8 associations supporting the pet food industry

This article was published in Pet Food Processing’s 2023 Buyers Guide. Read it and other articles from this issue in the digital edition of the Buyers Guide here.

The US pet food industry raked in about $64.41 billion in sales in 2023, a 10.8% increase from 2022. This growth wouldn’t have been possible without support from several associations. From advocating for industry members on Capitol Hill and enhancing trade opportunities to offering educational programs, eight associations across the United States have shown steadfast support in the pet nutrition industry.

Continue reading to learn more about how the American Feed Industry Association, American Pet Products Association, Association of American Feed Control Officials, North American Renderers Association, Pet Food Alliance, Pet Food Institute, Pet Sustainability Coalition and World Pet Association work to support all facets of the industry. 

 

American Feed Industry Association

Source: American Feed Industry Association

The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) has been navigating economic challenges, regulatory obstacles and trade opportunities since it was founded in 1909. AFIA’s ongoing mission has been to manage legislative and regulatory priorities on behalf of its membership, which consists of more than 650 domestic and international companies, including pet food and feed manufacturers, ingredient and equipment suppliers, and related industry businesses. The association’s priorities are emphasized through its ongoing advocacy for animal health and wellness, trade, industry sustainability, food and employee safety, education, research and engagement.

According to the AFIA, there are more than 5,800 animal food manufacturing facilities in the United States producing more than 284 million tons of finished feed and pet food each year. More than $6.8 billion worth of farm products are sold to pet food manufacturers each year, which in turn produce 9.8 million tons of pet food. And more than 75% of US animal feed and roughly 70% of non-whole grain ingredients in the country are manufactured by its members.

The association and its membership work to foster relationships with decision makers throughout allied agricultural organizations resulting in an amplified industry voice on Capitol Hill. The AFIA works with its members and committees to solicit input and develop the association’s positions on key policy issues. The staff then brings forward the recommendations to the AFIA leadership for review and approval and the AFIA Board of Directors ultimately approves the priorities, providing the association with its strategic focus for the year.

The association’s annual State of the US Animal Food Industry Report outlines the priorities for the upcoming year. 

“After experiencing several years of change at the AFIA, it was time to conduct a stocktaking of the organization and the industry it serves and develop a strategic plan to tackle emerging challenges,” wrote Constance Cullman, president and chief executive officer of AFIA in the association’s 2022-2023 report. “The result is a three-year strategy to strengthen the voice of the US animal food industry as we work to carry out our new mission of influencing policy and connecting people. In doing so, the AFIA is uniquely positioned to advance our members’ interests as we move toward our vision of achieving a healthier world through advanced animal nutrition.”

As part of its mission, AFIA makes four promises to its membership. The association promises members to be a voice in the animal food industry it serves. It also promises to provide expert legislative and regulatory leadership and representation. In addition, staff expertise is available to all members, on demand. And AFIA members are promised engagement opportunities for training, professional education and networking.

Furthermore, Cullman wrote, “To be recognized as the leading animal food industry association providing legislative, regulatory and policy representation, the organization will advocate for a more efficient and modern regulatory review of animal food ingredients, support the resiliency of the US animal food industry through customer and supplier market diversification, and facilitate industrywide solutions for a more sustainable animal food and livestock production sector.”

 

American Pet Products Association

American Pet Products Association's logoSource: American Pet Products Association

Founded in 1958, the American Pet Products Association (APPA) serves the pet industry by supporting businesses, innovation and relationships. APPA serves the industry through services and programs designed to help professionals in the pet industry prosper.

APPA estimates total pet industry expenditures in the United States will reach $150.6 billion in 2024, up from $147 billion in 2023. Of that $147 billion, $64.4 billion was spent on pet food and treats — $66.9 billion is projected to be spent on pet food and treats in 2024.

Through its four primary initiatives — gathering, informing, connecting and giving back — APPA’s objective is to advance and unite the pet industry.

Gathering — APPA national and regional events connect pet industry professionals. These gatherings provide opportunities to do business, collaborate, learn and network. The annual Global Pet Expo, held in Orlando, Fla., every March is APPA’s premiere pet business tradeshow, uniting pet product retailers, pet food brands and manufacturers. The 20th annual expo held March 20-24, showcased a sold-out show floor with more than 1,100 exhibitors and nearly 20,000 attendees.

Informing — APPA seeks to inform its membership and the industry through leading pet industry research publications and its National Pet Owners Survey. The survey provides industry members with timely, actionable data. The APPA Research & Insights Team takes a deep dive into the background, attitudes and shopping behaviors of today’s pet owners in its annual report, as well as its State of the Industry report.

Connecting — APPA connects pet businesses and thought leaders throughout the industry including pet care product manufacturers, retailers, suppliers, distributors and service providers.

Giving back — The APPA Gives Back program supports pet industry organizations that benefit humans and pets alike. 

Founded by APPA, Zoetis and Petco in 2010 and supported by many organizations and individuals, the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) has become the go-to resource for research and information on the human-animal bond. Alongside these organizations, APPA provides long-term financial support and maintains a leadership role in setting the strategic direction for HABRI.

APPA provides ongoing support to Joybound’s Shelter to Service program, helping to connect service dog candidates with individuals with invisible disabilities and providing free placement and professional training. In 2021, APPA donated $1 million to build the organization’s new training facility.

APPA provides ongoing support to Pets in the Classroom through annual contributions, fundraising campaigns, and maintaining a leadership role in the organization.

