Cooking reduces antimicrobial residues in meat through degradation. The degree of reduction depends on factors like cooking method, temperature, and drug properties. Tetracyclines generally show high reduction (35-94%) through methods like boiling, roasting and microwaving. β-lactams are unstable at high heat but stable at 65°C. Macrolides and chloramphenicol also degrade with increased temperature and time. Regulations in India establish tolerance limits and withdrawal periods but national surveillance programs are still needed to monitor antimicrobial usage and resistance.