Elevating the Pet Food Industry: Recognizing Trailblazers and Empowering Student Innovators

The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) is spearheading two exciting initiatives that aim to celebrate the contributions of industry leaders and provide a platform for the next generation of pet food experts. From honoring the "Friend of Pet Food" to offering students the opportunity to showcase their groundbreaking research, the AFIA is positioning the industry for continued growth and innovation.

Shining a Spotlight on Industry Luminaries

Celebrating the "Friend of Pet Food"

The AFIA's prestigious "Friend of Pet Food" award is a testament to the individuals who have made significant strides in advancing the pet food industry. Launched in 2019, this accolade recognizes those who have played a pivotal role in driving the industry forward, whether through product development, regulatory expertise, academic contributions, or media influence."The Friend of Pet Food Award is a special recognition for someone who has truly left an indelible mark on the industry," said Louise Calderwood, AFIA's director of regulatory affairs. "We encourage our members and industry colleagues to nominate those who have demonstrated a lasting commitment to improving pet nutrition and supporting the growth of the pet food sector."The award recipient will be celebrated at the upcoming AFIA Pet Food Conference (PFC), scheduled for January 28, 2025, in Atlanta, Georgia, in conjunction with the International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE). This prestigious platform will provide the awardee with the opportunity to share their insights and inspire the industry.

Nominating the Trailblazers

The AFIA is currently accepting nominations for the Friend of Pet Food Award until October 28th. Individuals who are currently employed and actively engaged in the pet food industry or associated fields, such as new product development, transportation, regulatory affairs, academia, media, or promotion, are eligible for consideration.To nominate a deserving candidate, industry members and colleagues must submit a completed nomination form to Calderwood at lcalderwood@afia.org. The selection process will be based on the nominee's demonstrated impact on the industry and their ability to drive positive change.

Elevating Student Voices

In addition to honoring industry luminaries, the AFIA is also providing a platform for the next generation of pet food experts. The organization is inviting undergraduate, graduate, and post-doctoral students to apply to present their cutting-edge research at the upcoming PFC."We are thrilled to offer this unique opportunity for students to showcase their innovative ideas and connect with industry leaders," said Calderwood. "This is an excellent chance for them to gain exposure, share their groundbreaking work, and potentially forge valuable connections that could shape their future careers in pet nutrition."

Showcasing Student Research

Undergraduate students will have the chance to participate in a poster session during the PFC, while graduate and post-doctoral students can apply to present their research during the day-long conference. The submissions will be reviewed and selected by members of AFIA's Pet Food Committee, who will evaluate the relevance and quality of the research."This platform allows us to tap into the fresh perspectives and cutting-edge ideas that students bring to the table," Calderwood explained. "By providing them with this stage, we're not only nurturing the next generation of pet food experts but also fostering the kind of collaboration and innovation that will drive the industry forward."The deadline for student presentation applications is November 4th, and interested individuals are encouraged to visit afia.org/PFC2025 for more information and to submit their proposals.

Elevating the Industry's Future

The AFIA's initiatives to honor industry leaders and empower student innovators are a testament to the organization's commitment to the pet food sector's continued growth and evolution. By recognizing the contributions of those who have paved the way and providing a platform for the next generation of experts, the AFIA is positioning the industry for a future filled with groundbreaking advancements and lasting impact.As the industry gathers for the 2025 PFC, the stage will be set for a celebration of the past, present, and future of pet food – a testament to the resilience, innovation, and unwavering dedication that have defined this dynamic and ever-evolving field.