At the UN General Assembly High-Level Meeting in 2024, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) was described as an “existential crisis, akin to climate change”. It has been estimated that AMR could result in 39 million deaths between 2025 and 2050 and a 3.8% global decline in annual GDP. With almost 10% of global equity markets exposed to AMR related risks, particularly in developed markets, AMR is not only a risk to public health but also to financial stability.

AMR is driven by the misuse and overuse of antimicrobials. Notably, an estimated 73% of all antimicrobials sold are used in animals raised for food, making it critical to address inappropriate use in the food sector. While global leaders have recognised the need to reduce the quantities of antimicrobials used in agri-food systems, legislation restricting inappropriate use practices such as growth promotion and routine disease prevention is still lacking globally, with 36 countries self-reporting the continued use of antimicrobials for growth enhancement purposes. 

Quick-service restaurants (QSRs) are significant purchasers of animal protein and therefore well positioned to influence antimicrobial use in global animal protein supply chains. Analysis from phase 1 concluded that although 10/12 companies have broiler antibiotic policies in place, just 30% of the companies’ material animal proteins are governed by publicly available antibiotic policies. Investor engagement with companies could significantly improve implementation of antibiotic policies across all key proteins to mitigate financial risk and protect public health.

This engagement is open for investor sign on until the 15 May 2025, to sign-on please complete this form: Sign-on to Phase 2

For more information about this engagement, please contact emma.berntman@fairr.org or anna.shattles@fairr.org 

This engagement is open for FAIRR investor member sign on only. Joining our network is free for asset owners and asset managers. 

If you need additional information on the FAIRR network, please contact investoroutreach@fairr.org