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Dosing

Dosing

10/09/2024

Innovating together: A new development for the premix pet food industry

The customer's choice of the CS-WP solution   An American-based customer of KSE, operating in the premix industry, selected the CS-WP solution due to an urgent need to optimize space utilization in their production facility. This innovative solution enabled them to save significant vertical space, with reductions of 4 to 5 meters compared to a conventional weighing system. Additionally, the CS-WP system offers direct separation of contaminants for all raw materials, ensuring the entire facility remains free from contamination.   Another customer in Spain, a leading manufacturer in the food additive industry, has also expressed interest in the CS-WP solution because of their stringent contamination control requirements. The CS-WP system allows macro ingredients to be safely transported in dedicated containers, ensuring clean and flexible distribution to three separate mixing lines.   Exploration of market-based alternatives   The customer explored two alternative solutions. Initially, a traditional pneumatic conveying system was considered but dismissed due to hygiene issues and excessive energy consumption. The second option involved a container concept relying on AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicle). Ultimately, KSE's CS-WP concept emerged as the most fitting and seamlessly integrable solution, enabling the maintenance of the desired compact building height.   Future expansion and developments   The client positions the CS-WP project as the ''Next Generation Plant'', hinting at the possibility of establishing future plants based on the same concept. This marks the inaugural joint project for the Spanish customer and KSE, with aspirations to extend this concept to other facilities, thereby assuming a pioneering role in the Spanish food additive industry.   A breakthrough solution   The CS-WP emerged as a groundbreaking weighing solution within the ACT (Automatic Container Transfer) framework, renowned for its internal transport capabilities. Manufacturers are seeking space-saving solutions in their plants while aiming to achieve minimal contamination by dispensing products directly into containers. Tailored to accommodate a wide dosing range, this solution stands out for its versatility.   Intensive development process   The concept promptly resonated with our customers' needs and industry demands, particularly in sectors like premix and pet food. The development process of the CS-WP entailed tackling several design challenges, such as achieving optimal balance in the setup. With dimensions of approximately 1.5 meters x 1.5 meters and a height of 5 to 6 meters, this resulted in a column four times as tall as it is wide. This configuration posed potential tipping hazards, especially when the system was in motion while carrying weight at the top. To prevent this, rollover safeguards were implemented, and extensive testing was performed.   Another crucial aspect involved a meticulous examination of the system's extraction process. Customers typically invest in an ACT system to maintain a pristine working environment with minimal contamination. However, if dust escapes through open joints during each movement, this objective is compromised. Moreover, the extraction process must not interfere with the weighing signal during the dosing process, ensuring that accuracy is not compromised.   Following extensive consultation and collaboration with suppliers, multiple concepts were devised and executed by the mechanical, electrical, and software teams. Presently, two variants are available: one where dust from the filters returns with the product, minimizing contamination but ensuring all product accompanies it through processing, and another where dust extraction directs waste to a remote unloading point, eliminating contamination but resulting in waste. The selection between these variants depends on the customer's specific needs and requirements.   The operational phase   During the implementation phase of industrial solutions, addressing technical challenges is only part of the equation; understanding real-world usage is equally vital. Hence, KSE engages its service department from the beginning of a project to ensure that aspects, such as cleaning positions, accessibility, and installation safety are meticulously accounted for. This approach establishes a robust groundwork for a successful project, enhancing both efficiency and safety.   By: KSE Process Technology   Source: All Pet Food Magazine

Dosing

29/08/2024

Great News: Josera Integrates KSE’s Cutting-Edge ALFRA Technology

We are pleased to share the installation of several advanced ALFRA machines at the Josera petfood factory, a member of the ERBACHER the food family group. In addition to our renowned ALFRA dosing and weighing systems and a movable bulk mixer for finished products, the scope includes our Automatic Contrainer Transfer (ACT) system.   Our ACT systems fit perfectly with Josera's commitment to innovation, quality and sustainability. They further streamline their internal transfer processes, increase efficiency and precision in their operations, and maintain contamination-free processes. To ensure seamless integration and optimum performance, in addition to supervision, commissioning, training is provided by one of our own Bartosz Piechota who is on site on a regular basis.   This project is being carried out with industry partners H. Wolking Mühlen- und Maschinenbau GmbH & Co. KG and Intermont construction to achieve the desired plant for Josera. Together, we're driving innovation, quality and sustainability in the animal nutrition and pet food industries, and our shared commitment to common values ensures precision, efficiency and environmentally friendly practices.   We are excited about the future and the opportunities that this new plant will bring Josera. The successful integration of KSE Group's advanced machinery is a testament to the strength of our partnership and our shared dedication to excellence. As construction continues, we look forward to providing further updates and sharing our progress with you.   Follow us HERE, for more detailed information about the individual machines and solutions implemented in this project and how they might benefit you.
 
