Knowing that industry has not taken the FDA’s warning seriously, you’d think agency leaders would say enough is enough. But sadly, it seems the FDA has lost its backbone. Just last week it denied two petitions to ban use of certain antibiotics in animals raised for food. The petitions were filed by organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Public Health Association and the Center for Science in the Public Interest.

When pressed to explain why the petitions were denied, the FDA reportedly said its hands were tied. If so, by whom? If the industry will not voluntarily stop irresponsible use of antibiotics on its own, then it is time we demand our government do what Americans have entrusted it to do and impose stiff regulations to protect us.

Stephen McDonnell is founder and CEO of Applegate Natural and Organic Meats and a member of the American Sustainable Business Council.©American Forum