New scientific review program manager named to oversee ingredient submissions pathway
Wednesday, July 23, 2025 | Written by Mary Hirtreiter
OLATHE — Garret Ashabranner is being named the program manager for the Scientific Review of Ingredient Submissions (SRIS) partnership between Kansas State University Olathe (K-State Olathe) and the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). He will manage the scientific review process for animal food ingredient definition submissions.
In this role, Ashabranner will serve as the primary liaison between K-State Olathe and AAFCO, manage a collective of subject matter experts and facilitate the effective conduct of scientific evaluations of newly submitted ingredients used for pet food and livestock feed.
“This position is critical for ensuring the integrity of the ingredient definition process and advancing regulatory science through our partnership with AAFCO,” said Haley Larson, director and scientific lead of the SRIS program and assistant professor of animal nutrition and health at K-State Olathe. “Garret brings deep experience in both animal nutrition and regulatory affairs, making him an exceptional fit for this role.”
Prior to joining K-State Olathe, Ashabranner was an animal scientist at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. There, he reviewed animal feed ingredients and advised on monogastric nutrition and environmental claims. He also teaches agriculture sciences as an adjunct instructor at Athens Technical College in Athens, Georgia.
“We are pleased to welcome Garret into this important position,” said Austin Therrell, executive director at AAFCO. “His regulatory experience and broad expertise align perfectly with our mission and the scientific standards we uphold to safeguard animal and human health.”
Ashabranner holds a doctorate in poultry science from the University of Georgia, along with master’s and bachelor’s degrees in agriculture from Stephen F. Austin State University. He brings more than eight years of experience in poultry production, regulatory science and agricultural education.
For more information, visit the SRIS program website.
About the Scientific Review of Ingredient Submissions Program
The Scientific Review of Ingredient Submissions (SRIS) program is a collaboration between Kansas State University Olathe Innovation Campus (K-State Olathe) and the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) that offers a fast and accurate scientific assessment of new animal food ingredients. Through SRIS, prospective ingredients undergo scientific evaluation by independent consultants and subject matter experts from universities across the country, while upholding rigorous scientific standards and transparency. The program is intended to complement the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s current Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) Notice program, providing the feed industry with an additional option for introducing new and innovative products to the market. For more information, visit https://sris.k-state.edu/.