The considerable size of chickens in today’s grocery stores compared to those from several decades ago has fueled a persistent myth that poultry are raised using steroids or added hormones. This idea is so widespread that a National Chicken Council survey revealed nearly 80 percent of Americans believe it to be true. The reality of how these birds are raised is rooted in science and regulation, not in the use of such substances.
The Legality of Hormones in Poultry
In the United States, the use of added or artificial hormones in raising poultry is illegal. This ban has been in effect since the 1950s, enforced by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Food & Drug Administration (FDA). These regulations prohibit administering these substances through injection, feed, or water. Therefore, every chicken sold in the U.S. is raised without added hormones.
This legal prohibition makes the “no hormones added” label on chicken packaging a point of confusion for many consumers. While the statement is accurate, it can be misleading because it suggests that choosing that specific brand is a way to avoid hormones, when in reality, the law applies to all poultry producers equally. To prevent this confusion, the USDA requires that any “no hormones added” claim must be accompanied by a disclaimer stating, “Federal regulations prohibit the use of hormones.” This ensures consumers understand this is an industry-wide standard.
Factors Behind Modern Chicken Growth
The increase in the size and growth rate of modern chickens is not due to hormonal supplements but is the result of decades of selective breeding. For generations, poultry breeders have selected the largest and healthiest birds to parent the next generation. This process has led to offspring that grow bigger and more quickly over time. A 2001 study found a modern broiler chicken was about five times larger than a 1957 strain that had not undergone genetic selection.
Complementing these genetic advancements are improvements in nutrition. Modern chicken feed is scientifically formulated to provide an optimal balance of protein from sources like soybean meal and energy from grains like corn. These feeds are fortified with a precise mix of vitamins and minerals to support immune function and healthy development.
Advancements in poultry housing and care also contribute to healthier growth. Modern chicken houses are large, open structures that protect birds from predators and extreme weather. Automated systems for controlling temperature, ventilation, and lighting reduce stress on the animals. Access to continuous fresh food and water, along with veterinary care, minimizes disease and allows chickens to grow efficiently.
The Role of Antibiotics in Poultry Farming
A frequent source of confusion for consumers is the distinction between steroids and antibiotics. Unlike steroids and hormones, which are illegal in poultry, antibiotics have been permitted for use under veterinary supervision. Their primary purpose is to treat, control, or prevent disease within a flock. Since chickens are raised in large numbers, an illness can spread rapidly, making preventative health strategies important.
In response to consumer preferences, there has been a shift toward raising chickens without any antibiotics. This has led to the rise of labels like “No Antibiotics Ever” or “Raised Without Antibiotics.” These labels indicate the chicken was raised without the use of these drugs for any reason. When antibiotics are used, there are strict withdrawal periods mandated by the USDA to ensure no antibiotic residue is present in the meat.
The poultry industry has moved towards reducing its reliance on antibiotics, particularly those also used in human medicine, to address concerns about antibiotic resistance. Methods like using ionophores, which are not used in human medicine, help control common intestinal diseases in chickens without contributing to this issue. This shift demonstrates how farming practices adapt to both scientific understanding and consumer demand.