The National Academies National Research Council – a non profit, private organization established in 1863 produces a series of science-based, objective, consensus reports of nutrient requirements of animals, including one on nutrient requirements of poultry. These reports are used by government. private industry, researchers, and producers as the world-wide standard for animal nutrition.Comparative Nutrition Society

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

American Zoo and Aquarium Association Nutritional Advisory Group

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

<ahref=”http: www.fda.gov=”” cvm=”” default.html”=”” target=”_blank”>Food and 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 America 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.