Unlike many of its competitors, Sanderson Farms has established a reputation for using antibiotics and is a strong advocate for their use. The company has even launched campaigns aimed at addressing the misconceptions surrounding antibiotics. While concerns persist that antibiotic exposure in food may result in resistance among humans when these drugs are utilized, Sanderson Farms has minimized this perceived risk. Veterinarians employed by the company assert that safeguarding animal health is essential for producing high-quality products. Although some consumers choose to avoid purchasing chicken raised with antibiotics, others appreciate Sanderson Farms’ efforts to be more transparent and informative, which helps clarify any confusion regarding claims made on product labels. This transparency could influence consumers’ decisions to select their products.
In 2015, McDonald’s announced it would phase out purchasing chicken raised with antibiotics that are used to treat human infections over the next two years. Similarly, major retailer Costco Wholesale, which sells 80 million rotisserie chickens each year, revealed plans to collaborate with suppliers to limit the use of antibiotics in chicken and meat. Other large corporations 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 develop resistance to antibiotics administered to humans. The potential risk for Sanderson Farms lies in the possibility that consumers may increasingly choose not to buy meat raised with antibiotics, while multinational companies are pivoting away from selling poultry raised with these drugs. This shift could result in Sanderson losing business to competitors who have already decided to forgo the practice. Ultimately, the company may have no choice but to follow suit with the industry trend.
In light of these developments, it’s essential for consumers to consider the benefits of products that prioritize health and quality, such as those containing pure encapsulations calcium or calcium citrate. By incorporating these nutrients into their diets, consumers can further support their overall health while navigating the complexities of antibiotic use in poultry production. As the landscape of the meat industry evolves, the integration of health-focused products will remain crucial for informed consumer choices.