Farming in America: feeding families and pets

American farms play an essential role in providing families with nutritious meals every day. However, the agriculture industry also produces food for pets and livestock. Here are five interesting facts about the animal food industry in the United States.

1. Feeding livestock, poultry, dogs, cats, and other pets employs about 944,000 people in the United States.

2. The animal food industry helps the economy. In 2019, pet food manufacturers alone bought 8.6 million tons of products from farms and processors. The $6.9 billion economic boost also supports rural businesses that supply the industry with materials, equipment, and labor.

3. Almost half of all the animal food produced in the United States comes from agricultural byproducts that humans don’t consume. The pet food industry reduces food waste by turning these byproducts into consumable food for animals.

4. The animal food industry employs not only farmers but also scientists. Nutritionists in labs work hard to ensure we feed our animals everything they need to feel their best. Ongoing food research and development provides new ingredients that promote better animal nutrition and help farmers and ranchers cut costs.

5. In 2020, the United States exported $13 billion in animal feed and pet food ingredients to countries around the world. The global marketplace for animal food contributes to the American agriculture industry’s $2.5 billion trade surplus.

When you feed your dog or cat, be sure to remember the farmers, manufacturers, truckers, and scientists who help keep your pet healthy and happy.