Fischer Farms achieves groundbreaking certification for responsible antibiotics use
St. Anthony-based Fischer Farms Natural Foods announced its recent designation as the first beef cattle farm in the United States to receive the Certified Responsible Antibiotic Use (CRAU) certification.
This groundbreaking certification, developed by the Antibiotic Resistance Action Center (ARAC), marks a significant milestone in the agriculture industry and sets a new standard for responsible antibiotic use in livestock farming, the company said in a press release.
Globally, the meat industry is responsible for 73 percent of antibiotic use, and the United States uses 3 to 6 times more than European comparisons. The CRAU standards are intended to preserve the efficacy of antibiotics for when they are really needed to treat medically sick animals and humans. This certification process has highlighted the farm’s dedication to animal health and welfare and its role in combating antibiotic resistance as it pertains to overall public health.
Beginning this work in 2021, Fischer Farms embarked on an extensive journey to achieve this certification.
Fischer Farms was asked to join the Coalition to Preserve Antibiotics with other farmers, doctors, and veterinarians to provide input regarding the use of antibiotics in beef production. In late 2021, they were asked by ARAC to begin the process of becoming a Certified Responsible Antibiotic Use farm.
Through rigorous audits, observations, and visits by USDA Quality System Assessment (QSA) inspectors, Fischer Farms has demonstrated its commitment to reducing unnecessary antibiotic use on the farm.
“We are thrilled to be recognized as the first CRAU-certified beef cattle farm in the country,” said Joseph Fischer, Project Manager for the CRAU process at Fischer Farms. “This certification is a testament to our farm’s hard work and dedication to creating a healthier, natural environment for our livestock. We believe that responsible antibiotic use is crucial for the future of farming and public health, and we are proud to lead the way in this important initiative.”
“ARAC applauds Fischer Farms’ pioneering vision, leadership, and ongoing commitment to raising cattle with great care for the health of their animals and the environment,” said Kathy Lawrence, ARAC CRAU and Accountability in Antibiotics Advisor. “With this certification, Fischer Farms can assure their customers – not just with words, but with rigorous practices and annual third-party audits – that their farming methods help to preserve life-saving antibiotics and reduce antibiotic resistance. We hope Fischer Farms’ groundbreaking achievement as the first USDA AMS verified CRAU beef producer will catalyze cattle producers across the country to adopt the CRAU standard and practices.”
Fischer Farms’ achievement is expected to encourage other farmers to adopt these practices, ultimately leading to a more responsible agricultural industry. They are hopeful that this designation will elevate consumer trust and encourage consumers to seek out meats with this designation. This certification will build toward a future where responsible antibiotic use is the norm, ensuring healthier animals and a safer food supply for all.
