05/05/2025

Feeding Pets Like Family Means Formulating Like a Scientist

Most people likely imagine the formulation of pet food to be as easy as making dinner—throwing your chicken in an oil-coated pan, putting the rice on the stove, and perhaps some broccoli (good choice, by the way) in the oven. However, the science of how nutrients are absorbed, how they impact the genes (no, not jeans) in your body, and subsequently, how they affect your health, are probably not top of mind. Not to mention, like baby formula, pet food has to be complete and balanced, as it is usually the only source of nutrition our pets get. 
  This means that all of the essential nutrients (amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals) are provided. Much like a painting, this is actually just the canvas, the bare bones of health and understanding. And as it turns out, formulating—at least for me—is a work of art; not as generic as making a diet that is 'complete-and-balanced,'or a supplement with just anything in it. I try to create masterpieces that not only stand the test of time, but pull from the extensive, very nerdy scientific background to which I spent years dedicating my life. Let's talk about that scientific quest and dedication to knowledge. 
  The Science Behind My Expertise 
When I do the math, it turns out that after my four-year college degree, I spent another two years learning about nutrients, absorption mechanisms, and biological functions (to name a few). Then I spent an additional four years researching everything I could about the impact of nutrients on cell structure, bioavailability, gene expression, absorption, blood parameters, nutrient integrations, ionomics, cell cytotoxicity, nutritional biochemistry, growth, signaling, and metabolic pathways, as well as teaching diet formulation. Oh, and lest I forget, how to code for statistics with the statistic majors. Yawn. We are now at 10 years of school, six of which were exclusively focused on studying nutrition. That is longer than law school, vet school, and many other advanced degrees.    
  Sometimes I think one must have an affection for pain to get a PhD, since so much of life is missed out on, but that is a topic for a different day. Sometimes the quest for figuring out mechanisms is so great that PhDs will dive deeper into seriously advanced topics and go for their post-doctoral work, which is at least another year. Since I couldn't help but refine my skills by helping to develop a protocol to isolate immune cells out of fat, we can add another year: that makes 11.  
  My goal is to highlight the years dedicated solely to nutrition, the deep and scientifically rigorous program in which a PhD nutritionist has been trained and practiced. The understanding of nutrients, metabolism and formulation is an all-consuming endeavor for the serious nutritionist. Animal diets demand a comprehensive, specialized, and nuanced understanding of how a diet affects health at a biochemical and physiological level.  
  What Does This Really Mean? 
Not all pet food and supplements are created equal. Many products on the market are developed with minimal scientific backing, relying on outdated formulations or unverified claims. My extensive background ensures that every formulation I create is grounded in evidence-based science, incorporating the latest advancements in animal nutrition. This means: 
  Deeper Specialization and Precise Formulation: My education is entirely focused on nutrition, so ingredients are carefully selected for proven benefits, with a 3D understanding of potential interaction and implications within the body. 
  Evidence-Based Formulation: I develop pet food and supplements based on carefully vetted, cutting-edge nutritional science. 
  Balanced Nutrition: Formulations are designed to be more thoughtful than just 'meeting AAFCO standards' or other targets. I take all the ingredients at hand and think about how they work together. Not all casseroles are the same.  
  Advanced Research Skills: Staying ahead of emerging trends and always improving formulations are paramount. Extensive research experience inclines me toward critical evaluation of new science that can be applied to product formulation. 
  Precision and Innovation: I leverage the latest discoveries in nutritional biochemistry to craft optimal diets for pets, ensuring superior bioavailability and nutritional integrity. 
  A Commitment to Better Pet Health 
As you consider your pet food or supplement options, I would recommend looking for one formulated by PhD nutritionists. If they are anything like myself, they are crazy enough to spend an additional seven years of post-graduate education on their craft, and therefore are wholly dedicated to it.  
  After all, pets are more than just animals—they're family. Their health and well-being should never be left to marketers and accountants. When you choose a product formulated by BSM Partners, you're choosing a team committed to excellence and, above all, passionate about science.  
  About the Author Dr. Blaire Aldridge is the Vice President of Nutrition Services at BSM Partners. Throughout her career, Dr. Aldridge has been one of the industry's primary innovators in companion animal nutrition, leading teams at Nestle Purina to groundbreaking products and solutions. She is also an experienced innovator for equine nutrition. Dr. Aldridge received her master's degree and PhD in monogastric nutrition at Purdue University, and conducted post-doctoral work in human nutrition at Washington University Medical School.


