FDA Urges Pet Food Manufacturers to Revamp Safety Plans to Address ‘Bird Flu’ Risks
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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued updated guidance urging pet food manufacturers to reassess their food safety plans in light of the risks posed by Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1). This directive applies to companies regulated under the FDA Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Preventive Controls for Animal Food (PCAF) rule, particularly those using uncooked or unpasteurized poultry- or cattle-derived ingredients in cat and dog food.
Why the Update Is Critical
Recent outbreaks of H5N1 in domestic and wild cats across states like California, Oregon, Washington, and Colorado have been linked to contaminated food products. While cats can suffer severe illness or even death from H5N1, dogs typically experience milder symptoms with lower mortality rates.
To address these concerns, the FDA now classifies H5N1 as a “reasonably foreseeable hazard” for pet food manufacturers that use raw or unprocessed animal ingredients, such as meat, milk, or eggs. The reanalysis of food safety plans will help companies incorporate updated scientific insights and mitigate the risks of H5N1 transmission through pet food.
Recommended Reading
Bird Flu and Raw Food: Should Dog Parents Worry About Avian Influenza?
Read MoreKey Steps for Pet Food Manufacturers
The FDA recommends several actionable steps to reduce the risk of H5N1 in pet food production:
- Source Ingredients Responsibly
Ensure all raw materials are obtained from healthy herds or flocks, minimizing the likelihood of contamination. - Use Processing Methods to Eliminate the Virus
Implement heat treatments or other scientifically validated processes to inactivate the virus in meat, milk, and eggs. - Establish Robust Supply-Chain Controls
Verify that all ingredients are free from H5N1 contamination by working closely with suppliers.
Resources for Compliance
The FDA has made scientific literature and other resources available to assist manufacturers in updating their food safety plans. Companies that adopt these preventive measures not only help protect pets but also contribute to reducing the broader spread of H5N1.
Urgent Call to Action
Pet food businesses are strongly encouraged to act swiftly to align their safety protocols with these new standards. Addressing the risks associated with H5N1 requires cooperation across government agencies, the pet food industry, and consumers. By taking these steps, manufacturers can ensure both compliance and the increased safety of pets nationwide.
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