It is good news for public health that doctors are prescribing fewer antibiotics (“Antibiotic use for kids decreases,” News, Sept. 2). By contrast, U.S. meat producers continue using massive amounts of antibiotics to raise animals. Most of these drugs are used to compensate for the crowded and unsanitary conditions of factory farms. But this overuse is not necessary.
Denmark, the world’s largest exporter of pork, has shown the way. According to a recent World Health Organization report, Denmark has cut animal use of antibiotics by 50 percent. McDonald’s has also begun pressing its meat suppliers to reduce their use of the lifesaving drugs. Other fast-food chains should follow McDonald’s lead and use their clout as major meat buyers to benefit public health.