The Pet Advocacy Network monitors over 1,500 pieces of legislation involving pets and pet ownership at the local, state and national level annually, engaging with lawmakers and regulators to protect and promote the ability of pet businesses to provide products, services and healthy animals to pet owners and caretakers. APPA has long been a supporter of the Pet Advocacy Network.

APPA has nearly 1,000 members spanning pet product manufacturers, importers, livestock suppliers and other industry stakeholders.

 

Association of American Feed Control Officials

Association of American Feed Control Officials logoSource: Association of American Feed Control Officials

For more than 110 years, the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) has been promoting a safe feed supply through unified system-based regulation, feed ingredient standards and laboratory operations. The association’s mission is to guide state, federal and international feed regulators with ingredient definitions and label standards.

The independent, non-profit organization serves as a forum for animal feed and pet food manufacturers and state and federal agencies to develop uniform regulatory language for animal feed ingredients. It also provides a key framework for animal feed and pet food ingredient definitions and hosts biannual meetings through which industry members can learn and connect with other industry stakeholders. 

One of AAFCO’s top priorities is its pet food label modernization (PFLM) initiative. Earlier this year, heads of departments of agriculture unanimously voted to support AAFCO’s revised Model Regulations for Pet Food and Specialty Pet Food. The revised regulations were approved by AAFCO in July 2023, and set new suggested labeling guidelines around nutrition information, ingredient statements, and storage and handling instructions to ensure consistency and transparency on pet food labels.  These new model regulations aim to make pet food labels more closely resemble those on human foods. 

Knowing the process would be long and arduous, AAFCO recommended a six-year enforcement discretion period to allow state regulatory programs time to incorporate the guidelines into their state laws and provide pet food manufacturers time to make the necessary label and packaging updates to their products. 

AAFCO and key stakeholders have worked together since 2015 to develop the revised guidelines. During the process, they have conducted multiple rounds of consumer research and gathered feedback from pet food manufacturers and industry partners to understand how pet food labels could better communicate important information.

In addition, AAFCO recently announced its Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which outlines the organizations’ responsibilities for defining ingredients in animal feed and pet food and has been in place for 17 years, will not be renewed following its expiration on Oct. 1. 

Through the MOU, the FDA accepted and reviewed AAFCO Feed Ingredient Definition requests. 

“AAFCO believes that its ingredient definition process has been a shining example of successful collaboration and partnership between states and the federal government,” said Austin Therrell, executive director of AAFCO. “Although we are disappointed that the MOU is not being renewed, we are committed to being a conduit between the FDA and state regulatory programs, and to our work to provide standardization to the animal food industry.”

While AAFCO continues to shift its focus as regulations evolve, its commitment to safeguarding animal and human health by promoting a safe animal feed and pet food supply remains steadfast.

 

North American Renderers Association

North American Renderers AssociationSource: North American Renderers Association

As the trade association serving the US and Canadian rendering industries, the North American Renderers Association (NARA) seeks to speak with a collective voice to represent the interests of the industry in public, government and regulatory affairs. NARA’s mission is to promote the greater use of animal byproducts and foster the expansion of trade between foreign buyers and North American exporters.

NARA provides services, programs and technical support to its members and focuses on educating industry members and the public about the value of rendering in today’s society. Some important facts about rendering include:

  • Only about 50% of an animal is considered edible by Americans.
  • Rendering is the process of cooking and drying meat and/or other animal byproducts not used for human consumption in order to recover fats and proteins. 
  • Rendering creates alternative, sustainable fuels to power trucks, trains, water vessels and other vehicles in addition to feeding cattle, hogs, turkeys, chickens, household pets and other animals. 
  • The unwanted leftovers, like organ meats, used to produce rendered end products contain valuable fats and proteins filled with vitamins and minerals that animals, including pets, need to maintain their health and nutrition. 
  • US renderers collect 56 billion lbs of raw materials a year and recycle them by cooking and drying them into 22 billion lbs of animal fats/oils and proteins.
  • The US rendering industry accounts for $10 billion in annual economic activity.

One of the association’s primary responsibilities involves representing the interest of its members to legislative, regulatory and other government agencies on issues that impact the industry. NARA members, staff and government affairs experts meet regularly with key government officials, members of Congress and their staff to advocate for positions and policies that enhance opportunities for renderers and promote the industry’s sustainability.

Several of the association’s key priorities were included in the Farm, Food and National Security Act of 2024 including doubling Market Access Program (MAP) and Foreign Market Development (FMD) funding and including rendering in the Butcher Block Act, a new meat processing grant program. 

“These achievements reflect NARA’s dedication to advocating for policies that benefit their members and the rendering industry and contribute to the agricultural circular bioeconomy,” NARA said.

NARA members include independent renderers and integrated packers or renderers who process their own animal byproducts. In addition, members include companies that provide equipment and services to the rendering industry, as well as those who broker or purchase rendered products. 

Members receive the association’s bi-monthly publication, Render Magazine, which is written for and about the rendering industry. Members are also invited to attend NARA’s annual convention, held each October, which provides a forum for renderers from around the world to share experiences and discuss common interests.

In addition to its US-based headquarters in Arlington, Va., NARA also maintains offices in Mexico and Hong Kong.

 

Pet Food Alliance

Pet Food Alliance's logoSource: Pet Food Alliance

Since its founding in 2017, the Pet Food Alliance (PFA) has been identifying and funding research on behalf of the pet food and rendering industries. 

