This vs. That: Antibiotic and Antibiotic-Free Products

The use of antibiotics amongst foods is often debated, from people arguing for it to people arguing against it. Regardless of whether you are for or against it, it’s important to be aware of the pros and cons that are a part of it, along with its effects and so forth. One of the cons that should be discussed is antibiotic resistance. Antibiotic resistance is when the germs in your body fails to react to the antibiotics created to eliminate them, allowing for the germs to continue to exist and grow. As a result of this, infections can occur and are often difficult to treat. This can occur for several reasons, one of them being due to the over usage of antibiotics in agriculture and farming. Around 23,000 people pass away from antibiotic resistance infections in the United States, according to the CDC. Although antibiotic usage amongst food can negatively affect people, it can also present a negative impact amongst animals. For instance, some animals experience harsh and excessive methods when given antibiotics, resulting in many downfalls. Some examples of these downfalls include elevated stress, acquired diseases, abnormal behavior, weakened immune systems and so forth. Despite these cons, antibiotic products do hold several benefits; antibiotics were initially used to treat, prevent and manage sicknesses and illnesses amongst animals. Overall, the usage of antibiotics in products is considered to be safe to consume and realistically should not pose a threat to us. Moving onto antibiotic free food, unlike products that have antibiotics, these products eliminate issues such as the downfalls amongst animals, along with preventing issues amongst people such as antibiotic resistance. In addition, by purchasing antibiotic free foods, you would be practicing eating healthy products for yourself and others such as your family and friends. One con when it comes to antibiotic free food, however, would be that you would be spending more money on these foods and products. Although this might not appear to be too great of a dilemma, it could consequently affect your finances. Now that you know the facts, you can make the choice that is best for you and your dietary requirements!