• How was your professional journey leading up to your current role as the General Secretary of ANFAAC?


Throughout my career, I have collaborated with various business organizations in the sector, always aiming to create value and support the development of key sectors, including health, animal nutrition, and pet nutrition, among others.

This experience has also enabled me to work in multiple European federations, where I confirmed the growing influence of EU institutions in regulating all economic sectors, as well as the great influence Spain has in the field of international relations. I believe this global outlook is fundamental to understanding current changes and preparing us for the challenges ahead.
 


Our association currently represents over 90% of pet food manufacturing companies in Spain. However, we have come a long way to leverage this reach. ANFAAC was founded in May 1980, and since 1987, we have been active members of the European Pet Food Industry Federation (FEDIAF), participating in its executive bodies and working committees. We were proud to host the 2025 FEDIAF Annual Congress in Madrid, which was a great success. We have also been members of the Spanish Federation of Food and Drink Industries (FIAB) since 1996.

Nowadays, ANFAAC serves as the industry's voice in the presence of national, regional, and local administrations, and it is a key player in developing large-scale projects with various organizations and agencies. A clear example is the agreement on responsible ownership that we signed with the Ministry of Social Rights, Consumer Affairs and 2030 Agenda, as well as our ongoing work on pet welfare regulations at both the EU and national levels.


We are proud not only to be a reference in the sector but also to work every day to ensure that pets in Spain receive safe, innovative, and high-quality food. Our mission is to continue promoting a dynamic, responsible industry —one in which collaboration among companies, institutions, and society is the key to a sustainable, opportunity-driven future.
 

 

  • From your point of view, what are the main challenges and opportunities the pet food sector faces in Spain and Europe today?
     

The first challenge of our company is to ensure continuity in production and trade in a complex geopolitical context.

We are committed to reinforcing our competitiveness through ongoing innovation both in products (offering healthier and more sustainable food) and processes (efficiency and digitalization). The key is to turn market demands into opportunities, leveraging the industry's strengths. Relying on innovation is not just necessary—it is a tool for growth and differentiation in a more dynamic and demanding market.

We must continue to develop safe, high-quality pet food by having processes with the latest scientific advancements in animal nutrition and ingredients that support pet health.

Also, to highlight the importance of reauthorizing additive processes in animal nutrition with different objectives: 1) provide nutritional benefits in vitamin formats; 2) ensure food safety and maintain desirable texture, stability, and wear resistance; 3) and from the organoleptic view, to provide different colors and flavors.

Another challenge is to progressively adapt to new policies about sustainability, which involve important topics —from raw materials supply (such as fats) to pet welfare, always in collaboration with proper authorities. 

As an association, our goal is to continue advocating for the interests of our member companies and promoting sector-wide development, while also ensuring the proper care and well-being of companion animals in coordination with the relevant authorities.

In addition, we will support the strong export vocation of our companies and help promote their development into foreign markets by eliminating bureaucratic barriers in existing markets and facilitating access to new ones.
 

  • How has the relationship between families and their pets evolved in recent years? How has it impacted on pet food demand and formulation?
     

One key moment came nearly five years ago with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. It had a major impact on the market—the pet food sector became essential. During this period, Spanish society grew awareness about the advantages of pet ownership, benefits that have been confirmed by several scientific research in the last years.

It became clear that pets play a vital role in reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation —the most concerning problem nowadays because it affects all sectors and ages of society. These effects were magnified during the pandemic, making pets essential companions in millions of homes.

The rise of remote work also allowed many people to spend more time at home, making it easier to care for their pets.

Demographic changes also influenced —with life expectancy increasing, elderly people are choosing to have pets for companionship and to stay active.

 At ANFAAC, we also recognize the importance of cultural shifts. Since pets are considered full members of the family, there is a greater interest in having and providing them with proper care.

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  • What role does innovation play in the sector's growth? How is it driven by joint work between industry, academia, and regulatory entities?
     

Innovation plays a central role. The pet food industry is inherently innovative. Companies in this sector are constantly developing safe and healthy foods for our pets, incorporating the latest scientific advances in animal nutrition and ingredients that support animal health into their production processes.

Our member companies work with nutritionists, veterinarians, biochemists, and animal behavior researchers. They ensure safety and quality throughout the entire process —from manufacturing to bringing the product to markets— including clear and appropriate communication with pet owners. They lead the way in research, development, and innovation, and are strongly committed to environmental sustainability.

A key milestone in collaboration with the academic sector has been the development of the FEDIAF Nutritional Guidelines for Cats and Dogs. These comprehensive documents provide essential information on recommended nutrient levels in pet food based on life stage, health condition, and activity level. The guidelines are prepared by FEDIAF's Nutrition Working Group and Scientific Advisory Board (SAB), a group of freelance scientists from academic institutions across Europe. These guidelines have become the primary reference for companion animal nutrition in Europe —for EU authorities, consumer organizations, professionals, and pet owners alike.

Similarly, FEDIAF has recently updated its Nutritional Guidelines for Feeding Pet Rabbits. This extensive document offers scientifically based recommendations to ensure the health and well-being of pet rabbits through balanced, appropriate diets.

Regarding collaboration with regulatory authorities, I would highlight the productive relationship between ANFAAC and the Spanish Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food (MAPA) and the control authorities of various autonomous communities. This is reflected in our participation in the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC), where we address regulatory developments. The sector is highly regulated in all aspects, from ingredients to manufacturing and commercialization.


After all, our mission is to provide pets with safe, high-quality, varied, and palatable food that helps them live long, healthy lives, enabling us to share and enjoy with them.

 

  • Which technological, sustainable, or consumer trends are shaping the future of the pet food sector? How is the industry adapting to them?


Consumer trends are closely linked to the growing importance of pets in our households. Specialized products remain in high demand —especially those targeting specific health benefits. The most cutting-edge offerings from our companies are moving in that direction, although innovation is a defining characteristic across the entire industry.

Premium, dietary, and functional pet food is becoming mainstream.

Circularity is a top priority for our sector. We are committed to promoting responsible pet ownership while supporting the essential role pets play in society. In Europe, it is estimated that the pet food supply chain directly employs 280,000 people and indirectly supports another 2.3 million jobs.

 

  • Finally, what message would you like to share with industry players working toward a sustainable, responsible, and high-quality pet food market?


My message to all industry players is clear: let's continue working together so that the pet food sector not only grows but so does responsibly—driven by innovation and committed to animal welfare and the planet.

Thank you, Santiago, for talking with the All Pet Food team!


By Santiago De Andrés Juárez
Source: All Pet Food Magazine

You could be interested: The Interview: Matías Guri, General Manager of Petropack

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Interviews

Interviews The Interview: Stanley Andrade, Director of MBRF Pet

6+ MIN

03/02/2026

The Interview: Stanley Andrade, Director of MBRF Pet

MBRF Pet is currently positioned as one of the leading companies in the sector in Brazil. How would you describe the company's current moment and the main pillars of its growth strategy?
MBRF Pet was born as a major player, with a long history and significant contributions to pet nutrition and well-being, supported by the expertise of one of the largest food companies. Over the past year, our focus has been strongly directed toward integrating companies, systems, and processes—both internally within MBRF Pet and with MBRF as a whole. This has placed us in an even more privileged position in key areas, including partnerships, cutting-edge technology, and a consistent capacity for investment in our operations.

MBRF Pet has the most complete pet portfolio in the market, offering solutions for all sizes, life stages, and consumption profiles. This breadth has enabled us to be present across all channels and consumption occasions, always delivering the best value equation for our customers and pet owners. This diversity is undoubtedly one of the company's greatest strengths.

One of our main pillars is anchored in the Super Premium Natural segment, where we hold two of the most relevant brands on the market: Biofresh and Guabi Natural. Based on in-depth and ongoing research conducted by our technical team, we are convinced that this is the future of pet nutrition. There is still significant potential for growth in this segment in Brazil and Latin America, driven by increasing awareness among veterinarians and pet owners.

Our priority remains the commitment to improving the lives of pets, their owners, and industry professionals. To achieve this, we continue to invest consistently in innovation and the delivery of the highest-quality foods. Biofresh stands out as the only brand with a high inclusion of fresh ingredients—not only animal proteins but also fresh vegetables, herbs, and greens—while Guabi Natural is a pioneer in the Super Premium Natural segment in Brazil, with a trajectory that began in 2004.

