Shake Shack, BurgerFi Score ‘A’ Grade from NRDC for Reducing Antibiotics in Meat

The National Resource Defense Council has released its 2018 Chain Reaction scorecard, an annual review of the 25 largest QSR and fast-casual restaurants in the U.S., specifically with regards to their policies regarding the use of antibiotics in their meat. 22 of the 25 brands reviewed, including McDonld’s, Burger King, Five Guys and White Castle, scored an F. Wendy’s faired only slightly better, earning a D-. Only two chains, Shake Shack and BurgerFi, scored higher, both receiving As.

“People want better burgers and the companies taking note are seeing better business,” said Lena Brook, Acting Director of Food and Agriculture at the Natural Resources Defense Council, in a press release. “With more of these miracle drugs going to cows than to people, the beef industry has a responsibility — and an opportunity — to help keep them working when sick people and animals need them. Most fast food restaurants are putting burger lovers in a bind. If they want responsibly raised meat, right now, chicken is the best choice at many mainstream chains.”

The NRDC hopes the scorecard will press companies to commit to reducing their use of antibiotics, but it’s also calling on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to regulate the use of antibiotics across the livestock sector.