Talking to consumers

With all of the fervor and commitment surrounding the organic movement, it certainly isn't a surprise to learn that antibiotics use, food safety and sustainability are important to consumers, and all relate to animal welfare. Veterinarian Dr. Judson Vasconcelos says farmers and ranchers increasingly receive questions about these topics from consumers who also want to know how food animals are raised.

That’s why animal health companies have developed important resources for both producers and consumers, to help translate production practices. A key point of information: antibiotics use. Dr. Vasconcelos says for producers, responsible use begins with disease prevention. In cases where animals do get sick, animal health companies are working to develop new drugs in non-shared classes with human health, as well as alternatives to antibiotics and innovative tools for improved diagnosis.