We are also attentive to different consumption occasions and continuously seek to expand our portfolio, ranging from complete meals—both dry and wet—to reward moments such as snacks, as well as new textures and flavor variations. We operate strategically to meet the specific demands of each channel, offering tailored solutions for both mass retail and specialized pet channels, always respecting consumer profiles and brand positioning.   You are leading a significant international expansion. What opportunities do you currently see for Latin American pet food brands in global markets?
International expansion remains a central pillar of our strategy and is directly connected to the investments we have made in portfolio evolution and MBRF Pet's production capacity. Today, we operate in more than 20 countries, with a focus on regions such as Latin America, the Middle East, and Asia. Over the next two years, we plan to expand our presence to more than 30 markets. Brands, such as GranPlus, Biofresh, Guabi Natural, Balance, Three Dogs, Three Cats, Primocão, and Primogato, are gaining global relevance, bringing the quality of MBRF Pet nutrition to new consumers.

We see very clear opportunities for Latin American brands, especially when they combine quality, innovation, and a value proposition aligned with key global industry trends. The pet market undergoes an accelerated process of sophistication, driven by pet humanization, the search for more natural foods, and the consistent growth of the cat population, which is expanding at a faster pace than dogs. This movement has a direct impact on the demand for specific nutritional solutions, particularly in the wet food segment, which is growing rapidly, especially among felines.

In addition, MBRF Pet's industrial footprint is the strongest in the market, with factories in Brazil and Paraguay, strict quality controls required by different countries, a fully integrated chain, and the advantage of MBRF's global scale and logistics expertise. This allows us to compete efficiently and consistently in international markets, combining superior quality, food safety, and innovation capability.

From this solid foundation, international growth is driven by strategic local partnerships, deep consumer knowledge, and adaptation to regional dynamics. It is an ongoing effort that requires disciplined execution on a daily basis, but it has enabled us to consolidate leadership positions in several markets and open new avenues for MBRF Pet's brand growth.   From your perspective, what are the most relevant technological transformations currently shaping the pet food industry?
The pet food industry is experiencing a period of significant technological advancement, driven by science, innovation, and a deeper understanding of animals' real nutritional needs. Together, technology and nutrition create even more complete, safe, and functional food, aligned with the expectations of pet owners and veterinarians.

These trends have guided our investments in production capacity and new product development, especially in the wet food and Super Premium Natural segments.

A recent example of this commitment to innovation is the recognition of the Biofresh brand at the FISA 2025 Innovation Awards, with the launch of Biofresh Lombo & Abacaxi (loin and pineapple). It is a Super Premium Natural food that delivers functionality and an exclusive 'ideal feces' claim: reduced volume and odor, firm texture, and less attractive feces for ingestion. This reinforces our focus on advanced, effective nutritional solutions.

This innovation combines nutritional science, food engineering, and rigorous quality control, delivering a differentiated and high-value-added product.

Digitalization and data use throughout the entire production chain play a fundamental role. Ingredient traceability, industrial process control, and system integration generate significant gains in efficiency, predictability, and quality. At MBRF Pet, we leverage the full technological robustness of MBRF to operate under extremely high global standards.   How does sustainability fit into MBRF Pet's strategy?
As part of MBRF's global chain, MBRF Pet adopts a wide range of practices that promote sustainable development, minimize environmental impact, and contribute to animal welfare and social development. These are non-negotiable principles, rooted in our commitment to quality, integrity, and safety. We are committed to producing pet food responsibly, applying manufacturing processes that reduce environmental impact and supporting NGOs dedicated to animal welfare. One of our goals, for example, is to make all packaging recyclable, reusable, or biodegradable.

As regards sustainability, MBRF Pet practices 'zero landfill' operations at its Ivoti and Campinas plants: the waste generated is sent monthly for co-processing rather than disposal in landfills. Additional initiatives include the use of feed waste as organic fertilizer, the recycling of 100% of Guabi Natural packaging (with the company having already offset 130 tons of packaging), as well as water reuse practices and grain traceability.

On the social front, through the Guabi Natural brand, the company supports NGOs, such as GAVAA. It has donated over 111 tons of pet food to rescued animals, in addition to other donations to institutions. In 2023 alone, the company donated more than 20 tons of pet food to Ampara, AAAC, and Pata Santa.

Sustainability is a central axis for MBRF. It guides the company toward ethical, transparent, and responsible business practices. Within its global chain, the company operates a robust sustainability platform with multiple pillars, including origin control and supply chain management, climate, animal welfare, natural resources, circular economy, waste management, and social responsibility. The full sustainability report is available on the company's website.
Finally, is there any message, ideas, or reflection you would like to share with industry professionals reading this interview?
The pet sector carries great responsibility, as we deal directly with their health, well-being, and quality of life. For this reason, I believe that the industry growth must always be accompanied by science, ethics, collaboration, and a long-term vision.

There has been a positive market evolution characterized by increasingly qualified professionals, more conscious consumers, and companies that consistently invest in innovation and sustainability. This movement raises the overall standard of the sector and benefits the entire value chain, from producers to pet owners.

As an industry, our role is to continue investing in knowledge, technology, and best practices, fostering transparent and responsible relationships with customers, partners, veterinarians, and society. The future of the pet market necessarily depends on doing more and doing better—always with respect for animals and a positive impact on people.
Thank you, Stanley, for sharing your vision and knowledge with the All Pet Food community! By Stanley Andrade
Source: All Pet Food Magazine

Interviews The Interview: Matías Guri, General Manager of Petropack

4+ MIN

05/11/2025

The Interview: Matías Guri, General Manager of Petropack

From your leadership perspective, what are the main challenges in running the company strategically?
The main challenge is to maintain competitiveness in an increasingly demanding global market, support the shift toward more sustainable packaging, and ensure efficiency through the entire value chain. At the strategic level, we aim to balance innovation with operational strength to quickly address market demands without compromising quality consistency. As regards the operational part, our daily effort focuses on maintaining a high-quality service meeting each partner's standards. Developing and attracting talent is essential, as is keeping teams motivated—behind every response, delivery, and technological advance, there are people who make it possible.
Petropack is positioned in the flexible packaging industry. What solutions are you developing for the pet food segment, and what differentiates you in the market?
We mainly work with high-barrier packaging in the pet food market to ensure product preservation, freshness, and food safety. Through our technologies of coextrusion up to 7 layers and different films, we have developed layering structures and recyclable monomaterials with high magnetic resistance, strong sealing properties, and accurate pallets due to their high friction coefficient and air evacuation system.

Personalization is our key differentiator—whether in formats, structures, printed design, or technical support—from packaging development to installation on the bagging line. We are not only a packaging supplier but also a strategic partner.
When it comes to technological innovation, where are you placing your bets? Is there a technology, system, or project that stands out for its impact on quality or efficiency?
At Petropack, we strive to be at the forefront of each stage of the conversion process. From the extrusion process to the polyethylene film, we create high-performance formulas, offering mechanical resistance, fat migration stability, and barrier properties against moisture, oxygen, and light, and we leverage the potential of 7-layering coextrusion. One of our major investments is Printastic, a flexographic printer with expanded foam and digital modulation, with which we achieve ultra-high-definition levels that set us apart in the market. In the cutting step, we incorporated laser cutting to develop personalized easy open patterns, inside micro-perforations at 140 microns for ventilation, alphanumeric single codes for each packaging (ideal for sales), special labels, and NFC technology. Finally, in manufacturing, we implemented super premium-oriented innovations, such as degassing valves, side handles, Innolok and 360-like sealings, foldover bottoms, and rounded corners, among others. In addition to improving functionality, these features add unique value to the consumer experience.   In a dynamic industry like pet food, how do you address market needs and adapt to changing consumer demands?
We address the needs by actively listening to our clients and following global trends. The pet food category is sensitive to shifts in consumption habits: even more consumers are looking for practical, recyclable, and different packaging. To succeed, it is crucial to stay close to clients and support their business growth through innovation. Always seeking to be at the forefront, we also have a close relationship with suppliers, associations, and organisms that set the agenda in innovation and sustainability, which help us to apply these insights in concrete solutions for the regional market.
In addition to the product itself, what do customers value in a packaging supplier? How do you address customer experience and long-term relationships?
Customers evaluate satisfaction in a more integral way: they consider not only the product but also technical support, offers versatility, and short lead times. As a result, Petropack focuses on service; our expert teams follow up after sales, training, and direct assistance in plants when required. We want to establish long-term relationships based on transparency and joint innovation. Our commitment extends beyond packaging; Petropacks knows that each packaging represents the client's projections to the market.
From a strategic perspective, what role does Latin America play in Petropack's expansion and positioning? Are you planning to reach additional countries?
Latin America is the starting point for our expansion. We are already present in several markets, and our goal is to consolidate and focus on countries with growth potential in the pet food industry. Our value proposal has strengths in neighboring markets, where we aim not only to sell packaging but also to share knowledge and tailored solutions. International expansion is a key axis in our short-term strategic plan. 

