Highlights from the 5th China International Companion Animal Food Ingredients Conference (CAFIC 2024) in Yangzhou, China

The 5th China International Companion Animal Food Ingredients Conference (“CAFIC 2024”) was a huge success, bringing together industry experts, professionals, and leading companies in the pet food industry. Held in Yangzhou, China, the conference focused on the theme of how technology and management can improve the safety, quality, and innovation of pet foods.

With China’s pet food industry experiencing rapid growth, reaching 120 million dogs and cats as household companions in 2023, the demand for ingredients and technologies has been on the rise. The conference featured presentations from key figures in the industry, including representatives from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Ted Shibata, Acting Director of USDA Agricultural Trade Office in Shanghai, highlighted the trade status of US pet foods with China and the role of ATOs in supporting this trade. Dr. Ashley van Batavia, veterinarian of USDA Animal Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) office in Beijing, discussed protocols for US pet foods and animal protein ingredients to ensure bio-safety.

The conference also featured presentations from world-renowned experts in pet food processing, nutrition, and ingredient development. Dr. Yulong Yin, a Chinese academician of engineering, reviewed advances in pet food ingredient technologies, while Dr. Mian Riaz shared insights on baked pet food trends.

In addition to presentations, the conference included panel discussions with industry leaders discussing challenges and successes in the Chinese pet food industry. Awards were also presented to companies and individuals for their outstanding management of ingredient supply chains and quality control.

Overall, the conference provided a valuable platform for industry professionals to exchange knowledge, showcase new technologies, and discuss the latest trends in the pet food industry. With over 800 professionals in attendance, CAFIC 2024 was a testament to the growing importance of the pet food industry in China.

Looking ahead, the organizers announced that CAFIC 2025 and CAFEC 2025 are scheduled to be held in China in early June of 2025, promising even more insights and innovations for the industry. For more information about LAMB Consultancy Co. Ltd, the leading service company behind the conference, visit their website at www.lambconsultancy.co.nz.