Product Safety Requirements Applicable to Pets (US)

Product Safety Requirements Applicable to Pet Food

There is no requirement that pet food products have pre-market approval by the FDA. However, FDA ensures that the ingredients used in pet food are safe and have an appropriate function in the pet food. Many ingredients such as meat, poultry, and grains are considered safe and do not require pre-market approval. Other substances such as sources of minerals, vitamins or other nutrients, flavorings, preservatives, or processing aids may be generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for an intended use (21 CFR 582 and 584) or must have approval as food additives (21 CFR 570, 571 and 573). More information can be found here: http://www.fda.gov/animalveterinary/products/animalfoodfeeds/petfood/ucm2006475

Pet Food Labeling

Pet food labeling is regulated at two levels. The current FDA regulations require proper identification of the product, net quantity statement, name and place of business of the manufacturer or distributor, and proper listing of all the ingredients in the product in order from most to least, based on weight. Some states also enforce their own labeling regulations. Many of these regulations are based on a model provided by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). For more information about AAFCO, please visit www.aafco.org. For more information about labeling requirements. The FDA also reviews specific claims on pet food, such as “maintains urinary tract health,” “low magnesium,” and “hairball control.” on the CVM portion of the FDA internet site here: http://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/GuidanceComplianceEnforcement/GuidanceforIndustry/ucm053415.htm .

Pet Toys

zulily requires that any pet toys comply with the Federal Toy Safety Standard, ASTM F963 as they have perceivable play value if found by a child. See requirements in children’s testing section.