We break down what it means to hold this certification, that has become an industry standard.
After an intensive audit in June, raw pet food producer Nutriment Raw has received its certification by UK Pet Food’s Raw Pet Food Certification Scheme.
“We are fully committed to producing the highest quality, ethically prepared raw food for dogs and cats in the marketplace,” says Martin Heal, Managing Director of Nutriment Raw. The company produces 1.3 million raw meals per month.
It is the fourth company to be certified after Natural Dog Food Direct, Poppy’s Picnic and RPFC UK’s two brands, Benyfit Natural and Billy + Margot.
GlobalPETS learned that there are 2 more companies in the auditing pipeline.
New industry standard
Since 2022, the scheme has become the latest standard for UK-based raw pet food manufacturers and is the world’s only independently audited, certified raw pet food scheme.
The certification attests to the safety and quality of the food produced by reputable retailers, adds a market reputation and offers resources for businesses to comply with pet food legislation. Members also receive industry expertise to grow their businesses.
Currently, the auditing scheme extends only to UK Pet Food members. Nicole Paley, Deputy Chief Executive, states that the forum will gradually expand to non-members too.
Evaluation process
The certification scheme is based on a comprehensive standard, encompassing all aspects of hygiene and feed safety.
UK Pet Food’s CEO Michael Bellingham emphasizes that this applies to the entire process of making raw food, from the selection of raw materials to the finished product.
The evaluation examines plant design and maintenance, supplier assurance, safe product formulation, full traceability systems, safe handling, quality checks, microbiological testing, internal auditing programs, staff training and labeling compliance.
Their guidelines are produced in conjunction with Animal Health & Protection Agency (APHA), the Health & Protection Agency (HPA), the Food Standards Agency (FSA) and the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) and were developed with KIWA, an independent certification scheme expert.
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