AFIA Announces 2026 Friend of Pet Food Award Winner

AFIA Announces 2026 Friend of Pet Food Award Winner

January 28, 2026

Contact Cornelia Poku

The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) is pleased to recognize Jerry May, vice president of government and trade affairs at Freshpet, with the 2026 Friend of Pet Food Award. A leader in pet food nutrition, innovation and regulatory affairs, May received the award today during the AFIA Pet Food Conference, held in conjunction with the International Production and Processing Expo.

"Jerry's influence on the pet food industry is both profound and enduring," said AFIA's President and CEO Constance Cullman. "For more than three decades, he has helped shape science-based regulations, advance innovations that improve pet health and mentor countless professionals who now lead our industry. His commitment to collaboration, sound science and animal wellbeing exemplifies the spirit of this award."

May has spent more than 35 years shaping the global pet food industry through leadership roles with multinational companies focused on nutrition, research and development and regulatory affairs. Throughout his career, May has been instrumental in gaining approval for science-based health claims and defending innovations supporting skin and coat health, mobility, cognitive development and healthy aging of millions of dogs and cats.

In recent years, May's regulatory leadership expanded into the growing "fresh" pet food segment, where he helped overcome domestic and international regulatory and export barriers. He also collaborated with industry partners, trade associations and government agencies to strengthen global regulatory alignment and expand U.S. pet food exports.

In addition to his professional achievements, May is widely respected as an industry mentor. Over three decades, he has recruited, guided and developed many of today's pet food leaders, including vice presidents, global segment leads and brand managers, leaving a lasting impact on the industry's future.

"I'm honored to be recognized by the AFIA with the Friend of Pet Food Award," said May. "From advancing science-based nutrition to helping open regulatory pathways for innovation, this industry continues to evolve in exciting ways. I'm proud to have played a role alongside so many talented leaders who care deeply about pets and their health."

Launched in 2019, the AFIA Friend of Pet Food Award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to advancing the pet food industry. To date, 10 individuals have earned this award. Learn more about the award on AFIA's website.

Editorial Note: To obtain a high-resolution image to use for editorial purposes, contact Marisa Halbstein, AFIA's marketing and program development specialist.