Welfare of Animals in the Global Pet Food Supply Chain

The pet food industry consumes billions of animals annually in production, with welfare standards for pet food supply chains lagging behind those for human food supply chains.

Key Facts

The global pet food market exceeds 100 billion USD annually and is growing rapidly
Poultry, fish, and meat byproducts from human food supply chains make up the bulk of pet food ingredients
Rendered animal products in pet food may derive from rendering facilities that accept animals from any source
Sustainable and welfare-certified pet food lines are growing but remain a small fraction of the market
Some pet food brands now source from suppliers with independently audited animal welfare standards

Welfare Considerations

Every pet fed on conventional animal-based pet food is connected to a supply chain with real animal welfare implications. The animals who become pet food are no less deserving of welfare consideration than those who become human food — yet the pet food supply chain receives even less scrutiny. Byproducts from poor-welfare production systems, rendering of animals from unknown sources, and fish from trawl fisheries all contribute to pet food in ways that most pet owners never consider. Welfare-conscious pet feeding is part of a broader commitment to animal welfare.

What You Can Do

Research the welfare standards of your pet food brands supply chain
Choose pet food brands that source from certified welfare-conscious suppliers
Explore plant-based or insect-based pet food options where species-appropriate
Advocate for pet food supply chain transparency and welfare certification standards