Tuesday, April 22, 2025

Antibiotic Residues in "Antibiotic-Free" Beef: An Examination of USDA Findings and Implications

 


The contemporary consumer landscape reflects an increasing demand for food products that align with health and ethical considerations. Among these preferences is a notable rise in the consumption of beef labeled as "raised without antibiotics" (RWA), driven by perceptions of enhanced health benefits and more humane animal husbandry practices.1 This demand often translates into consumers paying a premium for products bearing such labels.5 Accurate labeling is therefore paramount, not only for enabling informed consumer choice and ensuring fair market practices but also within the critical context of public health and consumer rights.3 The issue of antibiotic use in livestock is particularly salient due to its connection to the escalating global threat of antibiotic resistance.1 The growing appetite for RWA meat signifies a market opportunity for producers; however, it simultaneously presents a vulnerability to deceptive practices if labeling standards are not rigorously enforced. Furthermore, the presence of antibiotic residues in meat extends beyond mere consumer preference, directly impacting the broader efficacy of antibiotics in treating human infections. Even trace amounts of these residues contribute to the selection and proliferation of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which can potentially transfer to humans and complicate the treatment of common ailments.1

A report published by Sentient Media on April 21, 2025, brought to light findings from the United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) conducted in August 2024.3 These findings revealed that approximately 20% of beef samples bearing "antibiotic-free" or "raised without antibiotics" labels tested positive for antibiotic residues.1 Notably, the antibiotic Monensin, which is prohibited as a growth promoter in the European Union, was detected in samples originating from JBS USA's Swift Beef Company.3 While the Sentient Media article indicated positive tests for Cargill, specific details regarding these findings were not provided. Tyson, another major player in the beef industry, did not respond to requests for comment on the USDA's findings.3 In a separate instance, a sample from Bartlett Farms tested positive for penicillin; this was attributed to a tagging system error involving a neighboring producer.3 The fact that a substantial 20% of the sampled RWA beef contained antibiotic residues suggests a significant and potentially widespread issue within this segment of the market, rather than isolated occurrences of mislabeling.1 This level of non-compliance indicates a potential breakdown in the processes designed to ensure that beef labeled as antibiotic-free truly meets that claim. Furthermore, the detection of Monensin, an antibiotic with restricted use in other regions, in beef marketed as RWA in the United States raises questions about the alignment of domestic and international standards, and the potential for practices that might be considered growth promotion to occur within systems claiming to be antibiotic-free.3

Despite the detection of antibiotics in a significant portion of the sampled beef, the FSIS did not take immediate enforcement action against the implicated companies.3 The agency did, however, issue letters to the companies, instructing them to investigate the reasons behind the contamination and to implement measures aimed at preventing future instances of mislabeling.3 This lack of immediate punitive measures drew criticism from Farm Forward, an advocacy group that had obtained the USDA information through a Freedom of Information Act request.3 Farm Forward has consistently argued that the USDA's oversight of the voluntary RWA label program is inadequate, as it relies on companies submitting documentation without mandating third-party verification or routine testing by the agency.3 The advocacy group has expressed the view that the USDA is knowingly perpetuating labeling policies that allow meat companies to mislead consumers.3 It is worth noting that following these findings, the USDA did update its guidelines in August 2024, encouraging the use of third-party certification for animal-raising or environment-related claims and stating an intention to take enforcement action against false or misleading negative antibiotic claims.7 The absence of immediate enforcement action, despite a notable percentage of RWA beef failing antibiotic tests, could potentially erode the public's confidence in the USDA's commitment to ensuring accurate labeling within voluntary programs. The agency's updated guidelines, which include a commitment to future enforcement, might suggest a response to the concerning findings and the subsequent public scrutiny.7

In response to the Sentient Media report, JBS USA stated that the specific product found to contain Monensin was identified within their facility and did not enter the food supply. The company also indicated that an audit was conducted following the incident, although no evidence of this audit was provided to Sentient Media.3 JBS USA's Aspen Ridge brand explicitly claims that its cattle have never received growth promotants of any kind.3 Cargill, in its statement, asserted compliance with USDA and FSIS regulations and reported that there was no evidence of meat containing antibiotic residue exceeding regulatory standards reaching consumers.3 Tyson, however, did not provide any response to requests for comment regarding the USDA's findings.3 It is noteworthy that Tyson has previously faced scrutiny regarding its RWA claims and has subsequently scaled back its commitment in this area.23 While JBS USA and Cargill communicated their adherence to regulations and measures taken to prevent potentially contaminated products from entering the market, the absence of verifiable evidence, such as audit reports detailing their investigations, limits the transparency of their responses. This lack of transparency may foster skepticism among consumers and advocacy groups. Tyson's decision not to comment, coupled with their prior adjustments to their RWA program, could suggest underlying challenges in consistently maintaining antibiotic-free beef production at their scale.

Farm Forward, the advocacy group instrumental in making the USDA's findings public, has been a vocal critic of the current system for labeling meat as "raised without antibiotics".3 Their investigation, prompted by the USDA's initial refusal to disclose the names of the companies with positive tests, highlights a pattern of what they consider deceptive marketing practices within the beef industry.6 Farm Forward has previously conducted its own testing, revealing the presence of antibiotics in meat labeled "no antibiotics, ever," including products sold by Whole Foods.5 These findings, along with the USDA's data, have led Farm Forward to advocate for mandatory third-party testing and more stringent government regulations to safeguard consumers and support ethical farmers.6 The repeated detection of antibiotics in products marketed as antibiotic-free, as evidenced by Farm Forward's investigations and now corroborated by the USDA's findings, indicates a recurring issue that demands more robust solutions than the existing voluntary framework. Farm Forward's advocacy underscores the inherent tension between industry self-regulation and the necessity of independent oversight to ensure accurate labeling, protect consumers from misleading claims, and foster a fair marketplace.

