What is one reason farmers add antimicrobials to chicken feed?

Farmers add antimicrobials to chicken feed primarily to prevent disease and infection, which is crucial for maintaining the overall health of the flock. By incorporating these substances, farmers can reduce the risk of bacterial infections that could otherwise harm the chickens and lead to significant losses in productivity. This practice helps ensure that the birds grow healthily, ultimately resulting in a more robust meat supply and reducing the need for more intensive medical treatments in the event that disease outbreaks occur.

Using antimicrobials in this way is particularly important in large farming operations where the dense populations of birds can facilitate the rapid spread of infections. By managing health proactively through diet, farmers can help ensure not only the welfare of the animals but also the efficiency and profitability of their operations. This preventative approach is a key aspect of modern agricultural practices.