PFA is a joint initiative facilitated through Colorado State University (CSU) and funded largely by the Fats and Protein Research Foundation (FPRF), which finances research designed to support the future of the rendering industry and its industry partners, including pet food producers. The primary mission of the alliance is to guide industry research and develop implementable solutions by uniting industry representatives at the same table. 

The first-ever PFA meeting was held at CSU in Fort Collins, Colo., seven years ago with around 85 participants from the rendering and pet food Industries — now the alliance has more than 400 members. 

Jennifer Martin, Ph.D., assistant professor at CSU’s Center for Meat Safety and Quality in the Department of Animal Sciences, leads the alliance and its activities. David Meeker, Ph.D., former senior vice president of the North American Renderers Association (NARA) and director of the FPRF, has also played a significant role in founding the PFA. 

The alliance hosts annual Technical Meetings, during which a handful of industry professionals present on topics relevant to current research efforts. The meetings also provide opportunities for working groups to meet and discuss priorities and next steps. Registration fees for PFA’s meetings go directly toward funding research deemed most important by the alliance’s three working groups: Product Safety, Product Quality, and Consumer Perception and Sustainability.

The 2024 Pet Food Alliance Technical Meeting, held May 1 and 2 in Kansas City, Mo., was centered around three key topics: foreign materials, workforce and educational gaps that exist in the pet food and rendering industries, and continuing efforts for each of the alliance’s working groups.

The product safety group has been working on optimizing and standardizing tank wash practices, specifically moving away from prescriptive steps to a more solutions-oriented approach. Members of the group have put together educational materials to be shared on the PFA website.

The product quality group continues to work toward standardizing peroxide value methods used to measure oxidation in fat and protein meals. The group also identified research opportunities to support a unified decision in peroxide value methodology in the future.   

The consumer perception and sustainability working group is working to reeducate industry members, the veterinary community and consumers about rendered protein meals in pet food. 

During NARA’s annual convention in December 2023, the FPRF presented the 2023 Dr. Fred D. Bisplinghoff Research Innovation Award to Martin for her support of the foundation and its programs including the PFA. 

“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the rendering industry through the Pet Food Alliance and thankful for the numerous industry partners who are willing to collaboratively develop solutions for industry-wide challenges,” Martin said after being presented with the award. 

 

Pet Food Institute

Pet Food Institute's logoSource: Pet Food Institute

For more than 60 years, the Pet Food Institute (PFI) has been the voice of US pet food producers. PFI helps support the production of nutritious pet food by promoting pet food safety and innovation, advocating for legislation and regulations, educating dog and cat owners on their pet’s nutrition, care and wellbeing, and communicating the benefits of pet ownership. 

PFI members include pet food and treat producers, as well as companies who support the production, marketing and distribution of dog and cat food and treats in the United States. Member companies operate manufacturing facilities in 35 states and employ more than 35,000 people. 

Pet food advocacy is at the forefront of the PFI’s mission. 

“PFI’s government relations team covers federal and state legislative and regulatory issues that impact pet food makers,” PFI said. “We advocate for a fair, science-based regulatory environment and best practices that mutually benefit the pets we love, pet owners and the pet industry.”

Policy priorities include pet food safety, labeling and regulations, international market access, global trade and sustainability. 

Since 1993, PFI has engaged in export promotion through the US Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Market Access Program (MAP), which supports global promotion of US agricultural goods. This grant program requires matching funds from both executing organizations and the industry.

On Jan. 11, PFI announced it was awarded more than $1.3 million in MAP funding for 2024, which was to be used to promote the benefits of US-made pet food to consumers in 10 specific markets: Brazil, the Caribbean, Central America, China, Colombia, Mexico, the Middle East, the Philippines, South Korea and Taiwan.

According to PFI, research has shown that for each dollar invested in an export market through MAP, US agricultural exports have increased by more than $24. 

“The allocation of these funds to PFI is not just a win for the pet food industry, it is a win for the US agricultural industry,” said Nat Davies, vice president of business operations and programs at the PFI, at the time of the announcement. 

The PFI recently launched its redesigned website in an effort to better provide accurate and trustworthy information to meet pet parents’ needs. The agency’s goal is to be a primary resource for pet owners to go to for dog and cat nutrition and wellness advice.

“Pet owners need a safe place to find evidence-based nutrition information to make educated decisions on everything from what to feed their pets to how to protect them from the summer heat,” said Kelly Kanaras, director of communications and membership for PFI.

The new website includes a more modern look and user-friendly interface. It contains information on how pet food is regulated, the importance of complete-and-balanced nutrition, and significance of vitamins and minerals in diets. The site also features Vet Talks videos designed to inform pet owners on ingredients, choosing pet food, the dangers of pets being overweight, and more.

 

Pet Sustainability Coalition 

Pet Sustainability Coalition's logoSource: Pet Sustainability Coalition

After celebrating its 10-year anniversary in 2023, the Pet Sustainability Coalition is poised to scale its programs to address the advancement of sustainable ingredients, packaging and corporate social responsibility throughout the pet and pet food industries. Since its founding in 2013, PSC has grown to represent nearly 200 pet product manufacturers, suppliers, brands, distributors and retailers, attracting a broad number of industry leaders seeking to advance sustainability. According to the coalition, its innovative programming has driven significant growth, something it hopes to continue in its next 10 years in operation. 

Jim Lamancusa joined the PSC as executive director in early 2024, taking the reins from Caitlyn Dudas, co-founder and former executive director, who now serves as senior advisor to the PSC. During her 10-year tenure with PSC, Dudas helped drive the coalition to become a leading sustainability organization in the pet industry.

