AAFCO request states “cease and desist” approving hemp for animal feed and pet food

The Association for American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) along with 16 industry associations are urging state legislators to halt approval of hemp in animal feed products until appropriate research and regulatory measures are taken.

Unlike other animal feed and pet food products and additives, hemp has not been appropriately researched or legally authorized for use in animal food at the federal level. Despite this, hemp and hemp derivatives are a growing trend in the animal feed and pet food industry. Products are being marketed and sold with claims to reduce anxiety in animals and enhance coat and skin health.

In a letter to agricultural leaders and state policymakers, AAFCO, with the support of 16 industry organizations including the American Feed Industry Association (AFIA), requested states halt approval of animal feed and pet food products containing hemp until research is conducted to better understand “concerns about the health and safety of livestock and companion animals, consumer safety from food produced by animals fed hemp, and legal implications for animal producers and feed manufacturers”.

AAFCO is encouraging states and producers of hemp products to support funding for research and testing and make use of the regulatory pathways for animal feed and pet food defined by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

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