Chick-fil-A, the popular fast food chain known for its chicken sandwiches, recently announced a change in its chicken policy. The company will now allow the use of some antibiotics in its chicken, a move that has sparked some curiosity among consumers. This new policy, called No Antibiotics Important To Human Medicine (NAIHM), will go into effect in the spring of 2024.

In a statement on its website, Chick-fil-A explained the reason behind this decision. The company wants to ensure a consistent supply of high-quality chicken, and as it looked to the future, it faced challenges in sourcing enough antibiotic-free chicken to meet the demand. By shifting from a “no antibiotics ever” policy to the new NAIHM process, Chick-fil-A aims to balance the need for antibiotics that are important for human medicine while still maintaining the welfare standards of their animals.

It’s important to note that Chick-fil-A’s commitment to using real, white breast meat with no added fillers, artificial preservatives, or steroids remains unchanged. The company promises to continue raising chickens in accordance with their Animal Wellbeing Standards.

This policy change by Chick-fil-A aligns with a similar move made by meat producer Tyson last year. Both companies recognized the challenges in sourcing enough antibiotic-free chicken and adjusted their policies accordingly.

The use of antibiotics in raising livestock has been a common practice for many years. Antibiotics were initially used to control the spread of bacteria, such as Salmonella, and promote growth in animals. However, concerns over antibiotic resistance have led to stricter regulations. Antibiotic-resistant bacteria pose a growing threat, and limiting the use of antibiotics in animals is crucial to combat this issue.

While Chick-fil-A’s decision may come as a surprise to some, it is ultimately motivated by the goal of ensuring a consistent supply of high-quality chicken. The company remains committed to meeting customer expectations and delivering a product that is both delicious and responsibly sourced.