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 17th, 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.

To learn more about AFB International"s Quality Assurance team or FSMA requirements for pet food, contact Robyn Allyn at [email protected].

Author: Robyn Allyn – AFB International

Source -  AFB International 


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About company

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About company

WHAT WE DO

At AFB International, we develop and produce a full range of liquid and dry palatability enhancers. We use high-quality ingredients proven to optimize companion animal response and consumption.

Our specialty? Meeting your unique needs with custom support. Our worldwide staff of technical experts is ready to assist you with all aspects of palatability enhancement, from product development and testing to processing, logistics and more.

HOW WE WORK

Our successful customer relationships are built on clear, consistent communication—starting with really listening to understand your needs so we can respond quickly and effectively. And we keep listening. AFB scientists and technical service managers routinely travel to customer facilities to clearly understand the challenges at hand and the systems in place. Then we can recommend the best viable solutions.

OUR TEAM

AFB is dedicated to improving the health and wellness of companion animals worldwide through superior products and services. Our diverse, committed team works collaboratively to serve our clients. Get to know us—and let us know how we can help you!

HISTORY

AFB launched in 1986 and has grown to be the global science and technology leader in pet food palatability. Headquartered in St. Charles, Missouri, USA, AFB is a global company with state-of-the-art facilities in the United States, Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, the Netherlands, China, and Australia. AFB is a wholly owned subsidiary of Ensign-Bickford Industries, Inc., a privately held, family-owned, professionally managed technical business that traces its roots back more than 185 years.


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