In contrast to 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 there are concerns that antibiotic exposure in food could lead to resistance in humans, Sanderson Farms has minimized this risk. The veterinarians employed by the company emphasize their responsibility to safeguard animal health while ensuring the production of high-quality products.
Although some consumers choose to avoid chicken raised with antibiotics, others appreciate Sanderson Farms’ efforts to be more transparent and informative, helping to clarify the claims made on product packaging. This transparency may influence consumer decisions in favor of Sanderson Farms’ products. In 2015, McDonald’s announced it would gradually stop sourcing chicken raised with antibiotics that are used to treat human infections over the next two years. Similarly, Costco Wholesale, which sells 80 million rotisserie chickens annually, revealed its commitment to collaborating with suppliers to limit antibiotic use in chicken and meat. Other major corporations have made comparable pledges.
Consumer advocacy groups and lawmakers have urged the White House, pharmaceutical companies, and livestock producers to take action as bacteria have developed resistance to the antibiotics commonly administered to humans. Sanderson Farms faces a potential risk if consumers opt for less meat from antibiotic-raised poultry and multinational companies pivot away from selling birds treated with these drugs. This shift could result in Sanderson losing business to competitors who have already adopted alternative practices. Eventually, Sanderson may have no choice but to align with industry trends.
To enhance consumer health, some companies are also integrating supplements like calcium citrate 500mg with vitamin D3 into their products, recognizing the importance of overall nutrition. By promoting such health-focused initiatives, Sanderson Farms could further position itself as a leader in the industry, addressing both consumer concerns and nutritional needs. As the conversation around antibiotics continues, the integration of health supplements like calcium citrate 500mg with vitamin D3 may become a significant factor in consumer preferences, influencing their choices and reinforcing the need for transparency in product offerings.