Renowned for its commitment to naturally raised chicken, Chick-fil-A has made a significant announcement indicating a shift in its sourcing practices. In an upcoming change slated for this spring, the company will no longer exclusively serve antibiotic-free chicken, marking a departure from its longstanding practice. This decision aligns Chick-fil-A with a growing number of prominent restaurants and producers who are revising their sourcing strategies due to challenges within the supply chain
By adapting its approach, Chick-fil-A acknowledges the evolving landscape of food production and distribution. This decision reflects a broader trend within the industry as companies seek to navigate supply chain complexities while continuing to prioritize quality and sustainability.
In order to uphold our commitment to providing customers with the premium-quality chicken they have come to expect, Chick-fil-A will be transitioning from a policy of exclusively offering No Antibiotics Ever (NAE) chicken to sourcing No Antibiotics Important To Human Medicine (NAIHM) chicken, effective from the Spring of 2024 onward. This strategic shift underscores our dedication to maintaining the highest standards of quality while also adapting to the changing dynamics of the poultry industry.”
According to information provided on the Chick-fil-A website, the distinction between No Antibiotics Ever (NAE) and No Antibiotics Important To Human Medicine (NAIHM) is crucial. NAE signifies that no antibiotics whatsoever were administered during the animal’s upbringing. Conversely, NAIHM guidelines permit the use of antibiotics for animals only under specific circumstances, limiting their usage to situations where the animal or its surrounding environment is at risk of illness. This shift in antibiotic standards underscores Chick-fil-A’s commitment to transparency and responsible sourcing practices
In 2014, Chick-fil-A made a significant transition to serving antibiotic-free chicken, achieving the milestone of offering antibiotic-free chicken across all its chain restaurants by 2019. However, looking ahead, the company became increasingly mindful of the challenge posed by ensuring a consistent supply of high-quality chicken that adheres to its stringent standards.
This strategic adjustment not only allows Chick-fil-A to maintain its commitment to delivering top-notch chicken but also ensures that the product meets the expectations of its loyal customer base. The company emphasizes that despite this shift, there will be no compromise on the quality of its offerings. Chick-fil-A reassures customers that its chicken will continue to be free from added hormones, reaffirming its dedication to serving wholesome and responsibly sourced poultry.
Panera Bread, known for its commitment to quality ingredients, has recently adjusted its antibiotic-free policy regarding its pork and turkey products. This change marks a departure from its previous stance and reflects the company’s response to challenges within the supply chain. Similarly, Tyson Foods, a major player in the poultry industry, made headlines last summer with the announcement of reintroducing limited antibiotic use within its chicken supply chain. This decision came after Tyson Foods had previously transitioned to antibiotic-free practices in 2017. Both Panera Bread and Tyson Foods cited supply chain issues as key factors influencing their respective decisions, highlighting the complexities and pressures faced by companies striving to maintain high standards while navigating the intricacies of food production and distribution.