The surge of animal by-product dog chews including bones, hides, hooves, horns and dried body parts highlights an important compliance issue. Contrary to some industry assumptions, all dog chews are legally required to undergo microbiological testing if they contain animal by products.
UK Government guidance states that manufacturers must
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Demonstrate through sampling that processing effectively destroys pathogens such as Salmonella
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Prevent post process contamination by separating finished products from raw material
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Submit samples to an accredited laboratory
Testing must cover Salmonella and Enterobacteriaceae and applies to raw pet food, dog chews digests and any non-canned processed pet food.
As the market for by-product chews expands, adherence to these testing requirements is essential to ensure product safety and regulatory compliance.
Supporting UK Government guidance
Defra and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) provide specific requirements for dog chews under Using animal by-products to make pet food. The guidance confirms that manufacturers must prove through sampling that their treatment process destroys Salmonella and must prevent contamination by keeping processed products separate from raw materials.
APHA’s Laboratory testing requirements for animal by-products (ABPs) also specifies that
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Salmonella and Enterobacteriaceae must be tested
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Samples must be sent to a UKAS-accredited laboratory
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Requirements apply to pet food including dog chews and digests
Why this testing is required
Microbiological testing confirms that processing steps are effective in reducing harmful microorganisms and that finished products are safe. With the rapid rise in demand for natural and by-product chews in the UK pet market, compliance with these rules is essential for regulatory assurance and for protecting both pets and their owners.
How Eurofins Food Testing UK can support you
Eurofins Food Testing UK Ltd. provides UKAS Nos. 6959 and 2262 accredited microbiological testing for Salmonella and Enterobacteriaceae as required by ABP legislation. Our services include
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Routine microbiological testing for compliance
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Guidance on sampling plans
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Support for manufacturers, importers and brand owners
Find out more about our ABP testing.
Contact our team
To discuss testing for dog chews or other animal by-product materials, please contact our team by submitting an enquiry or call +44 (0) 845 604 6740.
