Readers React: The problem with Chipotle’s claim of antibiotic-free meat

To the editor: David Lazarus’ column about the Center for Consumer Freedom’s campaign against Chipotle glosses over the substance of our criticism: Chipotle uses deceptive marketing to present itself as healthy and ethical. (“Why is a nonprofit shill for business interests attacking Chipotle?,” Oct. 27)

Instead, the article attacks me and my company through a spokesperson at a left-wing attack group that receives dark money.

The real story here is that Chipotle is misleading customers in its attempt to woo them. Chipotle’s signage, to take just one example, claims that its meat is antibiotic-free. But it doesn’t mention that the federal government ensures that all meat is antibiotic-free.

Exposing public relations stunts to the unwary consumer is a major part of the center’s mission. It can be done without regard to who paid to advertise or expose the deception. If Chipotle feels we are off-base, it can address the issues we raise instead of whining about smears.

Richard Berman, Washington

The writer is executive director of the Center for Consumer Freedom.

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