Grain News

AAFCO Unveils "The Business of Pet Food" Website

Date Posted: August 24, 2011

Oxford, IN—The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) today officially unveiled its new website, “The Business of Pet Food” (www.petfood.aafco.org).

AAFCO developed the site as a user friendly resource to address frequently asked questions about regulatory requirements that apply to pet food in the United States.

"AAFCO is very excited to provide this resource to a wide audience," said Chad Linton, president of AAFCO.

"We think it will be helpful to all of those with an interest in pet food, including start-ups, existing companies, consumers and regulatory officials.”

The site features explanations and links to resources in the states and U.S. government with information that individuals will need to know about registration and licensing, ingredient listing, labeling requirements, and laboratories and analyses.

“Many people are surprised by how many regulations apply to the pet food industry.

"For someone wanting to start a pet food business this website should be their first step.

"It’s a great tool to use to get the information and guidance they will need.

"Businesses, including those selling through farmers markets or internet sites, need to know all the local, state and federal regulations that apply,” said Liz Higgins, Chair of AAFCO‘s Pet Food Committee.

“Regulators are working hard to ensure a safe feed supply; we know that pets are an important part of so many peoples’ lives.

"Whether you are a consumer or regulatory official; and especially for those new pet food business owners and manufacturers, we strongly encourage you to use www.petfood.aafco.org to ensure that your product is compliant with current regulations.

"Knowing the regulations is more than just another job. It’s your business” added Linton.

About the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO)

AAFCO is a voluntary membership association of local, state and federal agencies charged by law to regulate the sale and distribution of animal feeds and animal drug remedies.

Although AAFCO has no regulatory authority, the association provides a forum for the membership and industry representation to achieve three main goals:

1. Ensure consumer protection

2. Safeguarding the health of animals and humans

3. Providing a level playing field of orderly commerce for the animal feed industry.

These goals are achieved by developing and implementing uniform and equitable laws, regulations, standards, definitions and enforcement policies for regulating the manufacture, distribution and sale of animal feeds - resulting in safe, effective and useful feeds by promoting uniformity amongst member agencies.

For more information, call 765-385-1029.

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