When the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) was signed into law, it marked the first major reform in food safety regulation in over 70 years. The goal of FSMA is shifting the focus from reacting to contamination of the food supply after it has occurred to preventing it from occurring
As of September 17, 2018, animal food facilities (except for those qualifying as very small businesses) are now required to comply with both Subparts B and C of the Preventive Controls for Animal Food. Subpart B consists of the Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMPs). Subpart C demands compliance with the preventive controls requirements including establishment of a food safety system with a hazard analysis and risk-based preventive controls as needed.
For AFB International, food safety and quality have always been our top priorities. Our Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) program has been part of our food safety program for many years, helping us to identify and mitigate food safety risks.
Additionally, AFB”s sampling plan, positive release program and frequent internal compliance audits help to ensure we are meeting strict food safety standards in all of our manufacturing facilities and providing high-quality and safe products to our customers.
With FSMA, AFB has taken an even deeper look into our food safety and quality programs to re-evaluate any potential food safety risks and provide our customers with the highest quality assurance possible. This assessment has resulted in enhancements to our HACCP Food Safety Plan, as well as our extensive supplier approval program, which helps to ensure our raw materials and ingredients come from sources that meet both AFB”s strict standards and FSMA requirements.
As we are approving suppliers, one of the things AFB likes to see our suppliers have is a third-party certification. Third-party certifications, especially those certified under the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) umbrella, are becoming increasingly important for our suppliers to hold, as they provide an added level of security that the supplier has the appropriate food safety and quality programs in place. AFB’s third-party certifications also demonstrate to our customers our commitment to, and compliance with, pet food regulations and standards.
As pet food continues to parallel trends in human foods – such as non-GMO, all natural and gluten-free, we anticipate an increase in pet food safety regulations. In the meantime, AFB’s Quality Assurance team is dedicated to continually evaluating our programs and processes to help our customers ensure quality and food safety for pets and pet owners.
For more information visit AFB International’s website, HERE.
