30/09/2025

Precision Innovation in Pet Food

Innovation in pet food is an evolving topic driven by trends, including pet humanization, sustainability, and the pursuit of improved nutrition. Innovations in pet food production and processing aim to enhance specific nutrition, functional health, and digestive performance by using the right amount of bioactive compounds and nutrients. We will address this issue from the perspective of ingredient innovation.
  Protein is one of the most important compounds for pet parents when purchasing pet food. Innovation is not the exception to this nutrient in the formulation process. Animal proteins (chicken, lamb, fish, etc.) are the most commonly used, but there are some alternatives. Moreover, others are in the initial implementation phase or used only in a few segments: 
  Insect proteins: Cricket flour, black soldier fly larvae, etc. are highly digestible, sustainable sources, rich in proteins and with less environmental impact.
  Vegetable proteins: Different from traditional sources, such as soybean paste. Nowadays, it is not surprising to see lentils, chickpeas, peas, and/or quinoa, among others.
  Cell culture: Cultured meat for super-premium food is being studied.
  Emerging functional ingredients are another important aspect of innovation in nutrients. They are not only nutritious but also beneficial for health. Sometimes, they result in superfoods that are detailed below:
  Spirulina, chia seeds, and blueberries were widely used in the pet food industry due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.  
  Prebiotics, such as FOS (fructooligosaccharides), MOS (mannan oligosaccharide), XOS (xylooligosaccharides), and beta-glucans are known as gastrointestinal microbiome enhancers that improve the growth of beneficial intestinal bacteria. 
  Probiotics are microorganisms that help the digestive system and the gut microbiome. Innovation in pet food is associated with probiotic capsules or spore-forming probiotics (e.g., Bacillus coagulans, Enterococcus faecium) which support extrusion thermal processing. 
  Postbiotics are by-product metabolites from beneficial bacteria that promote gut and immune health. They also reduce inflammation without needing living organisms.
  Enzymes, such as amylase, protease, and lipase are added to enhance nutrient digestibility, especially in diets with alternative ingredients. However, you should be careful since enzymes are thermolabile and need accurate technology to withstand the thermal process, for example, the extrusion. 
  Organic minerals are more bioavailable than traditional sources (sulfate or oxides); they strengthen metabolism, bone health, dermal health, and the immune system. In this segment, there are different organic sources, depending on the metal-binding element. Beginning with the most advanced technology, these can be bisqueled with HMTBa [(hydroxymethyl)butanoic acid]; followed by chelates, essential and non-essential amino acids, complex polysaccharides, or complex propionic acids (according to the AAFCO's classification).
  Vitamins are essential nutrients for pets' health and well-being. Food and vitamin capsules are typically combined in the pet food industry because they protect from heat and oxidation during the extrusion or cooling processes, improving the final product's stability.
  Phytonutrients and/or botanical extracts, such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and essential oils (e.g., rosemary, turmeric, and oregano) are an alternative due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and natural preservative properties. 
  Specific fatty acids can be a good source of polyunsaturated fatty acids or omegas. The controlled incorporation of EPA/DHA (omega-3) microalgae as a more sustainable ingredient than fish oil is not surprising. Medium-chain fatty acids are widely used as immediate sources of energy.
  Bioactive peptides are hydrolyzed protein by-products, for example, hydrolyzed collagen with specific functions (immune response modulator, joint health enhancers, cartilage regeneration, and skin elasticity). 
  Functional fermented vegetable foods, such as miso or kefir (adapted for pets), are beneficial as they provide natural digestive enzymes and beneficial microorganisms.
  Adaptogens (e.g., ashwagandha, ginseng, or rhodiola) are natural ingredients that help the body manage stress. Usually, they are used in supplements to reduce anxiety, support the nervous system, and adapt to changes. 
  On the other hand, there is a trend to reduce toxic ingredients in food; in those cases, we must look for innovative alternatives.
  Reduce sodium, sugar, and synthetic additives by replacing artificial colorants with natural pigments (e.g., beta-carotenes, spirulina) or substituting artificial antioxidants with natural products. 
  Referring to precision innovation, we cannot forget about integrating technology, such as apps that recommend diets or provide nutritional follow-up or intelligent vending machines that ration food and compile consumption data. 
  Another innovative area we must follow closely is innovation in formulation and dosing. Microencapsulation technologies are still evolving to enhance the stability of sensitive compounds (vitamins, oils, and probiotics). Some lab tests allow the understanding of certain genetic predispositions and the gut health of our pets. The applied nanotechnology area is being developed, related to the use of nanoparticles that improve the absorption of minerals and antioxidants (even in the experimental or regulatory stage). Finally, data-driven formulation employs AI and nutritional algorithms that adjust the right amount of micro-ingredients according to age, breed, activity or pathologies, sleep, and pet food consumption in real time. 


