Staying on the Right Side of the Regulatory Authorities.

This article provides reviews of the following: principal regulatory frameworks governing the supply of feed products for horses, focusing on the United States and Europe with guidance on compliance; key federal, state, or country requirements to ensure safe and accurately labeled products; rules concerning antidoping with a review of naturally occurring prohibited substances commonly found in feedstuffs; essential information for brand holders of equine nutrition products, practicing veterinarians, independent nutritionists, research scientists, competition riders and racehorse trainers, and those responsible for the direct feeding of horses.

Focus on nutrition--U.S. pet food regulation: hot topics.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Amendments Act of 2007 mandates promulgation of new federal regulations regarding processing, ingredient, and labeling standards for pet foods. Veterinary organizations have submitted comments to assist FDA in this matter. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) is also considering changes that will affect state regulation of pet foods, including revision of the AAFCO Dog and Cat Food Nutrient Profiles and feeding trial protocols, an American College of Veterinary Nutrition proposal to mandate calorie content statements on all dog and cat food labels, and new Good Manufacturing Practices regulations for all animal feeds.

Regulation of pet foods in the United States.

In the United States, pet foods (including treats, edible chews, and supplements) are subject to regulation at both federal and state levels. Products found to be adulterated or misbranded are subject to enforcement action. Veterinarians play a key role in helping ensure pet food safety by reporting possible adverse effects to authorities in a timely manner.

Anatomy of a recall.

Pet foods on the market that are contaminated or otherwise present a health risk to humans or animals may be subject to a recall under US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations. Legally, all recalls are "voluntary," but there is little incentive for companies to refuse a request by FDA to conduct a recall. While the firm does the bulk of the work, FDA oversees all aspects of a recall to help ensure that violative product is swiftly removed from the market.