PSC is committed to maintaining regulations

The Pet Sustainability Coalition (PSC), representing over 200 companies in the pet industry, has announced its rejection of the United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) proposal to repeal the organic standards for pet food adopted earlier this year. The PSC argues that these standards are the result of over two decades of collaboration between all stakeholders, and that they bring much-needed clarity to an underserved market segment. The standards would lower the barriers to producing complete and balanced organic pet food by aligning with industry practice and permitting key ingredients such as animal by-products and synthetic taurine.

"Repealing the regulation would undo years of progress, increase confusion about the rules, and harm small businesses, processors, and animal feed manufacturers who are working hard to meet the growing consumer demand for organic products," the PSC added. Since the regulation was adopted, many PSC members have started sourcing organic ingredients and developing new products. Reversing the standard would undermine these efforts, hinder innovation, and limit consumer choice – especially for pet owners who want the same quality of food for their pets as they do for their families, the association criticises.

The 2024 regulation has reduced administrative burdens and given both brands and certification bodies better access to the organic market.