Unfortunately, we found pet food companies, veterinarians, and pet food recommendation sites making the misleading claim that pet foods are “AAFCO approved”.
It’s not true. AAFCO does not approve pet foods or any part of a pet food. AAFCO is not a regulatory organization, AAFCO is not a certifying organization giving ‘approval’ for anything.
From the AAFCO website:
Even though it is public information that AAFCO does not “regulate, test, approve or certify pet foods” – some pet foods, veterinarians, and websites are telling pet owners they do.
Maev Pet Food makes the “AAFCO approved” claim in numerous ways on their website. One section states every bag contains “AAFCO-approved, USDA-certified Raw Beef or Chicken”. Another section of their website displays an icon with just the words “AAFCO Approved”.
In an online chat with the company, Maev explained that ingredients are “AAFCO approved”. (We also asked for clarification what they meant by “USDA-certified”, the company promised to email that information, we have not received that response to date.)
The website BestReviews.Guide provides pet owners a list of the “10 Best AAFCO Approved Cat Food Brands”.
In a post on TheKitchn.com, veterinarian Dr. Carly Fox is quoted “Just look for an AAFCO seal of approval on the bag, and you’re good to go.” The article continues with “For the unacquainted, an AAFCO certificate is an assurance that the food is nutritionally complete and balanced.”
Don’t be misled…AAFCO does not approve pet foods.
Wishing you and your pet(s) the best,
Susan Thixton
Pet Food Safety Advocate
Author Buyer Beware, Co-Author Dinner PAWsible
TruthaboutPetFood.com
Association for Truth in Pet Food
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Lynn Felici-Gallant
July 27, 2023 at 9:32 am
Good morning, good post as always, however, some state departments of ag require an AAFCO statement of who the food is intended for — e.g., xyz is meets AAFCO guidelines for adult maintenance…Do you think that’s misleading also? Thanks for all you do.
Susan Thixton
July 27, 2023 at 10:38 am
No – that statement is required. The statement should be something similar to…Formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by AAFCO dog food nutrient profiles for Adult Maintenance (or All Life Stages). The ‘AAFCO approved’ statements are the misleading statements as AAFCO does not approve anything.
Sally
July 27, 2023 at 2:05 pm
Sure wish Congress would tighten up on these advertising claims. Until companion animal advocates get lobbyists, our concerns fall on deaf ears. I despise the lobbyist system, but it’s the one we have.
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