The Pet Food Institute (PFI) is raising concerns that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s finalized Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) volumes for 2026 and 2027 could accelerate the diversion of critical feedstocks — including animal fats — away from pet food production and into biomass-based diesel.
PFI said it supports efforts to strengthen American energy security and expand domestic renewable fuel production, but cautioned the final rule lacks provisions to protect ingredient access for animal food and feed manufacturers.
Animal fats play an essential role in pet food formulation, providing energy, supporting skin and coat health and palatability. The institute noted they cannot be easily substituted without affecting product quality and consistency.
“American farmers play a vital role in powering our nation’s energy systems, producing high-quality ingredients used to make pet food, and supporting our broader economy,” said Elise Fennig, president and CEO of PFI.
“We support policies that encourage the growth of renewable feedstocks while ensuring that U.S. pet food manufacturers have the ingredients they need to provide safe, complete and balanced cat and dog food.”
Fennig said the rule’s lack of specific provisions for animal food and feed uses is a key concern.
“As biofuel demand continues to expand, many of these same ingredients remain essential to pet food production,” she said. “While we support the growth of renewable fuels, the final rule does not include specific provisions to ensure continued access to these inputs for animal food and feed uses.
“That increased competition for key ingredients is likely to put pressure on the availability and cost of key pet food ingredients and, ultimately, pet food prices,” she continued. “A balanced approach is needed as demand grows across sectors, and policies that prioritize domestic feedstocks should be paired with efforts to support availability, so supply remains reliable for all uses.”
PFI said it is encouraging continued collaboration across government and industry to support farmers, advance renewable energy goals and help ensure critical ingredients remain accessible and affordable for manufacturers and pet owners.
