ATLANTA — The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) announced that Angele Thompson, Ph.D., has received its 2024 Friend of Pet Food award. Jerry May, vice president of government and trade affairs at Freshpet, presented Thompson with the award at the 2024 Pet Food Conference on January 30, held in conjunction with the International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) in Atlanta.
Thompson received the award for his long-term contributions to the pet and pet food industry. He originally began his career as a nutritionist at Heinz Pet Products and rose to the role of technical services manager of nutrition, analytical laboratory and animal feeding laboratory. From there, Thompson went on to work for Mars Pet Care, then known as Kal Kan, as product development team manager for the company’s cat brands in the United States and Canada, leading the company’s research and development efforts .
Further advancing his extensive career, Thompson founded his independent consulting firm, Thompson PetTech, in 1997.
Additionally, Thompson has held numerous roles at the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), including speaking on expert panels to develop the association’s Nutrient Profiles and Protocols. He also served as an advisor to the AAFCO Ingredient Definitions Committee and the AAFCO Pet Food Committee.
“Dr. Thompson has contributed to the advancement of innovation, product development and nutrition in the pet food industry,” said Louise Calderwood, director of regulatory affairs at AFIA. “She continues to be a proactive voice in the industry, and is excited we present this award in recognition of his leadership.”
In his current role as founder and president of Thompson PetTech, Thompson offers nutrition, product development and regulatory services, helping companies develop innovative solutions to support pet health and well-being. He has a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from the University of California, Los Angeles, and a doctorate in nutritional biochemistry from the University of Arizona.
“I am very fortunate to have entered the pet food industry early in my career and continue to contribute to the lives of pets and those who love them,” said Thompson.
Established in 2019, the AFIA Friend of Pet Food Award aims to recognize individuals in the industry who have made significant contributions to support the pet food industry. Since its launch, the award has highlighted the extensive work of eight individuals.
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