The coalition’s programs support members on their individual sustainable packaging journeys by providing tools and resources to help companies achieve their goals. In addition, the coalition has developed programs and services designed to guide members to success.

Flex Forward — A return-to-retail pilot program, which was completed in 2022, collected more than 8,000 lbs of post-consumer packaging for recycling trials. The program shed some light on challenges presented by the current composition of most pet food packaging.

UnPacked — A bi-annual summit dedicated to packaging. The event brings together packaging experts with pet industry brands, manufacturers and retailers to learn about how to approach one of the industry’s biggest challenges.

Packaging Pledge — A voluntary, industrywide commitment to move toward more sustainable, refillable, compostable and recyclable packaging. The pledge asks pet industry companies to develop measurable goals and track progress toward the use of refillable, compostable and recyclable packaging by the end of 2025. In exchange for their commitment, PSC will provide informational tools to help them achieve their goals.

Packaging Legislation Tracker — This tool provides detailed information about the regulations, which are broken down by region, how the regulations could affect operations, and where to go to find additional information. The Tracker includes a comprehensive overview of over 100 packaging-related regulations in four regions: the United States, with state-by-state data, Canada, the United Kingdom and the European Union.

In August, PSC was selected as a sub-awardee of Growing GRASS, a US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Partnership for Climate-Smart Commodities Grant project. The initiative supports large-scale projects that promote agricultural practices reducing greenhouse gas emissions or sequestering carbon. USDA is investing $3.1 billion in 141 selected projects under the partnership.

The grant supports PSC’s ongoing mission to advance sustainable ingredient sourcing practices within the pet food industry, according to the association. Through the utilization of regeneratively sourced bison and beef ingredients, pet food brands and manufacturers can help reduce the carbon footprint of production while supporting long-term sustainable sourcing in the industry.

 

World Pet Association

World Pet Association logoSource: World Pet Association

Most known for being the organizer of the annual pet industry SUPERZOO tradeshow in Las Vegas, the World Pet Association (WPA) is a non-profit organization with a goal of supporting the industry through education, networking, business tools and research. 

SUPERZOO is an annual gathering for the pet care industry to connect, learn and do business. The show features educational offerings, an easy-to-shop show floor, and a fun-filled atmosphere. More than 16,000 visitors attend the show annually, including more than 1,300 international buyers. While the majority of attendees are retailers (69%), others represent various segments of the industry distribution and wholesale (10%), grooming (8%), pet services (6%), import/export (3%), manufacturing (3%) and veterinary (1%). 

More than 1,100 exhibitors showcase their products and services on the tradeshow floor, featuring more than 900 new products.

As it nears its 75th anniversary, SUPERZOO has a storied history:

  • 1950 — Pet supply manufacturers and wholesalers met for the first “Animal Crackers, Inc.” tradeshow in San Francisco.
  • 1955 — The show was rebranded at the Annual Western Wholesale Pet Supply Association (WWPSA) Trade Show.
  • 1971 — The show was rebranded again as the First International Pet Supply Trade Show for a couple of years but returned to WWPSA after 1972. 
  • 1983 — The show location starts rotating along the West Coast and Southwestern states.
  • 1990 — The tradeshow moves to Long Beach, Calif.
  • 2000 — For the show’s 50th anniversary, the SUPERZOO name debuts.
  • 2001 — SUPERZOO relocates to the Anaheim Convention Center in California.
  • 2004 — SUPERZOO moves to Las Vegas, where it has been ever since.

Each year, WPA reinvests proceeds from SUPERZOO back into the pet retail industry through the WPA Good Works program. The program was established to help fund organizations that are working for the good of pets and the pet industry as a whole. WPA has donated more than $15 million in the last 15 years and nearly $2 million annually to its causes.

Some of the causes it supports include:

  • The Pet Advocacy Network, which promotes positive and healthy pet ownership through advocacy and legislation.
  • The Human Animal Bond Research Institute, a non-profit research and education organization that is gathering, funding and sharing scientific research to demonstrate the positive health impacts of companion animals.
  • Pets in the Classroom, an educational grant program that provides financial support to teachers to purchase and maintain small animals in the classroom.
  • The National Animal Interest Alliance, an association promoting animal welfare, supporting responsible animal use, and strengthening the bond between humans and animals.

WPA also provides its members with a wide array of educational programming and access to timely market research through partnerships with NielsenIQ and Packaged Facts.

Read more news from associations and agencies in the pet food sector. 

Read more

AFIA offers educational program focusing on role of APHIS


ARLINGTON, VA. — In an effort to highlight the important role the US Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) plays in animal food product plant inspections and trade coordination, the American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) is collaborating with the Pet Food Institute (PFI) and the North American Renderers Association (NARA) to host an educational program in conjunction with the 2025 International Processing & Production Expo (IPPE). “APHIS and Industry: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly of Importing/Exporting Animal Products” will be held Jan. 29 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta.

“This program promises to be an excellent learning opportunity for anyone who is importing into the United States, or preparing to export rendered products, animal-based feed or pet food,” said Mallory Gaines, AFIA’s director of market access and multilateral affairs. “Attendees will have the unique opportunity to engage directly with APHIS staff and build stronger relationships with key regulatory contacts.”

APHIS’s responsibilities include overseeing animal food product facility inspections, processing import permits and export health certificates and negotiating market access with global trading partners.

