The Secret Ingredient Transforming Pet Nutrition: Animal Plasma

APC was founded to turn animal blood, mainly from the meat industry, into valuable functional ingredients. Its mission: transform what was once waste into high-value plasma proteins for animal feed. The company now converts blood fractions—plasma and red blood cells—into functional ingredients used in animal nutrition, agriculture, and even human food. This approach relies on traceability, sustainability, and scientific validation.
 

At APC plants, technicians collect fresh blood from authorized slaughterhouses under strict sanitary standards. They separate plasma and red cells through centrifugation, then stabilize and dry each fraction to preserve its natural properties.

APC EUROPE: INNOVATION ROOTED IN BARCELONA

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APC Europe, the company's European subsidiary, grew from Aprocat and is headquartered in Barcelona (Spain).

Animal plasma provides active proteins, immunoglobulins, and bioactive peptides that help balance the microbiota, reduce intestinal inflammation, and support the immune system. In animal diets, these components improve feed intake, reduce antibiotic use, and enhance overall well-being. Red blood cells add digestible protein, improving feed value and color.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND RENEWABLE COMMITMENT

Research and Development as a Driver of Progress: How APC Works.

APC's process gives new purpose to co-products that were once discarded. This circular approach reduces waste and closes the loop in the agri-food chain. The Barcelona's plant also runs on renewable energy, applies water recycling, and implements energy-efficient systems. These actions strengthen APC's environmental responsibility.
 

From the beginning, APC has invested in innovation and circular economy practices. The company uses advanced technology to ensure quality and safety while creating value from local co-products and reducing waste across the food system.

Applications in Pet Food

In pet food, plasma enriches dry and wet diets, treats, and supplements. It promotes better digestion, supports immune health, and improves texture stability. Manufacturers especially value it in functional and premium lines that demand natural, science-backed ingredients.

Marketplace

AP 920 – Spray dried plasma

More than 600 scientific studies support plasma's effectiveness.

SCIENCE AND CLINICAL RESEARCH

Research confirms its benefits for gut health, inflammation control, and microbiota balance in both animals and humans. In senior pets, plasma improves digestion, strengthens immunity, and enhances vitality.
 

The APC R&D team leads new plasma applications. Its pilot plant in Barcelona replicates industrial processes such as wet, semi-moist, or packaged diets. This facility helps adapt formulations for various sectors—from pet food to human nutrition—and speeds up testing and market readiness.
 

At Barcelona, APC's researchers and manufacturers work together to test recipes, validate innovations, and create new functional ingredients that add proven value.

GROWING ROLE OF PLASMA IN EUROPE

In the United States, plasma is a well-established ingredient in pet food. In Europe, its use grows rapidly, especially in formulations for intestinal health, palatability, and specific dietary needs of dogs and cats. Looking ahead, APC explores plasma's potential for human health, focusing on digestion and immunity.
 

A clinical trial conducted with Hospital del Mar in Barcelona studied plasma immunoglobulins in COVID-19 patients, showing promising results and opening new research paths.

40 YEARS OF EXPERTISE AND INNOVATION

APC brings more than 40 years of experience in plasma-based innovation. With over 20 patents and 600 scientific publications, the company exports to 50+ countries. Its continued research strengthens knowledge on how plasma supports gut integrity, immune function, and microbiota balance—a mission that keeps transforming animal nutrition worldwide.


Source: APC