'The pet food industry in Latin America is experiencing dynamism and professionalism. Packaging is essential in the value chain—besides protecting the product, it communicates the brand and connects with consumers' emotions. At Petropack, we are committed to investing in technology and human talent to address this growth by providing solutions that combine innovation, sustainability, and profitability.'

Thank you, Matias, for sharing your experience and insights about the industry!
  By Matías Guri, General Manager of Petropack
Source: All Pet Food Magazine

Interviews Microbial Science at the Heart of Pet Nutrition: Lallemand’s Vision

5+ MIN

20/10/2025

Microbial Science at the Heart of Pet Nutrition: Lallemand’s Vision

From your scientific perspective, how are microbial-based innovations, such as probiotics and postbiotics, reshaping the way we approach gut health and immune support in pet nutrition? 
  For many years, probiotics were primarily associated with addressing digestive upsets. Today, our understanding of the microbiome has broadened dramatically. We now recognize that microbial ecosystems in the gut influence much more than digestion; they play a role in immunity, skin health, even emotional and cognitive well-being through the gut-brain axis. 
  This shift has expanded the role of microbial-based ingredients from merely managing symptoms to actively supporting overall health and well-being. Probiotics help maintain a balanced microbiota, which is foundational for nutrient absorption, immune defense, and resilience against stress. Postbiotics, on the other hand, are emerging as a particularly exciting category: because they consist of inactivated microbial cells or metabolites, they are stable and versatile, and research shows they can strengthen gut integrity, reduce inflammation, and modulate immune responses. 
  Together, probiotics and postbiotics represent a move toward a proactive model of pet health where nutrition supports vitality and resilience rather than just reacting to illness. This is reshaping how both researchers and manufacturers think about pet nutrition, opening the door to more personalized and functional approaches.    What are the most critical challenges pet food manufacturers face today, and how can functional ingredients help address them? 
  One of the central challenges is navigating a market that is both highly competitive and rapidly evolving. Pet owners today are incredibly informed—they're reading research, comparing ingredients, and demanding transparency. This creates both opportunity and pressure for manufacturers who must balance innovation with scalable production and regulatory compliance. 
  One of the most significant challenges is the fragmentation of consumer expectations. Different demographics want different things: some prioritize sustainability, others focus on specific health outcomes, and still others are driven by ingredient sourcing stories. Manufacturers must navigate this complexity while maintaining product efficacy and economic viability. 
 
From a technical standpoint, the challenge lies in formulating products that deliver consistent benefits across diverse manufacturing processes, shelf lives, and feeding protocols. Functional ingredients are active biological systems that must remain effective throughout the entire product lifecycle. 
  The manufacturers who succeed will be those who can integrate functional ingredients not as marketing additions but as core components of their nutritional philosophy, supported by robust science and clear communication about benefits.    What trends or consumer shifts are you observing in the Asian market specifically, and how do they compare to what's happening globally? 
  We're seeing a global cultural shift: pets are increasingly considered family members, companions, and emotional anchors. This redefined relationship is fueling demand for nutrition that supports longevity, vitality, and quality of life. 
  In Asia, this transformation is particularly dynamic. Markets like China, Japan, and South Korea are simultaneously adopting global best practices while developing distinctly regional approaches to pet care.  The focus on aging pets is especially pronounced, partly due to rapidly improving veterinary care extending pet lifespans. 

 
What's distinctive in Asia is the approach to functional nutrition often incorporates traditional well-being philosophies alongside modern science. There's a natural affinity for preventive health concepts and an appreciation for ingredients that work systemically rather than targeting isolated symptoms. At the same time, the concept of preventive health is gaining traction, mirroring more established Western markets, but often with faster adoption rates. 
  Globally, Western markets have had more time to develop mature regulatory frameworks and consumer education around functional pet nutrition. However, Asia's rapid adoption curve means that innovation cycles are compressed, and consumer expectations are evolving at an accelerated pace. 
  The opportunity in Asia lies not just in market size, but in the openness to integrated health approaches that combine traditional wisdom with cutting-edge science. This creates fertile ground for innovations that might take much longer to gain acceptance in more established markets.    Looking ahead, what role do you believe health-driven and sustainable innovation will play in the future of pet nutrition, and how is Lallemand positioned to support that evolution? 
  The future of pet nutrition will be shaped by two powerful drivers: the demand for health-focused solutions and the imperative for sustainability. Pet owners increasingly expect food and supplements to deliver visible health benefits such as supporting gut health, immunity, and overall well-being, while also being ethically produced and environmentally responsible. 
 
Health-driven innovation will become increasingly personalized, moving beyond life-stage nutrition to consider individual microbiome profiles, genetic predispositions, and lifestyle factors. Sustainability will evolve from a differentiating factor to a baseline expectation. The challenge will be developing ingredients and processes that reduce environmental impact while maintaining or improving nutritional outcomes.  
  The challenge for the industry is to ensure that innovation is not just novel but meaningful by maintaining pets' health in ways that are evidence-based and lasting, while also contributing positively to the planet and society. This dual focus on health and sustainability is where the most impactful progress will be made in the years ahead. 
  Lallemand's unique position stems from our deep heritage in microbial science and our commitment to research-driven innovation. Our century of experience in understanding beneficial microorganisms provides a foundation for developing solutions that address the complex, interconnected challenges facing the industry. We're focused on advancing the science of how microbial interventions can support not just immediate health of your beloved pets, but long-term well-being strategies that align with both consumer values and environmental responsibility. 
  Rather than viewing health and sustainability as competing priorities, the future belongs to innovations that recognize their interconnectedness and create value across all dimensions simultaneously. 
  Thank you, Francesca, for giving us a closer look at how Lallemand is advancing pet well-being through innovative microbial-based solutions. To find out more, visit www.lalprobiome.com



By Francesca Susca, Global Category Manager for Pet at Lallemand Animal Nutrition
Source: All Pet Food

Interviews PLP: Innovation in Dosing and Coating Systems for the Pet Food Industry

2+ MIN

26/09/2025

PLP: Innovation in Dosing and Coating Systems for the Pet Food Industry

In a conversation with Marco Prati, Managing Director of PLP, we explored the company's most valuable technologies, its strategic market outlook, and its approach to sustainability and customer relationships.    Precision solutions, tailored to modern industry needs    When asked about the company's most impactful solutions for the pet food industry, Marco Prati explained that PLP provides liquid dosing systems across the entire production line, from ingredient intake to final processing. The firm also supplies micro-dosing systems for powders, allowing for the accurate inclusion of high-value components such as vitamins, enzymes, and amino acids. 
  Their main area of innovation is post-palatant coating, where PLP continues to bring advanced technology and improved performance, offering manufacturers greater control over the final quality of their products.    Strategic markets and customer focus    Marco highlighted Southeast Asia and Latin America as two of the fastest-growing markets for pet food processing technology, due to the rising number of new plants and growing consumer demand. Meanwhile, Europe remains a strategic region, driven by its strong focus on quality and product innovation. 
  PLP stays close to its customers by being highly flexible and responsive to changing needs. This includes the development of new technologies aimed at improving the final stages of production, especially in coating systems that are directly integrated just before packaging.    Innovation and sustainability at the core    Sustainability is not just a value, it's integrated into PLP's production model. 'We always do our best to optimize production changes and localize operations to minimize environmental impact,' Marco noted. The company's eco-friendly approach informs both the design of its machinery and its broader operational decisions across international markets.    In parallel, PLP keeps innovation as a constant driver. By combining digitalization, advanced automation, and customer-focused engineering, the company ensures reliable, efficient, and future-ready solutions. This dual commitment positions PLP as a global partner capable of helping manufacturers meet the industry's highest demands while staying aligned with the evolving standards of sustainability and performance.    Global commitment to innovation and sustainability    We thank Marco Prati and the entire PLP team for welcoming us to their plant and sharing a first-hand look at their work. PLP is not only keeping pace with the industry, but actively driving it forward through innovation, precision, and a strong commitment to customer success.  
  Looking ahead, PLP has confirmed its participation at CIPEU 2025, International Pet Food Congress, to be held in Zaragoza, Spain. The event will be a key opportunity to connect with industry leaders and showcase the company's ongoing commitment to innovation and sustainability in pet food processing. 
  Discover more about their solutions at https://plp-systems.com/  


