Global Forum for Animal Feed and Feed Regulators: Shaping a Sustainable Future for Animal NutritionThe Global Forum for Animal Feed and Feed Regulators, organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, represents one of the most influential global gatherings in the field of animal nutrition and feed regulation. Held at FAO’s distinguished headquarters in Rome, Italy, this forum brings together regulators, scientists, industry leaders, and policy experts to explore innovative approaches for ensuring safe, sustainable, and high-quality animal feed.As the global demand for animal-based food products continues to grow, the importance of feed quality and availability has taken center stage. The forum acts as a catalyst for international collaboration, sharing of best practices, and the development of forward-thinking policies that support animal health, environmental sustainability, and food safety.
A Crucial Platform for Innovation and CollaborationThe forum’s central mission is to foster a collaborative space where public and private sector stakeholders in the animal feed industry can discuss the latest developments, share successful models, and address regulatory challenges.
Participants in the forum include:National and regional regulatory authoritiesAnimal feed manufacturers and suppliersScientific researchers and academicsPolicy and development expertsInternational organizations and NGOsBy assembling this wide range of participants, the forum bridges the gap between science, policy, and industry, emphasizing the shared responsibility for advancing feed safety and sustainability on a global scale.
Exploring Sustainable and Locally Sourced Feed InnovationsA key highlight of the event is the focus on sustainable feed solutions, particularly those leveraging locally available and circular economy resources. These include:Traditional feed ingredients like grains, pastures, and forageAgro-industrial by-products, such as oilseed meals and crop residuesInsects and alternative proteins, representing a rapidly growing sector in animal nutritionThis approach not only supports resource efficiency but also strengthens resilience in local food systems, helping regions reduce dependence on costly imported feed materials. By integrating innovations from the circular economy, the forum promotes models that minimize waste and optimize nutrient recovery.
The Interconnection Between Nutrition, Welfare, and Food SafetyThe forum underscores the foundational role that animal feed quality plays in ensuring:Animal health and welfareProductivity and economic viability for farmersFood safety for consumersAdvances in feed technology have far-reaching effects on the entire livestock production chain. As such, discussions will delve into how strategic feed management contributes to disease prevention, improved livestock performance, and enhanced food security.Moreover, the event will highlight risk assessment tools, regulatory controls, and best practices that feed producers and policymakers can adopt to mitigate hazards and ensure consistent feed quality.
Public-Private Dialogue: A Foundation for Policy DevelopmentOne of the most impactful features of the forum is the dedicated public-private session, designed to create a meaningful dialogue between regulators and industry stakeholders. This session aims to:Address pressing regulatory challengesHarmonize standards at international, regional, and national levelsPromote inclusive, science-based policy developmentEncourage transparency and trust between regulators and private companiesSuch engagement is essential for navigating evolving market demands, global trade considerations, and emerging feed technologies.
Establishing a Network of FAO Reference CentresA visionary goal of the forum is the establishment of FAO Reference Centres for Animal Feed. These centers will serve as international hubs for:Sharing scientific and regulatory dataDisseminating innovative technologiesFacilitating technical cooperationEnhancing capacity-building among developing nationsThis global network will reinforce collaboration and information exchange, helping nations implement harmonized policies and stay ahead of industry trends.
Exhibition of Feed Innovations: A Window into the FutureComplementing the forum’s technical sessions, the exhibition area will showcase practical, innovative solutions already making a positive impact in the field. Visitors will find:New feed formulations using sustainable ingredientsDigital tools for precision feeding and livestock monitoringAutomated quality control systemsProducts that improve feed efficiency while reducing environmental footprintsThese real-world applications help translate theory into action, demonstrating how innovation drives both profitability and sustainability.
Uniting Global Efforts to Transform Animal Feed SystemsThe Global Forum for Animal Feed and Feed Regulators is more than just a conference—it’s a movement toward creating safer, more sustainable, and more efficient feed systems that benefit animals, people, and the planet. By bringing together voices from across the regulatory, scientific, and commercial spectrum, the forum acts as a cornerstone for global dialogue and policy alignment.Through collaboration, innovation, and knowledge-sharing, this event lays the groundwork for a more resilient and sustainable animal agriculture future. For anyone working in animal nutrition, feed regulation, or livestock development, this is a must-attend gathering that will shape the direction of the industry for years to come.