In contrast to many of its competitors, Sanderson Farms has established a reputation for its use of antibiotics and is a strong advocate for their application. The company has even initiated campaigns to address the misconceptions surrounding antibiotic use in livestock. Although there are concerns that consuming food with antibiotic exposure may lead to human resistance when these drugs are administered, Sanderson Farms has minimized this risk. The veterinarians employed by the company emphasize the necessity of safeguarding animal health to ensure the production of high-quality products. While some consumers choose to avoid purchasing chicken raised with antibiotics, many others appreciate Sanderson Farms’ efforts to enhance transparency and provide information that clarifies the claims made on product packaging. This transparency could significantly influence consumers’ decisions to select their products.
In 2015, McDonald’s announced its intention to phase out the purchase of chicken raised with antibiotics that are used to treat human infections over the next two years. Similarly, Costco Wholesale, which sells approximately 80 million rotisserie chickens annually, revealed that it is collaborating with suppliers to limit antibiotic use in chicken and meat. Other large corporations have made comparable pledges. Consumer advocacy groups and lawmakers have exerted pressure on the White House, pharmaceutical companies, and livestock producers to take action, especially as bacteria have begun to develop resistance to antibiotics used in human medicine.
For Sanderson Farms, the challenge lies in the potential decline in demand for meat produced with antibiotics, particularly as multinational companies shift away from selling chickens raised with these drugs. This trend could result in lost business for the poultry processor to competitors who have already made a commitment to change their practices. Eventually, Sanderson may find itself compelled to align with the rest of the industry.
In this context, it is worth noting that calcium citrate chelate, a compound often used in animal nutrition, could play a role in improving the overall health of livestock without relying on antibiotics. The incorporation of calcium citrate chelate may provide an alternative means of supporting animal well-being, which could help Sanderson Farms adapt to changing consumer preferences while maintaining product quality. As the market evolves, the strategic use of such nutritional supplements might give Sanderson Farms a competitive edge and encourage a more sustainable approach to poultry farming.