What NGPFMA Does for BRAND NEW Pet Food Businesses
Your Partner in Pet Food Success
While many of our members are established brands in the nutritionally defensible (TM) market of pet food and treats, helping new businesses make their mark on the pet food landscape is quickly becoming the organization’s most requested service. Starting and operating a pet food business can be overwhelming. At the Next Generation Pet Food Manufacturers Association (NGPFMA), we’ve streamlined the process, so you don’t have to navigate the confusing maze of regulations, registrations, and food safety requirements alone. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling up, we’re here to guide you at every step.
Here’s how we can help:
Step 1: Define Your Vision
We help you create a clear plan for your pet food business by answering crucial questions like:
• What kind of food are you making (raw, cooked, freeze-dried, or other)?
• Who is your target audience—dogs, cats, or both? Puppies, seniors, agility dogs, or breeders?
• Will your product be complete and balanced, or supplemental?
• How will you differentiate your brand in the market?
Step 2: Navigate the Regulatory Maze
The pet food industry can be complex, with overlapping, sometimes contradictory, rules from state agencies, the FDA, and AAFCO. We simplify it for you by:
• Determining your registration requirements based on where you manufacture and sell.
• Planning label compliance, so you’re ready for once-a-year label registration and review.
• Assisting with FDA facility registration and state-level requirements.
Step 3: Product Formulation
Whether you’re starting brand new or an established company creating a new product, creating a high-quality, compliant pet food recipe is no small feat. With your membership, you get:
• Three formulations included to get your product to market faster.
• Guidance on choosing the best method for achieving “complete and balanced” designation (calculation, laboratory analysis, or feeding trials).
• Access to experts who can help refine your recipes and ensure they meet regulatory and nutritional standards.
Step 4: Food Safety & Traceability Planning
Safety is a top priority for pet food businesses. We help you develop robust food safety plans, including:
• Traceability systems to track every batch you produce.
• Recall readiness and support if you ever face an issue.
• Inspection planning to prepare your facility for state and FDA reviews.
Step 5: Marketing & Branding Support
Once your product is ready, we help you carve out your niche and market your brand:
• Identifying what sets you apart from competitors.
• Assistance with building a strong brand that resonates with your target customers.
• Guidance on delivering your product to consumers, whether online, in stores, or through distributors.
Step 6: Ongoing Advocacy and Support
As an NGPFMA member, you’re part of a network of manufacturers advocating for biologically appropriate pet food and responsible practices. With us, you gain:
• Advocacy at the national level (Congress, FDA, and AAFCO).
• A support system of industry experts and fellow members who share your commitment to high-quality, biologically appropriate nutrition.
Why Choose NGPFMA?
At NGPFMA, we believe starting a pet food business shouldn’t be so hard. With our expertise, connections, and hands-on support, you’ll save time, avoid costly mistakes, and bring your vision to life with confidence.
Your membership includes:
• Three product formulations.
• Recall assistance.
• Inspection planning.
• Marketing and niche identification support.
• Guidance on feeding trials and compliance.
Ready to Get Started?
Let NGPFMA help you turn your dream into a thriving pet food business. Join today and gain access to the tools, resources, and expertise you need to succeed in this ever-evolving industry.