The detection of antibiotic residues in beef labeled as "antibiotic-free" is particularly concerning when viewed through the lens of the escalating public health crisis of antibiotic resistance.3 While the immediate consumption of these residues may not cause acute illness, it contributes to the broader and more insidious problem of bacteria developing resistance to antibiotics.3 A strong scientific consensus exists, linking the use of antibiotics in livestock to the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria that can affect human health.1 The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued guidelines recommending a significant reduction in the use of all classes of medically important antibiotics in food-producing animals, including a complete restriction on their use for growth promotion and disease prevention in healthy animals.8 Similarly, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has expressed concerns about antibiotic resistance in food animals and the potential for these resistant bacteria to spread to humans through the food supply and the environment.59 The economic incentives for antibiotic use in livestock, such as promoting growth and preventing disease in often crowded industrial farming conditions, can unfortunately overshadow the long-term public health risks associated with increasing antibiotic resistance. This necessitates regulatory intervention to align individual agricultural practices with the broader societal need to preserve the effectiveness of these critical medications.

The findings of antibiotics in beef labeled as "antibiotic-free" inevitably erode consumer trust in such claims and raise concerns about potential economic deception.3 Consumers often pay a premium for these products, expecting them to be genuinely free of antibiotics and potentially believing them to be a healthier or more ethical choice.4 Farm Forward has explicitly accused major beef companies of deceiving the public by continuing to market and sell products under RWA labels that, in fact, contain antibiotics.3 The consumer class action lawsuit filed against Whole Foods for allegedly falsely advertising its beef as "no antibiotics, ever" further underscores the extent of consumer concern and the potential for legal repercussions.5 Consumer surveys have indicated a strong desire for more stringent transparency in food labeling and a significant loss of trust in grocery stores that sell products found to be mislabeled.1 The disparity between what the label promises and the actual presence of antibiotics not only represents a betrayal of consumer trust but also potentially constitutes economic fraud, as consumers are paying a premium for a perceived benefit that is not consistently delivered. The absence of mandatory verification mechanisms allows companies to potentially profit from misleading claims, creating an uneven playing field that disadvantages those producers who genuinely adhere to antibiotic-free practices and incur the associated higher costs.

The USDA's FSIS bears the responsibility for ensuring the accuracy of meat product labels, a process that includes reviewing documentation submitted by companies making RWA claims.3 While the agency conducts routine testing for antibiotic residues under the National Residue Program, the primary objective of this testing is to ensure that residue levels do not exceed safety limits for human consumption, rather than to verify whether the animals were raised without antibiotics throughout their lives.3 It is important to recognize that claims such as "raised without antibiotics" are voluntary marketing terms, not mandatory labeling requirements.3 In response to growing concerns, the USDA issued updated guidelines in August 2024. These guidelines strongly encourage the use of third-party certification to substantiate animal-raising and environment-related claims and recommend that companies making "negative" antibiotic claims implement routine sampling and testing programs.3 The USDA also stated in these updated guidelines that they would take enforcement action against any claims found to be false or misleading.7 The current regulatory approach, which relies heavily on documentation review and residue testing focused on safety, appears insufficient to guarantee the accuracy of RWA claims. This creates a potential vulnerability that can be exploited by some producers. While the updated guidelines represent a positive step by encouraging third-party verification and routine testing, the fact that these measures are recommendations rather than mandates may limit their overall effectiveness in ensuring consistent industry-wide compliance and accurate labeling.

Third-party certification programs, such as Certified Humane and the Global Animal Partnership (GAP), offer a potentially more rigorous approach to verifying animal-raising claims, including those related to antibiotic use.3 The USDA encourages, but does not mandate, the use of these certifications.3 Certified Humane standards prohibit the use of antibiotics except when necessary to treat sick animals, and the program requires annual third-party inspections to ensure compliance.99 Similarly, GAP employs a tiered system of certification, with all steps prohibiting routine antibiotic use and mandating third-party audits every 15 months.107 Despite the seemingly more stringent standards and verification processes associated with third-party certifications, Farm Forward's findings of antibiotic residues in GAP-certified meat sold at Whole Foods raise questions about their absolute effectiveness in preventing antibiotic use throughout the supply chain.31 While third-party certifications offer a more robust verification system compared to the USDA's current voluntary approach, their efficacy can still be compromised if standards are not sufficiently rigorous or if enforcement of those standards encounters challenges. The USDA's recent encouragement of third-party certification suggests an acknowledgment of the need for more independent verification; however, the absence of a mandate may limit the widespread adoption of these potentially more reliable systems across the beef industry.

Recommendations:

To address the issues highlighted by the USDA's findings and the Sentient Media report, a multi-pronged approach is necessary to strengthen regulations, enhance transparency, promote accountability, and support the transition to genuinely antibiotic-free beef production.

