The event featured leading EU regulatory experts, including representatives from the Polish General Veterinary Inspectorate, FEFANA, EFSA, and the EU Commission, who provided insights into the additive authorization process.
The most anticipated change of the rules on additives used in animal nutrition, governed by Regulation (EC) No 1831/2003, is postponed until the next EU Commission. The existing rules, more than 20 years old, are not expected to be updated until the first quarter of 2025.
Too heavy regulation
According to Sonia Franck, FEDIAF secretary general, the current 10-year authorization period for additives poses major challenges. The industry is at risk of losing key additives due to factors such as lack of interest from historical applicants, challenging costs, and the administrative burden in terms of renewing more than 1,600 products.
“The overly burdensome regulatory requirements, especially regarding efficacy and tolerability studies, require changes to explore alternative methods to enhance efficiency and reduce animal testing,” said Frank.
FEDIAF, in collaboration with AnimalhealthEurope (AHE), Copa-Cogeca, FEAP, FEFAC, and FEFANA, is actively engaged in a unified and constructive dialogue with the Commission on the amendment of feed additive legislation.
“Feed additives play an important role in optimizing feed formulations for various livestock sectors, including farm animals, aquaculture, and companion animals. By improving efficiency and feed conservation, these additives promote better resource use, reduced waste, lower emissions, and improved animal welfare,” Franck told us.
While the initial legislation was primarily targeted at animals, its unintended impact on pet food additives is a concern. “Adaptive measures and collaborative engagement are essential in addressing these challenges and ensuring the continued well-being of animals across sectors,” he added.
A key focus over the next 12 months will be to effectively communicate key messages to the newly elected members of the EU Parliament. FEDIAF aims to emphasize the importance of conserving key ingredients, advocating for pet welfare, and establishing a harmonized system for assessing the environmental impact of pet food.
Strategic objectives The
The congress also provided an opportunity to reflect on the past year’s achievements and activities and identify future priorities. Over the course of three days, participants took part in multiple working group and committee meetings, as well as plenary sessions, fostering a collaborative environment for in-depth discussions and strategic planning.
One of the key takeaways from the event was the transition of FEDIAF from reactive to proactive advocacy. “We aim to support the development of the EU regulatory framework in a way that prioritizes pet food in every aspect,” said Franck.
The trade group also intends to focus on regularly updating its guidelines and codes.
In addition, FEDIAF will continue to enhance its collaboration with the Federation of Veterinarians of Europe (FVE), the Federation of European Companion Animal Veterinary Associations (FECAVA), and AnimalhealthEurope through the Pet Alliance to promote #PetPower, said by Franck. That collaboration highlights the broad benefits of pet interaction and the importance of pet welfare.
Sustainability remains a top priority, with FEDIAF focusing on alignment and harmonization with the Green Claims Directive, following developments in the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), and updating the Product Environmental Footprint Category Rules (PEFCRs). These efforts aim to help members identify and improve aspects of the manufacturing process to reduce environmental impact.
