FEDIAF Congress 2025: Pet Food Industry Unites in Madrid to Champion Trust, Transparency, and Sustainability
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FEDIAF Congress 2025: Pet Food Industry Unites in Madrid to Champion Trust, Transparency, and Sustainability
Madrid, 13 June 2025 – The FEDIAF Annual Congress 2025 brought together over 100 representatives from across the European pet food industry in Madrid on 12 June 2025 under the theme “Promoting Trust and Transparency in the Pet Food Sector.” With participants including policymakers, veterinarians, scientists, and industry experts, the Congress delivered a compelling call to action on sustainability, communication, and consumer trust.
Opening the event, FEDIAF President Rosa Carbonell welcomed guests by affirming the industry’s responsibility in a fast-changing world:
“Our theme isn’t just a title—it’s a commitment. Trust must be built through science, demonstrated through action, and communicated with clarity.”
Tackling Misinformation and Building Trust
The day began with behavioral expert Jez Groom unpacking the psychology behind misinformation and how science can help rebuild consumer trust. A dynamic panel featuring representatives from FoodDrinkEurope, UK Pet Food, and the Federation of Veterinarians of Europe echoed the need for cross-sector collaboration to counter myths and deliver honest, consistent communication.
Driving Environmental Responsibility
Sustainability took center stage in the afternoon with Anne Gaasbeek (Mérieux NutriSciences | Blonk) outlining the practical application of the newly published Pet Food PEFCR. DG Environment’s Mauro Cordella emphasized the EU’s broader vision for simplifying environmental footprinting. In a panel discussion, stakeholders including ECOEMBES, FEFAC, and FEDIAF highlighted the need for transparent regulation, clarity in environmental claims, and the protection of essential pet food inputs—such as Category 3 animal by-products—from diversion to biofuels.
Rosa Carbonell reflected on this momentum:
“We must protect what works—ensuring that key ingredients remain available for pet food. Sustainability and circularity depend on it.”
Celebrating the Human–Animal Bond
A heartfelt presentation from Susana Izquierdo and the Spanish School for Rescue and Detection with Dogs reminded attendees of the powerful connection between humans and animals—bringing home the purpose behind the industry’s work.
Looking Forward with Integrity
FEDIAF President Rosa Carbonell reaffirmed the sector’s leadership and commitment:
“Let’s move forward together—with integrity, with ambition, and with pets at the heart of everything we do.”
FEDIAF extends its sincere thanks to all speakers, partners, and attendees for making the event a success. The Congress showcased a united industry committed to delivering safe, sustainable, and trustworthy nutrition to Europe’s 300 million companion animals.
ENDS
FEDIAF represents the interests of 15 European national pet food associations, together with five pet food manufacturers operating in Europe. FEDIAF members provide safe products that benefit pets and society. FEDIAF believes that pet ownership can enhance the lives of all Europeans. Today there are over 139 million European households benefitting from the love and companionship of their 300 million pets. FEDIAF is the voice of the European pet food industry.
For more information:
Contact Franco Garbelotto, Public Affairs and Communications Manager – fgarbelotto@fediaf.org