The one-day program will provide attendees with insights into APHIS’s operations and allow for networking opportunities with APHIS headquarters negotiators and field office staff. In addition to highlighting all aspects — “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly” — of APHIS inspections, discussions will also be geared toward helping the industry better prepare for inspections, streamline paperwork processes and improve collaboration with APHIS to avoid trade disruptions.

The educational program will be held from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Jan. 29. An early bird rate of $280 is available until Jan. 10. AFIA, PFI and NARA members should contact their association representatives for a member rate.

Learn more and register for the APHIS event here.

Read more about pet food and treat industry events.

Read more

FDA releases final enforcement policy on AAFCO-defined ingredients


SILVER SPRING, MD. — The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released its finalized Guidance for Industry (GFI) #293, called “FDA Enforcement Policy for AAFCO-Defined Animal Feed Ingredients,” on Oct. 23. 

This new guidance follows the expiration of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the FDA and the Association of American Feed Control Officials. At the beginning of August, the organizations announced the MOU would not be renewed upon its expiration on Oct. 1. Following this, the FDA released drafts of GFI #293 and #294, asking for stakeholder comments. 

GIF #293 describes how the FDA will handle enforcement action on ingredients that are not approved as food additives under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act), but are included in the 2024 AAFCO Official Publication.

The FDA currently has authority under the FD&C Act to regulate substances in animal foods. Under the act, companies must submit an animal food petition to support premarket approval, allowing the additive to be legally marketed and used and considered safe. Otherwise, the animal food additive is considered unsafe. Additionally, the FDA has affirmed certain substances as generally recognized as safe (GRAS), which does not require premarket review and approval. 

The problem arises when considering ingredients that are not approved additives under the FD&C Act requirements nor are they GRAS, but they are included in the AAFCO Official Publication. GFI #293 seeks to address this potential issue. 

Under GFI #293, the FDA does not intend to initiate enforcement action regarding the food additive approval requirements under the FD&C Act for ingredients that are not approved food additives or GRAS, but are listed in the 2024 AAFCO Official Publication. 

“We have reviewed many of these ingredients through our participation in the AAFCO ingredient definition request process and recommended that the ingredient definitions, including specifications for use, be added to the AAFCO Official Publication,” the FDA stated. “For those ingredients listed in the 2024 AAFCO Official Publication that are not approved food additives or GRAS and that we did not review as part of the AAFCO ingredient definition request process, at this time, we are not aware of any safety concerns that would cause us to request that an ingredient be withdrawn from the AAFCO Official Publication, and many have a long history of use in animal food.”

Additionally, the FDA anticipates that GFI #293 may help minimize disruption or shortages of ingredients that have been commonly used in animal foods for years. 

“This approach would allow us to focus our resources on reviewing new ingredients before they are marketed and addressing unsafe ingredients in the marketplace,” the FDA stated.

The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) thanked the FDA upon the release of the finalized policy. According to the AFIA, without the GIF #293, the use of hundreds of animal feed and pet food ingredients could have been at risk within the United States. 

“We are encouraged by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine’s (CVM) decision to formally recognize the safety of hundreds of AAFCO-defined animal food ingredients, ensuring there is no question about their ability to be used or marketed within the United States and internationally,” said Constance Cullman, president and chief executive officer of the AFIA. “This decision is crucial for maintaining stability and confidence in our regulatory system, especially after the FDA recently ended its longstanding partnership with AAFCO on the review of new animal food ingredients.

“Before moving forward, we will encourage the agency to accept the last ingredients completing their reviews under the prior FDA-AAFCO MOU, which will be listed in future editions of the AAFCO Official Publication,” she added. “Our members are also engaged in providing the FDA feedback on its additional efforts to modernize the existing and proposed regulatory review systems so that animal food ingredient innovators can not only bring their products to the US marketplace in a timely, efficient manner but compete with our competitors’ modernized regulatory systems.”

Read more about this policy in the FDA’s GFI #293

For moreregulatory news affecting the pet food market, visit our Regulatory page. 

Read more

Chobani targets social impact with new NYC headquarters


NEW YORK — Greek yogurt, oatmilk and creamer manufacturer Chobani unveiled plans for a new global headquarters in New York that the company said will also benefit urban development in the NoHo neighborhood.

Dubbed Chobani House, the 120,000-square-foot building will feature not only office spaces for the company, but also an innovation center designed to both support business and serve as a collaboration hub for global food scientists to work on solutions that will help eradicate food insecurity.

What’s more, Chobani said its future home will offer an incubator lab for emerging NGOs and non-profits that are dedicated to social impact, and a community kitchen that prepares nutritious meals for people in need.

The company’s leadership, which said the building is expected to open in late 2025, emphasized that Chobani wants to deliver “sustained impact” in the community with this project.

“There is huge value in Chobani House being located in the heart of New York City – with its rich tapestry of people, energy, grit and determination,” founder and chief executive officer Hamdi Ulukaya said. “This city is unlike any other place on Earth, and it’s an amazing place to call one of our homes, ensuring we can continue to attract top talent.”

Along with typical business purposes – Chobani said employees will work in office four days a week – and a retail space, the building also will be home to Tent Partnership for Refugees, a network that brings together hundreds of major companies that are helping refugees access local labor markets. Ulukaya founded Tent Partnership for Refugees. Chobani House, the company also noted, will facilitate new partnerships with nonprofits fighting hunger.

