Modernizing Pet Food Regulation

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U.S. pet food is regulated by a system that was created over a century ago when dogs and cats were regarded as working farm animals.

In the more than 100 years since then, cats and dogs have evolved to being treated as companion animals and members of our families. Surveys show that 95% of Americans consider pets to be cherished members of the family. As the relationship between people and companion animals has grown more intertwined, the regulatory system has not evolved to meet the challenges in today’s fast-paced, ever-changing market environment. U.S. pets, pet owners, and pet food makers need a regulatory system that meets the needs of a 21st century, consumer-facing product.


2 IN 3Pet owners say its important to get access to the latest science-based nutrition and ingredient innovation in their pet’s food

3xMore likely to prefer pet food products be regulated like human food rather than regulated like feed for livestock


Pet food safety is and always will be a top priority for pet food makers, and Pet Food Institute’s (PFI) members are committed to providing the best nutritional science and ingredient innovation to support the long, healthy lives of pets. The current regulatory framework is a two-tier system consisting of oversight by the federal government and all 50 states. This inconsistent regulatory system does not work for today’s pet owners and pets. The current system results in:

  • Products regulated by 50 different states, which is inefficient, cumbersome, and confusing.
  • Market disruptions in which pet owners may not be able to find their preferred pet food.
  • Stifled innovation and slow processes for bringing novel ingredients and new products to market.

Dog and cat food requires a more transparent and streamlined regulatory process with a modernized, federal approach to reduce state-by-state inconsistencies. Therefore, PFI is supporting H.R. 7380, the Pet Food Uniform Regulatory Reform Act of 2024 (PURR Act), sponsored by Reps. Jake LaTurner (R-KS), Steve Womack (R-AR), and Henry Cuellar (D-TX). The draft legislation will:

  • Ensure consistency and transparency with federal regulations.
  • Establish a more efficient federal ingredient review process.
  • Encourage innovation and eliminate disruptions to interstate commerce.
  • Maintain high nutrition and food safety standards that nourish and protect pets.

Learn more about the PURR Act:

PFI knows pets

The Pet Food Institute (PFI) is dedicated to providing up-to-date, science-backed information about pet food, health, and wellbeing. Trust our expertise to help your pets live long, healthy lives.

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