In contrast to many of its competitors, Sanderson Farms has established a reputation for its use of antibiotics, strongly advocating for their application. The company has even initiated campaigns to address the misconceptions surrounding antibiotics. While concerns persist that antibiotic exposure through food may contribute to resistance in humans, Sanderson Farms has minimized this risk. Veterinarians associated with the firm emphasize the necessity of safeguarding animal health to ensure the production of high-quality products. Although some consumers opt to avoid chicken raised with antibiotics, many others appreciate Sanderson Farms’ efforts to be transparent and informative, aiming to clarify the confusion surrounding claims made on product packaging. This transparency could significantly influence consumers’ decisions to choose their products.
In 2015, McDonald’s announced plans to phase out purchasing chicken raised with antibiotics that are used to treat human infections over the next two years. Major retailer Costco Wholesale, known for selling 80 million rotisserie chickens annually, also revealed that it is collaborating with suppliers to limit antibiotic use in chicken and meat. Similar commitments have been made by other large corporations. Consumer groups and lawmakers have urged the White House, pharmaceutical companies, and livestock producers to take action after observing that bacteria are becoming resistant to the antibiotics prescribed for humans.
For Sanderson Farms, the danger lies in the possibility that consumers may increasingly shun meat raised with antibiotics, especially as multinational companies move towards banning the sale of poultry raised with such drugs. This shift could result in Sanderson losing business to competitors who have already adjusted their practices. Eventually, Sanderson may have no option but to conform to the industry trend.
In addition to these developments, consumers are also seeking alternatives that support their health, such as calcium magnesium citrate supplements. Many are turning to products like Solaray’s calcium magnesium citrate 90 caps, which provide essential nutrients that can support overall well-being. The growing interest in health supplements, including calcium magnesium citrate, may further influence consumers’ choices regarding the meat they purchase, making it crucial for companies like Sanderson Farms to adapt to these changing preferences.