Can beef cattle be sent to harvest before the antibiotic withdrawal time has passed?

Beef cattle must not be sent to harvest before the antibiotic withdrawal time has passed because it is crucial to ensure that any antibiotics administered to the animals have cleared from their systems. This is vital for food safety and consumer health, as the presence of antibiotic residues in meat products can lead to health risks for consumers and can also contribute to antimicrobial resistance.

Withdrawal times are established based on scientific research that determines the duration it takes for the antibiotic to leave the animal's body and for the meat to be safe for human consumption. Adhering to these guidelines ensures compliance with food safety regulations, protects public health, and maintains the integrity of the beef industry. The other choices suggest scenarios that could compromise these safety guidelines, which is why they do not provide the correct understanding.