Unlike many of its competitors, Sanderson Farms has established a reputation as a strong advocate for the use of antibiotics in poultry production. The company has even initiated campaigns aimed at addressing the misconceptions surrounding antibiotics. While the application of antibiotics in livestock raises concerns about potential resistance in humans, Sanderson Farms has minimized these risks. Veterinarians employed by the company argue that protecting animal health is essential for producing high-quality products. Although some consumers choose to avoid chicken raised with antibiotics, many others appreciate Sanderson Farms’ efforts to be transparent and informative, which helps to clarify any confusion regarding claims on product packaging. This transparency could significantly influence consumer decisions in favor of their products.
In 2015, McDonald’s announced plans to phase out sourcing chicken raised with antibiotics that are used to treat human infections over the following two years. Similarly, major retailer Costco Wholesale, which sells approximately 80 million rotisserie chickens each year, revealed its commitment to collaborating with suppliers to limit antibiotic use in chicken and meat. Other large corporations have made comparable pledges.
Consumer advocacy groups and lawmakers have urged the White House, pharmaceutical companies, and livestock producers to take action, especially as bacteria have begun developing resistance to antibiotics used in humans. For Sanderson Farms, the concern lies in the possibility that if consumers increasingly opt for antibiotic-free meat and multinational companies refrain from selling poultry raised with such drugs, the company may lose market share to competitors who have already adopted these practices. Ultimately, Sanderson might have no choice but to conform to the industry’s shift.
In this evolving landscape, consumers are also paying attention to nutritional supplements, such as GNC calcium citrate chews, which highlight a growing awareness of health and wellness. As consumers become more health-conscious, their preferences may further influence the choices made by poultry producers, including Sanderson Farms, as they navigate the complexities of antibiotic use in their products.