Animal Feed Regulatory Program Standards

Project Summary - Abstract The mission of the Office of Indiana State Chemist (OISC) is to protect public consumers, livestock, pets, and manufacturers from misrepresented or unsafe feed, fertilizer, seed, and pesticide products, and from misuse that may result in harm to animals, people, or the environment. This mission is fulfilled through science-based regulation, truth in labeling, education and training of users, and active enforcement of state and federal laws. OISC’s regulatory approach ensures safety in the marketplace, responsible use of agricultural products, and support for the goals of the Integrated Food Safety System (IFSS). This proposal supports Indiana’s continued implementation and advancement of the Animal Food Regulatory Program Standards (AFRPS). During Years 1 and 2 of this funding cycle, OISC will finalize documentation and processes to close remaining program gaps and continue improvements in procedures, training, inspectional consistency, sampling, and enforcement practices. In Year 3 of this funding cycle, OISC will transition to the AFRPS Maintenance Track, maintaining full implementation with an emphasis on continuous improvement, internal audits, and consistent compliance and enforcement. Under this proposal, OISC is requesting $300,000 annually in grant funds for the first two years (AFRPS Development Track), and $225,000 in the third year (AFRPS Maintenance Track). Grant funds will support one full-time equivalent (FTE) employee, training, travel and collaborative work with FDA and other state programs, and equipment and supplies to strengthen Indiana’s feed safety infrastructure. This cooperative agreement will develop and sustain a high-quality, standards-based regulatory feed program that reduces the risk of animal feed contamination and contributes meaningfully to national food safety efforts.