AFIA's Feed Production Education Program Covers Regulatory Changes

The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) hosted its annual Feed Production Education program this week, providing feed manufacturers timely updates on evolving federal regulations and emerging challenges in feed production. Held in conjunction with the International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE), the complimentary program brought together industry professionals seeking the latest guidance from regulatory experts and AFIA leadership.

"The free Feed Education Program at IPPE is where the animal food industry can hear the latest updates and trends in regulatory, safety and operational areas that impact their day-to-day work," said Meghan Dicks, AFIA's director of membership and engagement, who moderated the session. "The presentations help attendees stay up to date on regulatory insights and best practices that support feed safety, animal health and compliance."

Speakers from the AFIA, industry organizations and policy-focused groups briefed attendees on what to expect from key federal agencies this year, including the Environmental Protection Agency, Occupational Safety and Health Administration and Food and Drug Administration. Presentations also covered workforce, transportation and environmental considerations impacting feed producers.

In addition to regulatory updates, attendees received insights on mycotoxin management, a continuing challenge for feed manufacturers navigating ingredient quality and seasonal risks factors. Darrin Poole, corporate feed mill quality control manager at Wayne-Sanderson Farms, provided expert guidance on monitoring, mitigation strategies and operational best practices to reduce risk across feed supply chains.

Later, Mary Gray Holdren, manager of education programs at AFIA, highlighted the association's broader slate of 2026 educational programs -including conferences, regulatory training and online courses-designed to support professional development across all segments of the feed and animal food industry.

The annual Feed Production Education Program remains an essential forum for technical experts, regulators and feed manufacturing leaders to collaborate, learn and strengthen the industry's commitment to safe, efficient and compliant production practices.