Helpful Links

Obtaining sound and unbiased information on nutrition and feeding of animals from reputable sources is not always easy. For your convenience, we provide links to several respected sources of information from professional and governmental organizations below.

The National Academies, National Research Council

The National Academies National Research Council – a non-profit, private organization established in 1863 – produces a series of science-based, objective, consensus reports on nutrient requirements of animals. Government, private industry, researches, and producers use these reports as the worldwide standard for animal nutrition.

Comparative Nutrition Society

The comparative Nutrition Society (CNS) is a society created to foster communication among laboratory and field scientists from various disciplines with interests in comparative nutrition.

American Society for Nutritional Sciences

The American Society for Nutritional Sciences (ASNS) is a professional research society dedicated to improving the quality of life through the science of nutrition.

American Zoo & Aquarium Association Nutrition Advisory Group

The American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA) Nutrition Advisory Group (NAG) facilitates communication and coordination among nutritionists and those requiring nutrition information (i.e., AZA management groups, AZA member institutions).

U.S. Department of Agriculture

The U.S. Department of Agriculture conducts research on animal and human nutrition. The National Agriculture Library of the U.S. Department of Agriculture provides a web-based resource of the agency’s nutrition information.

Food & Drug Administration (FDA) Center for Veterinary Medicine

The Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) regulates the manufacture and distribution of food additives and drugs that will be given to animals. These include animals from which human foods are derived, as well as food additives and drugs for pet (or companion) animals.

Association of American Feed Control Officials

The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), an advisory body of state and federal feed regulators, develops recommended standards for nutrient contents of dog and cat foods. AAFCO also publishes ingredient definitions and regulations. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration works in partnership with AAFCO to determine safe pet food ingredients and testing protocols. In addition to federal regulation of pet food, most state governments regulate pet foods and labeling through their agricultural departments. AAFCO has created a model feed bill that states often adopt in their own laws.