On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Food Guide
Opting for an organic turkey this Thanksgiving isn’t just about flavor—it’s a step toward promoting food safety and addressing the global issue of antibiotic resistance. Here's why it matters and what to look for.
Raised Without Antibiotics:
- Organic turkeys must carry the USDA Organic seal, indicating they weren’t given antibiotics.
- Reducing antibiotic use in livestock helps combat the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Supports Healthier Practices:
- The overuse of antibiotics in livestock, particularly turkeys, contributes to 2.8 million illnesses and 35,000 deaths annually in the U.S. due to resistant bacteria.
- Organic farming reduces this risk, as antibiotic residues don’t make their way into the environment or food supply.
Less Risk of Resistant Bacteria in Meat:
found fewer antibiotic-resistant bacteria in organic and no-antibiotic meats.
Look for Trusted Labels:
- USDA Organic: Guarantees no antibiotics.
- No Antibiotics: Another reliable label indicating the absence of antibiotics in raising the turkey.
Avoid Misleading Claims:
- “Antibiotic-Free” or “No Antibiotic Residues”: Not USDA-approved and meaningless.
- “No Growth-Promoting Antibiotics”: Misleading, as disease-preventative antibiotics may still be used.
- “All-Natural” or “Raised Without Hormones”: Unrelated to antibiotic use; all turkeys are hormone-free by law.
Shop Smart:
- Organic turkeys are pricier (around $2.99-$3.49/lb during sales) but worth it for smaller gatherings.
- Consider fresh turkeys or turkey breasts if hosting fewer people.
Even organic turkeys may carry bacteria, so follow these guidelines:
- Keep raw meat separate from other foods.
- Cook turkey to an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Wash hands and surfaces thoroughly after handling.
Choosing an organic turkey supports healthier farming practices, reduces antibiotic resistance, and ensures a safer meal for you and your loved ones this holiday season.