The USDA should significantly strengthen its regulations concerning the labeling of "raised without antibiotics" beef. This includes mandating routine and statistically significant antibiotic testing for all products bearing such labels, going beyond the current focus on residue levels that exceed safety limits for consumption.3 To ensure independent verification of on-farm practices, mandatory third-party certification should be required for all "raised without antibiotics" claims.7 Clear and enforceable standards defining "raised without antibiotics" are essential, including specific protocols for preventing contamination and managing the health of animals without routine antibiotic use.3 Furthermore, the USDA must implement stricter penalties for companies found to be making false or misleading "antibiotic-free" claims, which could include substantial fines and the potential loss of labeling privileges.7

To enhance transparency for consumers, the USDA should mandate the public disclosure of all testing results related to antibiotic residues in labeled beef, including the names of the companies involved and the specific antibiotics detected.3 Clear and prominent labeling should be required to differentiate between various claims, such as "no antibiotics ever," "no medically important antibiotics," and "no antibiotics added for growth promotion," to reduce consumer confusion.3 Companies utilizing third-party certifications should be strongly encouraged or required to make their audit results and underlying standards publicly accessible to further enhance the credibility of their claims.116

Accountability can be further promoted by establishing a straightforward system for consumers to report suspected instances of mislabeling, with assurances of timely and thorough investigations into such reports.138 Increased collaboration between the USDA, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and other relevant agencies is crucial to address the multifaceted issue of antibiotic resistance in a comprehensive and coordinated manner.3

Finally, to address the root causes of antibiotic use in livestock production, resources and incentives should be provided to support farmers in adopting practices that reduce the need for antibiotics. These practices include improvements in animal husbandry, hygiene protocols, and the implementation of effective vaccination programs.1









Table: Comparison of Antibiotic Use Standards in Certification Programs

Feature

Certified Humane

Global Animal Partnership (GAP)

Antibiotic Use

Prohibited except for treating sick animals; no subtherapeutic use

Prohibited except for treating sick animals; no routine use

Third-Party Audit

Annually by experts

Every 15 months by accredited certifiers

Growth Promotants

Prohibited

Prohibited

Preventative Use

Not allowed

Not allowed

Medically Important Antibiotics

Restrictions in line with WHO guidelines

Encourages use of antibiotics least important to human health

Transparency

Standards publicly available

Standards publicly available; audit reports not typically public

  • Conclusion: Synthesis of the analysis, highlighting the persistent issues and the need for stronger, mandatory measures to ensure the integrity of "raised without antibiotics" labeling in beef and to protect public health.

The findings reported by Sentient Media, based on USDA data, reveal a concerning level of inconsistency in the "raised without antibiotics" beef market. The fact that approximately 20% of sampled products tested positive for antibiotics underscores the limitations of the current voluntary labeling system and the potential for widespread consumer deception. While the USDA's updated guidelines represent a step in the right direction by encouraging third-party certification and routine testing, the lack of mandatory requirements and immediate enforcement action leaves significant room for continued inaccuracies. The responses from major industry players like JBS USA and Cargill, while offering assurances of compliance, lack the transparency needed to fully verify their claims. In contrast, Tyson's silence and past adjustments to its antibiotic-free program suggest the complexities inherent in maintaining such commitments at a large scale. The consistent advocacy of groups like Farm Forward highlights the urgent need for more robust oversight and regulations. The issue transcends mere consumer preference, directly impacting the critical public health challenge of antibiotic resistance. The scientific consensus linking antibiotic use in livestock to the development of superbugs necessitates a more proactive and stringent regulatory approach. The current situation not only erodes consumer trust in food labeling but also potentially constitutes economic fraud, as consumers are paying a premium for a promise that is not consistently upheld. To ensure the integrity of "raised without antibiotics" claims in beef and to effectively protect public health, a shift towards mandatory third-party verification, routine and comprehensive testing, and stricter enforcement by the USDA is essential. Only through such measures can consumers have confidence in the labels they rely on, and can the broader threat of antibiotic resistance be meaningfully addressed.

Works cited

  1. Unchecked antibiotic use just got more unchecked - Food Safety News, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.foodsafetynews.com/2025/01/unchecked-antibiotic-use-just-got-more-unchecked/

  2. Growing use of antibiotics in factory-farmed animals threatens life-saving medications, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.ewg.org/news-insights/news/2024/11/life-saving-antibiotics-jeopardy-growing-use-factory-farmed-animals

  3. Federal Inspectors Found Antibiotics in Beef 'Raised Without Antibiotics.' They Took No Action - Sentient Media, accessed April 22, 2025, https://sentientmedia.org/antibiotics-in-beef-raised-without-antibiotics/

  4. Keeping Producers in the Animal Antibiotic Conversation - Beef Checkoff, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.beefboard.org/2024/01/19/keeping-producers-in-the-animal-antibiotic-conversation/

  5. Whole Foods' False Marketing of Raised Without Antibiotics Beef Continues to Deceive Consumers | Farm Forward, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.farmforward.com/news/whole-foods-false-marketing-of-raised-without-antibiotics-beef-continues-to-deceive-consumers/

  6. Press Release: Farm Forward Reveals Major Beef Companies Continue Deceptive Use of Antibiotic-Free Labels, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.farmforward.com/news/press-release-farm-forward-reveals-major-beef-companies-continue-deceptive-use-of-antibiotic-free-labels/

  7. USDA tightens guidance for use of 'antibiotic free' and other meat labels | Agriculture Dive, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.agriculturedive.com/news/meat-labels-grocery-antibiotics-sustainability-free-range/726052/

  8. Stop using antibiotics in healthy animals to prevent the spread of antibiotic resistance - World Health Organization (WHO), accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.who.int/news/item/07-11-2017-stop-using-antibiotics-in-healthy-animals-to-prevent-the-spread-of-antibiotic-resistance

  9. USDA Found Antibiotics in Beef 'Raised Without Antibiotics' and Took No Action Cattle Range, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.cattlerange.com/articles/2025/04/usda-found-antibiotics-in-beef-raised-without-antibiotics-and-took-no-action/

  10. USDA Releases Updated Guideline to Strengthen Substantiation of Animal-Raising and Environment-Related Claims on Meat and Poultry Labels, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.usda.gov/about-usda/news/press-releases/2024/08/28/usda-releases-updated-guideline-strengthen-substantiation-animal-raising-and-environment-related

  11. Constituent Update - August 30, 2024 - Food Safety and Inspection Service - USDA, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.fsis.usda.gov/news-events/news-press-releases/constituent-update-august-30-2024

