What is one consequence of raising chickens in large numbers under one roof?

One consequence of raising chickens in large numbers under one roof is the increased need for antimicrobial use. In intensive farming conditions, where chickens are kept in close quarters, the risk of disease transmission among the flock is significantly heightened. The crowded environment can lead to stress, weakened immune responses, and the rapid spread of pathogens. To mitigate these health risks, farmers may resort to administering antimicrobials as a preventive measure or as treatment for infected animals.

This reliance on antimicrobials can lead to several issues, including antibiotic resistance, which poses a significant public health concern. The more antibiotics are used, the more likely it is that bacteria will develop resistance to these drugs, making it difficult to treat common infections in both animals and humans. Thus, intensive chicken farming practices inherently lead to a higher demand for antimicrobial use, highlighting a critical aspect of modern agricultural practices that is often scrutinized for its implications on animal and human health.