  By Blaire Alridge
Source: BSM Partners

15/01/2025

Science and Technology in Precision Ingredients

By Armando Enriquez de la Fuente Blanquet

On the one hand, science is a systematic process that studies and understands the natural world through observation, experimentation, and analysis. Science is based on a scientific method, which means asking questions, formulating hypotheses to test them, and analyzing the results to develop theories and laws; it aims to build a reliable body of knowledge about how things function in nature.   On the other hand, technology refers to the practical implementation of scientific knowledge to develop tools, systems, and processes that solve problems and satisfy human needs. It includes a wide range of approaches, from electronic devices to industrial production methods as well as medical and communication techniques.   After all, they are deeply interrelated and often drive each other.   Science provides the necessary knowledge to understand nutritional needs and how ingredients affect pet health and well-being.   Animal nutrition: Investigate the specific dietary needs of different pets and how nutrients (proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals) affect their health.
  Digestion and metabolism: Study how animals digest and metabolize food and how different formulations can optimize nutrient absorption.
  Technology in pet food manufacturing includes methods and tools used to transform ingredients into high-quality pet food.
  Extrusion process: Use equipment to make and shape ingredients at high-precision and temperature levels, manufacturing kibbles and other pet food forms.
  Drying technology: Eliminate pet food moisture through drying techniques, ensuring its stability and longevity.
  Formulation and mixture: Ensure uniform distribution of ingredients by using technologies to mix ingredients with precision.
  Moreover, vitamins and trace minerals are essential compounds for pet nutrition, playing a crucial role in their health and well-being. Science and technology have significantly advanced in formulating and incorporating these substances into pet food. Below is detailed information about how technology and science manage vitamins and trace minerals is provided.   Vitamins and Minerals in Formulations   Accurate formulation: Technology allows accurate formulation to ensure that vitamins and minerals are in the correct amounts. Both nutrients measure in ppm (parts per million), so precise inclusion, distribution, and bioavailability are important. Software and mathematical models calculate the exact nutritional needs in each formula.   Vitamins and Minerals Stability   Chemical stability: Vitamins and minerals can break down during processing and storage. Science has developed more stable vitamins, such as vitamin E —in the form of mixed tocopherols— with better oxidation resistance, and ascorbic acid (vitamin C), which can be damaged by the extrusion process and is sensitive to temperature, humidity, pH, oxygen, and light. However, technology has developed chemical structures such as the 'ascorbyl polyphosphate,' which make it resistant to the pet food manufacturing process. Ascorbic acid is released by digestive enzymes in the gastrointestinal tract, so pets ingest the necessary vitamin C (Figure 1).   Figure 1: Ascorbyl polyphosphate and ascorbic acid diagrams.   Microencapsulation: This technology covers vitamins and minerals with a protective coating to prevent their degradation and release them into the digestive tract in a controlled way.
  Sources of Vitamins and Minerals   Synthetic vs. natural vitamins: Synthetic vitamins, such as vitamin A and vitamin D3, are used because of their stability and efficacy, while other formulas incorporate natural sources for a complete nutritional profile.
  Chelated minerals: Trace minerals combine amino acids and other compounds to make chelates, improving their absorption and bioavailability in the pets' digestive tract (Figure 2).
  Figure 2: Available sources of trace minerals in the market.   Absorption and Bioavailability Technologies   Bioavailable forms of vitamins and minerals: The selection of vitamins and minerals easily absorbable is key. For example, zinc in the chelated form is more bioavailable than organic zinc.
  Controlled release technology: Some ingredients are designed to gradually release nutrients, which can enhance vitamin and mineral efficiency and absorption.
  To sum up, combining science and technology in pet food manufacturing allows the development of safe, efficient, and high-quality products that meet pet nutritional needs. Science provides the required knowledge, while technology employs it to create and control the production process.   By: Armando Enríquez de la Fuente Blanquet   Source: All Pet Food Magazine

