Although recent stories in the media have triggered more interest in the topic, the responsible use of antibiotics has always been a top priority for America’s pork producers.

“We welcome a fact-based discussion about this issue, because we know that science tells us we’re doing the right thing for animal health and food safety,” said Paul Sundberg, vice president of science and technology for the National Pork Board. “Producers care about their animals and the safety of the food they produce. That’s really the bottom line that should be understood by everyone.”

In fact, you need only look to the 21-year history of the Pork Quality Assurance Plus® program to realize the value pork producers place on using antibiotics in a strategic and judicious way.

“The Pork Quality Assurance Plus® program, started by farmers in 1989, has led the way in reinforcing good on-farm practices that help ensure animals are healthy, well cared for and produce safe food,” said Sundberg.

The National Pork Board recognizes the importance of getting the facts out about this important issue and fostering open, honest dialog about why tools such as antibiotics are a vital way to keep animals healthy and the food supply safe.

The top four messages that consumers should know about antibiotic use are:

Antibiotics are given strategically – administered when pigs are sick, susceptible or exposed to illness.
Using antibiotics strategically ensures that the safest meat in the world ends up on America's dinner tables.
Only antibiotics approved by the FDA are used to treat pigs.
We have a 20-year history of continuous improvement working with modern farm production to make pork better, healthier and safer to eat.

Additional Information:

Pork Industry Coalition Letter to CBS News President Regarding Antibiotic Story Inaccuracies

ISU Associate Professor and Former USDA Deputy Undersecretary Food Safety Responds to CBS News Segment on Antibiotics

Pork Quality Assurance Plus

Take Care-Use Antibiotics Responsibly Frequently Asked Questions Brochure

The Danish Experience Brochure

Antibiotic Use in Pork Production Frequently Asked Questions Brochure

Withdrawal Time Fact Sheet

MRSA Information

Antibiotic Use in Pork Production - Podcast with Dr. Liz Wagstrom

Antibiotic Resistance in Humans - Podcast with Dr. Scott Hurd, Associate Professor, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University

Consumer Information