By MVZ Armando Enriquez de la Fuente Blanquet
Source: All Pet Food Magazine

By Armando Enriquez de la Fuente Blanquet

14/08/2025

From Claim to Credibility: The Case for Research-Backed Pet Food Ingredients

The pet food industry is unique in that of all the 602 standard pet food ingredients used today, 44% of them are upcycled, which means that they are derived from animal and plant sources that would not be used in human food. This makes pet food a great source to utilize ingredients that otherwise would be wasted, and reduces the competition between human food and pet food for ingredients that span both categories.
  This becomes increasingly important as currently 9% of the world's population is considered hungry, according to a recent report by the World Health Organization. Unfortunately, these upcycled ingredients may not be viewed as premium ingredients by consumers who have decided that descriptions such as 'by-product' are not good for their pets. Many times, these decisions are not based on nutritional research but on messaging from pet food companies. Starches, flours, and functional dietary fibers have been described by many pet food brands as 'fillers,' when there actually is no definitive or regulatory definition for that term. In most cases, these ingredients not only provide nutritional value for pets but also deliver functional benefits that make the pet food easier to actually manufacture.   
  New pet food ingredients and categories have become more popular. The pet food protein category has seen many new entries and continues to see new types of proteins entering the market. Examples of these proteins include cultured meat, insect-based, bacteria- and yeast-based cultures, and upcycled food ingredients. All these new and novel pet food proteins collectively have the potential to help decrease the competition of using animal-based proteins in pet food that could be used in the human food supply. Each one has valid reasons for use, including sustainability, low carbon footprint, as well as delivering needed alternative protein sources for pet food in a competitive landscape. 
  Beyond protein, it is well accepted that Omega-3 fatty acids can help deliver benefits such as skin and coat support, joint health, cognitive health, as well as immune benefits to pets. Most of the Omega-3 fatty acids in pet food, such as EPA and DHA, come from fish oil. As with animal protein ingredients, there is higher competition for fish oil products in human goods when compared to pet food and pet supplement use. Microalgae products have become more prevalent in the pet food world, being described as more sustainable alternatives to fish oil and helping to decrease the reliance on fish oil to deliver the health benefits of Omega-3 fatty acids. 
  Another new trend in the past few years is the promotion of postbiotics. These are inactivated microorganisms, such as yeast or bacteria, and their components that are released after probiotics are no longer alive, which have many health benefits, including digestive health, immune support, and even oral health benefits for pets. Another claimed benefit is that they do not require live bacteria like probiotics do, which may make them more user-friendly in pet food manufacturing.
  These are all examples of new pet food ingredients and categories. Many of these novel pet food ingredients have the potential to help deliver functional benefits to our pets, as well as contribute to the sustainability of the pet food industry as a whole. However, when it comes to the business of the pet food industry, there is a lot of competition in the ingredient space. Many of these newer ingredients come at a premium price when compared to their traditional ingredient counterparts. This means that even though pet food brands may want to use them in products because of the benefits and claims they provide, they have to be affordable and must deliver value that the pet food company and consumer understand. 
  A good way to determine the value of an ingredient is by looking at the extent of research that has been done by the ingredient company to substantiate the claims they promote. Pet food ingredient companies should be conducting feeding study research to validate the claims they make. In vitro (laboratory) studies are helpful for screening tests. However, to actually demonstrate ingredient value, the pet food ingredient industry should be conducting feeding studies to show health benefits in pets. Long-term feeding studies using new ingredients and measuring health parameters are sorely needed to gain credibility for ingredient companies. 
  Ingredient companies should be working with experts in nutrition, physiology, and veterinary medicine, such as those at BSM Partners, to design, implement, and interpret clinical research to help substantiate claims and deliver the value that pet food brands and consumers deserve. After all, if ingredient suppliers and pet food brands don't do feeding studies with their products before they hit the market, pet parents' companions become the defacto study subjects and nobody wants that.


