The use of animal by-products (ABPs) in petfood has long been an industry standard, providing a cost-effective source of protein and nutrients for pets. These by-products often include organ meats such as liver, kidneys, and spleen, which would otherwise go to waste. However, as concerns over sustainability and environmental impact grow, the petfood industry finds itself under increasing pressure to ensure that its sourcing practices are both ethical and responsible.
Recent discussions, especially from organisations like the British Veterinary Association (BVA), have cast a spotlight on the potential long-term consequences of using animal by-products in petfood. BVA’s insights stress the need for detailed assessments on the environmental impact of ABPs, particularly as their use extends beyond pet food into biofuels and other industries. But with increasing competition for these valuable resources, questions arise about whether the pet food sector can maintain its supply chain while also being environmentally sustainable.
The Biofuel Debate
In 2022, the European Parliament proposed using Category 3 animal fats as biofuel for the aviation and maritime industries, with the aim of reducing carbon emissions in line with the EU Green Deal. However, this has sparked fears that the move could lead to a shortage of the by-products necessary for producing petfood.
In a press release issued in September 2022, the European Pet Food Industry Federation (FEDIAF) argued that “we do not believe that valuable pet food ingredients belong in engines.” The federation voiced concerns that shifting ABPs to biofuel production could destabilise the petfood supply chain, leading to shortages of essential ingredients and potentially making it more difficult to feed pets adequately.
Ethical Sourcing
One of the key principles championed by the UK Pet Food industry is the One Health approach—an understanding that human health, animal welfare, and environmental sustainability are deeply interconnected. Nicole Paley, Deputy Chief Executive of UK Petfood, explains that the industry recognises the importance of maintaining high standards of animal welfare as a core component of sustainability.
The UK pet food industry operates under the strict framework of the Animal By-Products Regulation (ABPR), which ensures that only safe, edible parts of animals are used in petfoods. These materials, categorised as ‘category 3’ by-products, typically include animal parts not consumed by humans in the UK, helping to reduce food waste while promoting a circular economy.
Despite these standards, Paley acknowledges the challenges the industry faces in ensuring transparency. “The current supply chain does not segregate animal by-products by welfare standards at the abattoir level, which presents a transparency challenge,” she says. This issue has led to increased collaboration between petfood manufacturers, government authorities, and other stakeholders to explore potential solutions.
Sustainability Challenges
One key area where the industry is making strides is in waste reduction. Research from the Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP) shows that less than 1% of petfood is wasted, compared to approximately 30% of human food.
Further efforts to improve sustainability are being made through partnerships and collaborations. UK Pet Food, for example, has worked with 3Keel, environmental consultants, to conduct a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of seven key ingredients commonly used in UK pet foods. The results of this study will be used to help manufacturers reduce their environmental impacts and enhance sustainable sourcing practices.
UK Pet Food is also collaborating with organizations like the Pet Sustainability Coalition (PSC) and supporting the UK Wrap Plastic Pact to promote best practices and sustainable business operations.
Transparency and Consumer Education
The UK petfood industry has been working to improve communication with pet owners about the sourcing of animal by-products, ensuring that information is accessible and clear.
“We are increasingly seeing detailed product information on websites, and customer care staff are on hand to talk to pet owners about the ingredients in their products,” says Paley. To promote consumer awareness, UK Pet Food has launched campaigns such as ‘Love Them Madly, Feed Them Wisely’, which aims to empower pet owners with knowledge about the types of petfoods available and the sources of ingredients.
In addition to offering ingredient glossaries and explainer videos, the industry also provides pet owners with tips on how to make informed decisions.
