There are reports that some of the antibiotics sold in the market are fed to poultry and other livestock as growth promoters. Overusing these substances can create superbugs, pathogens that are resistant to multiple drugs and could be passed along humans. Mindful of that, some farming companies have stopped using the drugs to make chickens gain weight faster. Since Denmark banned antibiotic growth promoters in the 1990s, the major pork exporter says it is producing more pigs - and the animals get fewer diseases. Which one of the following statements best reflects the critical message conveyed by the passage given above?

The critical message of the passage highlights the danger of using antibiotics as growth promoters in livestock, leading to drug-resistant superbugs. It also provides an example (Denmark) where banning antibiotic growth promoters led to positive outcomes.

A) People should avoid consuming the products of animal farming This is an overgeneralization. The passage points to a problem with the method of farming (using antibiotics as growth promoters), not with animal products themselves. Denmark's example shows successful animal farming without this practice.

B) Foods of animal origin should be replaced with foods of plant origin This is also an extreme conclusion not supported by the passage. The passage does not advocate for a dietary shift, but for responsible animal farming practices.

C) Using antibiotics on animals should be banned This statement is too broad. The passage specifically criticizes the use of antibiotics as "growth promoters." It does not suggest banning their use for treating actual diseases in animals, which might still be necessary. The problem is the misuse and overuse, not the drug itself.

D) Antibiotics should only be used to treat diseases. This statement directly addresses the core issue. The passage states antibiotics are fed as "growth promoters," causing superbugs. The implied solution from the passage (companies stopping, Denmark banning growth promoters) is to restrict their use to therapeutic purposes, i.e., treating diseases, rather than for non-medical purposes like promoting growth. This accurately captures the critical message about responsible and limited use of antibiotics.