  12. FSIS publishes updated labeling guideline - Sedgwick, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.sedgwick.com/blog/fsis-publishes-updated-labeling-guideline/

  13. USDA publishes updated Guideline on Substantiating Animal-Raising or Environment-Related Labeling Claims - Hogan Lovells, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.hoganlovells.com/en/publications/usda-publishes-updated-guideline-on-substantiating-animal-raising-or-environment-related-labeling-claims

  14. FSIS updates guidelines for claims on meat products, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.meatpoultry.com/articles/30720-fsis-updates-guidelines-for-claims-on-meat-products

  15. USDA Tests No-Antibiotics Meat Claims - Great American Crop Insurance, accessed April 22, 2025, https://greatamericancrop.com/news-resources/article/2024/08/29/usda-tests-no-antibiotics-meat-claims

  16. USDA Finds Antibiotics in Sample of Negative Antibiotic-Raised Animals - DTN Progressive Farmer, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.dtnpf.com/agriculture/web/ag/news/business-inputs/article/2024/08/29/usda-finds-antibiotics-sample-raised

  17. Farm Forward Calls out the USDA Conspiring with Meat Companies to Humanewash with False “Antibiotic-Free” Labels, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.farmforward.com/news/usda-conspiring-with-meat-companies-to-humanewash-with-false-antibiotic-free-labels/

  18. Is “Antibiotic-Free” Meat Really Antibiotic-Free? | Publications - Farm Forward, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.farmforward.com/publications/is-antibiotic-free-meat-really-antibiotic-free/

  19. USDA Releases Updated Guideline to Strengthen Substantiation of Animal-Raising and Environment-Related Claims on Meat and Poultry Labels | Food Safety and Inspection Service, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.fsis.usda.gov/news-events/news-press-releases/usda-releases-updated-guideline-strengthen-substantiation-animal

  20. USDA tightens guidance for use of 'antibiotic free' and other meat labels | Food Dive, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.fooddive.com/news/meat-labels-grocery-antibiotics-sustainability-free-range/726414/

  21. Frequently Asked Questions - Aspen Ridge Natural Angus Beef, accessed April 22, 2025, https://aspenridgebeef.com/faq/

  22. Cargill cows contaminated with vital antibiotics | TBIJ, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.thebureauinvestigates.com/stories/2024-09-27/cargill-cows-contaminated-with-vital-antibiotics

  23. Constituent Update - April 18, 2025 - USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.fsis.usda.gov/news-events/news-press-releases/constituent-update-april-18-2025

  24. Tyson Foods to 'reduce antibiotic-free beef offerings' - Just Food, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.just-food.com/news/tyson-foods-to-reduce-antibiotic-free-beef-offerings/

  25. Tyson Foods adjusts antibiotic use policy amid market demand, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.foodbusinessafrica.com/tyson-foods-adjusts-antibiotic-use-policy-amid-market-demand/

  26. Tyson Foods scales back its antibiotic-free beef pledge - Food Dive, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.fooddive.com/news/tyson-cuts-back-on-antibiotic-free-beef-poultry-disease-meat/720428/

  27. How far will Tyson Foods scale back its antibiotic-free beef pledge? - Food Ingredients First, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.foodingredientsfirst.com/news/how-far-will-tyson-foods-scale-back-its-antibiotic-free-beef-pledge.html

  28. Tyson drops 'no antibiotics ever' label on chicken products - Agriculture Dive, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.agriculturedive.com/news/tyson-drops-no-antibiotics-ever-labeling-on-chicken-products-resistance/685072/

  29. Tyson Foods scales back its antibiotic-free beef pledge - Agriculture Dive, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.agriculturedive.com/news/tyson-cuts-back-on-antibiotic-free-beef-poultry-disease-meat/720772/

  30. Farm Forward is Pushing Meat Companies to Take Action on Antibiotic Usage, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.farmforward.com/news/farm-forward-is-pushing-meat-companies-to-take-action-on-antibiotic-usage/

  31. How can "antibiotic-free" meat contain antibiotics? - Farm Forward, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.farmforward.com/issues/antibiotics-public-health/how-can-antibiotic-free-meat-contain-antibiotics/

  32. Antibiotics and Public Health | Farm Forward, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.farmforward.com/issues/antibiotics-public-health/

  33. The Drugs Farm Forward Found Hiding In Your Meat, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.farmforward.com/news/the-drugs-farm-forward-found-hiding-in-your-meat/

  34. Timeline of Farm Forward's Antibiotics Testing & Coverage, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.farmforward.com/news/timeline-of-farm-forwards-antibiotics-testing-coverage/

  35. Drovers | FSIS Asked to Recall Beef Over Failed Antibiotic Tests | Farm Action, accessed April 22, 2025, https://farmaction.us/2022/04/12/drovers-fsis-asked-to-recall-beef-over-failed-antibiotic-tests/

  36. Antibiotics Archives | Farm Forward, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.farmforward.com/news/category/antibiotics/

  37. USDA says it will review, strengthen antibiotic use claims on meat labels - CIDRAP, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/antimicrobial-stewardship/usda-says-it-will-review-strengthen-antibiotic-use-claims-meat-labels

  38. Farm Forward and Data For Progress Report: Consumers Expect Companies to Test Meat to Ensure "Antibiotic Free" - Newsfile, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/177526/Farm-Forward-and-Data-For-Progress-Report-Consumers-Expect-Companies-to-Test-Meat-to-Ensure-Antibiotic-Free

  39. An HSUS Report: Human Health Implications of Non-Therapeutic Antibiotic Use in Animal Agriculture, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.humaneworld.org/sites/default/files/docs/health-implications-antibiotics-in-animal-agriculture.pdf

