US authorities inspected 35 pet food facilities in 2022

The FDA recently conducted 35 inspections in pet food facilities across the country from October 2021 to September 2022.

Most of the facilities inspected (62.9%) were asked to take voluntary action due to “unacceptable conditions” linked to hazard analysis, preventive controls, and hygienic conditions. Many of them required regulatory action, the agency said. 

The administration found 4 facilities with objectionable conditions, and administrative action was recommended. The other 9 had no improper practices, and no action was necessary. 

In contrast, the state government supervised 65 inspections during the same period and found that 95% were in order. Only 5% of the inspected companies required action. 

Unified program

The FDA provided an update earlier in the year on the agency’s new vision for its Human Foods Program, including the pet sector. 

An Office of Animal Biotechnology Innovation within the Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) will be established to help the FDA’s progress in the ongoing smart regulation of animal biotechnology. 

“There will be a robust cross-collaboration between the CVM and the Human Foods Program on agricultural biotechnology innovation,” it said.  

The CVM director’s role will incorporate the duties of a chief veterinary officer (CVO) to reinforce the center’s One Health role and link to the Human Foods Program. In situations where the CVM director is not a veterinarian, a senior veterinarian in CVM leadership will carry the responsibilities.

The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) welcomed the new office and highlighted it “deeply values the FDA’s work and commitment to food safety.”