27/11/2024

Understanding Omega 3 Fatty Acids: Their Benefits for Dogs and Cats

Sources of Omega-3 Fatty Acids   Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA): Alpha-linolenic acid is a precursor to the longer chain omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid (EPA and DHA, respectively) and requires enzymatic conversion into these beneficial fatty acids. This fatty acid is primarily a plant-based omega-3 fatty acids found in sources like flaxseed, canola oil, and chia seeds.1   Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA): EPA and DHA are long-chain omega-3 fatty acids primarily found in marine sources such as fish oil, krill oil, and algae.2,6 They are considered essential because pets cannot synthesize them in sufficient quantities from shorter-chain omega-3 fatty acids, such as ALA (alpha-linolenic acid).7 Both EPA and DHA play significant roles in reducing inflammation, supporting heart health, modulating the immune system, aiding in cognitive function, and promoting healthy skin and coat .8 Essential for proper neurological development and function, DHA is essential for growing puppies and kittens and an important nutrient for aging pets.10 It is also a critical structural component of the brain, retina, and nervous system.9   Why EPA and DHA Specifically Take the Spotlight   While ALA is beneficial, dogs and cats have limited abilities to convert it efficiently into EPA and DHA, the biologically active forms of omega-3 fatty acids.3 This is due to the low activation of an enzyme delta-6 (Δ-6) desaturase in dogs that is almost nonexistent in cats.4-5 Therefore, providing EPA and DHA directly through their diet is crucial for optimal health in puppies and kittens and can beneficial for adult animals as well.   Health Benefits of EPA and DHA   Anti-Inflammatory Effects Chronic inflammation is a common underlying factor that can be created by stress, diet, obesity, intestinal dysbiosis, arthritis, allergies, and inflammatory bowel disease, which in turn can be caused by stress, diet, obesity, and/or intestinal dysbiosis.12,11 By incorporating EPA and DHA into the diet, dogs and cats may experience reduced inflammation, leading to decreased pain and better overall health.13   Joint Health Osteoarthritis is estimated to affect up to 20% of dogs over the age of one, and in cats, it's estimated that 61% over the age of six will be affected.14-15 Although osteoarthritis commonly develops in older, overweight cats and dogs, it can affect cats and dogs of all ages, sizes, and breeds. Supplementation with EPA and DHA can help reduce the production of inflammatory cytokines and enzymes that break down cartilage.16-17 Supplementing with EPA and DHA may alleviate symptoms of arthritis, improve joint function, and enhance the quality of life for older dogs and cats or those with joint problems.   Cardiovascular Health In canine and feline models, DHA and EPA have been shown to reduce the occurrence of ventricular arrhythmias, a common issue in various cardiac diseases.18 Their benefit is the stabilization of heart muscle cell membranes, this stabilization helps to prevent irregular heartbeats. Additionally, these omega-3 fatty acids reduce the levels of pro-inflammatory molecules, which can promote irregular hearbeats.19 They also help by maintaining smooth blood flow and preventing the formation of blood clots (thrombosis). In addition, omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA and EPA, enhance the production of nitric oxide in humans.20 This molecule promotes the widening of blood vessels, leading to improved blood flow.   