  40. An HSUS Fact Sheet - Antibiotics in Animal Agriculture & Human Health, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.humaneworld.org/sites/default/files/docs/antibiotics-in-animal-agriculture-and-human-health.pdf

  41. Scientists Debate the Addition of Antibiotics to Animal Feed | EBSCO Research Starters, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/science/scientists-debate-addition-antibiotics-animal-feed

  42. Antibiotic Resistance in Humans and Animals - National Academy of Medicine, accessed April 22, 2025, https://nam.edu/antibiotic-resistance-in-humans-and-animals/

  43. Answers to Common Questions About the Use of Antibiotics in Animal Agriculture, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.pewtrusts.org/en/research-and-analysis/articles/2017/11/answers-to-common-questions-about-the-use-of-antibiotics-in-animal-agriculture

  44. Antibiotic resistance in livestock, environment and humans: One Health perspective - PMC, accessed April 22, 2025, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11016740/

  45. The effect of antibiotic usage on resistance in humans and food-producing animals: a longitudinal, One Health analysis using European data - PMC - PubMed Central, accessed April 22, 2025, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10311110/

  46. Large amounts of antibiotics are used in livestock, but several countries have shown this doesn't have to be the case - Our World in Data, accessed April 22, 2025, https://ourworldindata.org/antibiotics-livestock

  47. Global trends in antimicrobial use in food animals - PNAS, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.1503141112

  48. Antimicrobial resistance - WOAH - World Organisation for Animal Health, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.woah.org/en/what-we-do/global-initiatives/antimicrobial-resistance/

  49. WHO calls for an end to antibiotic use in healthy animals | CIDRAP - University of Minnesota, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/antimicrobial-stewardship/who-calls-end-antibiotic-use-healthy-animals

  50. Use of Antibiotics in Animal Agriculture: Implications for Pediatrics: Technical Report, accessed April 22, 2025, https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/154/4/e2024068467/199441/Use-of-Antibiotics-in-Animal-Agriculture

  51. Report slams beef industry for overuse of antibiotics | CIDRAP - University of Minnesota, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/antimicrobial-stewardship/report-slams-beef-industry-overuse-antibiotics

  52. The effect of antibiotic usage on resistance in humans and food-producing animals: a longitudinal, One Health analysis using European data - Frontiers, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/public-health/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2023.1170426/full

  53. ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE—LINKING HUMAN AND ANIMAL HEALTH - NCBI, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK114485/

  54. In animals/agriculture – Use and inappropriate use - ReAct, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.reactgroup.org/toolbox/understand/how-did-we-end-up-here/use-and-inappropriate-use/for-animalnon-human-applications/

  55. Antimicrobial Resistance in Livestock: A Serious Threat to Public Health - MDPI, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.mdpi.com/2079-6382/13/6/551

  56. (PDF) Spread of antibiotic-resistant microorganisms and mechanisms of their transmission from animal to human - ResearchGate, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/375810835_Spread_of_antibiotic-resistant_microorganisms_and_mechanisms_of_their_transmission_from_animal_to_human

  57. Antimicrobial resistance - World Health Organization (WHO), accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/antimicrobial-resistance

  58. Antimicrobial Resistance and Food Animals: Influence of Livestock Environment on the Emergence and Dissemination of Antimicrobial Resistance - MDPI, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.mdpi.com/2079-6382/9/2/52

  59. Antimicrobial Resistance in the Environment and the Food Supply: Causes and How It Spreads - CDC, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.cdc.gov/antimicrobial-resistance/causes/environmental-food.html

  60. Antimicrobial Resistance Facts | NARMS - CDC, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.cdc.gov/narms/resistance/index.html

  61. Antibiotic Resistance Threats Report and Gastrointestinal Germs | NARMS - CDC Archive, accessed April 22, 2025, https://archive.cdc.gov/www_cdc_gov/narms/resources/threats.html

  62. Food, Farms, & Animals - CDC, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.cdc.gov/antimicrobial-resistance/media/pdfs/AR-EverythingConnected-Settings-Food-508.pdf

  63. Antimicrobial Resistance, Food, and Food Animals | Food Safety - CDC, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.cdc.gov/food-safety/foods/antimicrobial-resistance.html

  64. CDC Fights Antibiotic Resistance (AR) in Food, Farms, & Animals, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.cdc.gov/antimicrobial-resistance/media/pdfs/CDC-Fights-AR-Food-508.pdf

  65. Antimicrobial Resistance in People and Animals | One Health - CDC, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.cdc.gov/one-health/php/stories/ar-in-people-and-animals.html

  66. Tracking antibiotic resistance in dangerous bacteria that affect people and cattle - CDC, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.cdc.gov/narms/cattle-antibiotic-resistance.html

  67. Antimicrobial resistance in food-producing animals: towards implementing a one health based national action plan in Israel, accessed April 22, 2025, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10132406/

  68. Beef Label Claims and Their Effects on Purchasing Behavior, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.beefresearch.org/resources/market-research-planning/white-papers/beef-label-claims-and-their-effects-on-purchasing-behavior

  69. What Does 'Antibiotic Free' Mean When it Comes to Food? - Modern Farmer, accessed April 22, 2025, https://modernfarmer.com/2021/08/antibiotic-free-meat-label/

  70. Consumer Perception of Antibiotic-Free and Hormone-free Meat Products - ResearchGate, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/344735905_Consumer_Perception_of_Antibiotic-Free_and_Hormone-free_Meat_Products

  71. BEEF LABEL CLAIMS AND THEIR EFFECTS ON PURCHASING BEHAVIOR, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.beefitswhatsfordinner.com/retail/sales-data-shopper-insights/beef-label-claims-and-their-effects-on-purchasing-behavior

