STEVE ROACH, SAFE & HEALTHY FOOD PROGRAM DIRECTOR, FOOD ANIMAL CONCERNS TRUST
We often look at the new year as an opportunity to reevaluate how we’re caring for ourselves. Food Animal Concerns Trust recommends a step you might not have thought of but could make a huge difference to your personal health and that of everyone you love: changing the meat you choose for your dinner table.
Swapping out meat from factory farms with meat from sustainable, humane farms purchased at your local butcher or farmers market not only supports producers in your community, but also protects you and others from antibiotic-resistant “superbugs.”
Antibiotics save lives by treating serious bacterial infections, but they are no longer working like they used to. Factory farms routinely use antibiotics with their animals, whether or not they are sick. This overuse is causing more and more antibiotics to become ineffective. As the bacteria evolve or learn to fight off antibiotics from other bacteria, they become untreatable. Bacteria that cannot be treated by multiple antibiotics are known as superbugs. Superbugs are a danger to everyone, but people who rely on antibiotics such as those with cancer or chronic illnesses are most vulnerable.
Most meat produced in the U.S. is raised in huge, industrial scale facilities that cut corners on animal health and welfare, while maximizing profit. Meat from the butcher or farmers market can be more expensive, but the benefits to our health and the health of the animals balance out those costs. One way to cut food expenses could be for all of us to consider quality over quantity when it comes to meat, which might result in cutting down our consumption of meat products overall.
FACT works with local farmers across the country who are doing it right. By raising animals on well-managed pastures, like those listed on our Pasture-Raised Turkey Directory, the farmers have no need for the routine use of antibiotics. Their animals are healthy and thriving. Buying from these farmers enables them to continue their good work to care for their animals and the environment and protects your health.
Check FACT’s guide to buying at farmers markets for more information on how to find the best option for you. To find a farmers market in your area, use the USDA’s locator search or Local Harvest’s Farmers Market search. Farmers markets are available most months, or even year-round in some communities. If a market isn't close by, you may still be able to find a farm near you or find local food via the National Directory of Local Food Vendors.
Keep your family safe this holiday season by shopping locally and doing your part to stop the spread of superbugs. Have a healthy and happy new year!