Animal agriculture plays a pivotal role in the spread and development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The routine use of antibiotics in livestock production exposes companies sourcing animal proteins to AMR risks in their agricultural supply chains, potentially leading to future supply chain volatility. Quick-service restaurants (QSRs) are among the largest purchasers of animal proteins globally, such as McDonald’s, which buys approximately 2% of all beef produced each year, and Starbucks, which uses an estimated 90 million gallons of milk annually. Despite these significant protein purchases, many companies are not adequately addressing the associated risks.

Companies are failing to demonstrate sufficient rigour and scope in their existing antibiotic policies, lacking evidence of implementation through auditing, and failing to disclose data showing reductions. Moreover, there is a lack of policies for key proteins sourced by these companies, including pork, beef, dairy, and eggs.

This collaborative engagement aims to address the AMR risk in QSRs' agricultural supply chains by encouraging companies to adopt global policies aligned with the World Health Organization's recommendations regarding medically important antibiotics.

Target companies:

• Bloomin’ Brands
• Brinker International
• Darden Restaurants
• Domino’s Pizza Inc
• McDonald’s
• Papa Johns
• Starbucks
• Texas Roadhouse
• The Cheesecake Factory
• Wendy’s
• Yum! Brands

Please see the attached engagement letter template for more details.

Engagement contact: Megan O’Brien, ESG Analyst, [email protected], FAIRR