The Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association has reassured Britain’s pet owners there is a good supply of food for their animals following reports of shortages.
The PFMA issued a statement after national newspaper and TV outlets reported that supermarket giant Sainsbury’s was running low on pet food pouches.
PFMA said it was aware some retailers were currently experiencing shortages of pet food pouches due to unprecedented demand.
“However, we would like to reassure pet owners there is a good supply of pet food in all other formats across the brands,” Nicole Paley, PFMA deputy chief executive told pbwnews.
“This temporary shortage has been caused by a culmination of factors coming to head at the same point, including a rise in the UK pet population and a change in purchasing behaviour driven by the pandemic and exiting the EU.”
According to PFMA research conducted in July 2020, 11% of all UK households acquired a new pet during the pandemic, with this growth expected to continue in to the first half of 2021.
Nicole added: “We appreciate that some pet owners will be concerned if they are unable to buy their pet’s favourite food but please rest assured, pet food manufacturers are working hard to remedy this as soon as possible. We encourage pet owners to continue to shop sensibly and only to buy what is needed so as not to cause unnecessary peaks in demand.
“All ‘complete’ pet foods, regardless of format or brand have been carefully formulated to provide complete and balanced nutrition for pets. By feeding a ‘complete’ diet, pet owners can have total confidence they are addressing their pet’s nutritional needs.”
A spokesperson for Sainsbury’s said: “We are seeing an increased demand for pet food pouches and are working hard to maintain stock levels. We continue to offer a range of canned and dry options.”
