Source: Lisa M. Keefe, MEATINGPLACE, 9/20/16


Compared with a year ago, twice as many of the nation’s largest QSR chains are adopting policies that prohibit the routine use of antibiotics, or medically important antibiotics, in the meat and poultry they serve, says the second "Chain Reaction" report and scorecard, released by a group of consumer, environmental and health organizations.

The report grades the U.S. market’s largest 25 restaurant chains on policies and practices regarding antibiotics use and transparency in their meat and poultry supply chains. The 2016 report is the second produced by the Natural Resources Defense Council, Friends of the Earth, Center for Food Safety, Consumers Union and Food Animal Concerns Trust, the groups said in a joint news release.

The report notes that nine chains earn “passing grades” in the report, including: Panera Bread, Chipotle Mexican Grill, Subway, Chick-fil-A, McDonald’s, Wendy’s, Taco Bell, Pizza Hut and Papa John’s Pizza.

On the other hand, Dunkin’ Donuts was the only company to be downgraded to an “F” rating this year after changing its antibiotics policy, the release said. Other companies receiving an “F” in the report are: Applebee’s, Arby’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, Burger King, Chili’s, Dairy Queen, Denny’s, Domino’s, IHOP, Jack in the Box, KFC, Little Caesars, Olive Garden, Sonic and Starbucks.

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