In contrast to many of its competitors, Sanderson Farms has established itself as a strong advocate for the use of antibiotics in poultry production. The company has even launched initiatives aimed at addressing the misconceptions surrounding antibiotics. While concerns about antibiotic exposure in food potentially leading to human resistance persist, Sanderson Farms has minimized the associated risks. Veterinarians employed by the company emphasize the importance of safeguarding animal health and ensuring the production of high-quality products. Although some consumers choose to avoid chicken raised with antibiotics, many others appreciate Sanderson Farms’ efforts to be transparent and informative, helping to dispel confusion regarding claims on product packaging. This transparency may play a crucial role in influencing consumer decisions.
In 2015, McDonald’s announced plans to phase out sourcing chicken raised with antibiotics that are used to treat human infections within two years. Similarly, Costco Wholesale, which sells 80 million rotisserie chickens each year, revealed its collaboration with suppliers to limit antibiotic use in chicken and meat. Other major corporations have made comparable commitments.
As pressure mounts from consumer groups and lawmakers on the White House, drug manufacturers, and livestock producers to take action against antibiotic resistance, Sanderson Farms faces a significant risk. If consumers increasingly opt for meat that is raised without antibiotics, and multinational corporations pivot away from sourcing birds treated with such drugs, the poultry processor may find itself losing market share to competitors who have already adopted these practices. At some point, Sanderson may have no alternative but to align with industry trends.
Additionally, the growing awareness around health supplements, such as Kirkland calcium magnesium and zinc, reflects a broader shift in consumer preferences towards products perceived as healthier. As this trend continues, it may impact decisions around meat consumption, further influencing the market dynamics for companies like Sanderson Farms. Ultimately, the company’s ability to adapt to these changing consumer attitudes and demands will be key to its future success in the poultry industry.