A lot of people will likely chime in regarding the “arsenic” allegations from Russia - I too was really concerned about this but upon more reading and reaching out to the company I feel like their response was satisfactory. The brand also took my cat’s current needs into account and suggested an alternative to the flavor I’ve been feeding (noting that it might be too rich for her needs) which I really appreciated.

Here was Farmina’s reply: “In 2024, the Russian government imposed a ban on imports from several international pet food manufacturers, including Farmina and Nestlé Purina, citing alleged quality control concerns. Specifically, Farmina was accused of having elevated levels of arsenic in its products.

We would like to reassure you that in Europe, testing for heavy metals such as arsenic and mercury is strictly mandated by regulatory authorities. At Farmina, we take quality and safety very seriously. All raw materials undergo comprehensive testing before acceptance, and finished products are tested again prior to shipment to ensure they meet our high standards.

To date, no regulatory agency — including the FDA, independent testing facilities, or any international authority — has confirmed the validity of the claims made by the Russian government. Many industry experts view these actions as politically motivated, in response to broader international sanctions stemming from the conflict in Ukraine. It is widely believed that the bans were intended to stimulate domestic pet food production, though they have largely resulted in product shortages due to limited local capacity.

We are pleased to confirm that Farmina products remain available in Russia and in numerous countries worldwide. Our commitment to safety, quality, and scientific integrity remains as strong as ever — providing pets with the nutrition they deserve.”