Skin and Coat Health Dogs and cats with skin conditions, allergies, or dry, flaky skin can benefit significantly from EPA and DHA. Omega-3s help reduce the production of inflammatory molecules in the body, potentially improving skin conditions like allergies, dermatitis, or other inflammatory skin conditions.21 Inflammation can damage the skin barrier, leading to increased water loss and dry skin. The skin also produces natural oils that coat the hair, providing shine and protection. Omega-3 fatty acids help regulate the production of these oils, resulting in a shiny, healthy coat.22 Regular supplementation can lead to visible improvements in the skin and coat condition.   Cognitive Function In puppies and kittens, adequate DHA levels are needed for proper brain development by promoting the growth of new neurons (neurogenesis) and the formation of synapses (synaptogenesis), both of which are necessary for learning and memory.23,24,25 For adult pets undergoing training or engaging in new activities, omega-3 fatty acids can enhance their capacity to retain and learn new information.26   As pets age, they may experience cognitive decline, akin to the cognitive changes seen in humans. This condition in pets is known as Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome and is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects older dogs and cats. This disease is marked by a gradual decline in memory, learning, and awareness.27 Omega-3 fatty acids can help slow the progression of age-related cognitive disorders and regular intake of EPA and DHA may alleviate symptoms of cognitive dysfunction syndrome, in these pets, potentially improving their quality of life.28   Vision Health As a major component of the retina, the part of the eye responsible for capturing light and sending visual signals to the brain, DHA aids in the development of vision.29 Proper visual acuity is essential for a young animal's ability to interact with its environment and to learn from visual cues. Supplementation of EPA and DHA help preserve vision by supporting the health of the nervous system and reducing inflammation, ensuring your pets remain alert and engaged with their environment.   Dosage and Considerations   While EPA and DHA offer numerous health benefits for dogs and cats, it is important to ensure proper dosage and consider individual needs. Here are some key points to keep in mind: Consult with a Veterinarian: Before adding any additional omega-3 fatty acids to a pet's diet, consult with an animal nutritionists or veterinarian. They can assess a pet's specific needs, recommend appropriate dosages, and monitor for any potential side effects. Quality and Purity: When choosing supplements, opt for high-quality products that undergo rigorous testing for purity and potency. Look for supplements that are free from contaminants such as heavy metals and toxins. Reach out to brands and request that they provide third-party testing results to ensure the safety and efficacy of their products. Dosage Guidelines and Adjustments: The appropriate dosage of EPA and DHA varies based on factors such as a pet's size, age, and health condition. Since these guidelines can vary, it is essential to follow a veterinarian's or nutritionist's recommendations. After starting a pet on EPA and DHA supplements, monitor their response and adjust as needed. Some pets may require higher or lower dosages depending on their individual needs. