UK Pet Food Statement on microplastics research

Working to eliminate microplastics presents a universal, global challenge for society.

A recent University of Sussex study identified microplastics in some pet food samples but did not assess their health impacts. UK Pet Food reassures pet owners that both wet and dry pet food formats have been safely fed to pets for decades, and our members’ pet food products comply with all applicable regulations and food safety standards.

This is an emerging area of science; there is also no recognised standard methodology for testing microplastics in pet food, and currently, there is no evidence that microplastics in pet food pose a risk to pet health. Research is ongoing worldwide to better understand their sources and exposures, and how their presence can be reduced.

Food safety authorities, including the Food Standards Agency (FSA), are actively monitoring all emerging research across food, the environment, and human and animal health. UK Pet Food continues to engage and support advances in our scientific understanding across all aspects of our industry, working with regulators, scientists, and the wider food sector.

Pet owners can continue feeding commercially prepared pet food with complete confidence.