Antibiotic Burgers

 

Antibiotic resistance is rising to dangerously high levels in all parts of the world. New resistance mechanisms are emerging and spreading globally, threatening our ability to treat common infectious diseases. A growing list of infections – such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, blood poisoning, gonorrhoea, and foodborne diseases – are becoming harder, and sometimes impossible, to treat as antibiotics become less effective. Without urgent action, we are heading for a post-antibiotic era, in which surgeries may no longer be possible and common infections and minor injuries can once again kill.

Antibiotic resistance is accelerated by the misuse and overuse of antibiotics. The emergence of antibiotic resistant bacteria is already a lethal threat in hospitals and it is getting worse. Over 2 million illnesses and 23,000 human deaths are estimated to be caused by antibiotic-resistant microorganisms (ARMs) in the United States each year. The healthcare costs in the United States alone for ARMs are estimated at 2 billion dollars annually. The World Health Organization ha called antimicrobial resistance “an increasingly serious threat to global public health that requires action across all government sectors and society".

It may surprise you to know that most of the antibiotics used in the United States are not used by human beings at all but for livestock. Approximately 80% of all antibiotics sold in the US are sold for use in animal agriculture, and about 70% of those are "medically important" to people. Of course some of these drugs are used to treat disease in animals and that is entirely appropriate. But the majority are given as a preventive measure to minimize the risk of the animals becoming ill - often as a result of the deplorable conditions in which they are raised. There is growing evidence that antibiotic resistance in humans is promoted by the widespread use of antibiotics in animals.

Among the largest consumers of antibiotic tainted beef are restaurants, especially fast food chains. Consumer Reports 6th annual Chain Reaction Report grades the top 20 US fast food and casual dining chains based upon whether or not they have policies in place regarding antibiotic treated meat and whether or not they follow their own policies. The results are not encouraging.

A dozen of the chains earned an outright F, including Arby's, Burger King Dominos, Olive Garden, Oanda Express and Pizza Hut. Only 2 of the 20 chains earned an A - Chipolle and Panera Bread. You can read the entire report here. Spend your money in places that give a crap about your health and safety.