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can help ensure a pet is receiving the optimal amount of these essential fatty acids.     Conclusion   EPA and DHA are vital components of a balanced diet for dogs and cats, young and old alike. These essential omega-3 fatty acids offer a wide range of health benefits, including anti-inflammatory effects, improved joint health, cardiovascular support, and enhanced cognitive function. Ensuring an adequate intake of EPA and DHA can lead to improved health outcomes, supporting both the physical and mental well-being of dogs and cats at all life stages.   By: Dr. Katy Miller, DVM, CVFT, CVNAN, CPFFCP, PCQI, PAS   Source: BSM Partners   References Lenox, CE. 2016. Role of dietary fatty acids in dogs & cats. Today Vet. Pract. 6(5):83-90. Kleiner, AC, Cladis, DP, Santerre, CR. 2015. A comparison of actual versus stated label amounts of EPA and DHA in commercial omega‐3 dietary supplements in the United States. J. Sci. Food Agr. 95(6):1260-1267. Doi:1002/jsfa.6816 Bauer, JJE. 2008. Essential fatty acid metabolism in dogs and cats. Revista Brasileira de Zootecnia. 37:20-27. Doi:10.1590/S1516-35982008001300004 Bauer JE. 2006. Metabolic basis for the essential nature of fatty acids and the unique dietary fatty acid requirements of cats. J. Am. Vet. Med. Assoc. 229:1729–1732. Doi:10.2460/javma.229.11.1729 Filburn CR, Griffin D. 2005. Canine plasma and erythrocyte response to a docosahexaenoic acid-enriched supplement: Characterization and potential benefits. Vet Ther. 6:29-42. Ryckebosch, E, Bruneel, C, Muylaert, K, Foubert, I. 2012. Microalgae as an alternative source of omega‐3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. Lipid Technol. 24(6):128-130. Doi:10.1002/lite.201200197 Lenox, CE. 2015. Timely topics in nutrition: an overview of fatty acids in companion animal medicine. J. Am. Vet. Med. Assoc. 246(11):1198-1202. Doi:10.2460/javma.246.11.1198 Magalhaes, TR, Lourenco, AL, Gregorio, H, Queiroga, FL. 2021. Therapeutic effect of EPA/DHA supplementation in neoplastic and non-neoplastic companion animal diseases: A systematic review. In Vivo. 35(3):1419-1436. Doi:10.21873/invivo.12394 Salem Jr, N, Litman, B, Kim, HY, Gawrisch, K. 2001. Mechanisms of action of docosahexaenoic acid in the nervous system. Lipids. 36(9):945-959. Doi:10.1007/s11745-001-0805-6 Waldron, MK, Spencer, AL, Bauer, JE. 1998. Role of long-chain polyunsaturated n-3 fatty acids in the development of the nervous system of dogs and cats. J. Am. Vet. Med. Assoc. 213(5):619-622. Doi:10.2460/javma.1998.213.05.619 Furman, D, Campisi, J, Verdin, E, Carrera-Bastos, P, Targ, S, Franceschi, C, Ferrucci, L, Gilroy, DW, Fasano, A, Miller, GW, Miller, AH, Mantovani, A, Weyand, CM, Barzilai, N, Goronzy, JJ, Rando, TA, Effros, RB, Lucia, A, Kleinstreuer, N, & Slavich, GM. 2019. Chronic inflammation in the etiology of disease across the life span. Nature Med. 25(12):1822-1832. Doi:10.1038/s41591-019-0675-0 Bauer, JE. 2011. Therapeutic use of fish oils in companion animals. J. Am. Vet. Med. Assoc. 239(11):1441-1451. Doi:10.2460/javma.239.11.1441 Kaur, Haneet, Singla, A, Singh, S, Shilwant, S, & and Kaur, R. 2020. Role of omega-3 fatty acids in canine health: A review. Intern. J. Current Microbiol. Appl. Sci. 9(3):2283-2293 Doi:10.20546.ijcmas.2020.903.259 Johnston SA. 1997. Osteoarthritis. Joint anatomy, physiology, and pathobiology. Vet. Clin. N. Am. Small Anim. Pract. 27:699–723. Doi:10.1016/S0195-5616(97)50076-3 Bennett, David, Siti Mariam bt Zainal Ariffin, and Pamela Johnston. 