What Does a “No Antibiotics” Label Mean?
Unlike some other meat label claims, the “No Antibiotics Added” label has a legally regulated definition. You might have seen its other iterations on packaged animal products: “Raised Without Antibiotics” or “No Antibiotics Administered.” But what does this really mean?
Sarah Blacklin, N.C. Cooperative Extension educator and program director at NC Choices, explains that although this label is legally defined, it is not certified by a third party. This means it might not be what consumers believe it to be.
“No Antibiotics Added” doesn’t mean no antibiotics. The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) bans the routine use of antibiotics but allows as-needed antibiotic use with a regulated withdrawal period.
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