Pet Food Labeling in the USA. Summary of general labeling requirements

The marketing of pet food and treats in the US is regulated at the federal level by the FDA, which requires sanitary conditions and safety, and at the state level through guidelines and the Code of Federal Regulations (21 CFR).

The AAFCO coordinates the 8 mandatory statements that must appear on product labels to ensure clear and truthful labeling.

How Pet Food and Treats Are Regulated in the US

Pet food products and treats in the United States are regulated by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration). This agency governs the manufacturing and sale of such products, requiring that pet food, just like human food, be manufactured under safe and sanitary conditions, contain no harmful substances, and be labeled clearly and truthfully.

For information on state regulations, the FDA relies on the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) and other state regulators as an information source. AAFCO is a voluntary organization created by state, federal, and industry officials who have developed a set of “Model Regulations for Pet Food and Specialty Pet Food” published in official AAFCO documents.

The Role of AAFCO and Federal Regulations (21 CFR)

Although the Association is not a regulatory body, regulatory agencies such as the FDA recognize AAFCO guidelines as essential guidance in pet food oversight.

A pet food label is a highly important communication tool regulated at both the federal and state levels. These regulations apply not only to labels attached to the food but also to any form of communication regarding any aspect of the product across different media. Corresponding federal regulations are published in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Title 21 CFR.

Labeling requirements for pet food and treats are set forth within AAFCO through model bills that include a labeling checklist. The main regulations focus on:

• Labeling information.
• Permissible ingredients that may be used.
• Rules governing descriptive and non-mandatory information.

Mandatory Elements on Pet Food Labels

AAFCO has outlined the 8 mandatory elements that must strictly be included on every pet food label:

1. Brand and product name: Covers how ingredients may be included in the product name and certain uses of descriptors.
2. Name of the intended target species: The name of the species for which the product is intended must be conspicuously indicated.
3. Quantity statement: The net weight or volume must be stated in the lower third of the principal display panel.
4. Guaranteed analysis: Lists the nutrients provided by the food, backed by verifiable analytical methods. Guarantees must be given in a specific order, in specified units, and with minimums or maximums depending on the case.
5. Ingredient statement: Ingredients must be listed in descending order by weight within the formulation (from highest to lowest).
6. Nutritional adequacy statement: Indicates that the food is complete for the declared life stage (certain specific products may be exempt from this statement).
7. Feeding directions: Includes recommended feeding amounts based on weight/species. Depending on the product category, additional information may be required.
8. Name and address of manufacturer or distributor: Identifies the person or company responsible for the product and their location. Where necessary, other manufacturing or distributing companies may also be included.

Additional statements and layout according to packaging: Beyond these 8 mandatory elements, other statements may be included provided they follow specific analytical methods and formats. Depending on the container design:

• If the label is placed on the front only, all items must appear there.
• If the label consists of a front and back panel, certain mandatory elements must be included on the principal display panel (the front of the package).

Regulatory Compliance Consulting for Exporting to the US

Kaeltia Consulting provides specialized support in scientific and regulatory affairs to meet the regulatory compliance needs for pet food products in the USA, strictly adhering to agency criteria and new regulatory frameworks.

With over 10 years of experience, Kaeltia Consulting supports clients worldwide in marketing their products under specific international regulations.

To learn more about our services, visit our website at kaeltia.com or contact our team directly at info@kaeltia.com. We will be delighted to assist you.