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.

Brown dog playfully nuzzling gray tabby cat with affectionate companionship
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are working to meet rising consumer expectations for quality, safety and innovation while navigating a mix of outdated statutes and inconsistent requirements.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.

For the American Feed Industry Association (AFIA), addressing these challenges is a central focus for its 2026–27 policy priorities. The association is advocating for modern, science-based regulatory approaches that improve regulatory efficiency while maintaining the industry’s strong safety record. Two key legislative efforts, the Pet Food Uniform Regulatory Reform (PURR) Act and the Innovative Feed Enhancement and Economic Development (FEED) Act, highlight how the AFIA is working to reshape the policy landscape for pet food manufacturers.

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