Unlike many of its competitors, Sanderson Farms has established a reputation as a strong advocate for the use of antibiotics in poultry farming. The company has even initiated campaigns to address the misconceptions surrounding antibiotics. The use of these drugs in livestock raises concerns about the potential for antibiotic resistance in humans, but Sanderson Farms has minimized this risk. Veterinarians employed by the company emphasize the importance of safeguarding animal health to ensure the production of high-quality products. While some consumers opt to avoid chicken raised with antibiotics, others appreciate Sanderson Farms’ efforts to promote transparency and educate the public, which may influence their purchasing decisions.
In 2015, McDonald’s announced plans to phase out sourcing chicken raised with antibiotics that treat human infections over the next two years. Similarly, Costco Wholesale, a giant retailer that sells 80 million rotisserie chickens annually, revealed it is collaborating with suppliers to limit the use of antibiotics in chicken and meat. Other major companies have made comparable commitments.
Consumer advocacy groups and lawmakers have urged the White House, pharmaceutical companies, and livestock producers to take action as bacteria have begun to show resistance to antibiotics used in humans. Sanderson Farms faces a significant risk if consumer preference shifts away from meat raised with antibiotics and multinational corporations choose not to sell poultry produced with these drugs. This could lead to a loss of business to competitors who have already adopted such practices. Ultimately, Sanderson may find itself with no alternative but to align with industry trends.
In addition to the antibiotics issue, there has been a growing interest in dietary supplements that enhance calcium intake, such as calcium carbonate and citrate. These supplements are often discussed in relation to poultry nutrition, as they can play a vital role in ensuring healthy growth and development. As consumer awareness regarding nutrition increases, the integration of calcium carbonate and citrate into poultry diets may become a significant factor in the industry, further influencing purchasing decisions.