McDonald’s to curb antibiotic use in its beef

The announcement comes amid mounting pressure and criticism to stop the growing danger of antibiotic resistance. The fast-food chain might push its competitors to adopt similar initiatives.

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McDonald’s is setting out to make a difference with its beef supply—and by doing so, might induce others to do the same.

The fast-food chain announced it will require most suppliers to halt the use of antibiotics in their beef. McDonald’s sources 85 percent of its beef from 10 targeted countries: the United States, United Kingdom, Ireland, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, Canada, France and Poland.

The move targets the global problem of antibiotic resistance.

Inc. reported:

The company says it hopes that if it forces suppliers to stop using antibiotics in beef that competitors will have no choice but to follow suit.

… Why care? Because the World Health Organization identifies human resistance to antibiotics — on the rise because they’re used in so much food production, and we’re thus exposed to trace amounts when we eat — as one of the most pressing health problems on the planet.

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