By PLP Systems
Source: All Pet Food

Interviews Training, Networking, and Trends: What Sets the 2nd Edition of CIPEU in Zaragoza

6+ MIN

09/09/2025

Training, Networking, and Trends: What Sets the 2nd Edition of CIPEU in Zaragoza

Following its very well-received first edition, what motivated you to organize the 2nd edition of CIPEU? What lessons or experiences from the 1st edition are the basis for this new event?    Pablo Porcel de Peralta: Two key points motivate us to create these meetings worldwide. First, continuous training: in the pet food industry, we believe we feed another member of our family. Therefore, manufacturers must always innovate their products to nourish and enhance pets' well-being. To do so, they need to educate and inform themselves about the latest trends—CIPEU's scientific-academic program aims at addressing this necessity. 
  On the other hand, the possibility of generating a meeting point for the pet food industry, where professionals can generate ideas, do business, and connect with colleagues. For All Pet Food, it is crucial to create experiences and generate interacting moments with people and players in the sector. 
  Why is it important to organize an event like CIPEU in this European region? How does Zaragoza represent a strategic center for the pet food industry? What manufacturers are you expecting, both regionally and internationally?    Gonzalo Passarino Iglesias: Globally, the European pet food industry is the largest sector, with a turnover of around €30 billion. In Spain, in fiscal year 2024, it grew by around 5%, exceeding €2 billion in revenue. 
  Within the manufacturing sector of compound food, Aragón is the 2nd most important at the national level, marked by its innovation and modernization. 
  Furthermore, Zaragoza is located at the center of Spain's major development hubs. Within a radius of 350 kilometers, it accounts for 60% of the Spanish population and 80% of the national GDP, and at a similar distance, it connects with the south of France. 
  The country also has excellent aerial communication channels, highway systems, and railroads, including the AVE high-speed train, coupled with services including hotels, food, and activities for all people. 
  For this reason, hosting CIPEU in Zaragoza is worthwhile for a strategic sector with growing significance for the region. 
  At CIPEU, we will have a high-level academic program with renowned professionals of the industry, along with an exhibition hall representing the sector. For any professional in the chain as well as those in the production process, this is the key meeting for informed decision-making. 
  Moreover, the second edition evolved addressing the needs of foreign participants—all the talks will be translated for them to have a great experience.    From your point of view, how does the alliance between two strong organizations from different regions strengthen the event's reach? How was it co-organized?    Gonzalo: The success of CIPEU lies in the collaboration of two organizations, both strong in their areas, which join to create a benchmark event for the pet food industry. 
  The co-organization process is dynamic but demanding, allowing us to learn and grow hand in hand. 
  At Feria de Zaragoza, we have over 90 years of deep expertise in organizing national and international fairs or events, mainly in the agricultural sector—including animal nutrition, such as FIGAN (International Animal Production Show), or human nutrition, such as QUALIMEN (International Food Market Fair). 
  All Pet Food has been establishing important connections between suppliers, manufacturers, and professionals in the pet food industry for more than 10 years. With a strong presence in Latin America, the USA, and Europe, it became a key model in the sector. 
  By combining the knowledge of Feria de Zaragoza in organizing events and nutrition with All Pet Food's experience in the pet food sector, we have the benchmark event for the industry in terms of processes, ingredients, nutrition, equipment, laboratory, and packaging. CIPEU is the ideal place to build and strengthen connections with the industry throughout Europe.    Are you looking for or have you already secured new partnerships with other institutions to promote the event?   
  Gonzalo: We have had big support from the government of Aragón, the Provincial Council, and the City Council of Zaragoza, as well as the ANFAAC (Spanish National Association of Pet Food Manufacturers), which brings together 90% of the Spanish business sector. 
  This year, we are also supported by the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine in Zaragoza, the ICOVZ (Colegio Oficial de Veterinarios de Zaragoza), and the IACA (Asociación Portuguesa de Industrias de Alimentos Compuestos para Animales). 
  We are also accompanied by professionals who represent important institutions, such as the European Society of Veterinary and Comparative Nutrition (ESVCN) or the Veterinary Faculty of the Complutense University of Madrid. 
  The key to succeeding is to address the needs in the sector, from exhibitors to attendees. Partnering with the main associations at the national and European level is proof of that: the CEOE, the banking industry, and universities specializing in pet food. 
  Which topics did Domingo Ruíz Cano, President of the Scientific Committee, propose in this edition? 
  Pablo: Dr. Domingo Ruíz Cano is a reference in the industry. He works on studying and developing new innovative products. This year, his proposal focuses on trends and the evolution of raw materials—having increasingly demanding consumers, these are two mandatory views to consider when producing. 
  Topics that directly influence the improvement of food manufacturing processes will also be covered. As an industry, we must continue enhancing food safety and sustainability. Another issue to mention is nutraceuticals that link nutrition with health. 
  The program is designed to add value and visibility while discussing current and future industry trends. 
  What are your expectations for this meeting? Do you think it will have impact on the sector? 
  Gonzalo: CIPEU positions itself as the model meeting point for the animal nutrition industry in 2025, presenting a scientific program with training and an exhibition hall with more than 50 brands. 
  The event is for meeting and establishing key contacts in the industry, as well as learning and sharing experiences with pet food professionals. 
  Expectations are high, with the certainty that we will exceed the number of attendees and that the experience will have a highly positive impact on visitors, exhibitors, and sponsors.   
  Besides the mentioned program, CIPEU offers the opportunity to launch new products and services to the market, provide turnkey solutions, and show products with proven value and quality. It is the place to generate business, connect, and be updated. 
  How is the dynamic, and what does this kind of event offer to participants? 
  Pablo: The event will take place on October 1 and 2 at Palacio de Zaragoza. We will have an auditorium for 400 attendees and a commercial hall, where more than 50 suppliers will show their latest innovations to enhance food manufacturing. We can organize these meetings thanks to the suppliers and our partners. I invite you to visit their booths and learn about their new technologies. 
  This year, we will continue improving our services. Besides our excellent academic program, we will offer coffee break and lunch services—included in the general ticket both days—for the industry to enjoy the event without having to leave the Palacio.  
  What message do you want to share with potential companies or participants? 
  Pablo: We invite the entire pet food sector in the Iberian Peninsula to join us on October 1-2 at CIPEU. It is a tailored space that we improve edition by edition to add value for the future of the industry. CIPEU 2025 is not to be missed! 
  Open registration, 40% OFF with early bird: Register here  
Know more about the conference program: CIPEU 2025 PROGRAM

By Pablo Porcel de Peralta and Gonzalo Passarino Iglesias
Source: All Pet Food

Interviews Interview With Arturo Sánchez: Tietjen’s Vision to Optimize Grinding Through The FD 32 Pro

6+ MIN

22/08/2025

Interview With Arturo Sánchez: Tietjen’s Vision to Optimize Grinding Through The FD 32 Pro

