11/09/2025
The Interview: Santiago De Andrés Juárez, General Secretary of ANFAAC
How was your professional journey leading up to your current role as the General Secretary of ANFAAC?
Throughout my career, I have collaborated with various business organizations in the sector, always aiming to create value and support the development of key sectors, including health, animal nutrition, and pet nutrition, among others.
This experience has also enabled me to work in multiple European federations, where I confirmed the growing influence of EU institutions in regulating all economic sectors, as well as the great influence Spain has in the field of international relations. I believe this global outlook is fundamental to understanding current changes and preparing us for the challenges ahead.
How is ANFAAC involved in the development of the pet food industry in Spain?
Our association currently represents over 90% of pet food manufacturing companies in Spain. However, we have come a long way to leverage this reach. ANFAAC was founded in May 1980, and since 1987, we have been active members of the European Pet Food Industry Federation (FEDIAF), participating in its executive bodies and working committees. We were proud to host the 2025 FEDIAF Annual Congress in Madrid, which was a great success. We have also been members of the Spanish Federation of Food and Drink Industries (FIAB) since 1996.
Nowadays, ANFAAC serves as the industry's voice in the presence of national, regional, and local administrations, and it is a key player in developing large-scale projects with various organizations and agencies. A clear example is the agreement on responsible ownership that we signed with the Ministry of Social Rights, Consumer Affairs and 2030 Agenda, as well as our ongoing work on pet welfare regulations at both the EU and national levels.
We are proud not only to be a reference in the sector but also to work every day to ensure that pets in Spain receive safe, innovative, and high-quality food. Our mission is to continue promoting a dynamic, responsible industry —one in which collaboration among companies, institutions, and society is the key to a sustainable, opportunity-driven future.
From your point of view, what are the main challenges and opportunities the pet food sector faces in Spain and Europe today?
The first challenge of our company is to ensure continuity in production and trade in a complex geopolitical context.
We are committed to reinforcing our competitiveness through ongoing innovation both in products (offering healthier and more sustainable food) and processes (efficiency and digitalization). The key is to turn market demands into opportunities, leveraging the industry's strengths. Relying on innovation is not just necessary—it is a tool for growth and differentiation in a more dynamic and demanding market.
We must continue to develop safe, high-quality pet food by having processes with the latest scientific advancements in animal nutrition and ingredients that support pet health.
Also, to highlight the importance of reauthorizing additive processes in animal nutrition with different objectives: 1) provide nutritional benefits in vitamin formats; 2) ensure food safety and maintain desirable texture, stability, and wear resistance; 3) and from the organoleptic view, to provide different colors and flavors.
Another challenge is to progressively adapt to new policies about sustainability, which involve important topics —from raw materials supply (such as fats) to pet welfare, always in collaboration with proper authorities.
As an association, our goal is to continue advocating for the interests of our member companies and promoting sector-wide development, while also ensuring the proper care and well-being of companion animals in coordination with the relevant authorities.
In addition, we will support the strong export vocation of our companies and help promote their development into foreign markets by eliminating bureaucratic barriers in existing markets and facilitating access to new ones.
How has the relationship between families and their pets evolved in recent years? How has it impacted on pet food demand and formulation?
One key moment came nearly five years ago with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. It had a major impact on the market—the pet food sector became essential. During this period, Spanish society grew awareness about the advantages of pet ownership, benefits that have been confirmed by several scientific research in the last years.
It became clear that pets play a vital role in reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation —the most concerning problem nowadays because it affects all sectors and ages of society. These effects were magnified during the pandemic, making pets essential companions in millions of homes.
The rise of remote work also allowed many people to spend more time at home, making it easier to care for their pets.
Demographic changes also influenced —with life expectancy increasing, elderly people are choosing to have pets for companionship and to stay active.
At ANFAAC, we also recognize the importance of cultural shifts. Since pets are considered full members of the family, there is a greater interest in having and providing them with proper care.
What role does innovation play in the sector's growth? How is it driven by joint work between industry, academia, and regulatory entities?
Innovation plays a central role. The pet food industry is inherently innovative. Companies in this sector are constantly developing safe and healthy foods for our pets, incorporating the latest scientific advances in animal nutrition and ingredients that support animal health into their production processes.
Our member companies work with nutritionists, veterinarians, biochemists, and animal behavior researchers. They ensure safety and quality throughout the entire process —from manufacturing to bringing the product to markets— including clear and appropriate communication with pet owners. They lead the way in research, development, and innovation, and are strongly committed to environmental sustainability.
A key milestone in collaboration with the academic sector has been the development of the FEDIAF Nutritional Guidelines for Cats and Dogs. These comprehensive documents provide essential information on recommended nutrient levels in pet food based on life stage, health condition, and activity level. The guidelines are prepared by FEDIAF's Nutrition Working Group and Scientific Advisory Board (SAB), a group of freelance scientists from academic institutions across Europe. These guidelines have become the primary reference for companion animal nutrition in Europe —for EU authorities, consumer organizations, professionals, and pet owners alike.
Similarly, FEDIAF has recently updated its Nutritional Guidelines for Feeding Pet Rabbits. This extensive document offers scientifically based recommendations to ensure the health and well-being of pet rabbits through balanced, appropriate diets.
Regarding collaboration with regulatory authorities, I would highlight the productive relationship between ANFAAC and the Spanish Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food (MAPA) and the control authorities of various autonomous communities. This is reflected in our participation in the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC), where we address regulatory developments. The sector is highly regulated in all aspects, from ingredients to manufacturing and commercialization.
After all, our mission is to provide pets with safe, high-quality, varied, and palatable food that helps them live long, healthy lives, enabling us to share and enjoy with them.
Which technological, sustainable, or consumer trends are shaping the future of the pet food sector? How is the industry adapting to them?
Consumer trends are closely linked to the growing importance of pets in our households. Specialized products remain in high demand —especially those targeting specific health benefits. The most cutting-edge offerings from our companies are moving in that direction, although innovation is a defining characteristic across the entire industry.
Premium, dietary, and functional pet food is becoming mainstream.
Circularity is a top priority for our sector. We are committed to promoting responsible pet ownership while supporting the essential role pets play in society. In Europe, it is estimated that the pet food supply chain directly employs 280,000 people and indirectly supports another 2.3 million jobs.
Finally, what message would you like to share with industry players working toward a sustainable, responsible, and high-quality pet food market?
My message to all industry players is clear: let's continue working together so that the pet food sector not only grows but so does responsibly—driven by innovation and committed to animal welfare and the planet.
Thank you, Santiago, for talking with the All Pet Food team!
By Santiago De Andrés Juárez
Source: All Pet Food Magazine
