Pet Food/Treats
Animal food is regulated by FDA labeling rules and Massachusetts feed oversight.
Registration RequiredFDALabeling rules
MDARFeed oversight
HumanFood rules do not apply
Part 507Animal food GMPs
What is covered and what needs a different path
What this guide covers
- Dry treats with ingredients labeled
- Baked dog biscuits made in compliant facility
- Cat and dog food with identity statements
- Treats made with human-grade ingredients
Needs a different path
- Products with disease claims
- Unregistered commercial feed
- Raw pet food without handling plan
- Treats made in a residential kitchen without review
Three compliance steps
A
Classify
Pet food and treats are animal food.
B
Register
Check MDAR commercial feed registration and labeling.
C
Label
Product name, net weight, ingredients, guaranteed analysis, name and address.
Quick reference
| Item | Rule | Regulator |
|---|---|---|
| Labeling | Identity, net weight, ingredients, guaranteed analysis | FDA 21 CFR 501 |
| Registration | Commercial feed program | MDAR |
| GMPs | Animal food preventive controls | FDA 21 CFR 507 |
| Claims | No drug claims | FDA |
| Sales tax | Check pet food status | MA DOR |
Frequently asked questions
Can I use my home kitchen?Pet treats are not covered by the human cottage food permit; use a compliant facility.
Do I need to register?Check MDAR's commercial feed program.
What claims are allowed?Nutritional claims within FDA limits only.
Printable checklist
- Feed registration checked
- Label complete
- Guaranteed analysis
- Facility compliance
- No disease claims
- Recall plan
- Sales tax checked