Rethinking pet food regulation for a modern industry

Updates are necessary for the U.S. to stay on par with the rest of the world when it comes to animal health and sustainability.

Louise Calderwood
August 7, 2026
Rethinking Pet Food Regulation
Gulnara Mandrykina | iStock.com
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Like any system overdue for a tune-up, the regulatory framework governing pet food in the United States is showing its age. Manufacturers are working to meet rising consumer expectations for quality, safety and innovation while navigating a mix of outdated statutes and inconsistent requirements. This environment can slow the introduction of new products and add unnecessary complexity to doing business across state lines.

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