Animal feed law brings together provisions from agricultural law, food law, product safety and internal market law. Businesses throughout the entire supply chain – from manufacturers and importers to distributors and contract manufacturers – are subject to strict requirements regarding the safety, labelling, traceability and authorisation of feed. Of particular relevance are EU regulations such as Regulation (EC) No 178/2002 (the General Regulation), Regulation (EC) No 767/2009 on the placing on the market and use of feed, Regulation (EC) No 1831/2003 on feed additives, and Regulation (EC) No 183/2005 on feed hygiene. The provisions on animal by-products under Regulation (EC) No 1069/2009 (the ‘ABP Regulation’) and Implementing Regulation (EU) No 142/2011, particularly regarding the use, processing, storage and transport of animal-derived ingredients in feed. Current regulatory developments include, amongst other things, stricter requirements regarding contaminants, transparency requirements in the supply chain, and sustainability aspects within the framework of the European Green Deal and the ‘Farm-to-Fork’ strategy.
Ensuring the legally compliant implementation of these complex requirements demands a precise classification of the relevant products and a thorough understanding of regulatory requirements at both national and European level. The lawyers at GvW provide comprehensive advice on feed law – from product development through to market launch and regulatory scrutiny. This also includes advice on animal by-products, authorisation and registration requirements under the Animal By-products Regulation, and contractual structures within the supply and production chain, particularly in relation to contract manufacturing agreements and quality assurance agreements. Our firm combines regulatory expertise with a clear understanding of economic contexts and supports clients in minimising risks and implementing compliance efficiently.
Classification of feed, feed additives and premixtures under EU law
Advice on authorisation and registration procedures (e.g. for feed additives)
Review and drafting of labelling and advertising claims
Support with compliance with hygiene and safety requirements
Advice on traceability and documentation requirements throughout the supply chain
Support during regulatory inspections and audits
Support with product recalls and risk assessments
Drafting of contracts throughout the supply chain (manufacturing, distribution, import)
Representation before supervisory authorities and in court
Advice on current regulatory developments at EU level (e.g. sustainability, Green Deal)
