Pet Food Business
Starting a pet food business
Regardless of whether you are a start-up or an established business, pet food companies need to fully recognise the trust that pet owners place in our organisations and products when they choose to feed pet food to their family member.
The first priority of all pet food and pet treat companies must be to supply safe and nutritious food to consumers and their much-loved pets.
If you are making food for pets, then you need to familiarise yourself with the nutritional requirements of pets published by international organisations the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) https://www.aafco.org/ and the European Pet Food Industry (FEDIAF) http://www.fediaf.org/. It is your responsibility to ensure your products are formulated appropriately and responsibly, providing healthy nutrition for cats and dogs.
For a start-up opening a pet food business can be daunting
What do I need to know, what legislation should I be aware of? The PFIAA would like to help you on your journey. The information provided is not exhaustive, it does rely on the start up owner taking full responsibility.
The PFIAA recommends that you research how to start a business before deciding.
There is a lot of free information available. This includes government websites such as www.ato.gov.au and www.business.gov.au. You can also search business portals on each state and territory government and local government website. You may choose to work with business advisers to ensure your business complies with all associated legislation.
You will need to comply with Australian laws
You will need to comply with a range of legislation.
- Consumer Commission https://www.accc.gov.au/
- National Measurement Institute legislation for weights and measures https://www.industry.gov.au/strategies-for-the-future/national-measurement-institute
- Workplace relations https://www.fairwork.gov.au/
- Worksafe in your state or territory
- Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority https://apvma.gov.au/ (APVMA)
- and more.
Only PFIAA Members can be certified to meet AS5812
The PFIAA recommends any business producing pet food is compliant with AS5812 – Manufacture and marketing of pet food. This Standard advises the requirements for the production, supply and sale of manufactured food and treats. It covers production of pet food/treats, including pet meat from sourcing and receipt of ingredients to storage, processing (including heat treatment), packing, labelling and storage of products in order to assure its safety for pets. It also includes the information that must be provided on labels including claims. The Standard applies to all pet food sold through any sales channel, regardless of whether manufactured in Australia or imported from overseas.
Purchase a copy of AS5812
SAI Global is an independent company that requires users to purchase a copy of the Standard.
Need more information on how to become a member?
Members have access to various resources, technical assistance, guidance and support across the pet food industry. Become a member today.