Importing raw pet food from another country to Washington State is generally not allowed, with very limited exceptions. Here’s what you need to know:
Federal Regulations
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) heavily regulate the importation of pet food, especially raw pet food. Raw pet food is considered high-risk due to potential pathogens and diseases it may carry.
USDA Permit Requirement
A USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Veterinary Services (VS) permit is typically required for importing any animal food containing animal-origin materials. However, raw pet food is generally prohibited without specific exceptions.
Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Guidance
CBP explicitly states that raw pet food is not allowed into the United States unless accompanied by a USDA APHIS VS import permit. This applies to all ports of entry, including land borders with Canada.
Washington State Regulations
Washington State has additional requirements for pet food importation and registration:
- All pet food must be registered with the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) before distribution.
- Labels must meet specific requirements and be approved by WSDA.
- Raw pet food must comply with state regulations, including those related to animal health and disease prevention.
Limited Exceptions
In rare cases, raw pet food may be allowed for specific purposes, such as scientific research or with special permits. However, these exceptions are not typically granted for personal use or commercial import.
Alternatives
If you’re looking to bring pet food into Washington from another country, consider these options:
- Commercially packaged, shelf-stable pet food that meets all federal and state requirements.
- Cooked pet food products that have undergone proper heat treatment.
- Pet treats that comply with import regulations and state registration requirements.
Conclusion
Importing raw pet food from another country to Washington State is generally not possible due to strict federal and state regulations aimed at preventing the introduction of animal diseases. It’s crucial to comply with all import requirements and consider safer alternatives when bringing pet food into the state.
Sources:
- https://agr.wa.gov/departments/animals-livestock-and-pets/animal-feed/pet-food-and-specialty-pet-food
- https://www.fda.gov/food/food-imports-exports/importing-food-products-united-states
- https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/local-media-release/cbp-issues-guidance-bringing-raw-pet-food-united-states
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