Pet food industry welcomes new USDA appointment

Xochitl Torres Small is the new Deputy Secretary of the government body.

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has recently confirmed Xochitl Torres Small as Deputy Secretary.

Commenting on the new appointment, the Pet Food Institute (PFI) shared a message of congratulations. The institute highlighted her “passion for rural communities” and how this makes her “well qualified to hold the prestigious and influential position at the agency.”

“PFI is excited to work with her on USDA programs to advance the interests of the pet food industry,” says Dana Brooks, President and CEO at PFI.

Along the same line, the American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) welcomed the new Deputy Secretary, highlighting the “strong role” that Torres Small will have in enhancing the US agriculture system.

The AFIA also highlighted that her role would be felt more “indirectly” for the pet industry as the USDA does not regulate it directly.

Previous experience

Before this recent appointment, Torres Small worked as Under Secretary for Rural Development at the USDA since October 2021.

Her background also includes serving as a US representative as she participated in various committees such as the House Agriculture Committee and the House Homeland Security Committee.