What is Perdue's 'No Antibiotics Ever' (NAE) program?
Perdue's 'No Antibiotics Ever' (NAE) program is a commitment to raising chickens without antibiotics of any kind, at any point in their lives. This includes growth promoters, preventive medicines, and treatments for illness. The company's journey toward this goal began in 2002, and by 2017, it had transitioned all branded chicken products to the NAE standard. This differs significantly from the industry standard, where medically important antibiotics might be phased out, but other types, like ionophores, are still used preventatively.
To raise chickens without antibiotics, Perdue relies on improved husbandry practices. This includes enhancements to living environments, better sanitation in hatcheries and barns, and changes in the chickens' diet. Natural supplements, such as oregano and thyme, are also used to promote gut health and vitality. These proactive measures are designed to create a healthier environment where chickens are less likely to get sick, thereby reducing the need for medical intervention.
The exception: What happens when a flock gets sick?
While the NAE label indicates that a specific chicken has never been treated with antibiotics, there is a necessary exception for animal welfare. In some cases, a flock may become ill and require veterinary-prescribed antibiotics. If a flock needs treatment, it is removed from the NAE program and those chickens are sold through separate, conventional channels. This ensures that sick birds are not left to suffer and that the integrity of the NAE brand promise is maintained for consumers.
This policy highlights a critical distinction in labeling. The 'No Antibiotics Ever' claim applies to the final branded product, not every single chicken Perdue raises. The percentage of flocks that require treatment and are diverted to other channels is reportedly small, with Perdue citing an average of less than 5% annually.
How USDA verification adds credibility
To ensure consumer trust, Perdue's NAE claims are backed by a USDA Process Verified Program. The USDA Agricultural Marketing Service sends auditors to the hatchery, feed mill, and farms to verify that Perdue follows a strict protocol. This third-party verification provides an additional layer of assurance that the company's branded products truly meet the stated criteria, distinguishing it from less transparent claims sometimes used in the market.
Other common antibiotic-related labels
Understanding other chicken labels is essential for comparing Perdue's products to the competition. Confusing or misleading claims are common, so knowing the differences is key for informed purchasing decisions.
| Label | Meaning | Perdue's NAE Comparison | Concerns/Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| 'No Antibiotic Residues' | By law, all meat sold in the U.S. must be free of antibiotic residues at the time of slaughter. This label essentially means nothing since it's a legal requirement. | Perdue's NAE goes far beyond this minimal standard. | Can be misleading, as it doesn't indicate if antibiotics were used during the animal's life. |
| 'No Medically Important Antibiotics' | Prohibits the use of antibiotics that are also used in human medicine. Animal-only antibiotics, like ionophores, may still be used. | Perdue's NAE prohibits all antibiotics, including ionophores. | Some competitors with this label still use antibiotics not deemed 'medically important' for growth promotion or prevention. |
| 'Raised Without Antibiotics' | Similar to 'No Antibiotics Ever' but may not specify whether certain drugs were used in the hatchery phase. | Perdue's NAE explicitly includes all life stages, from the egg onward. | The USDA requires verification, but specifics of protocols can vary by company. |
| Organic | Chickens are raised without antibiotics, growth hormones, or GMOs. They must be fed organic feed and have outdoor access. | Perdue has a separate organic line that meets these standards, but its standard NAE is not certified organic. | Organic standards include other factors beyond antibiotic use, such as feed and living conditions. |
The larger industry context and animal welfare concerns
Perdue's decision to pursue its NAE program was influenced by growing consumer concerns about antibiotic resistance. The routine use of antibiotics in animal agriculture has been linked to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, a significant public health threat. By focusing on improved husbandry and natural alternatives, Perdue is attempting to address these concerns head-on and differentiate its brand in the market.
Despite these efforts, the move has not been without controversy. Some critics have pointed to whistleblower accounts and animal welfare concerns, citing potentially stressful living conditions in large-scale poultry operations. While Perdue emphasizes its adherence to animal care standards, critics argue that the underlying intensive farming model remains a contributing factor to illness, necessitating the diversion of some flocks for treatment. This underscores the ongoing debate within the poultry industry regarding balancing production efficiency with animal welfare and antibiotic stewardship.
Conclusion
So, does Perdue really not use antibiotics? For its specifically branded 'No Antibiotics Ever' (NAE) products, the answer is yes. The company follows a strict, USDA-verified process to ensure no antibiotics are used at any point in the life of those chickens. However, it is crucial for consumers to understand the specific terms. Perdue treats sick chickens when necessary for animal welfare, but removes those birds from the NAE program. These treated chickens are sold through other channels and do not carry the NAE label. The company's commitment to avoiding antibiotics for its branded products is a significant step, but navigating the nuances of food labeling remains important for making informed choices.
Outbound link: Learn more about broader trends in antibiotic use in food-producing animals and federal guidelines from the FDA.