2012. Osteoarthritis in the cat: 1. How common is it and how easy to recognise? J. Feline Med. Surg. 14(1):65-75. Doi:10.1177/1098612X11432828 Adler, N, Schoeniger, A, Fuhrmann, H. 2018. Polyunsaturated fatty acids influence inflammatory markers in a cellular model for canine osteoarthritis. J. Anim. Physiol. Anim. Nutr. 102(2):e623-e632. Doi:10.1111/jpn.12804 Curtis CL, Hughes CE, Flannery CR, Little, CB, Harwood, JL, & Caterson, B. 2000. n-3 fatty acids specifically modulate catabolic factors involved in articular cartilage degradation. J. Biol. Chem. 275:721–724. Doi:10.1074/jbc.275.2.721 Smith, CE, Freeman, LM, Rush, JE, Cunningham, SM, & Biourge, V. 2007. Omega‐3 fatty acids in Boxer dogs with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy. J. Vet. Intern. Med. 21(2):265-273. Doi:10.1111/j.1939-1676.2007.tb02959.x Goel, A, Pothineni, NV, Singhal, M, Paydak, H, Saldeen, T, & Mehta, JL. 2018. Fish, fish oils and cardioprotection: Promise or fish tale? Internat. J. Mol. Sci. 19(12):3703. Doi:10.3390/ijms19123703 Freeman, LM, Rush, JE, Markwell, PJ. 2006. Effects of dietary modification in dogs with early chronic valvular disease. J. Vet. Intern. Med. 20(5):1116-1126. Doi:10.1111/j.1939-1676.2006.tb00709.x Burron, S, Richards, T, Krebs, G, Trevizan, L, Rankovic, A, Hartwig, S, Pearson, W, Ma, DWL, & Shoveller, AK. 2024. The balance of n-6 and n-3 fatty acids in canine, feline and equine nutrition: exploring sources and the significance of alpha-linolenic acid. J. Anim. Sci. Doi:10.1093/jas/skae143 Combarros, D, Castilla-Castaño, E, Lecru, LA, Pressanti, C, Amalric, N, Cadiergues, MC. 2020. A prospective, randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled evaluation of the effects of an n-3 essential fatty acids supplement (Agepi® ω3) on clinical signs, and fatty acid concentrations in the erythrocyte membrane, hair shafts and skin surface of dogs with poor quality coats. Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids. 159:102140. Doi:10.1016/j.plefa.2020.102140 Cao, D, Kevala, K, Kim, J, Moon, HS, Jun, SB, Lovinger, D, Kim, HY. 2009. Docosahexaenoic acid promotes hippocampal neuronal development and synaptic function. J. Neurochem. 111(2):510-521. Doi:10.1111/j.1471-4159.2009.06335.x Zicker, SC, Jewell, DE, Yamka, RM, Milgram, NW. 2012. Evaluation of cognitive learning, memory, psychomotor, immunologic, and retinal functions in healthy puppies fed foods fortified with docosahexaenoic acid–rich fish oil from 8 to 52 weeks of age. J. Am. Vet. Med. Assoc. 241(5):583-594. Doi:10.2460/javma.241.5.583 Wu, G. 2024. Roles of nutrients in the brain development, cognitive function, and mood of dogs and cats. In Nutrition and Metabolism of Dogs and Cats (pp. 177-202). Cham: Springer Nature Switzerland. Doi:10.1007/978-3-031-54192-6_8 Hadley, KB, Bauer, J, Milgram, NW. 2017. The oil-rich alga Schizochytrium sp. as a dietary source of docosahexaenoic acid improves shape discrimination learning associated with visual processing in a canine model of senescence. Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids. 118:10-18. Doi:10.1016/j.plefa.2017.01.011 Sordo, L, Gunn‐Moore, DA. 2021. Cognitive dysfunction in cats: update on neuropathological and behavioural changes plus clinical management. Vet. Rec. 188(1):e3. Doi:10.1002/vetr.3 Cupp, CJ, Jean-Philippe, C, Kerr, WW, Patil, AR, Perez-Camargo, G. 2006. Effect of nutritional interventions on longevity of senior cats. Intern. J. Appl. Res. Vet. Med. 5(3):133-149. Uauy, R, Hoffman, DR, Peirano, P, Birch, DG, Birch, EE. 2001. Essential fatty acids in visual and brain development. Lipids. 36(9):885-895. Doi:10.1007/s11745-001-0798-1