1. What are the main solutions Tietjen currently offers?     Tietjen is a specialist in size reduction for pet food, fish feed and as well wood or food applications. We are known for our robust, efficient hammer mills for almost 70 years. 
  We provide a large range of mills, from compact systems for small operations to large-scale, fine grinding high-capacity hammer mills made for pet food producers. 
  Furthermore, we put a strong focus on an optimized grinding system with the hammer mill at its heart. We know from our customers all over the world that only an optimized grinding system reaches the highest productivity. So, we look that aspiration, feeding, transport, grinding as well as dust explosion protection are well aligned in our grinding systems. A typical Tietjen customer knows about these advantages and gets a well aligned grinding system.     2. Why is the grinding process so important in pet food production?    On the one hand, the grinding process is at the beginning of the pet food production process and has a massive influence on the efficiency of the downstream processes, e.g., homogeneous fine grinded pet food recipes reduce the incidence of die plugging in extruder, reduce wear, and improve binding properties due to uniformity and cleanness of the ground material. Most importantly, fine grinded pet food recipes are a prior condition for the production of uniform premium pet food kibbles.  
  On the other hand, grinding is one of the most energy consming parts in the pet food production process, so it is worth looking at it in more detail to figure our energy saving potentials.    3. What key features set the new FD 32 Pro Hammer Mill apart within Tietjen's portfolio of solutions?     The FD 32 Pro hammer mill by Tietjen was designed for pet food and aqua feed manufacturers. It is engineered to address the requirements for more throughput and fine grinding on the one hand, and energy efficiency on the other hand.  

    Well-known features of Tietjen hammer mills, such as robustness, user-friendliness and the smooth running of the rotor, have been retained and supplemented with new design features. For example, the rotor diameter has been increased by 100 mm to achieve a higher beater tip speed. Also, the distance between the beater tip and the screen has been reduced to prevent the screen openings from clogging in the case of high fat contents.  
  The grinding chamber was extended to 1600 mm and divided by a centre wall so that the screens, each 800 mm wide, are easy to handle. Four screens are installed per grinding chamber segment, resulting in a total screen area of 4.8 m² (7,440 in²). A special screen-fastening seals the screens so that no oversize particles can get into the product.  
  In daily operation, the FD 32 Pro impresses with its ease of maintenance and economical operation. Large sliding doors on both sides of the machine allow easy access for screen and beater change. Beaters are changed using the beater frame system, which has been well-proven in Tietjen large chamber mills for more than 40 years. The advantages of this system are the quick replacement of the beaters and reduced idling energy of the mill.      4. What are the concrete benefits of this model in terms of performance, energy efficiency, or end-product quality?     0.8 mm (20 mesh) screens after grdining fat and protein rich pet food recipes.   Due to its large size, the FD 32 Pro mill enables pet food producers to achieve both high throughput and fine particle size simultaneously when grinding pet food formulations. The throughput of the hammer mill complies with the requirements of the newest generation of high-capacity extruders. 
  In practical operation, the FD 32 Pro is able to process even protein- and fat-rich recipes through a 0.8 mm screen (20 mesh) without clogging—something that most mills cannot accomplish without multiple stoppages or the use of several machines. 
  Thanks to its dimensions and throughput, production with the FD 32 Pro is both more efficient and more energy-saving compared to conventional mills currently in use. There is additional potential for energy savings through the optimal configuration of the FD 32 Pro, as fineness and energy consumption are influenced by rotor speed, screen size, and beater configuration. Identifying the optimal setup here results in measurable cost savings. 
  It is important to highlight the significance of regular service and maintenance: Tietjen provides a strong service team with deep expertise in how maintenance impacts operational productivity. For example, damaged seals can reduce pressure inside the mill, significantly decreasing throughput. 
  Finally, it is essential to take a system-based approach: Never consider a hammer mill in isolation—always evaluate the entire grinding system. Our experience shows that well-aligned grinding systems are far more efficient, and as grinding specialists, we know how to optimize a system to achieve maximum productivity    5. How does this solution meet the specific needs of the Latin American pet food market?     Energy efficiency, productivity, and the production of high-quality premium pet food are increasingly important in South America. With our FD 32 Pro hammer mill—specially developed to address the specific needs of pet food manufacturers—we are confident that we can meet and even exceed customer expectations. 
  We offer not only a high-capacity, fine grinding hammer mill, but also comprehensive expertise in designing and aligning grinding systems for maximum productivity. By optimally configuring your entire grinding process, we enable consistent, energy-efficient production of premium pet food with outstanding quality and reliability.    6. In what type of plants or projects do you see the FD 32 Pro making a real difference?     When the first FD 32 Pro machines were put into operation, we noticed that the mill achieves very high fineness levels and grinds the material as finely as a pulverizer. For very small extrudates, such as those used in the production of starter fish feed or shrimp feed in the aqua feed industry, this opens up new possibilities for single-stage grinding. This significantly reduces investment costs and energy consumption.    7. What role does technological innovation play in Tietjen's current strategy?     Technological innovation plays a central role in Tietjen's current strategy and is a key driver of our competitive edge and customer value. This is as well reflected in the recent developed products like already mentioned FD 32 Pro hammer mill but also the Tietjen Crusher CR 900 and the Online Particle Size Controller (OPC) contribute to an increase in productivity, reliability and energy efficiency. 
  By integrating Tietjen's Crusher CR900, coarse ingredients like pulses or pellets can be pre-ground before entering the hammer mill. This results in a more homogeneous product that requires less grinding time in the hammer mill, reducing both retention time and heat buildup. Since the pre-crusher operates with lower energy consumption than the hammer mill, overall energy usage is reduced. 
    Our OPC (Online Particle Size Controller) is another innovation that boosts process transparency and quality assurance. By enabling real-time monitoring of particle size during milling, the OPC helps customers to detect screen break and wear early in the process. This level of digitalization and process control is increasingly essential in modern production environments, such as in the feed and pet food sectors. 
    Overall, Tietjen's strategy is characterized by continuous improvement of core machinery and integration of digital solutions to enhance productivity  and product quality in pet food production. We ensure that our customers can meet today's challenging market demands through reliable, high-performance technology that is regularly refined and updated based on industry developments and customer feedback.    8. Finally, in which upcoming events will Tietjen be participating, either in Latin America or internationally?    We are participating in pet food events all over the world, such as Victam Latam, CIPEU, Fenagra, Victam International, EuroTier, IPPE 
  Thank you, Arturo, for sharing your vision of the market and Tietjen's latest updates.  To learn more, visit their website: https://www.tietjen-original.com/en 