“Chobani House offers a new vision for the urban office that is about much more than just running the business,” Ulukaya said. “From our new home in New York City, we’ll continue to bring amazing food to consumers around the world, and we’ll also increase our impact in NYC, offer a place for young NGOs to grow, as well as advance food science that can help fight hunger. Today, more than ever, it’s up to business to invest and innovate to ensure our urban communities thrive. The best days of New York – and many cities – are still to come.”

Read more

PFI names new board officers for upcoming year


WASHINGTON — The Pet Food Institute (PFI) announced its new board officers for 2025 to 2026. Additionally, Scott Salmon, president of Simmons Pet Food, has been elected board chair for the upcoming year.

Salmon has more than 25 years of experience in the retail industry. He joined Simmons Pet Food in February 2020 and has since supported the company through various operational expansions. In addition to his leadership at Simmons Pet Food, Salmon most recently served as vice chair of PFI’s board.

“I’m excited to work alongside my fellow board members this year to strengthen the Pet Food Institute’s commitment to pet food safety, advocacy, education and the promotion of pets,” he said. “Together, we can help ensure pets enjoy longer, healthier lives.”

Salmon succeeds former PFI Chair Nina Leigh Krueger, chief executive officer and president of Nestlé Purina Petcare.

“Over the past two years, we have worked diligently to address significant pet food regulatory issues through the introduction of the PURR Act in Congress,” she said. “PFI staff have dedicated tremendous resources, time and effort to solidify industry alignment, drive support with state Directors of Agriculture, advocate for Congressional sponsorship, and continue dialogue with folks who oppose industry regulatory modernization.

“I am honored to have worked with the PFI staff during the outset of this portfolio of work, and I look forward to continuing to support them,” Krueger added. “I know that this important work will continue under the leadership and guidance of the new board officers.”

New board officers include:

  • Reed Howlett, chief executive officer of Wellness Pet Company, will serve as vice chair
  • Yvonne Hsu, US president and general manager of Hill’s Pet Nutrition US, will serve as secretary
  • Frank Ziacik, commercial director, North America pet food at Cargill, will serve as treasurer
  • Scott Morris, president and CEO of Freshpet, will serve as personnel officer

“We are excited about our 2025 to 2026 officers, who will each bring diverse experience and expertise to Pet Food Institute’s board of directors,” said Dana Brooks, president and CEO, PFI. “These board members will work diligently to represent the interests of all pet food makers, who work hard every day to produce safe and nutritious pet food for America’s pets.”

Read more about personnel changes throughout the industry. 

Read more

KSU, USDA partner to protect grain biosecurity


MANHATTAN, KAN. — Kansas State University (KSU) and US Department of Agriculture (USDA) scientists have launched a $799,976 project to improve biosecurity against the khapra beetle and the larger grain borer, which infest grain after harvest and value-added foods from grain.

Tom Phillips, professor of entomology at KSU, said the university will lead the project, which is funded by the USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture. The project aims to upgrade monitoring devices by using automated, remote trapping devices. Researchers also will test novel fumigants for their effectiveness against these two pests.

In the early 1950s, the United States spent $125 million to eradicate the khapra beetle in three Southwestern states. The larger grain borer has been found crossing the southern border from its normal distribution in South and Central America.

“There are very few invasive or quarantine stored product insects,” said Rob Morrison, a research entomologist with the USDA’s Agriculture Research Service Center for Grain and Animal Health Research in Manhattan. “However, khapra beetle and larger grain borer are two species that are considered quarantined, or species-of-concern. They are both highly destructive; larger grain borer feeds mostly on corn and cassava, while khapra beetle is much less discriminate.”

Morrison said that as trade increases globally, the number of khapra beetle discoveries also increases. The World Conservation Union lists khapra beetle as one of the world’s 100 worst invasive species.

“If these pests get into the food supply, it would not only raise our food costs, but would also likely bring hardship to the grain industry by limiting exports, and the resulting devaluation on infested, bulk-stored grains,” Morrison said.

The five-year project began this summer and will continue through 2029. In addition to Phillips and Morrison, key collaborators on the project include Alison Gerken and Deanna Scheff from the USDA lab in Manhattan; and Christos Athanassiou, a professor at the University of Thessaly (Greece).

Read more about supply chain topics affecting the industry on our Operations page.

Read more

Manufacturers implementing varied innovation, pricing plans


ST. LOUIS — Consumer packaged goods (CPGs) manufacturers are honing their value proposition via a blend of pricing and innovation, yet their strategies don’t always align with those of retailers, according to Advantage Solutions’ Manufacturer & Retailer Outlook Q3 2024 report.

Over the next six months, 13% of CPG companies plan to lower prices for select and/or non-core items, compared with 24% raising prices for select/non-core items, 6% increasing prices for all or major items, and 57% not taking any pricing action, the study said. Among food companies, 11% expect to reduce prices on select/non-core products in that time frame, while 22% plan to increase prices on select/non-core items, 3% aim to raise prices on all/major items and 65% don’t anticipate taking any pricing action.

Retailers indicated a more aggressive pricing approach over the next six months. Twenty-eight percent plan to lower prices on many products, including 20% doing so on a sizable number of products and/or categories and 8% aiming to reduce pricing “to a great extent,” Advantage reported. Fifty-seven percent expect to bring down pricing on a few products/categories, and just 15% of retailers don’t plan to make any pricing moves.

The findings from Advantage Solutions – a St. Louis-based CPG and retail sales, marketing and intelligence firm – are based on a survey of senior-level executives at nearly 100 CPG companies (food and non-food) and retailers nationwide.