  72. Consumer Demand for Antibiotic-Free Meat: Market Trends and Policy Considerations, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.omicsonline.org/open-access-pdfs/consumer-demand-for-antibioticfree-meat-market-trends-and-policy-considerations.pdf

  73. Can Pork Producers Rely on Antibiotic-Use-Based Product Differentiation To Be Competitive? - SDSU Extension - South Dakota State University, accessed April 22, 2025, https://extension.sdstate.edu/can-pork-producers-rely-antibiotic-use-based-product-differentiation-be-competitive

  74. Testing finds antibiotics in 'Raised Without Antibiotics' cattle - CIDRAP, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/testing-finds-antibiotics-raised-without-antibiotics-cattle

  75. New Study Finds Antibiotics In Beef Cattle 'Raised Without Antibiotics' - Modern Farmer, accessed April 22, 2025, https://modernfarmer.com/2022/04/raised-without-antibiotics-beef-study/

  76. Withdrawal Dates On Antibiotics And Building Consumer Trust - SAIFood, accessed April 22, 2025, https://saifood.ca/antibiotics-building-trust/

  77. Raised Without Antibiotics Certification (RWA) - NSF, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.nsf.org/food-beverage/raised-without-antibiotics-certification

  78. Consumer Perception of Antibiotic-Free and Hormone-free Meat Products - IDEAS/RePEc, accessed April 22, 2025, https://ideas.repec.org/a/mth/jfsjnl/v9y2020i1p80.html

  79. Addressing Clean Label Trends in Commercial Meat Processing: Strategies, Challenges and Insights from Consumer Perspectives - PMC, accessed April 22, 2025, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10217239/

  80. Foodservice Chains Make Progress in Restricting Antibiotics in Meat | Food Logistics, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.foodlogistics.com/safety-security/regulations/news/12259797/foodservice-chains-make-progress-in-restricting-antibiotics-in-meat

  81. (PDF) Consumers' perspectives on antibiotic use and antibiotic resistance in food animals: a systematic review - ResearchGate, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/389730851_Consumers'_perspectives_on_antibiotic_use_and_antibiotic_resistance_in_food_animals_a_systematic_review

  82. Understanding Consumers' Purchase Intention Towards Meat Produced Without Preventive Antibiotic Use - PMC - PubMed Central, accessed April 22, 2025, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11640627/

  83. Consumers' knowledge, attitude, and behavior towards antimicrobial resistance and antimicrobial use in food production in China - Frontiers, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/public-health/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2022.1015950/full

  84. Consumer Preferences and Attitudes towards Antibiotic Use in Food Animals - PMC, accessed April 22, 2025, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10604430/

  85. U.S. Consumer Attitudes toward Antibiotic Use in Livestock Production - MDPI, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/14/12/7035

  86. Meat and Poultry Labeling Terms - USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/food-safety-basics/meat-and-poultry-labeling-terms

  87. Availability of FSIS Guideline on Substantiating Animal-Raising or Environment-Related Labeling Claims | Food Safety and Inspection Service, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.fsis.usda.gov/policy/federal-register-rulemaking/federal-register-notices/availability-fsis-guideline

  88. Meat, Poultry, and Egg Product Labeling - CRS Reports, accessed April 22, 2025, https://crsreports.congress.gov/product/pdf/R/R48427/2

  89. Meat, Poultry, and Egg Product Labeling | Congress.gov, accessed April 22, 2025, https://crsreports.congress.gov/product/pdf/R/R48427

  90. Meat and Poultry Labels: Updated Guidelines & Opportunity for Comment, accessed April 22, 2025, https://nationalaglawcenter.org/meat-and-poultry-labels-updated-guidelines-opportunity-for-comment/

  91. USDA tightening standards for meat, poultry labeling claims, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.avma.org/news/usda-tightening-standards-meat-poultry-labeling-claims

  92. USDA-FSIS Updates Substantiation Guideline for Animal-Raising and Environment-Related Claims | Perkins Coie, accessed April 22, 2025, https://perkinscoie.com/insights/update/usda-fsis-updates-substantiation-guideline-animal-raising-and-environment-related

  93. Buyer Beware: USDA's New Meat Label Guidelines Are a Raw Deal, accessed April 22, 2025, https://awionline.org/awi-quarterly/winter-2024/buyer-beware-usdas-new-meat-label-guidelines-are-raw-deal

  94. USDA Publishes New Meat and Poultry Labeling Guidance | Climate Solutions Legal Digest, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.climatesolutionslaw.com/2024/09/usda-publishes-new-meat-and-poultry-labeling-guidance/

  95. New FSIS guidelines on environmental labeling claims: Key points - DLA Piper, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.dlapiper.com/en/insights/publications/2024/09/new-fsis-guidelines-on-environmental-labeling-claims-key-points

  96. Will the USDA Crack Down on Antibiotics Labeling in Meat? - Civil Eats, accessed April 22, 2025, https://civileats.com/2023/06/22/will-the-usda-crack-down-on-antibiotics-labeling-in-meat/

  97. Availability of Updated FSIS Guideline on Substantiating Animal-Raising or Environment-Related Labeling Claims - USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.fsis.usda.gov/policy/fsis-notice/28-24

  98. FSIS Guideline on Substantiating Animal-Raising or Environment-Related Labeling Claims - Food Safety and Inspection Service, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.fsis.usda.gov/sites/default/files/media_file/documents/FSIS-GD-2024-0006.pdf

  99. Overview - Certified Humane, accessed April 22, 2025, https://certifiedhumane.org/overview/

  100. Meat Department Quality Standards - Whole Foods Market, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/quality-standards/meat-standards