19/09/2024

Callizo Aromas enters the U.S. market with a new facility in Palestine, Texas

'Our experience in establishing operations in Palestine has been remarkably smooth, especially compared to our previous expansions in Latin America,' says Santiago Callizo, DCEO. 'The local Economic Development Corporation (EDC) has been instrumental in this process, providing attentive guidance and support throughout.'   The City of Palestine is excited to welcome Callizo Aromas and the job opportunities it will provide. Learn more about this company and why it chose Palestine, Texas, to expand its operations.    Callizo Aromas developers create personalized fragrances for several industries     Callizo Aromas has four main divisions, each of which will have production arms at the Palestine facility. Employees for Callizo Aromas create scents for the following markets:   Fragrances: This division creates perfumes for companies in the personal care, clothing, and home care industries. Flavors: This division works with companies that produce snacks, confectioneries, dairy products, meat products, and beverages. Callizo says, 'If it's food, we probably have a flavor for it.' Zootechnical Products: This division focuses on animal nutrition, making feed more palatable while offering antifungal and antioxidant additives to ensure the quality and safety of the food. Pet Aromas: This division develops flavors that improve the palatability of dog and cat foods, so pets find their meals both nutritious and delicious.   Callizo Aromas produces fragrances for a variety of products that most consumers use daily. The company recognizes that each project and application is unique, which means each client requires tailored solutions. Instead of taking a one-scent-fits-all approach, Callizo Aromas works closely with its clients to develop the best possible flavors or fragrances.    Palestine, Texas, offers strategic locations and a welcoming community    Callizo had nothing but good things to say when asked about Palestine, Texas and his company's decision to expand its operations here. When asked why he chose Palestine as the newest location for Callizo Aromas, he carefully listed several economic and quality of life reasons that influenced his decision:   Palestine's geographic location offers excellent connectivity and logistical advantages. It is easy to travel to the Callizo Aromas plant in Mexico, allowing for rapid resource sharing.  Palestine's natural beauty, including its lush vegetation and picturesque landscapes, aligns with the company's appreciation for nature-inspired products.  The local community has made Callizo Aromas' owners feel at home, reinforcing their decision to invest in this location.   'When companies look to move or expand their operations, they often highlight a few key regions that meet their geographic and transportation needs,' says Christophe Trahan, Economic Development Director at the Palestine Economic Development Corporation (PEDC). 'However, the intangible assets – like the beautiful landscape and welcoming community – are what make a town like Palestine stand out above the rest.'    The Palestine-Callizo Aromas partnership is just starting to bloom    When asked what Palestine-Texas would smell like if it were a fragrance, Callizo came up with a harmonious blend of aromas that captures the essence of the region: The top notes have a sweet floral aroma reminiscent of dogwood flowers, evoking the area's natural beauty. The middle notes have rich woody tones that reflect the surrounding forests and timber heritage. The base notes have subtle accents of herbal moss, with a gentle touch of leather, nodding to the region's historical industries.   Callizo says the unique fragrance would embody the natural charm, industrial legacy, and warm spirit of Palestine, Texas. As Callizo Aromas moves to the area, local residents and vendors will do their best to make the company feel welcome and reflect the beautiful description Callizo provides.    Join Callizo Aromas in Palestine, Texas    Callizo Aromas saw both Palestine's beauty and the economic benefits of moving here. As this company expands its operations, know that there is plenty of room for additional employers and industries. Contact us today to discuss business opportunities in Palestine and how PEDC can help you expand your operations to the area.    Source: PalestineTexas

23/08/2024

New study shows adding a prebiotic fiber blend to a puppy's diet supports growth and development and favorable digestive health

A healthy GI microbiome is essential for proper nutrient absorption, metabolism, and gut immunomodulation, which are crucial for the overall health and development of companion animals1,2. Probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics have all shown promising results in improving GI health in adult companion animals3,4,5. Given the importance of establishing a robust GI microbiome, researchers at Hill's Pet Nutrition have investigated the effects of a novel prebiotic blend on growing puppies in a recent study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science6.   Prior research using this proprietary prebiotic blend resulted in positive effects on stool quality, pH, short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production, and GI microbiome signatures in adult dogs and cats7,8. For the current study, 22 puppies between the ages of 4 and 10 months were fed a prefeed food for 2 weeks, then transitioned to the test food containing the prebiotic blend until they were 14 months old. The puppies showed normal growth and development throughout the study.   Much like the adult dog study, the puppies had marked improvements in key parameters of GI health. Stool quality was improved and fecal short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) were increased. Fecal SCFAs are important for maintaining intestinal homeostasis and supporting gut barrier function, which are important for proper nutrient absorption and metabolism. The puppies also showed an increase in serum immunoglobulin A levels suggesting an improved immune response9. Interleukin-17 (IL-17), an inflammatory cytokine, concentration decreased linearly over time and interleukin-18 (IL-18) trended towards linear decrease, which may indicate a reduction in inflammation over the course of the study. IL-7 is associated with inflammatory diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease10, while IL-18 has been associated with intestinal inflammation in mice11. While these results are promising, more work needs to be done to evaluate the effects of fiber consumption on inflammatory markers in puppies.   Overall, this research contributes to the understanding of nutritional science concerning the GI health of puppies. As one of the first studies examining the impact of a prebiotic blend in puppy nutrition, this research offers insights for creating diets that provide superior nutrition for developing companion animals.   By: Renea Creech Senior Specialist, Scientific Communications Hill's Pet Nutrition   Source: DVM 360º
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