Investing in price

When asked about managing price investment requests from retailers, more than 1 in 10 manufacturers said they will be “proactively taking down” everyday pricing themselves, with 9% of respondents reporting they’ll be sharing the cost with some retailers and 4% fully funding select retailers.

Sixty-two percent of CPG companies will fund their current trade budget with select retailers, and 13% don’t plan to fund any retailers.

Seventy-two percent of food companies aim to continue their current trade budget with select retailers. Conversely, smaller percentages of food manufacturers plan to proactively lower everyday prices themselves (8%), share the cost with select retailers (8%), fully fund select retailers (3%) or not fund any retailers (8%).

On the retailer side, 51% of those surveyed plan to cover 1% to 20% of the investment in lowering promotional or everyday pricing, compared with 15% covering 21% to 50% of the investment and 10% covering 51% to 81% of the investment, according to the study.

“Given how far inflation has gone over the last few years, it has really challenged manufacturers and retailers to take more innovative approaches in the value propositions that they’re presenting to shoppers,” said Mona Szumlas, executive vice president of client services at Advantage Solutions.

 

Alignment on marketing and innovation

To appeal to more price-conscious consumers, many CPG companies have rolled out new stock-keeping units (SKUs) with lower price points.

Advantage’s study found that 29% of manufacturers have introduced or plan to introduce (over the next 6 to 12 months) SKUs targeting national brand opening price points. That includes 15% of companies introducing new items at opening price points and 6% planning to do so, as well as 6% bringing back an old SKU aimed at opening price points and 2% expecting to do so. Another 23% of manufacturers said they’re still considering whether to introduce items at starting price points.

“Once a brand wins a customer’s loyalty at that entry price, it becomes easier to introduce them to products in higher price tiers,” Szumlas said. “This approach can effectively attract price-sensitive shoppers, build trial and encourage increased foot traffic to retailers. It’s a strategic move to create both consumer engagement and sales opportunities.”

Most CPG companies are looking to drive innovation by building on current offerings, Advantage’s research revealed. Fifty-seven percent of those surveyed plan line extensions over the next 12 months, 22% aim to enter new product categories, and 22% expect to launch new brands in their current categories.

Similarly, 62% of food manufacturers said the innovations will target mainstream price tiers, while 35% are aiming innovations at premium pricing levels. Only 3% of food companies are targeting innovations at value price tiers.

Retailers, however, are seeking more value-priced innovations from national brands, according to Advantage. Eighteen percent of retailers expect national brand innovations to target value price tiers over the next 12 months, compared with 60% targeting mainstream pricing and 23% aimed at premium pricing.

Overall, a significant amount of innovation is coming up from CPG companies over the next 12 months. Thirty-two percent of food manufacturers plan more product launches than usual, while 49% expect to maintain their usual launch levels. Nineteen percent of food manufacturers plan fewer launches than usual.

Retailers have bigger plans for private labels, with 28% looking to launch more innovation in store brands than usual in the next 12 months versus 13% expecting to do so for national brands. Sixty-eight percent plan to uphold their usual launch levels for private brands, compared with 83% doing so for national brands. Only 3% of retailers plan fewer private label launches versus 5% doing so for national brands.

“It’s critical for manufacturers and retailers to align on innovation evaluation criteria before new items hit the shelf,” Szumlas noted. “A successful innovation launch plan should include predefined success criteria and contingency plans through the first full year on shelf, and even an exit plan if the new item doesn’t meet expectations.”

Pricing investment heads retailers’ list of priorities in terms of assistance from manufacturers. When asked to name the top three areas where suppliers could provide the most help over the next 12 months, retailers cited trade dollars (84%), everyday pricing (55%), promotion optimization (45%), innovation (39%) and consumer insights (34%). Retailers also named assistance with the supply chain (16%), value-priced products (16%), meal solution ideas (5%) and retail merchandising (3%).

Read more

AFIA hosts Pet Health Month in Vietnam


HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM — More than 120 students from the veterinary community participated in an in-depth workshop at the Nong Lam University (University of Agriculture and Forestry) as part of the inaugural Pet Health Month campaign in Vietnam.

The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) and Vietnamese Small Animal Veterinary Association (VSAVA) launched the Pet Health Month campaign in Vietnam with events planned across Ho Chi Minh City to educate pet owners and the veterinary community about the importance of routine veterinary care and proper pet nutrition.

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) is a partner in the effort that also aims to support market access into Vietnam, providing US pet food manufacturers the opportunity to deliver high-quality, complete and balanced pet food, treats and ingredients into the market so Vietnamese pet owners have more options.

During the workshop at Nong Lam University, veterinarians Ngo Hong Phuong and Nguyen Thi Huyen presented information on pet nutrition trends and feline parvoviral enteritis, highlighting the relationship between feeding adequate nutrition while receiving medical treatment for feline leukemia. The session sparked discussions and questions among the veterinary students, who heard from veterinarians about their practical experiences in examining and treating pets.

Recent market research from the AFIA demonstrated that more Vietnamese veterinarians would recommend US pet food to pet owners who are willing to invest in proper nutrition so that their pets live fuller, healthier and longer lives.

