Investors are calling on food companies to cut antibiotic use in their supply chains due to rising concerns about antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
- Approximately 70% of antibiotics are used by animals, highlighting a significant issue in meat production industries.
- AMR is linked to nearly 5 million deaths annually and $100 trillion in economic losses worldwide.
- The Fairr initiative, backed by investors with $71 trillion in assets, targets major US fast-food chains to reduce antibiotic usage.
- Industry leaders like McDonald’s and Restaurant Brands International are taking steps to responsibly manage antibiotic use.
Investors are increasingly urging food companies to implement measures to reduce antibiotic use within their supply chains. This call to action stems from the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which is seen as a serious global health risk comparable to climate change. The Financial Times reports that roughly 70% of antibiotics are currently consumed by animals to prevent disease, pointing to a major issue within meat production sectors.
AMR is a significant concern, linked annually to almost 5 million deaths and costing the global economy $100 trillion. According to the World Health Organisation, the impact of AMR could rival that of the climate crisis, urging international response and cooperation. The focus on reducing antibiotics is not only about health but also about economic sustainability.
In response to these concerns, the Fairr initiative, an investor-led network, was founded to combat the risks associated with intensive livestock farming practices. Supported by approximately 370 investors managing $71 trillion in assets, this initiative specifically targets the practices of 12 major North American fast-food chains. Prominent names include McDonald’s and Yum Brands, the latter known for KFC and Pizza Hut. These companies are now under pressure to reform their antibiotic usage policies.
McDonald’s has publicly stated its commitment to eliminating the routine use of medically important antibiotics in livestock. This aligns with efforts towards sustainable sourcing and combating AMR. Similarly, Restaurant Brands International, which owns Burger King, has highlighted its commitment to responsible sourcing, reflecting significant strides within the industry.
High-level voices, such as Dame Sally Davies, the UK government’s special envoy on AMR, stress the pivotal role investors play in driving change, alongside political pathways. Industry analysts, like Sophie Deleuze from Candriam, underscore the importance of corporate responsibility and innovation in reducing reliance on antibiotics. Advocating for sustainable alternatives is essential to effectively curb AMR.
Recent reports have echoed concerns from animal activists, particularly regarding conditions at farms supplying to major retailers such as Co-op. These reports coincide with calls for supermarkets to bolster support for local farmers by featuring more UK-sourced products.
The concerted efforts by investors and industry leaders reflect a crucial step toward addressing the pervasive threat of antimicrobial resistance.
