US producer calls antibiotic-free chicken a ‘gimmick’

The company has embarked on a charm offensive aimed at dispelling what it calls “marketing myths” that it says other businesses propagate, with a series of short videos explaining its position.

Opposing stance on antibiotic use

The campaign centres on the responsible use of antibiotics in farming, but a website also covers cages, hormones and steroid use. Sanderson Farms said that after “deliberate and careful consideration” it would not withdraw antibiotics from its production.

There were 3 primary reasons, according to the company.

Meeting obligations

A statement said: “All 3 of these obligations can be better met through the responsible use of FDA-approved antibiotics when recommended by our veterinarians. We are committed to using antibiotics responsibly, and only when necessary. We are also committed to finding and using alternatives when they become available.”

“In addition, should credible, scientific data become available that supports the notion that antibiotic use in farm animals contributes to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in humans, we will most certainly re-evaluate our position.”

Welfare pressure

US poultry farmers have been placed under immense pressure from lobby groups and consumers over intensive farming methods. As a result, most food businesses have pledged to phase out keeping hens in cages, while similar commitments have been made over ending the use of antibiotics.

Hundreds of companies now specify “antibiotic-free” chicken for their supply chains. Restaurant chain Wendy’s was the latest, suggesting all “critically important” drugs would be withdrawn from production animals by 2017.

By: Jake Davies