By Bradley Ques
Source: BSM Partners

About the Author
Dr. Bradley Quest, DVM, is the Principal Veterinarian at BSM Partners. He has practiced clinical veterinary medicine, developed and tested hundreds of pet food and health products, performs extensive animal health research, and helps navigate pet food ingredient approval for clients.

12/08/2025

Tailored Fiber Solutions: How Functional Fibers Fit Your Process Needs

JRS provides an extensive portfolio of fiber ingredients compatible with a wide variety of manufacturing processes and formulation needs. These fibers support the development of more sustainable, health-focused pet food products that stand out in the market and promote better pet well-being.
  Consistency, texture, and uniformity are critical quality parameters in pet food products that directly affect consumer acceptance but can be challenging to control. Due to the inherent variability of raw materials and the complexities involved in manufacturing processes, achieving optimal product consistency requires precise formulation and process control. Commonly utilized binders —including spray-dried plasma, wheat gluten, and albumin— are widely employed in restructured meat products such as chunks, as well as across various meat applications. These binders are valued for their superior swelling properties, water-binding capacity, and emulsification performance, which contribute significantly to the structural integrity and textural quality of the final product.
  A series of pilot-scale trials conducted at JRS's Technical Competence Center in Rosenberg, Germany, demonstrated that partial substitution of conventional binders with a functional long cellulose fiber delivers a favorable cost-benefit outcome. Across wet pet food and other high moisture applications, replacing spray-dried plasma with cellulose fiber at a ratio of 2/1 optimizes critical process parameters during steam tunnel cooking and enhances the textural properties of chunks both before and after the retorting step. However, not only does the long fiber perform as chunk solidifier it also accelerates the cooking in the steam tunnel contributing to energy savings.
  Pet food manufacturers and entrepreneurs focus on optimizing operations and enhancing sustainability to protect and increase their revenue. Typically, every pet food and treat format offers opportunities to lower costs, boost production efficiency, and realize energy savings. In dry pet foods with high fresh meat inclusion and snacks, specialized long cellulose fibers contribute to high structural connectivity, improved texture, and minimized shrinkage after drying.
 
  In addition to these quality and processing benefits, these functional fibers support greater sustainability in production. Trials with meat-based snacks have demonstrated that incorporating long cellulose fibers can reduce drying times by up to 50% (see diagram 1), resulting in significant energy savings and relieving capacity constraints in the drying process. Together, these improvements support increased product throughput and manufacturing operations that are more efficient.
  Recently, the JRS portfolio has been expanded to include a natural plant fiber with unique fat-binding properties. Fat loss is a common challenge, particularly under high-temperature conditions such as those encountered during storage, transport, or production. These losses can compromise product quality and consistency.
  Products like licks and pastes, which often contain around 30% fat, benefit significantly from the inclusion of this fiber. It helps prevent the separation of fat and solids, thereby enhancing homogeneity.
  Similarly, snacks and treats with high meat content can experience substantial fat loss during drying. This issue is also relevant in plant-based products that include vegetable oils (e.g., sunflower oil), which have a low melting point and are prone to separation.
  In trials with beef jerky-style snacks —where fat losses of up to 20% were observed during drying— the addition of the fat-binding fiber resulted in non-detectable fat losses.
  In commercial production, this innovation can help optimize operations by increasing product yield and minimizing downtime required for cleaning.   Conclusion   Integrating specialized fibers into pet food formulations exemplifies how targeted ingredient innovations can drive advances in manufacturing efficiency, product quality, and sustainability in the evolving pet food landscape. 



