Fresenius Kabi’s Portugal Plant Becomes First to Earn BSI Kitemark for AMR-Safe Ceftriaxone Production

Fresenius Kabi’s Portugal Plant Becomes First to Earn BSI Kitemark for AMR-Safe Ceftriaxone Production

(IN BRIEF) Fresenius Kabi’s Santiago de Besteiros plant in Portugal has secured BSI Kitemark™ Certification for Minimized Risk of AMR in its Ceftriaxone production, confirming compliance with the AMR Industry Alliance’s Antibiotic Manufacturing Standard. Key measures include stringent controls to prevent antibiotic residues from contaminating wastewater, manage emissions throughout the manufacturing cycle, and uphold sustainable pharmaceutical practices. As one of Europe’s few remaining large-scale antibiotic producers, the site—under the leadership of Plant Manager Cristina Fernandes—is the first within the company to earn this certification. This recognition underscores Fresenius Kabi’s conviction that responsible production today is essential to preserving antibiotic efficacy for tomorrow, a principle emphasized by Sustainability Manager Zyad Hatquai.

(PRESS RELEASE) BAD HOMBURG, 11-Jul-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Fresenius Kabi recognizes antimicrobial resistance (AMR) as one of the most urgent threats to global health. While broad access to antibiotics remains critical, the methods by which these drugs are manufactured are equally important to protecting both current and future generations.

Our Santiago de Besteiros facility in Portugal has achieved a significant milestone: it has been awarded the BSI Kitemark™ Certification for Minimized Risk of AMR in the production of Ceftriaxone—an essential antibiotic for treating and preventing serious bacterial infections.

This accreditation verifies that our production processes align with the AMR Industry Alliance’s Antibiotic Manufacturing Standard and highlights our ongoing initiatives to:

• Prevent antibiotic residues from entering wastewater systems
• Manage and limit emissions of antibiotic residues during manufacturing
• Foster sustainable and responsible pharmaceutical practices

Situated in the heart of Portugal, Santiago de Besteiros remains one of the very few large-scale antibiotic production sites still operating in Europe. As one of the continent’s leading antibiotic suppliers, Fresenius Kabi feels a profound responsibility to guarantee the potency and safety of every batch leaving this plant. Embracing the challenge of AMR certification, we are proud that Santiago de Besteiros is the first Fresenius Kabi site to achieve this distinction.

“This achievement reflects the dedication and expertise of our entire team here in Santiago de Besteiros and beyond. We believe that by raising the bar for how we manufacture today, we strengthen the efficacy of antibiotics for tomorrow,” said Cristina Fernandes, Plant Manager at Santiago de Besteiros.

A shared sense of pride unites our colleagues in Portugal as we set new benchmarks for responsible antibiotic fabrication. Protecting the environment and preserving the power of antibiotics for future generations demands accountability—not only in how these drugs are used but at the very source of their creation.

“AMR is the silent pandemic. Overcoming it requires more than prudent usage; it necessitates steadfast responsibility at every step of the production process,” added Zyad Hatquai, Manager of Sustainability and EHS Management at Fresenius Kabi.

Media Contact:

Tel: +49 6172 686 0
email: communication@fresenius-kabi.com

SOURCE: Fresenius Kabi AG