UK Pet Food Statement on Microplastics Research

Microplastics are a widespread environmental challenge, found throughout many aspects of everyday life, including in food, drinking water, and air. Research is ongoing worldwide to better understand their sources, exposure and how their presence can be reduced.

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.

Commenting on the issue, Dr James Cooper, Deputy Director of Food Policy at the Food Standards Agency (FSA), said:

"The Food Standards Agency continues to monitor and assess emerging data regarding microplastics in food and feed. The Committee on Toxicity – the independent scientific committee that advises the FSA – is currently considering the issue of microplastics.

Based on current information, the FSA considers it unlikely that the presence of microplastics in food or pet food would cause harm, though this will be kept under review as new evidence becomes available.

Microplastics are not intentionally added to food. They occur as a result of plastics being fragmented by natural processes and can enter the food chain through uptake by animals, plants, or from food contact materials."

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 confidence.

For further information please contact [email protected]