By Dr. Astrid Bosse - Scientific Advisor - JRS Petfood & Aquafeed
Source: All Pet Food Magazine

06/08/2025

Keeping the Doctor Away With Algal Omega-3s Each Day

Pet insurance data reveals a consistent pattern: the same health conditions appear year after year as the most common reasons pet parents file claims.1 From skin allergies and ear infections to joint problems and anxiety, these recurring issues highlight both the challenges pets and their owners face, and the opportunities for proactive nutrition to make a meaningful difference. 
  While illness throughout a pet's life may seem inevitable, emerging science suggests that targeted nutritional intervention—particularly through omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)—can play a significant role in supporting pet health and potentially reducing the frequency and severity of these common claims.2 
  For manufacturers, this presents a compelling opportunity. Formulating with clinically backed omega-3s not only delivers measurable health benefits but also addresses the specific concerns that drive pet parents to seek veterinary care most often.
  When inflammation drives the veterinary visit
A closer examination of insurance data reveals something striking: the majority of frequent claims share a common denominator—inflammatory processes. From the persistent scratching of allergic dermatitis to the joint stiffness of arthritis, inflammation underlies the discomfort that prompts millions of veterinary consultations annually.3,4
  This connection transforms omega-3 fatty acids from simple nutrients into strategic interventions. Research demonstrates that EPA and DHA supplementation significantly improved the Omega-3 Index in dogs while reducing overall pain scores.  Quality of life scores also improved, indicating that these nutrients can help tackle the underlying inflammatory cascade through their anti-inflammatory properties.6
  Addressing the needs of an aging pet population
As veterinary medicine enables pets to live longer, age-related joint deterioration has become a defining health challenge. The dramatic 49% increase in osteoarthritis claims reflects this demographic shift.2 Clinical studies show that omega-3s can help reduce the severity of symptoms associated with arthritis in pets by inhibiting the production of inflammatory compounds that contribute to joint pain and swelling.6
  Skin health is under the surface
When skin allergies consistently rank as a top insurance claim, the welfare implications are substantial.1 A systematic review of EPA and DHA supplementation found therapeutic benefits in canine allergic dermatitis, with omega-3 fatty acids helping to manage several inflammatory skin disorders through their immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects.7 
  Systematic immune support
The potential of omega-3s becomes more apparent when examining their role in immune regulation. Research shows that increased circulating levels of EPA and DHA result in decreased expression of inflammatory markers.7 Additionally, they serve as precursors to potent anti-inflammatory and pro-resolving mediators, enhancing their immunomodulatory effects.7 This systemic immune support creates a foundation of resilience that may help pets better withstand typical health challenges—from recurring ear infections to stress-related conditions.
  Cognitive wellness and emotional balance
Beyond physical health, DHA's concentrated presence in neural tissue positions it as a key player in brain function and cognitive development. Studies show that DHA may improve cognitive function in older dogs, while also supporting proper brain and eye development in puppies.7 For pets experiencing anxiety, cognitive support through optimal brain nutrition offers a foundational approach to behavioral wellness. 
  This neurological resilience becomes particularly valuable as stress-related behaviors and cognitive decline represent growing concerns for pet families.
  A new paradigm: proactive nutrition for sustainable pet health
The persistence of specific pet health issues suggests an opportunity to transform pet healthcare from reactive treatment to proactive wellness. This shift toward preventive, holistic pet health also aligns with another key trend among pet parents: sustainability. Pet parents tend to be more eco-conscious than non-pet owners8 and 70% say they are actively seeking ways to reduce their environmental footprint.8 This opens up a huge opportunity for pet food manufacturers to innovate with algal omega-3s, giving pet parents integrated solutions that address individual pet wellbeing and provide planetary care.
  Unlike traditional fish-derived omega-3s, algal sources go directly to the original producers—marine microalgae—delivering superior nutritional density while protecting ocean ecosystems. dsm-firmenich's algal omega-3 solutions exemplify this approach: DHAgold™ delivers clinically-proven cognitive benefits, while Veramaris® Pets provides 60% EPA and DHA content—more than double the potency of conventional fish oils. Both ingredients enable manufacturers to create products that address the root causes of common insurance claims while satisfying growing demands for responsible sourcing.
  This convergence of proactive health management and ecological responsibility represents the future of pet nutrition. For manufacturers, algal omega-3s offer the compelling combination of clinical efficacy, consumer appeal, and environmental integrity that defines next-generation pet food formulation. In an industry where pets are family members deserving optimal care, this integrated approach delivers measurable health outcomes while supporting the sustainable practices that modern pet families expect.
  For more information about dsm-firmenich's sustainable omega-3 solutions, visit https://www.dsmfirmenich.com/en/businesses/taste-texture-health/markets-products/pets/omega-3-solutions.html 
  To get in touch, contact:
Felipe Cabanne,
Pet Food Account Manager – South America
E: Felipe.Cabanne@dsm-firmenich.com 
M: +55 16 99643-9143 
Source: DSM Firmenich 
References
1 Nationwide. "Skin allergies, gastrointestinal disease among most common conditions that prompt veterinary visits." Nationwide. September 12, 2024. [Accessed: July 2, 2025] https://news.nationwide.com/most-common-conditions-that-prompt-veterinary-visits-2024/
2 "The Effects of Omega-3 Supplementation on the Omega-3 Index and Quality of Life and Pain Scores in Dogs," PMC, accessed July 2, 2025. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11545626/
3 Yasutomo Imai, K. Yasuda, M. Nagai, Minori Kusakabe, M. Kubo, K. Nakanishi and K. Yamanishi. "IL-33-induced atopic dermatitis-like inflammation in mice is mediated by group 2 innate lymphoid cells in concert with basophils.." The Journal of investigative dermatology (2019). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jid.2019.04.016.
4 Kutty Selva Nandakumar, Qinghua Fang, Isabella Wingbro Ågren and Zoe Fuwen Bejmo. "Aberrant Activation of Immune and Non-Immune Cells Contributes to Joint Inflammation and Bone Degradation in Rheumatoid Arthritis." International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24 (2023). https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms242115883.
5 Carlisle, Carolina, Brandon T. Metzger, Nathan L. Tintle, Kristine Polley, Kristina H. Jackson, Sara Le Brun‑Blashka, Jody Griffiths, and William S. Harris. 'The Effects of Omega‑3 Supplementation on the Omega‑3 Index and Quality of Life and Pain Scores in Dogs.' Animals 14, no. 21 (October 29, 2024): 3108. doi:10.3390/ani14213108
6 Magalhães, Tomás Rodrigues, Ana Luísa Lourenço, Hugo Gregório, and Felisbina Luísa Queiroga. "Therapeutic Effect of EPA/DHA Supplementation in Neoplastic and Non-neoplastic Companion Animal Diseases: A Systematic Review." Animals 11, no. 7 (2021): 1997. doi:10.3390/ani11071997.
7 American Kennel Club. "Fish Oil for Dogs: What to Know." American Kennel Club. June 14, 2024. [Accessed: July 2, 2025] https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/fish-oil-for-dogs/
8 Euromonitor. 'Sustainable Ingredients in Pet Care', 2022. https://www.euromonitor.com/article/sustainable-ingredients-in-pet-care  

