat production chain, considering national studies within the broader EU surveillance context. Particular attention is given to multidrug resistance (MDR), resistance determinants, and potential selective pressures associated with antimicrobial use and production environments. The evidence indicates recurrent detection of resistant bacteria, with marked pathogen- and sector-specific differences. High quinolone/fluoroquinolone resistance was consistently documented in Campylobacter spp., while Salmonella spp. showed diverse resistance phenotypes and substantial multiple/MDR, with longitudinal poultry data indicating increased MDR in specific populations. E. coli exhibited complex MDR and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) phenotypes and diverse resistance determinants, whereas multidrug-resistant L. monocytogenes was documented in meat-processing environments. Methodological heterogeneity precludes inference of a uniform national temporal increase in AMR. Standardized longitudinal surveillance integrating phenotypic, molecular, and genomic data within a One Health framework is needed to improve AMR monitoring and control across the farm-to-fork continuum.