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A federal legislative proposal is raising important questions about pet food labeling, industry influence, and consumers’ ability to make informed choices about what they feed their pets.
Pet food regulation is back in the news. On October 13, 2026, Pet Food Safety News reported on provisions of the Pet Food Uniform Regulatory Reform Act (PURR Act) included in a federal appropriations bill that had passed the U.S. House of Representatives and was awaiting Senate action.
The legislation would establish a more uniform federal regulatory framework for pet food labeling and ingredient reviews, limiting the ability of states to impose different or additional labeling requirements. Supporters argue that a consistent federal system would streamline regulation and reduce conflicting state requirements.
The Pet Food Institute, a trade association representing pet food manufacturers, supports the legislation.
However, the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) has raised concerns about the proposed changes, including reduced state authority over labeling and marketing claims and provisions that could allow certain ingredients to be listed as “sometimes, but not always” present. AAFCO argues that these changes could undermine transparency for consumers who rely on accurate ingredient information, including those managing pets’ allergies or dietary needs.
Why Independent Pet Food Testing Matters
The debate raises a fundamental question: Who is looking out for consumers when it comes to what’s actually in their pets’ food?
Pet owners depend on product labels and manufacturers’ assurances when choosing food for their dogs and cats. But labels and regulatory reviews serve a different purpose from independent laboratory testing.
Independent testing can provide additional evidence about substances present in pet food, helping researchers and consumers investigate contaminants and ask informed questions about food quality and transparency. Detecting a substance does not automatically mean a product is unsafe; its concentration, the animal’s exposure, and the scientific evidence all matter.
At Moms Across America (MAA), we believe pet parents across America deserve credible information about the products they feed their beloved animals. That is why MAA is raising funds to independently test commercial pet food for glyphosate, pesticides, and heavy metals.
The independent testing is up to us—the people and MAA. The federal government is not regulating pet food properly, and when any regulation is completed, the results and pet food brand names are NOT revealed under the guise of proprietary information. Only publicly funded testing will provide pet owners with the information and empowerment needed for optimal pet care.
Supporters get a say in what we test first! Monthly supporters can vote on whether MAA tests cat food or dog food first and nominate the pet food brand they most want investigated. The five brands receiving the most votes will be tested once the necessary funds are raised.
Become a Monthly Pet Food Testing Supporter
- $10/month—Vote: Choose which cat or dog food brands we test.
- $20/month—Vote + News First: Vote, and get news first, plus special offers from pet brands!
- $30/month—Vote + News + Expert Access: Vote, news, offers, and pet coaching calls/videos with experts.
Monthly support helps fund laboratory testing, research, reporting, and sharing the results with consumers.
Help put pet food to the test—and help decide what MAA tests first!
DONATE TO SUPPORT MAA’S PET FOOD TESTING