FDA and USDA Officials Attend China International Companion Animal Food Ingredients Conference (CAFIC 2024) in Yangzhou
Officials from the FDA and USDA recently attended the China International Companion Animal Food Ingredients Conference (CAFIC 2024) in Yangzhou, hosted by LAMB Consultancy. The conference focused on the role of technology and management in improving the safety, quality, and innovation of pet foods.
With China producing 1.46 million metric tons of dry pet food and an estimated 3 billion USD value in wet pet food production, the industry is rapidly expanding with an annual growth rate of 10% over the past 5 years.
Presentations at the conference included an overview of US pet foods and ingredients by Ted Shibata from the USDA’s Agricultural Trade Office in Shanghai, as well as insights from representatives of the Netherlands, Poland, and Thailand. Ashley van Batavia, a veterinarian from the USDA Animal Plant Health Inspection Service office in Beijing, discussed protocols for US pet foods and ingredients to ensure bio-safety.
Edward Potter, assistant country director at the FDA’s China Office, delivered a keynote speech on US compliance requirements for foreign pet food facilities and importers. He emphasized FDA regulations, the pre-market approval process for pet food ingredients, and the importance of the Foreign Supplier Verification Program for exporting pet foods to the US.
The conference also provided a platform for ingredient suppliers and food companies to showcase advanced technologies and discuss new initiatives. A panel discussion allowed for an open dialogue on product innovation, manufacturing optimization, and quality control in the pet food industry.
Overall, the FDA and USDA highlighted the importance of safeguarding supply chains for pet foods, treats, and ingredients between the USA and its trade partners at CAFIC 2024.
