ANFAAC Hosts FEDIAF Annual Congress 2025

Madrid recently became the focal point of Europe’s pet food sector as over 100 professionals gathered for the 2025 FEDIAF Annual Congress, hosted this year by ANFAAC—the Spanish National Association of Pet Food Manufacturers. Held on June 12 under the banner “Fostering Trust and Transparency in the Pet Food Industry,” the event brought together industry experts, regulatory authorities, and company representatives to address the sector’s current challenges and to call for stronger environmental responsibility and clearer consumer communication.

Opening the congress, ANFAAC President Jordi Junyent emphasized the sector’s key role—not only in supporting pet health and wellbeing, but also as an important contributor to the broader economy. He reaffirmed ANFAAC’s and FEDIAF’s shared commitment to excellence, innovation, and cooperation with regulatory bodies at both national and European levels.

FEDIAF President Rosa Carbonell echoed this message, noting the need for proactive engagement in a rapidly evolving landscape. “Our theme is more than just a slogan—it’s a commitment,” she stated. “Trust must be built on science, proven through action, and communicated with clarity.” Carbonell urged the industry to move forward with integrity, ambition, and a continued focus on pets as the heart of the industry’s mission.

“The strength and unity of the pet food industry was on full display at this congress,” added Santiago de Andrés, Secretary General of ANFAAC, who was joined by Technical Director Pablo Hervás and representatives from several member companies. “Bringing together businesses, authorities, and international experts highlights our commitment to innovation, quality, and meaningful dialogue with lawmakers. ANFAAC will continue to advocate for the Spanish industry’s voice to play a key role in shaping more transparent and sustainable European standards.”

The congress also welcomed the participation of Javier Piquer, Deputy Director General for Livestock Production Inputs at Spain’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAPA), along with his team. Piquer reaffirmed MAPA’s ongoing collaboration with both ANFAAC and FEDIAF, praising the congress as a platform for constructive exchange.

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Tackling Misinformation, Advancing Transparency

The day began with a keynote by behavioral expert Jez Groom, who explored the psychological roots of misinformation and the role of science in rebuilding consumer trust. His talk set the stage for a panel discussion featuring voices from FoodDrinkEurope, UK Pet Food, and the Federation of Veterinarians of Europe. The panel underlined the need for cross-sector collaboration to debunk myths and ensure transparent, coherent communication with consumers.

Sustainability expert Anne Gaasbeek introduced practical guidance on implementing the newly released Product Environmental Footprint Category Rules (PEFCR) for pet food. Mauro Cordella from the European Commission’s Directorate-General for the Environment shared the EU’s perspective on simplifying and harmonizing environmental footprint assessments across the sector.

Another highlight was a panel featuring Ovidio Soler, Director of Regulatory and EU Affairs at ECOEMBES, alongside representatives from FEFAC and FEDIAF. The session focused on the circular economy and its relevance for the future of pet food packaging and production.

Rounding out the day, the Spanish School of Canine Rescue and Detection offered a moving presentation on the critical role of dogs in emergency response. Their contribution added a heartfelt reminder of why pet food professionals do what they do—ensuring the wellbeing of animals that, in many cases, serve as heroes in society.