02/08/2024

Category 3 Animal Fat - an important Pet Food Ingredient

Animal by-products (ABPs) Animal by-products (ABPs) are materials of animal origin that people do not consume. When they do not enter the human food chain, in Europe, animal by-products are classified into three categories: Category 1, Category 2 and Category 3 depending on the source of the raw material and the intended use[i]. The pet food industry can only use Category 3 ABPs.   Category 3 ABPs are from animals declared fit for human consumption. These are ideal pet food ingredients due to their high nutritional and energetic value and should be used in the best possible way to preserve resources. Category 1 and 2 animal fats are forbidden for animal feeding for safety reasons but allowed for biofuel production.   The Vital role of Category 3 animal fats in Pet Food Category 3 animal fats are essential raw materials for our pets' diets. They provide a source of energy and palatability but above all essential fatty acids. They are subject to strict requirements on sourcing and collecting, animal origin materials processing, and control. Category 3 animal fats cannot be easily replaced as a pet food ingredient.   The EU & The Pet Food Industry's Waste Hierarchy FEDIAF firmly believes that food, such as Category 3 animal fats, which is not intended for human consumption, should be repurposed according to the food waste hierarchy, i.e.:  pet food (re-use animal feed) rather than energy (recovery) as indicated below[ii].  This sits well above energy use in the EU's own hierarchy of most-preferable options for food waste disposal.     The Pet Food Industry and the Future Unfortunately, there is increasing pressure due to Category 3 animal fats being used in other sectors such as biofuels, which are much lower in terms of waste hierarchy.  The Pet Food Industry will continue to communicate the importance of Category 3 animal fats in pet food. They are vital ingredients, which contribute to our circular business model and they cannot easily be replaced.   Source: FEDIAF

