Antibiotics are rarely used and are only one of many tools farmers use to keep their chickens healthy. Professional flocks follow biosecurity programmes designed by licensed and, above all, experienced veterinarians. The purpose of these programmes is to create a barrier that prevents diseases from entering the farm. However, as with people, animals sometimes get sick and disease management is a delicate part of animal care that is addressed by animal health experts and veterinarians to determine if treatment is needed and with what antibiotic. Antibiotics used for animals are not the same as those used for people. Whatever the consumer’s choice of the different types of chicken available in supermarkets, it is important to reassure them that conventional chicken, organic chicken or chicken raised without antibiotics are healthy, safe and verified foods.
