Austin Therrell: Pet Food Label Modernization

Summary

This podcast discusses important issues in the pet food industry, focusing on the challenges of copper levels in pet food and the efforts to update nutrient profiles for pet food. Experts explain the ongoing research into safe copper limits and the potential introduction of a voluntary copper claim. Additionally, the conversation touches on the AFCO nutrient profiles and the continuous effort to align them with current scientific advancements. The podcast concludes with advice for aspiring professionals in animal science, encouraging passion, networking, and involvement in the industry to drive change.

Takeaways

• 😀 Copper levels in pet food have been a point of controversy, with ongoing discussions on establishing a safe upper limit for copper.
• 😀 An expert panel convened by the pet food association concluded that there is insufficient data to set a definitive upper limit for copper in pet food.
• 😀 A proposed voluntary 'controlled copper' claim would set a maximum of 15 mg/kg of copper on a dry matter basis and 3.75 mg/kcal of metabolizable energy.
• 😀 The pet food association continues to review new scientific literature on copper levels, but no consensus has been reached on the proposed voluntary copper claim.
• 😀 The AFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) is working on regularly updating its dog and cat food nutrient profiles to keep them aligned with the latest scientific advancements.
• 😀 The AFCO board has charged the pet food committee with establishing a routine process to review new findings in animal nutrition and to update nutrient profiles accordingly.
• 😀 There is a focus on ensuring that nutrient profiles in pet food remain up to date with current science, allowing for improved dietary formulations for pets.
• 😀 Experts from across the pet food industry and veterinary nutrition are involved in the ongoing review of new data on essential nutrients like copper.
• 😀 The importance of passion in one's work is emphasized, with advice for young professionals to find what they are passionate about and get involved in their chosen fields.
• 😀 The speaker encourages young people to volunteer, make connections, and stay engaged in their industry to build a successful career and contribute to meaningful change.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the podcast episode?

The main focus of the episode is on the modernization of pet food labeling, with particular attention to copper levels in pet food and the efforts being made to establish safe limits and voluntary claims.

Why is copper a controversial topic in the pet food industry?

Copper is controversial because there is ongoing debate about its safety levels in pet food, with concerns about potential risks to pets, especially in relation to liver disease, but insufficient data to establish safe upper limits.

What process did the association follow to address concerns about copper in pet food?

In response to concerns, the association convened an expert panel of veterinary nutritionists and other industry representatives to review new scientific literature on copper and assess the risks, ultimately finding that more data is needed to set safe upper limits.

What is the proposed voluntary copper claim discussed in the podcast?

The proposed voluntary copper claim would allow manufacturers to label their products with a maximum of 15 milligrams of copper per kilogram on a dry matter basis, and 3.75 milligrams per kilocalorie of metabolizable energy. This would be a voluntary guideline for manufacturers who wish to make such a claim.

What role does the AFCO play in updating nutrient profiles for pet food?

The AFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) plays a crucial role in ensuring that pet food nutrient profiles, which are based on scientific research, are kept up to date with the latest advancements in animal nutrition.

How does AFCO plan to keep pet food nutrient profiles up to date?

AFCO has charged the pet food committee to implement a more routine process for reviewing new scientific advancements in nutrition, including convening expert panels to update the dog and cat food nutrient profiles.

What was the general consensus regarding the safe upper limit of copper in pet food?

The general consensus is that there is not enough data to establish a safe upper limit for copper in pet food at the moment, although research is ongoing.

What was the result of the public comments received regarding the voluntary copper claim?

The public comments revealed a wide range of opinions, with some supporting the voluntary copper claim and others opposing it, highlighting the ongoing debate within the industry.

What advice does the podcast offer to younger members interested in the pet food industry?

The podcast encourages young people to find something they are passionate about and pursue it, emphasizing that making connections and volunteering in the industry can lead to opportunities and a fulfilling career.

What is the role of science in shaping pet food standards and regulations?

Science plays a vital role in shaping pet food standards and regulations by providing the evidence necessary to update nutrient profiles, establish safe limits for ingredients like copper, and ensure that pet foods meet the nutritional needs of animals.