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Chick-fil-A recently revealed plans for a change in their chicken sourcing strategy set to commence this spring. They announced that they would be transitioning from antibiotic-free chicken, which they have been known for, to a new standard referred to as No Antibiotics Important To Human Medicine (NAIHM).
This decision was attributed to supply considerations. In their update shared on Thursday, Chick-fil-A emphasized their commitment to maintaining the high quality of chicken that their customers expect. Although a specific timeline for the transition has not been disclosed, the shift is anticipated to take place gradually.
What Is This Switch All About?
As per the information provided on the Chick-fil-A website, when they say “No Antibiotics Ever” (NAE), it signifies that no antibiotics whatsoever were administered to the animals during their upbringing.
On the other hand, “No Antibiotics Important To Human Medicine” (NAIHM) is a standard that limits the use of antibiotics crucial for human health and typically used in human medicine. Under NAIHM, antibiotics can only be used for animals if they are ill or if there’s a risk of disease spreading to other animals.
Back in 2014, Chick-fil-A made the switch to antibiotic-free chicken. Over time, they worked towards their goal of exclusively serving antibiotic-free chicken across all their restaurants, achieving this milestone by 2019.
Why Did Chik-fil-A Go For A Switch?
A spokesperson from Chick-fil-A addressed concerns about the future availability of top-notch chicken that meets their strict quality criteria. They emphasized that the decision to shift their chicken sourcing standards allows them to secure a consistent supply of high-quality chicken. This move ensures that Chick-fil-A can uphold their commitment to delivering chicken that meets the expectations of their loyal customers.
Additionally, Reuters reported that the announcement regarding this change was disseminated to users of the Chick-fil-A app as well, indicating that the company aims for transparency and wants all its customers to stay informed about such significant updates.
Let’s Wrap Up!
Panera Bread has made headlines for its recent shift away from its previous antibiotic-free policy, particularly concerning its pork and turkey offerings. Documents obtained by Reuters revealed that the company stated its original policy restricted its options within the supply chain, prompting the change. This move suggests that Panera Bread is reassessing its sourcing strategies to ensure a steady and reliable supply of ingredients.
Similarly, Tyson Foods, a major player in the poultry industry, announced last summer that it would be reintroducing certain antibiotics into its chicken supply chain. This decision came after the company had previously transitioned to antibiotic-free practices back in 2017. These shifts in antibiotic usage policies within the food industry indicate ongoing evaluations of sourcing practices and considerations for maintaining a balance between supply availability and meeting consumer demands.
FAQs
Why is Chick-fil-A changing its chicken sourcing standards?
Chick-fil-A is shifting its chicken sourcing standards to ensure a consistent supply of high-quality chicken while still meeting customer expectations. The decision reflects their commitment to maintaining the quality their customers have come to expect.
What prompted Panera Bread to move away from its antibiotic-free policy?
Panera Bread’s decision to depart from its antibiotic-free policy was driven by concerns about limiting their supply chain options. The company recognized the need to reassess their sourcing strategies to ensure a reliable and sustainable flow of ingredients.
Why did Tyson Foods reintroduce antibiotics into its chicken supply chain?
Tyson Foods made the decision to reintroduce certain antibiotics into its chicken supply chain to address evolving industry needs. After previously adopting antibiotic-free practices, the company recognized the necessity of striking a balance between meeting consumer demands and ensuring a stable supply of chicken products.