 
Source: All Pet Food 

Interviews The Interview: Jorge Guzmán, Sales Director at Bühler

5+ MIN

29/04/2025

The Interview: Jorge Guzmán, Sales Director at Bühler

Jorge, could you tell us about your professional background and the focus of your current role as Sales Director at Bühler?   My journey at Bühler began in 2000, 25 years ago, as a Project Engineer. Ten years later, I took on the role of Sales Manager for several Bühler divisions after spending three years training at the company's headquarters in Switzerland. Starting in 2010, I became Sales Director for the Animal and Human Nutrition Division for Mexico and Central America. I am a Mechanical Engineer with various training courses in processes at our headquarters in human and animal nutrition. I graduated from the SFT (Swiss Institute of Feed Technology), and I hold a degree in Business Management from IPADE and EGADE Monterrey.
  Our main focus is to position ourselves as market leaders by offering the service and technological support customers expect to achieve their strategic plans, which are increasingly demanding and competitive.   What is the scope of Bühler technologies, and how do they optimize the lives and processes of those who use them?    As a global leader in technology development for the food and mobility industries, Bühler is present in the daily lives of millions of people, from the moment they wake up to when they go to bed, helping them meet their basic needs. Our technologies are present in their smartphones, solar panels, banknotes, lipsticks, the food they eat, and the vehicles they drive. We strive to innovate for a better world with a special focus on healthy, safe, and sustainable solutions.   How do your products and solutions contribute to the pet food industry?   The pet food industry is so fundamental that Bühler has integrated it under the Human Consumption Division. This ensures that, with our advanced technologies and automation, our customers obtain precise traceability and control of the entire extrusion process, both single and twin shafts. The result is a reliable, high-nutritional-value, healthy, and easily digestible food for pets.   Do you currently have any pet food projects in development or soon to be launched you can share with us?   Bühler is a company that invests up to 5% of its turnover in new technologies each year, and the Pet Division is no exception. Some of these developments are already underway in projects such as:
  Kibble humidity measurement and control at the dryer exit, as it is crucial because this is where you can make or lose money. That's why Bühler launched our "DryingPro," which helps measure and control humidity in real-time to increase drying process performance and profitability.
  Kibble production ingredient mix accuracy and precision: This is optimized with various weighing equipment at different points in the process, from the extruder inlet to before packaging, thereby reducing waste within the process.
  The particle size spectrum after milling, which is vitally important for achieving good mix homogeneity, as well as for the texture and cooking of the ingredients during the extrusion process. To achieve this, Bühler has a technology that controls this particle size, achieving improved kibble quality in every sense.   What are the distinguishing features of your Granulex model and its applications?   Our Granulex Series 5 hammer mill can provide energy savings capacity increases of up to 10% and time savings of up to 50% when changing hammers and screens. It also features an explosion-proof design to improve production safety.
   The Granulex Series 5 mill is used by demanding industries that require grinding raw materials from very coarse to fine for feed or grains, such as the pet food industry, malt and beer, and general pre-milling.   And what can you tell us about the Imdher-Bühler alliance? How do you think it benefits the industry?   It is a strategic plan that has revolutionized the pet and feed industry, offering turnkey projects from a single supplier, primarily for Mexico. We have managed to integrate the experience of Imdher, a 100% Mexican company with more than 40 years in the market, with that of Bühler, with more than 170 years of creating cutting-edge technology for a better world.   Speaking of the market, how do you see the pet food industry in Mexico and Central America? At what stage do you think it is now?   Mexico, one of the largest markets in the world after the United States and Brazil, is gradually becoming saturated with a measured growth of approximately 4% annually, after growing at a rate of over 12% for the last 10 years. Differentiation will begin with high-quality products, as basic products will face intense competition, and a price war will start. This is where cutting-edge technology will play an important role in receiving byproducts from other industries and replacing some raw materials that will be expensive or difficult to obtain.
  The rest of Central America is a smaller but rapidly growing market, which should be taken advantage of by local manufacturers or large Mexican producers who can export kibble while maintaining tariffs the Central American market faces on products from outside these countries.   In your view and experience, where is the pet food industry heading, technologically speaking? How do you think artificial intelligence is impacting it?   The pet food market is becoming more humanized due to the close relationship between pets and humans. Therefore, the way pet food is produced must be stricter and comply with certain regulations that, currently, are not applied or considered. Technology will play a very important role every day, together with raw materials, which are increasingly difficult to process. This is where twin-shaft extruders and more efficient packaging systems must be considered given their broad production flexibility.
  AI is already present in production processes, healthcare, and disease prevention. Regarding food production, AI is becoming increasingly necessary through automation. It can fix process errors, allowing machines to adjust themselves to improve efficiency, performance, and traceability, and control human error, not to mention that manpower in Mexico and Central America is increasingly scarce. Today, we must consider new production plans and the integration of our new generations so that they adapt to each market's needs.   What place does sustainability have in the company's vision? How do Bühler's innovative solutions face climate change?   For Bühler, sustainability is essential for our regulatory framework, balancing humanity, nature, and the economy and involving our own company, suppliers, and customers. Regarding nature (the environment), we created a plan that began five years ago in which we committed to reducing waste, water, and energy use in our customers' value chain by 50% by 2025. Additionally, we have developed a path to achieve a 60% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions across all our operations by 2030.
  Thank you, Jorge, for sharing your knowledge and Bühler updates with the All Pet Food community!



By Jorge Guzmán
Source: All Pet Food Magazine

Interviews The Interview: Daniel Geraldes, Founder of FENAGRA

3+ MIN

08/04/2025

The Interview: Daniel Geraldes, Founder of FENAGRA

How was your professional career until you launched FENAGRA? 
  FENAGRA had its first edition in 2004, with only 8 stands. At that time, I was only dedicated to the animal recycling market (rendering), and I used to give a workshop about this topic. At the same time, I decided to publish a magazine specialized in the industry.  
  At first, when I pitched the idea of the fair, everyone believed that this market did not have enough potential to have its own event. However, I insisted, and we held it anyway. When the participants saw the fair, many were interested in having their stand the following year. And so, we arrive in 2025 edition, when we will have 220 stands.    What motivated you to create FENAGRA? What is the main goal of the event?  
  As I already knew many people in the pet food sector thanks to the magazine, I decided to start with the Expo Pet Food fair and invite the CBNA (Brazilian College of Animal Nutrition) to hold the congress, in parallel to the fair. I believed this would give credibility to both the event and the Congress. The professional Aulus Carcioffi liked the idea and took it to the entity's Board of Directors, which finally approved it. 
  The fair was held in San Pablo and was very well received. Thus, each year the event gained new exhibitors and increased the number of visitors.   What was the place that the pet food sector occupied at the fair in its beginnings?     Some visitors were from the pet food industry. That's when I met Claudio Mathias (a great friend) and we had the idea of creating an exclusive magazine for pet food. The following year it was launched and received great approval from the entire sector. I immediately realized there was no exclusive magazine and fair for the pet food sector. There was a fair for the pet industry, but not for pet food.    What makes this next edition different from the previous ones?    The event will take place from May 13 to 15, 2025. This will already be the 18th edition (since there was no event for 2 years due to the pandemic), and the event will be held in Anhembi, São Paulo, the largest pavilion in Latin America. This year, the exhibitors belong to different stations of the pet food production chain, so there will be suppliers of raw materials, machines, equipment, laboratories, packaging, and more.   What is the expectation regarding the number of visitors and exhibitors in this edition? What countries will they be mostly from?    We will have 220 exhibitors and an estimated audience of 8,000 people. The visitors are pet food manufacturers, and come from various countries and continents, such as Latin America, the United States, Africa, Asia, and Europe.    What news will attendees at the event find?    Partnering with the CBNA was critical to the event and we have been together from the beginning. Currently, the CBNA is responsible for the largest Animal Nutrition Congress in Latin America, which attracts thousands of people and has simultaneous translation in three languages: English, Spanish, and Portuguese.    Regarding the congress, how many conferences will be given? What will be the main topics of the speakers?    The CBNA has a specific technical committee for pet food, and we will have 11 parallel conferences: CBNA Pet Food Congress.  CBNA Aqua Feed Congress.  CBNA Poultry Nutrition Congress.  CBNA Swine Nutrition Congress.  CBNA Bovine Nutrition Congress.  SBOG Congress – Vegetable Oils and Fats.  UBRABIO Congress – Biodiesel.  ABISA Southeast Congress.  ABRA Congress – Animal Recycling.  Sincobesp Congress – Animal Recycling.  CBNA Congress of Nutrilogy in Dogs and Cats.    Would you like to tell us any other information?    I would like to take this opportunity to thank All Pet Food for their collaboration, which always supported us, and congratulate them on CIPAL, which is a great success.    For more information about FENAGRA, you can visit: www.fenagra.com.br       By Daniel Geraldes Source: All Pet Food Magazine