  101. Certified Humane: Beef - FoodPrint, accessed April 22, 2025, https://foodprint.org/eating-sustainably/food-label-guide/food-label-guide-beef/certified-humane-beef/

  102. More than 12 years ago, HFAC set the standard to keep antibiotics and growth hormones out of our food supply - Certified Humane, accessed April 22, 2025, https://certifiedhumane.org/more-than-12-years-ago-hfac-set-the-standard-to-keep-antibiotics-and-growth-hormones-out-of-our-food-supply/

  103. Meat, Eggs and Dairy Label Guide - ASPCA, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.aspca.org/shopwithyourheart/consumer-resources/meat-eggs-and-dairy-label-guide

  104. Our Standards - Certified Humane, accessed April 22, 2025, https://certifiedhumane.org/our-standards/

  105. Humane Farm Animal Care Comprehensive Animal Welfare Standards Comparison By Program – Chickens, Beef Cattle and Pigs, accessed April 22, 2025, https://certifiedhumane.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Comp.Standards.Comparison.Chart_.wappendix.11.26.13.pdf

  106. Young Dairy Beef - Certified Humane, accessed April 22, 2025, https://certifiedhumane.org/wp-content/uploads/Young-Dairy-Beef-Standards_HFAC_2021-1.pdf

  107. The Global Animal Partnership (GAP) - Greenham beef, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.greenham.com.au/the-global-animal-partnership-gap/

  108. Global Animal Partnership Step 1: Beef - FoodPrint, accessed April 22, 2025, https://foodprint.org/eating-sustainably/food-label-guide/food-label-guide-beef/gap1-beef/

  109. Global Animal Partnership Step 4: Beef - FoodPrint, accessed April 22, 2025, https://foodprint.org/eating-sustainably/food-label-guide/food-label-guide-beef/gap4-beef/

  110. UNDERSTANDING LABELS Meat and Poultry - Practice Greenhealth, accessed April 22, 2025, https://practicegreenhealth.org/sites/default/files/upload-files/understanding_labels_-_sustainable_meat_and_poultry_2-24-17_0.pdf

  111. More drugs found in “antibiotic-free” meat certified by Global Animal Partnership, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.farmforward.com/news/more-drugs-found-in-antibiotic-free-meat-certified-by-global-animal-partnership/

  112. Beef Standards & Application - Global Animal Partnership, accessed April 22, 2025, https://globalanimalpartnership.org/standards/beef/

  113. Global Animal Partnership 5-Step® Animal Welfare Standards for Beef Cattle, accessed April 22, 2025, https://globalanimalpartnership.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/G.A.P.s-Animal-Welfare-Pilot-Standards-for-Beef-Cattle-v1.1.pdf

  114. Global Animal Partnership: Animal Welfare Food Labeling Program, accessed April 22, 2025, https://globalanimalpartnership.org/

  115. Standards for G.A.P. Farm Animal Welfare Food Labeling Program, accessed April 22, 2025, https://globalanimalpartnership.org/standards/

  116. Frequently Asked Questions - Global Animal Partnership, accessed April 22, 2025, https://globalanimalpartnership.org/faq/

  117. G.A.P. Certification - Global Animal Partnership, accessed April 22, 2025, https://globalanimalpartnership.org/certification/

  118. In Depth: Global Animal Partnership - ASPCA, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.aspca.org/sites/default/files/gap_farmanimalwelfarecertificationguide2019-123019.pdf

  119. In Depth: Global Animal Partnership - ASPCA, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.aspca.org/sites/default/files/frm_wlfr_cert_guide_2017_gap.pdf

  120. Animal Welfare Certified Food Labeling Program - Global Animal Partnership, accessed April 22, 2025, https://globalanimalpartnership.org/program/

  121. Beef | IMI Global, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.imiglobal.com/beef

  122. 5 Step Animal Welfare Standards for Beef Cattle -- 8-04-09, accessed April 22, 2025, https://globalanimalpartnership.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/5-Step%C2%AE-Animal-Welfare-Rating-Standards-for-Beef-Cattle-v1.0.pdf

  123. PILOT G.A.P. Policy Manual - Global Animal Partnership, accessed April 22, 2025, https://globalanimalpartnership.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Pilot-G.A.P.-Policy-Manual-v1.1-April-28-2020.pdf

  124. In Depth: Certified Humane®, a program of Humane Farm Animal Care - ASPCA, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.aspca.org/sites/default/files/frm_wlfr_cert_guide_2017_ch.pdf

  125. Certified Humane - Creekstone Farms' beef, accessed April 22, 2025, https://shop.creekstonefarms.com/pages/certified-humane

  126. Certified Humane - America's Best Charities, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.best-charities.org/find/charitypage.php?ein=47-0910622

  127. B E E F C A T T L E - Certified Humane, accessed April 22, 2025, https://certifiedhumane.org/wp-content/uploads/HFAC-Beef-Cattle-Standards_20.3-1.pdf

  128. Certified Humane - A Project of Humane Farm Animal Care, accessed April 22, 2025, https://certifiedhumane.org/

  129. Animal Welfare Audit and Certification Programs | National Agricultural Library, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare/animal-welfare-audit-and-certification-programs

  130. Did You Know? Whole Foods Market's Global Animal Partnership's 5-Step® Animal Welfare Ratings, accessed April 22, 2025, https://media.wholefoodsmarket.com/did-you-know-whole-foods-markets-global-animal-partnerships-5-step-animal-w/

  131. For Producers, Farmers, & Ranchers - Global Animal Partnership, accessed April 22, 2025, https://globalanimalpartnership.org/producers/

  132. Certification Process - Certified Humane, accessed April 22, 2025, https://certifiedhumane.org/become-certified/application-process/

  133. Becoming Certified Humane®: What happens during the certification process?, accessed April 22, 2025, https://certifiedhumane.org/certification-process/

