Chick-Fil-A, the popular fast-food chain, has announced a departure from its decade-long commitment to “no antibiotics ever” in its chicken supply chain. Citing projected supply shortages, the company now intends to adopt a standard known as “no antibiotics important to human medicine” (NAIHM), which limits the use of antibiotics in animals to cases of actual illness and avoids medications commonly used in human medicine.
The decision comes as a response to concerns over antibiotic resistance, which has been linked to the widespread use of antibiotics in livestock production. Chick-Fil-A’s move reflects industry-wide shifts towards more responsible antibiotic usage, as nations like the United States have implemented restrictions to address the issue.
Chick-Fil-A plans to implement this new policy starting in the spring of 2024. A spokesperson for the company cited challenges in acquiring a sufficient supply of antibiotic-free chicken as a driving factor behind the decision. Tyson Foods, one of the leading poultry producers, had previously announced the reintroduction of antibiotics into its chicken production, prompting a reevaluation of labeling practices.
Tyson’s decision, announced in a May 2023 video featuring Karen Christensen, the company’s senior director of animal welfare, emphasized scientific research and industry insights. The company plans to utilize antibiotics known as ionophores, which do not impact human medicine, to enhance the health and welfare of their poultry. Ionophores have a history of use in promoting growth in livestock.