“The AFIA and its members can deliver high-quality, safe and nutritious pet food, treats and ingredients to the Vietnamese market so that pet caretakers have the confidence that the foods they are feeding their pets is safe, complete and balanced to meet their nutritional needs,” said Louise Calderwood, director of regulatory affairs for the AFIA. “Through our partnership with the VSAVA, we are committed to stressing the importance of the relationship between pet owners and their veterinarians, which will ensure that pets receive the best routine, preventative care and good counsel on diets to help their pets thrive, based on their specific life stages and health needs.”

Pet Health Month continued with Super Pet Fest at the Youth Culture House on Oct. 19, where pet owners interacted, received free pet checkups, watched training demonstrations and learned about pet care. On Oct. 24, an educational workshop will be held at Pet Like Park complex.

“I strongly believe the collaboration between the USDA, AFIA and VSAVA will empower pet owners with knowledge and resources for healthy pet care,” said Matthew Kustel, economic chief at the US Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City. “This partnership will also enable veterinarians to engage with the community and share their knowledge to support healthy pets in Vietnam while fostering the business of veterinary medicine, which is crucial for the well-being of Vietnam’s pet population.”

Read more news from associations and agencies in the pet food sector.

Read more

GEA’s North American freezing business acquired


DYBVAD, DENMARK — Automation machinery manufacturer DSI Dantech acquired GEA Group’s North American freezing business. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

DSI Dantech said the partnership will involve new freezer sales and aftermarket services, with DSI Dantech managing and delivering new orders for GEA machines in North America.

The international supplier with headquarters in Denmark also said it would integrate relevant GEA employees into its global team.

After acquiring GEA’s freezer technologies, DSI Dantech shared that part of its strategy will involve developing more innovations that incorporate “the best qualities and characteristics from both organizations.” The company also stated its goal is to set “a new standard for mechanical freezing in the global marketplace.”

Chief executive officer Søren Overgaard described the acquisition as a pivotal moment for DSI Dantech.

“By bringing together exceptional talent and advanced technology, we’re positioning ourselves to lead the future of mechanical freezing solutions,” Overgaard said. “We see immense potential in this collaboration, which will allow us to push the boundaries of innovation and deliver unparalleled value to our global customers.’

The company identified mechanical freezing technology as a “vital focus,” and said GEA’s mechanical freezer business will help DSI Dantech expand in the sector and “significantly enhance” the solutions it can offer to global food industries.

Read more

Nestlé CEO outlines new leadership structure


VEVEY, SWITZERLAND — Six weeks after Laurent Freixe took the reins as global chief executive officer, Nestlé SA is consolidating its geographic organization and making changes to its executive board.

Effective Jan. 1, 2025, Zone Latin America (LATAM) and Zone North America (NA) will merge with Zone Americas (AMS), led by executive vice president and current North America CEO Steve Presley, who will relocate to Nestlé’s headquarters in Vevey, Switzerland, the company said.

Freixe, who became Nestlé’s global CEO on Sept. 1 with the departure of Ulf Mark Schneider, had previously been CEO for Latin America.

Also starting next year, Zone Greater China Region (GCR) will become part of Zone Asia, Oceania and Africa (AOA), led by executive vice president and current AOA CEO Remy Ejel. Plans call for David Zhang, currently executive vice president and CEO of Zone Greater China, to step down from the executive board and remain chairman and CEO of the Greater China Region. No changes are planned for Zone Europe (EUR), which will continue to be led by executive vice president and EUR CEO Guillaume Le Cunff.

With the changes, Nestlé will have five reporting segments: Zone AMS, Zone AOA, Zone EUR, Nestlé Health Science and Nespresso. The company said it also will continue to voluntarily report sales performance each quarter for North America and for Latin America within Zone AMS and for Greater China within Zone AOA.

“A leaner executive board structure and close collaboration of the leadership team at the headquarters will increase simplicity, speed up decision making and strengthen the momentum behind global initiatives,” Freixe said. “We will continue to build on the strengths of our market heads to ensure consistent in-market execution across the group.”

On the executive board, plans call for Bernard Meunier to step down on March 31, 2025, and take a new role leading strategic projects for Nestlé SA. The company said David Rennie, head of Nestlé Coffee Brands, will take over Meunier’s post as the head of strategic business units (SBUs) and marketing and sales. Along with the leadership changes, Nestlé Coffee Brands — except for Nespresso — will be integrated into the SBU organization.

With the moves, Nestlé said Nespresso CEO Philipp Navratil will join the executive board and now report directly to Freixe. Nestlé Health Science will continue to be led by Anna Mohl.

Also stepping down from the board is Beatrice Guillaume-Grabisch, head of human resources and business services, who is leaving “to pursue new professional opportunities,” Nestlé said, adding that her area of oversight will be split into its different functions “to underpin the importance of each of them.”

Taking over as head of human resources will be Anna Lenz, currently country manager of Nestlé Portugal. Lenz also will join Nestlé’s executive board. Hans-Ulrich Mayer will continue to lead business services and report to chief financial officer Anna Manz.

In addition, chief information officer Chris Wright, who oversees all information technology and digitalization, and Antonia Wanner, who leads the sustainability unit, will now report to Freixe without holding a position on the executive board, Nestlé said.

“With these organizational changes, all the leaders of key units driving our performance and our transformation will now report directly to me,” Freixe said. “This is crucial, as we sharpen our focus on consumers and customers and restore investment in our brands and in innovation to expand market share and accelerate our performance. Going forward, we are also placing a greater emphasis on Nestlé’s digital transformation into a real-time, end-to-end, connected, data- and AI-powered organization. I am confident these changes will optimally position Nestlé for future success.”

Read more