Tyson to use new label for ‘Raised Without Antibiotics Chicken’

Tyson Foods and the USDA have agreed to new and more informative labelling for the company’s ‘Raised Without Antibiotics’ chicken program.

After six weeks of consumer research and discussion, Tyson and USDA have approved the following language on the company’s product labels: “Chicken Raised Without Antibiotics that impact antibiotic resistance in humans.”

Tyson will be phasing in the new labelling language on its packages over the next few months. The company will also post additional information about the label on its website, www.tyson.com.

Tyson began seeking modified wording in November, after USDA notified the company that its original label had been mistakenly approved by the government since the company uses ionophores as an ingredient in its chicken feed. Tyson’s practice of using ionophores was noted in its original label application, which was approved by USDA in May 2007. However, USDA officials subsequently withdrew their approval of the label in November, telling Tyson they consider ionophores a form of antibiotics.

Tyson currently plans to continue using ionophores, which are recognized and approved by the federal government as a safe feed ingredient.

Details for USDA’s “Labeling Guidance For Raised Without Antibiotic Claims and the Use of Ionophores can be found on the USDA website.