Interviews The interview: Maximilian Furley

4+ MIN

04/11/2024

The interview: Maximilian Furley

Understanding the 'new' consumer demand that was booming and changing after the pandemic, Premier Tech was in the field, listening to its customer voices, and was committed to making it a reality. Through strategic adjustments in sales coverage, operations, and service support, Premier Tech LATAM has become one of the fastest-growing regions globally. Since 2022, they have seen remarkable growth, with 2023 marking their best year since establishing their first manufacturing facility in Brazil in 2015, followed by Mexico in 2017.   - How does Premier Tech incorporate sustainability into its technological advancements and business practices?   - Premier Tech is committed to continuously advancing sustainability, embedding it into every facet of our operations. From developing energy-efficient technologies to utilizing recyclable materials and minimizing waste, we design solutions that not only boost productivity but also reduce environmental impact. By supporting a circular economy and extending the lifespan of our products, we are dedicated to building sustainable processes that contribute to a greener future. Our commitment is reflected in both our technological innovations and environmental preservation initiatives, as we strive to make progress every day.   - What roles do innovation and research play in maintaining Premier Tech's competitive edge in the technology industry?   - Research and innovation are at the heart of Premier Tech's strategy. The company operates advanced laboratories and multidisciplinary teams dedicated to developing new technologies that enable greater automation, precision, and sustainability in industrial processes. By continuously focusing on R&D, Premier Tech stays ahead of market trends such as digitalization and Industry 4.0, offering solutions that not only enhance efficiency but also create long-term value for our clients, while remaining committed to environmental sustainability, keeping Premier Tech at the forefront of the global technology industry.   - How do you see technology developing in the pet food industry?   - The pet food industry is transforming significantly, with a growing demand for wet and highly customized products. Premier Tech, attuned to these changes, is already developing end-of-line equipment specifically to meet the rising demand for wet products, offering solutions that ensure flexibility and efficiency in packaging processes. Additionally, with a focus on comprehensive customer service, the company invests in technologies that enhance quality, sustainability, and process automation, keeping Premier Tech at the forefront of innovation in the sector.   - What are the most significant challenges for the company these days?   - One of the biggest challenges faced by the industry is balancing the need to handle a wide variety of SKUs while maintaining operational efficiency. Although some solutions offer flexibility to manage this diversity, they do not always guarantee the continuous efficiency of production lines, which can lead to higher maintenance and operational costs in the long run. At Premier Tech, our focus is on providing robust and reliable equipment that ensures maximum productivity, regardless of the SKU complexity. We are committed to helping our clients keep their operations efficient and competitive, backed by a strong after-sales support system dedicated to their production success.   - From your experience, what do you think will be the biggest challenge for the whole industry in the coming years?   - The biggest challenge will be adapting to emerging technologies while staying sustainable. The rapid digital transformation, driven by automation, artificial intelligence, and data-driven solutions, is reshaping the future of industries. As companies embrace these advancements, they are also under increasing pressure to adopt more sustainable practices and reduce their environmental impact. Achieving this will require significant investments in innovation and a comprehensive restructuring of industrial operations. Balancing technological innovation, sustainability, and operational efficiency will be a key challenge in the coming years.   - What is the company currently working on for the near future?   - Premier Tech is constantly investing in innovations that enable greater automation, flexibility, and efficiency. The company is developing new equipment that responds to emerging market demands, such as technologies that support sustainable packaging and more agile production lines. Premier Tech is also integrating AI, connected machines, and robotic solutions into its portfolio, driving even greater advancements in automation and smart manufacturing.   Additionally, Premier Tech Systems and Automation has recently launched a new training offering designed to help clients enhance the performance and profitability of their Chronos™ equipment. This training program is part of the company's exploration of innovation, combining both new and existing training modules into a unique commercial offer that provides comprehensive support for clients. These new commercial offers reflect Premier Tech's commitment to value creation, focusing on both tangible and intangible aspects, and reinforcing the foundation of its innovation approach.   Source: All Pet Food Magazine

Interviews The interview - Scott Krebs, President of Wenger Group

5+ MIN

05/08/2024

The interview - Scott Krebs, President of Wenger Group

Scott, tell us a little bit about your professional career and how you arrived and rose to your current position at Wenger Group.   lived most of my life in Sabetha, Kansas, which has an incredible amount of industry professionals per capita. One of those industries in my hometown happens to be the Wenger Group. Because Sabetha is centrally located among many US pet food producers, I was aware of the pet food industry at a young age. always loved our companion animals and our family currently has three Australian shepherd-husky mix breeds that are truly part of my family. I obtained a mechanical engineering degree from Kansas State University and promptly returned to my hometown. I was an associate at Extru-Tech, Inc. for 32 years gaining knowledge in the various fields of project engineering, international sales, and brand management. I was honored to be appointed as President of Wenger Group in June 2023.   How does your background in the pet food industry help you lead the Wenger Group?   Process Solutions with emphasis on extrusion cooking, drying, coating, and cooling – especially for pet foods and treats – has been a passion for my entire 33-year career. Throughout that time, I've been fortunate to work with some incredibly knowledgeable extrusion cooking experts and some of the most forward-thinking and well-managed pet food producers in the world. From early in my career, I understood the importance of listening intently to understand customer needs, wants, and desires and collaboratively reaching solutions that meet their goals.   Wenger's corporate focus is to provide customers with an 'unparalleled customer experience.' Although Wenger is a well-established and trusted name in the industry, we cannot be content with past success. Our customers face market and competitive challenges, and we must stay ready with updated solutions that can enable our customers to be successful.   What do you think is the current main challenge among Latin American producers?   see a growing opportunity in this region for foods and treats with higher levels of fresh meat content, unique inclusions, and increased palatability. Achieving these types of products requires a more advanced knowledge of extrusion cooking and drying. Our customers can enjoy first-mover advantages by working with nger to produce unique (and higher value) products for their market. Demand for traditional kibble will continue to be strong, but producers who can offer a wider range of foods and treats within a single flexible equipment architecture can be even more successful in Latin America.   How can producers know whether to use twin-screw or single-screw extruders for pet food or treats?   The answer to this starts with knowing the types of desired product characteristics (now and in the future). A single screw extruder is the workhorse in the industry around the globe. They are very effective for high volumes of established products while at the same time offering variability in recipe management. However, if a customer wants to create many different types of foods and treats - with at times even further ingredient and processing flexibility - from the same extruder, then we may suggest twin screw technology. The decision is not about which technology is better because both deliver on metrics all companies measure such as safety, performance, and quality, but rather about the selection of the correct tool to accomplish the customer's current and future states of their business model.   It's also important to note that choosing the right holistic process solution (including drying, coating, cooling, and process controls) should be considered as an equally important decision to that of the extrusion system alone. For that reason, Wenger Group employs many process solution experts who were former customers utilizing extrusion technology. Our Process Group SMEs (subject matter experts) are equipped through education, experience, and frankly the 'school of hard knocks' that provide valuable insight into various available integrated process solutions.   What new initiatives are the Wenger teams focused on?   As part of our overall customer experience initiative, we are focused on technology innovation, manufacturing excellence, and expanding our process knowledge. We are designing and commercializing many offerings including the new PetFLEX™ extrusion system, improved control systems complemented with data analytics, and MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems) overlay for Wenger extruders and dryers. We also have decarbonization modifications for dryers including the use of high temperature heat pumps. In manufacturing, we are implementing processes to decrease lead times while enabling us to use newer, more sustainable materials. Wenger's reputation for extrusion process expertise is well deserved, but we stay diligent in understanding the changing demand for ingredients (including alternative proteins), palatability requirements, shapes, textures, and coatings. As we partner with customers, we try first to understand their needs, wants, and desires – and then we refine and/or recommend processes and hardware accordingly to meet and often exceed those expectations.   How do you support customer Research & Development?   Wenger customers (globally) are constantly developing new products to be successful. Enabling customer R&D has been core to our company for over 60 years, mostly through the Wenger Technical Center, located in Sabetha. For decades, producers of extruded pet food, aquatic feed, and human food have used the Technical Center to confidentially develop new product ideas in a facility with production-scale equipment. This is important because products developed in a small-scale test lab may not translate well into a full-size extrusion system. Plus, at the Technical Center, customers have access to the Wenger process team that can help with ingredient selection, process variables, extrusion parameters, and other critical aspects. We've been told numerous times that the Wenger team helped a customer achieve something they probably couldn't have done on their own at scale and speed to execution. As mentioned earlier, it is woven into our DNA to provide an 'Unparalleled Customer Experience' in all aspects of our business. We are a passionate, caring group that is honored to assist our customers!   What market trends do you see emerging over the next 5 years?   Globally, the trends for pet foods will include more variability in ingredient selection, breed-specific diets, increased palatability, increased nutrition, and treats with unique shapes, colors, and fills that all add to our companion animal's life-long well-being. Pet food producers – like most companies – also have sustainability initiatives and responsibilities that will demand technology solutions that reduce energy usage and are carbon-smart. Processing flexibility & agility will be paramount. Customers want to produce multiple products, with unique ingredients, on the same equipment, and with the same set-up, if possible, to optimize uptime. In other words, producers will increase their product offerings while decreasing production costs. Here at the Wenger Group, we embrace the challenge, and we look forward to working with our customers on these opportunities.   Source: All Pet Food Magazine

