The report also delves into the issue of growth hormones used in meats. The restaurants were asked, “if they have policies prohibiting the use of hormones and/or beta-agonist growth promoters in their meat and poultry supply chains.” However, these results were not considered in the scorecard scores.  

Panera and Chipotle also stole the show in this respect. In fact, they were the only restaurants to report policies restricting the use of these products. The report says that “Panera reports having strict policies against the use of beta-agonists and reports that most of its beef comes from suppliers that do not use hormones.” And “Chipotle reports that it has policies prohibiting the use of both hormones and beta-agonist growth promoters in their supply chain.” 

Less-Conscientious Chain Restaurants 

However, not all chains are as conscientious as these two standouts. In fact, a number of companies that many of us love failed: Subway, Wendy’s, Burger King, Denny’s, Domino’s Pizza, Starbucks Coffee, Olive Garden, Papa John’s, Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, KFC, Applebee’s, Chili’s, Jack in the Box, Dairy Queen, IHOP, Arby’s, Outback Steakhouse, Little Caesars and Sonic.  

However, since the report was released, some restaurants have begun to make changes. For example, Consumer Reports says that Subway has introduced a rotisserie-style chicken sandwich to its menu that is said to be antibiotic-free. Consumer Reports welcomed the release of the sandwich as they, along with other organizations, had been urging Subway to make changes.