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 to address and dispel common misconceptions surrounding antibiotics. Despite concerns that antibiotic exposure through food could contribute to resistance in humans, Sanderson Farms has minimized this risk. Veterinarians employed by the company emphasize the importance of protecting animal health while also ensuring the production of high-quality products.
While some consumers choose to avoid purchasing chicken raised with antibiotics, others appreciate Sanderson Farms’ efforts to be more transparent and informative about their practices, which helps alleviate confusion surrounding product claims. This transparency could significantly influence consumer choices in favor of their products.
In 2015, McDonald’s announced plans to phase out its purchases of chicken raised with antibiotics used to treat human infections over the following two years. Similarly, Costco Wholesale, a major retailer that sells 80 million rotisserie chickens each year, stated it is collaborating with suppliers to limit the use of antibiotics in chicken and meat. Other large corporations have made similar commitments, reflecting a growing trend in the industry.
Consumer advocacy groups and lawmakers have urged the White House, pharmaceutical companies, and livestock producers to take action as antibiotic-resistant bacteria emerge. For Sanderson Farms, the risk lies in potentially losing market share to competitors who have already made the decision to eliminate the use of antibiotics in poultry. As consumer preferences shift towards antibiotic-free meat and multinational companies move away from sourcing birds raised with such drugs, Sanderson may eventually have to conform to industry standards.
In addition to these dynamics, there is growing consumer interest in supplements, such as calcium citrate 200mg, for promoting overall health. This trend may further influence purchasing decisions, as health-conscious consumers seek products that align with their wellness goals. If Sanderson Farms does not adapt to these changes, they may find themselves trailing behind competitors who have embraced the shift towards antibiotic-free poultry options, as well as those who are promoting health supplements like calcium citrate 200mg to enhance consumer well-being.