The quality of the food we choose for our pets is important. This is why certifications and standards exist, to ensure that the food created for pets is safe and nutritious. FEDIAF, AAFCO, and WSAVA are three important organizations as they are dedicated to promoting pet food nutrition, safety and quality. Here is a little more information for each.

FEDIAF

The European Pet Food Industry Federation, or FEDIAF, is the European trade association that represents the European pet food industry. FEDIAF’s main purpose is to promote the interests of the European pet food industry. They do this by working with European authorities to ensure the safety and quality of pet food.  The guidelines and regulations provided by FEDIAF are there to ensure nutritional adequacy of pet food. Complete and balanced pet food within Europe and the UK is formulated to meet these nutritional requirements set by FEDIAF, for each life stage or species.

AAFCO

The Association of American Feed Control Officials, or AAFCO, is an organization in the United States that sets standards for animal feed and pet food. AAFCO develops regulations for pet food and provides information to regulators, manufacturers, and consumers. An AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement for pet food, indicates that the food has been tested and found to meet these nutritional requirements for a particular life stage or species.

WSAVA

The World Small Animal Veterinary Association, or WSAVA, is a global organization that represents the veterinary profession. WSAVA has guidelines for the nutritional assessment of pets by veterinarians. These guidelines include information such as assessing body condition, interpreting blood tests, and evaluating a pet’s nutritional needs. Information for pet owners about the importance of feeding a balanced and complete diet to their pets is also available.

These organizations do not certify individual pet food products, but instead pet food manufacturers ensure that their products meet the nutritional standards and safety guidelines set by these organisations. This helps to ensure the safety of the pet food industry and make sure that pet foods sold are safe and nutritious for our pets. The guidelines and regulations provided by FEDIAF, AAFCO and WSAVA are used by pet nutritionists to ensure that pet foods meet nutritional standards. They also help pet owners make informed decisions about the food they choose to give their pets.

Each of these organisations offer educational resources for pet owners to explain pet food topics and frequently asked questions. These are available on the organisation website. AAFCO resources, however, are not free to use.

Summary

In conclusion, FEDIAF, AAFCO, and WSAVA are three organizations that are dedicated to promoting pet food safety and quality. Pet food manufacturers adhere to their guidelines and regulations to ensure that the food we feed our pets is safe and nutritious.