  134. Become Certified, accessed April 22, 2025, https://certifiedhumane.org/become-certified/

  135. For those who have done more research, how accurate is this animal welfare label breakdown? (starts on page 4 of the link) - Reddit, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/exvegans/comments/15ljtit/for_those_who_have_done_more_research_how/

  136. Is anyone familiar with the "Certified Humane" label for animal products? - Reddit, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/EffectiveAltruism/comments/ulaatp/is_anyone_familiar_with_the_certified_humane/

  137. Understanding the terms 'all-natural' and 'no-hormones' when you're in the meat aisle - WTHR, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.wthr.com/article/money/whats-the-deal/what-the-labels-on-meat-mean-whats-the-deal-all-natural-and-no-hormones/531-82b825ab-9372-4426-af5b-59d0216fa44c

  138. JBS USA Food Company Recalls Imported Boneless Beef Products Due to Possible E. coli O157:H7 Contamination, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/jbs-usa-food-company-recalls-imported-boneless-beef-products-due-possible-e.-coli

  139. Cargill Meat Solutions Recalls Ground Beef Products due to Possible E. coli O26 Contamination | Food Safety and Inspection Service - USDA, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/cargill-meat-solutions-recalls-ground-beef-products-due-possible-e.-coli-o26

  140. Tyson Foods is being investigated by the USDA, accessed April 22, 2025, https://investigatemidwest.org/2024/08/16/tyson-foods-is-being-investigated-by-the-usda/

  141. Antimicrobial Resistance Overview (AMR) | Home - USDA, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.usda.gov/antimicrobial-resistance-overview-amr

  142. Antimicrobial Resistance - FDA, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/safety-health/antimicrobial-resistance

  143. Fischer Farms Approved for Certified Responsible Antibiotic Use Beef Standard, accessed April 22, 2025, https://battlesuperbugs.com/fischer-farms-approved-certified-responsible-antibiotic-use-beef-standard

  144. Health and Nutrition - JBS USA | Sustainability Report, accessed April 22, 2025, https://sustainability.jbsfoodsgroup.com/chapters/animal-care/health-nutrition/

  145. Cargill's Animal Welfare Achievements, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.cargill.com/meat-poultry/our-recent-achievements

  146. Cargill eliminates 20% of shared-class antibiotics used for beef cattle, accessed April 22, 2025, https://tscra.org/cargill-eliminates-20-of-shared-class-antibiotics-used-for-beef-cattle/

  147. Cargill's Animal Welfare Species-Specific Commitments, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.cargill.com/meat-poultry/key-issues-we-care-about

  148. Cargill Pulling Back Antibiotic Use by 20% in Beef Cattle - Successful Farming, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.agriculture.com/news/livestock/cargill-pulling-back-tibiotic-use-by-20_3-ar52582

  149. Cargill reduces antibiotics from feed yards - All About Feed, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.allaboutfeed.net/animal-feed/feed-processing/cargill-reduces-antibiotics-from-feed-yards/

  150. Ongoing Commitment to Animal Welfare | Cargill, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.cargill.com/meat-poultry/ongoing-commitment-to-animal-welfare

  151. Antibiotic Stewardship | Tyson Foods, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.tysonfoods.com/sustainability/product-responsibility/animal-health-welfare/antibiotic-stewardship

  152. How healthy farm animals protect us from zoonotic diseases - Cargill, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.cargill.com/story/combatting-zoonotic-disease

  153. Cargill to Reduce Use of Antibiotics in Cattle by 20 Percent - TriplePundit, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.triplepundit.com/story/2016/cargill-reduce-use-antibiotics-cattle-20-percent/27631

  154. Cargill: Only Using Antibiotics To Treat Ill Livestock - Food Online, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.foodonline.com/doc/cargill-only-using-antibiotics-to-treat-ill-livestock-0001

  155. Beef Business - Cargill, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.cargill.com/meat-poultry/beef-business

  156. Antibiotic Alternatives | Tyson Foods, Inc., accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.tysonfoods.com/news/viewpoints/antibiotic-alternatives

  157. What Happened to Antibiotic-Free Chicken? - Civil Eats, accessed April 22, 2025, https://civileats.com/2024/05/22/what-happened-to-antibiotic-free-chicken/

  158. Tyson Foods changes antibiotic use policy | WATTPoultry.com, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.wattagnet.com/broilers-turkeys/diseases-health/article/15541682/tyson-foods-changes-antibiotic-use-policy

  159. Tyson Foods: Chickens 'Raised Without Antibiotics'? | The Poultry Site, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.thepoultrysite.com/news/2008/11/tyson-foods-chickens-raised-without-antibiotics

  160. Why Perdue Farms isn't giving up on 'no antibiotics ever' chicken | Food Dive, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.fooddive.com/news/perdue-farms-no-antibiotics-ever-chicken-tyson/720010/

  161. New Cargill center to focus on antibiotic alternatives - WATT Poultry, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.wattagnet.com/broilers-turkeys/article/15524957/new-cargill-poultry-research-center-to-focus-on-antibiotic-alternatives-wattagnet

  162. Support for Antimicrobial Use Stewardship Principles in poultry - Cargill, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.cargill.com/2024/antimicrobial-use-stewardship-principles-in-poultry

  163. Cargill launches Sun Valley® "Raised Without Antibiotics” chicken products in China, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.cargill.com/2020/cargill-launches-sun-valley-raised-without-antibiotics-chicken

  164. Controlling Antimicrobial Resistance: Livestock and Poultry Producers - CDC, accessed April 22, 2025, https://www.cdc.gov/antimicrobial-resistance/prevention/animals.html

No comments:

Post a Comment

Luigi Mangione Legal Fund