AAFCO does not test or certify pet foods directly but establishes nutrient profiles for dogs and cats at different life stages. A food labeled 'complete and balanced' per AAFCO standards has either been formulated to meet these profiles or passed feeding trials where animals ate the diet and maintained health markers. When reading pet food labels, look for the AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement near the guaranteed analysis. It specifies which life stage the food suits: growth, maintenance, all life stages, or gestation/lactation. Foods without an AAFCO statement are intended as treats or supplements, not sole diets.