The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) is a non-profit organization that sets standards for the production, labeling, and sale of animal feeds and pet foods in the United States. AAFCO develops model regulations and standards that are used by state and federal regulatory agencies to ensure the safety, quality, and nutritional adequacy of animal feeds and pet foods.
One of AAFCO's key roles is to establish nutrient profiles and feeding trial protocols for different life stages of dogs and cats. For dog food,
these guidelines include nutrient profiles, which outline the minimum and sometimes maximum levels of nutrients required for a complete and balanced
diet. Here are some key nutrients and their minimum requirements for dog food according to AAFCO:
Protein: Minimum 18% for adult maintenance, 22% for growth (puppies) and reproduction (pregnant or lactating females).
Fat: Minimum 5.5% for adult maintenance, 8% for growth and reproduction.
Fiber: Maximum 5% for adult maintenance, 5.5% for growth and reproduction.
Calcium: Minimum 0.6% for adult maintenance, 1% for growth and reproduction.
Phosphorus: Minimum 0.5% for adult maintenance, 0.8% for growth and reproduction.
Vitamin A: Minimum 5,000 IU/kg for adult maintenance, 5,000 IU/kg for growth and reproduction.
Vitamin E: Minimum 50 IU/kg for adult maintenance, 50 IU/kg for growth and reproduction.
Taurine: Minimum 0.1% for adult maintenance.
Linoleic Acid: Minimum 1% for adult maintenance, 1% for growth and reproduction.
These guidelines help ensure that dog foods provide the essential nutrients dogs need for optimal health. It's important to note that these
are minimum requirements, and some dogs may require different levels of certain nutrients based on their individual needs.
Pet food manufacturers can use these guidelines to formulate their products and ensure that they meet the nutritional requirements of pets.
AAFCO also provides guidance on labeling requirements, ingredient definitions, and other aspects of pet food production and labeling.
Read more: AAFCO Offical Website