When it comes to feeding your dog the very best, it’s only natural to wonder who sets the standards - and how we follow them.
In the world of pet nutrition, two key names often come up: WSAVA and FEDIAF. They both have to do with making sure pet food is safe and balanced, but they work in slightly different ways.
💡 Here’s what you need to know:
What Are WSAVA and FEDIAF?
WSAVA (World Small Animal Veterinary Association):
A global veterinary organisation.
Publishes nutrition guidelines for pet owners and vets (not legally binding).
Focuses on evaluating pet food brands: transparency, expertise, quality control, etc.
Their “Global Nutrition Guidelines” are used as a vet-recommended checklist.
FEDIAF (European Pet Food Industry Federation):
An industry body that sets nutritional and safety standards for commercial pet food in Europe.
Their guidelines are recognised in UK and EU law for pet food manufacturing.
Focus is on nutrient levels and labelling rather than brand practices.
📦 How does this apply to Butternut Box?
Pet food in the UK (and across Europe) must legally meet the nutritional standards set by FEDIAF. These guidelines specify exactly what nutrients (and how much of each) a dog needs to stay healthy at different life stages.
In the UK, these rules are enforced by DEFRA (the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs). If a brand says its food is “complete” it must meet these FEDIAF standards.
🧠 Think of FEDIAF as the technical rulebook. WSAVA is more of a quality benchmark.
🎯 All of our recipes are complete and balanced. Butternut meals meet (and exceed!) the WSAVA guidelines but most importantly, we also meet & exceed the nutritional levels as set by FEDIAF. That’s the law – and we take it seriously.
Still curious? Feel free to drop us a message – we’re always happy to chat more about how we make our food, and how we keep your dog’s bowl full of goodness.