July 17, 2014

Farms supplying turkey to Cargill to stop using growth-promoting antibiotics

 

Independent farms, which supply Cargill with turkey, will cease using growth-promoting antibiotics on livestock, the company said.

Cargill's Honeysuckle White and Shady Brook Farms, are the first major turkey brands to remove growth-promoting antibiotics from turkeys across partnering farms, without charging a premium price.

Based on consumer research and feedback, these two Cargill brands are the first efforts to produce new, affordable, turkey choices.

Cargill worked with the USDA to develop a three-part verification process for turkey production which exceeds all current government and industry standards. The conditions state that all turkeys must be raise by independent farmers; producers are trained on proper animal handling practices; and no antibiotics are used for growth promotion. The exception is reserved for antibiotics which are used for treatment of illness and disease prevention.

Said Ruth Kimmelshue, the president of the Cargill Turkey & Cooked Meats business: "Consumer research tells us people are more interested in where their food comes from and how it is produced. We believe ending the use of antibiotics to promote growth in turkeys is an important step that provides consumers with nutritious and affordable options. Working with our broad network of independent farmers, Cargill has the experience, resources and capabilities to make this change and meet the needs of our consumers."

Cargill's decision comes after the Food and Drug Administration requested 26 companies in December to stop labeling pharmaceuticals, used to treat infections in humans, as acceptable for growth production in animals. The firms had the option of withdrawing them from animal use entirely or changing the labeling so they can only be administered with a prescription from a veterinarian.

"All Cargill turkey flocks will be free of growth-promoting antibiotics by the end of 2015," Ms Kimmelshue added.