Interviews The interview - Sonia Franck

4+ MIN

29/05/2024

The interview - Sonia Franck

How can you describe your role in the Pet Food Industry?   Since joining the pet food industry as Secretary General of FEDIAF EuropeanPetFood, I have recognised the value of my experience in the pharmaceutical industry and the number of useful links. Fundamentally, both industries share a common goal of promoting health and well-being. The pet food industry is a dynamic sector that continuously strives to meet the evolving nutritional needs and preferences of our pets. Staying abreast of scientific research, safety, market trends and consumer demands is something to which I am accustomed. The expertise I gained in the pharmaceutical sector will support my contribution to the ongoing efforts to ensure that Europe's 340 million pets receive nutritious and safe pet food.   I must also note that personally, I have always been passionate about rescuing pets and am committed to advocating for pet welfare. My move to the pet food industry has not been a surprise to my former colleagues and friends! I have now aligned my career with my experience and passion for pet welfare. I am truly excited about the value I can bring to the European Pet Food Industry.   How would you describe your job as Secretary General of IML Innovative Medicines in Luxembourg?   I am extremely proud of my work at IML, the voice of the private research-based pharmaceutical industry active in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. Through IML's representation of 64 global companies, the association encourages therapeutic innovation in medicines for human use. Here I played a key role in transforming the association. We worked hard to develop and introduce a new five-year strategy; we restructured its management and diversified revenue streams. My primary objective at IML was to enhance the industry's visibility and have a positive impact on public health. This is one of the many key experiences, which I know will help shape and bring value to my work in the pet food industry.   How did you receive your new role as General Secretary at FEDIAF?   Although I have only been in my role at FEDIAF for one month (at the time of writing this interview!), I am already enjoying being immersed in a busy team. In fact, one aspect that particularly excites me is the opportunity to lead, build and guide a small team of dedicated colleagues in Brussels. To remind your readership, our team looks after the needs of our membership, which includes 15 European national pet food associations, together with five pet food manufacturers operating in Europe. We estimate that this equates to around 150 pet food companies (200 plants) across Europe, producing 10.5 million tonnes of pet food. This is a big responsibility for our team and one that I am embracing as the new Secretary General.   What do you think are the main challenges in this position?   My main challenge will be to support the team and deliver the 'asks' outlined in our Manifesto and three pillars. Here we highlight our challenges and objectives. Our first pillar is to ensure the supply of nutritious products across Europe. We will continue to collaborate with authorities, regulators, and academics to ensure our members are able to continue in their supply of safe, nutritious, and palatable products. We will work closely with experts to update our Nutritional Guidelines, and Labelling Code, and also bring new, expert-written factsheets on a wide range of nutrition topics.   Our second pillar is to promote the benefits of pet interaction and responsible pet ownership. We highlight the key role of nutrition in pet welfare. This year, we have welcomed the proposed animal welfare legislation and will continue to monitor its progress. A key focus of our work is to contribute to the Pet Alliance Europe, our collaboration with AnimalhealthEurope, FECAVA and FVE where our combined voices are stronger in the promotion of pet welfare messages. This year we will also be promoting the wealth of scientific research proving the benefits of pets in terms of human health.   Thirdly, we are committed to sustainability from farm to bowl - the responsible use of resources and minimising our environmental impact. Therefore, we are monitoring various environmental developments at the EU and a national level. We are actively working on the packaging and packaging waste regulation proposal, and we continue to promote the importance of Product Environmental Footprint (PEF) methodology for the pet food sector, especially in the context of discussion on green claims. This methodology is key to a harmonised framework and supporting consumers.   How do you see the pet food industry nowadays?   The European pet food industry is critical to the health and well-being of Europe's 340 million pets. There are around 127 million cats, 104 million dogs, 53 million birds, 29 million small mammals, 22 million aquaria and 11 million terraria, to be precise! As the number of pets grows, so does our Industry. Annual sales of pet food products are around 29.1 billion euros, and this is a growth of 5.1%. In volume terms, the pet food market has also grown 3.5% and is currently 10.5 million tonnes. You can read more about European data in our Facts & Figures report.   And what do you think is the most important problem to be addressed this year?   With my arrival coinciding with the EU elections, I recognised that there would be challenging files to tackle. The dynamic landscape of the European Union presents a host of complex issues that require thorough analysis and diligent work. However, I am eager to take on these challenges, leveraging my experience and expertise to contribute to the advancement of the pet food industry and the well-being of pets. I will continue to advocate for its interests amid evolving regulatory and political environments.   It will be an exciting year!   For more information, please visit www.europeanpetfood.org or contact fediaf@fediaf.org   Source: All Pet Food Magazine. 

Interviews The interview - Juan Gomez-Basauri

4+ MIN

25/01/2024

The interview - Juan Gomez-Basauri

1. Which challenges have you faced in your professional career? There are different and varied challenges during each stage of a professional career, from moving to a new place, or a new city, leaving old friends and colleagues, making new friends and colleagues, balancing work, and family, to learning very quickly from mistakes and understanding new cultures. I think most of us will have gone through one or the other, but the way we face each of them is what makes the difference, what makes us who we are. It's what defines us. 2. Why did you make the decision to open your own technology consulting business in 2023? My style has always been to be highly entrepreneurial, especially when it comes to positioning new technologies and innovations in the market.
I was very fortunate that, in previous roles, my responsibility was to be that of a business champion, that is, leading the charge for new products and technologies, building from scratch, as we would say. However, there comes a time when one needs to step out of their comfort zone if there is a desire to keep growing both professionally and personally. That's the reason why I founded Magellan LLC. 3. What are your company's goals? Magellan LLC is a business dedicated to providing innovative, science-based technologies and consultative solutions to the agri-food, nutrition, and human and animal health businesses. 4. What solutions do you provide and why? The key is how you listen to your customers and answer their needs, which will define the solution and the service.
From product innovation to the design and execution of research projects, through the development and application of new bioactive and nutritional compounds, we listen extremely well to the needs of our clients and respond to them. 5. What's your vision about the pet food industry development in the upcoming years? The pet food business is an exciting area, but, like any other industry, it is bound to change, to evolve.
There is a close connection between people and their pets. We care about them as much as we care about ourselves. There is an emotional component in the bond between human beings and animals. The industry will strive to find new, functional, and proven nutritional technologies and new feeding formats in order to provide health and well-being to our companion animals because they are part of our families. 6. How do you think trendy topics, such as sustainability and product customization, are being addressed by the market? Sustainability is a driving force for business. However, how much of what we are actually doing is truly sustainable? Sustainability must include environmental, social, and economic factors. Everyone must do their part, as we are all linked, we are all connected as individuals and companies, from transportation to packaging, from supply chain to life cycle assessment, and with full transparency in all processes.
Companies must encourage and embrace innovation to find better technologies and processes that can be truly sustainable, and that, in the end, is what will make a difference. 7. In your experience, what will be the most significant challenges during 2024? I'd say change and disruption and how we adapt to them, from raw materials and supply chain challenges to changing consumer spending patterns, to name a few. The market is evolving, and companies will have to adapt and do it quickly. This, in turn, will accelerate innovation and provide opportunities for launching new products and services. 8. What trends you could say will growth the most? Predicting specific trends involves a certain degree of uncertainty. However, several trends are shaping the pet food market and will continue to evolve in the coming years.
As we mentioned before, sustainability and transparency are some of them. We will continue to see advances related to microbiome diets and the health benefits they bring will be the basis for personalized diets and foods. Interest in alternative sources of protein and energy will increase. Cellular agriculture and its applications will find their market niches. We should not discount AI (artificial intelligence) and how this technology will be a game-changer in the pet food industry. Currently, from his technology and consulting business, Magellan LLC, Juan continues the legacy of what, he affirms, he has been fortunate to receive throughout his professional path: 'Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to have good mentors and people who believed in me, from my parents and family to my teachers during my college years and professional career. That is what I have practiced and will continue to strive for with Magellan LLC.'   Source: All Pet Food Magazine.

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