14/12/2023

Innovative FEED Act introduced in US House of Representatives

The Innovative Feed Enhancement and Economic Development (Innovative FEED) Act was introduced into the U.S. House of Representatives on December 7, a step toward establishing a regulatory pathway for a new category of animal feed additives. The bill was introduced in the U.S. Senate in June. The Innovative FEED Act would amend the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act to allow for a new category of animal food substances that act solely within animals' gut microbiomes or in the feed they are digesting to provide a wide range of benefits, giving the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) the power it needs to ensure regulations keep pace with scientific innovation in feed, the American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) said in a press release. 'The AFIA is excited that the Senate has already introduced the Innovative FEED Act and now, with the House introduction, the bill has the bipartisan and bicameral support we hoped for,' AFIA President and CEO Constance Cullman said. 'Now, we urge Congress to act quickly on the bill. The legislation will be the spark needed to drive nutritional innovation that improves animal health and production while addressing public health challenges. We need this modernized regulatory oversight instead of the current policy of overregulation. Any delay in enacting this legislation continues to put U.S. agriculture at a disadvantage compared to our global counterparts whose regulatory systems have evolved with the times.' The FDA's Center of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) regulates animal foods with drug claims, including environmental benefit or production claims and claims about the effects on the animal's microbiome. Many in the animal feed industry agree CVM's regulations are overly burdensome and that some rules are inconsistent and arbitrary, and that they put U.S. companies at a competitive disadvantage. They also say the regulations put U.S. dairy and beef producers at a disadvantage because they don't have broad access to these methane-reducing feed additives. Dozens of countries have already safely approved and started using these feed ingredients on farms, resulting in improved animal production, well-being, reduced pre-harvest food safety concerns, and a smaller environmental footprint, AFIA said. 'Competent authorities of our global competitors in Europe, Asia and South America already have updated their policies to allow feed products on the market that demonstrate increased efficiency in meat production as well as byproduct and waste reduction,' said David Fairfield, senior vice president of feed at the National Grain and Feed Association, in a statement. 'To compete in the global market, farmers and ranchers in the United States need access to innovative zootechnical animal food substances to improve animal production and well-being, diminish pre-harvest food safety concerns, and boost sustainability opportunities.' The AFIA has urged the FDA to modernize its outdated 1998 Policy and Procedures Manual Guide 1240.3605, which has hindered animal food manufacturers from clearly indicating non-nutritive benefits on labels without navigating the FDA's arduous drug approval process. There is a wide range of feed additives that have been shown to reduce enteric methane emissions by between 2% and 12% per year. These include seaweed, fatty acids, 3-Nitrooxypropanol (3-NOP), oregano, tannins, nitrate, biochar, cinnamon, garlic and saponins. 'These ingredients have novel benefits that make a positive impact on our food production system, such as improving feed efficiency and reducing human foodborne illness," Fairfield said. "This legislation would provide food manufacturers with a pathway to make truthful, non-misleading production, environmental and well-being claims for animal foods that have been substantiated to provide such benefits more efficiently.' The Innovative FEED Act will bring about the necessary changes to ensure these additives are reviewed for safety and effectiveness as food additives, not drugs, and can more quickly come to market for U.S. farmers and ranchers to choose to use, AFIA said.  By AFIA Source . All Pet Food