Devising strategies to ensure the supply of essential nutrients to the US pet industry

Pets, like humans, need vitamins as part of a balanced diet – without them, their health could be adversely affected.

However, global supply chains continue to face challenges that ripple through industries and threaten the stability of the food and agriculture system.

Targeted analysis

One notable area of concern for the US animal food industry is that very few countries supply the world’s vitamins and amino acids.

This is problematic should supply disruptions occur.

The Institute for Feed Education and Research (IFEEDER) has launched a research project that will develop a strategic analysis of the critical ingredients, vitamins and amino acids used throughout the US animal food supply chain.

The aim is to provide manufacturers with insights into the risks that potential supply chain shortages could have for pet and livestock health, as well as for the production of meat, dairy and eggs.

This analysis will inform the policy positions of the American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) and allow the trade association to better advocate for proactive steps the US government can take to safeguard US agriculture against potential future disruptions.

Dependence on China

The US animal food industry is heavily dependent on China, which accounts for over 70% of the world’s vitamin production and 62% of global amino acid production.

This exposes the sector to the volatility of global trade dynamics caused by factors such as geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions or manufacturing challenges.

Any disruption in China’s ability or willingness to supply these essential ingredients can have significant repercussions, including for US pet food manufacturers.

Labeling issues

One reason that potential supply disruptions are particularly pronounced for pet food producers is that they face strict regulatory standards relating to minimum nutrient requirements.

For US pet food to be labeled as ‘complete and balanced’ in the nutritional adequacy statement on its packaging, for example, it must contain specific levels of vitamins and amino acids.

Additionally, manufacturers face restrictions when modifying the formula in a way that no longer aligns with the original nutrient profile as labeled.

Even if it meets the minimum nutrient requirements, the revised label must be registered as a new product with the appropriate state regulatory authorities before it can be marketed.

Further challenges for manufacturers

Disruptions in the availability of essential vitamins and amino acids could lead to significant challenges for pet food manufacturers, including reformulation, regulatory hurdles, decreased supply of products on the market and the potential withdrawal of key products.

These issues would ultimately have an impact on costs, product availability and consumer choice.

A multi-faceted solution

The AFIA is urging US policymakers to take a multi-pronged approach to addressing this issue. In the last congressional session, the AFIA supported the Securing American Agriculture Act.

This legislation would require the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) to study global supply chain markets for agricultural inputs – including ingredients such as vitamins, minerals and amino acids – used in feed and pet food production.

In addition, the AFIA has been calling on public-private partnerships to develop innovative solutions for boosting supply chain reliability.

It has also encouraged policymakers to invest in domestic manufacturing facilities through tax incentives, grants and low-interest loans.

Diversifying global sourcing could also be achieved through international collaboration, partnerships with other vitamin-producing nations and the inclusion of supply chain frameworks in trade agreements.

Timely action required

Without swift action, supply chain vulnerabilities could negatively affect US pet and livestock health, agricultural productivity and economic stability.

The AFIA intends to continue to work to help decision-makers understand the gravity of this issue and the importance of taking steps now to safeguard these critical inputs for US pet food and agriculture.