Unlike many of its competitors, Sanderson Farms has established a reputation as a strong advocate for the use of antibiotics in poultry farming. The company has even initiated campaigns to address the misconceptions surrounding antibiotics. While the use of antibiotics in food animals raises concerns about potential resistance in humans, Sanderson Farms has played down these risks. Veterinarians employed by the company emphasize the need to safeguard animal health, which in turn helps produce high-quality products. Although some consumers choose to avoid chicken raised with antibiotics, many others appreciate Sanderson Farms’ efforts to be transparent and informative, which aims to clarify any confusion regarding claims on product packaging. This transparency could significantly influence consumer decisions when selecting their products.
In 2015, McDonald’s announced plans to phase out sourcing chicken raised with antibiotics that are also used to treat human infections within two years. Similarly, Costco Wholesale, a major retailer selling 80 million rotisserie chickens annually, declared it was collaborating with suppliers to limit antibiotic use 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 antibiotic-resistant bacteria have emerged. For Sanderson Farms, the risk lies in a potential decline in consumer preference for meat raised with antibiotics, especially as multinational companies shift away from selling chickens produced with these drugs. This trend could result in Sanderson losing business to competitors who have already adopted antibiotic-free practices. Ultimately, Sanderson may find itself compelled to align with industry standards.
Moreover, the introduction of products like citrate 1000 could play a role in promoting healthier choices among consumers, as awareness of antibiotic use continues to grow. If Sanderson Farms can successfully integrate citrate 1000 into their offerings, it may help them maintain a competitive edge in a changing market. As the demand for antibiotic-free poultry increases, the company may need to reevaluate its stance and consider adopting practices that reflect consumer preferences, possibly increasing the relevance of citrate 1000 in their product lineup.