Chick-fil-A, the beloved fast-food chain known for its delicious chicken sandwiches, is making a significant change to its chicken supply policy. This spring, the company will no longer adhere to its antibiotic-free chicken commitment.
The decision to abandon the “No Antibiotics Ever” chicken policy is primarily driven by supply chain concerns. Chick-fil-A will now transition to a new standard called “No Antibiotics Important To Human Medicine.”
Under the old policy, Chick-fil-A guaranteed that no antibiotics were used at any stage of the animal’s life, a commitment that was proudly displayed on all products and signage. However, the new standard will only restrict the use of antibiotics critical to human medicine, allowing for the use of animal-specific antibiotics if necessary for the animal’s health.
This shift in policy reflects a larger trend in the food industry, with other companies like Panera Bread and Tyson Foods also reevaluating their antibiotic policies due to supply chain limitations.
Chick-fil-A’s goal with this change is to ensure the availability of high-quality chicken while meeting customer expectations for responsible sourcing. The company has communicated this update to its app users, demonstrating its commitment to transparency regarding its sourcing policies.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned about the risks associated with the use of antibiotics in animals, including the development of superbugs that can be harmful to humans. In 2017, the WHO recommended that farmers stop using antibiotics routinely to promote growth.
Overall, Chick-fil-A’s decision to adjust its antibiotic policy is a strategic move to balance the needs of its supply chain with its commitment to providing high-quality and responsibly sourced chicken to its customers.
