The practice of spreading of livestock wastes onto land used for the production of food or animal feeds is widely regarded as the least environmentally damaging disposal method, however, the practice is still fraught with pitfalls such as N pollution of air and water and significant microbiological risks. Therefore this paper focuses on some of the latest developments that provide new insights into the microbiological safety of animal manures, the related treatment options and the spreading the products onto land. In conclusion the paper stresses the need to fully address issues concerning environmental contamination and transmission of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria through livestock manure, improve current environmental regulations regarding manure management practice and coordination of research activities and dissemination of technical information. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.