One commercial idea can carry different legal language
In the United States, complete and balanced indicates that a product can be fed as a sole diet for the stated life stage. The FDA explains that substantiation generally follows an AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profile or an AAFCO-protocol feeding trial.
EU feed law uses complete feed and complementary feed. Complete feed is sufficient for a daily ration because of its composition; complementary feed is sufficient only when used with other feed.
The choice in a project brief is a development classification. It is not final label wording and it is never an AAFCO or FEDIAF certification.
The feeding role controls more than the front panel
It changes nutrient targets, life-stage substantiation, feeding directions, analytical review, energy context and the evidence a buyer must receive. Decide it before requesting artwork or a firm quote.
- Destination country or region
- Puppy growth, adult maintenance or another recognized life-stage route
- Expected adult weight and large-size-dog relevance
- As-fed and dry-matter nutrient basis
- Substantiation method and finished-product analytical plan
Treats and toppers need an explicit boundary
A treat, snack or complementary product should not quietly appear to be a sole diet. Name the use occasion, feeding frequency, portion direction and relationship to the main diet in the product record.