Source: KSE Process Technology

Dosing

17/03/2023

KSE ALFRA Equipments: The perfect fit for every plant

A high precision dosing and weighing system is crucial to produce quality products. KSE's ALFRA equipment has over 90 years of experience in food and related industries, ensuring optimum production flexibility in your plant while maintaining high consistency of quality and safety.
These equipments incorporate solutions to dose both macro and micro components for ingredients with different densities and flow characteristics.
Raw material dosing: Precise component measurements
The quality of animal feed essentially depends on the precision of dosage and weighing of the components of the formulation. ALFRA equipment is designed to measure each component with maximum precision.
Micro-component dosing: The most precise measurement of the smallest components With ALFRA equipment, the smallest amounts of components are measured with extreme precision to ensure that micro-dosing and weighing are no longer the bottleneck in the factory. Automating the micro-dispensing process eliminates the time-consuming (and error-prone) task of manual dispensing, ultimately improving quality consistency, process control, and health and safety performance.
  We invite you to learn about ALFRA equipment for micro-dosing:   ALFRA BDS: The ALFRA Box Dosing System is a modular and scaleable platform that is designed to completely automate the preparation of micro ingredients for animal feed production in boxes.   ALFRA FCCDxy: The FCCD safely doses rarely used ingredients that can spoil if they remain in the silo for too long. It uses unique exchangeable containers with dosing slides, giving efficient and contamination-free dosing of even small quantities of materials. Ingredients from up to 24 containers can be combined automatically.   ALFRA FCDxy: Combining high throughput with outstanding accuracy, the ALFRA FCDxy features our unique dosing slide, which ensures that dosing and weighing is no longer a factory bottleneck. Uniquely, it eliminates labor-intensive and error-prone hand dosing – and the alternative of a separate machine for small amounts – by handling from 50 gram right up to 100 kg in a single machine.   ALFRA KCD: is designed for dosing and weighing dry powders, granulates and pellets. The dosing and weighing system combines high throughput with excellent accuracy.     KSE was founded in 1973 as a small electrical installation company in the agricultural sector. Over the years, it has specialized in dosing and weighing systems and intelligent automation software for the feed industry. They focus on continuous innovation, passed down from generation to generation. This sector is its core market. Personal contact, excellent service and a passion for the powder and granules processing sector are the keys that have allowed them to grow from being a small company to an international company with activities all over the world. LEARN MORE about their equipment, services and solutions.

By: All Pet Food

Dosing

30/12/2022

Dosing slide vs. screw feeder

It is a challenge to find the most optimal solution for the silo discharge system within a specific process installation. In many cases, it is a question weighing up a dosing slide against a screw feeder. To make a responsible choice, insight into the operation and qualities of both the dosing slide and the screw feeder is required. Activation The dosing slide consists of a fixed upper lower grid and an upper grid that moves back and forth during the dosing process. This ensures that the product in the silo is loosened by means of a product-friendly activation. The dosing slide moves the product without transporting it. This means that the product flows straight in a vertical direction, by use of gravity. In contrast to a screw feeder (in which the material is extruded in one direction), no energy is supplied which means no product damage or compaction occurs. The simple design of the dosing slide makes it a particularly durable discharge system. A dosing slide can be in operation for decades. Mass flow The discharge system determines, to a certain extent, the silo's geometry and therefore also the flow image of the product inside the silo. It prefers to not place the discharge system in the middle of the silo funnel, to reduce the risk of product bridging in the silo. A dosing slide generally offers a much larger discharge surface than a screw feeder. The screw feeder's discharge surface is determined by the relatively small diameter and length of the screw itself. The larger discharge surface of the dosing slide ensures an equal discharge flow where mass flow occurs in the silo (the FIFO principle). For a given storage capacity (in case of an equal funnel triangle), less building height is also required. Dosing range An important feature of the dosing slide is the enormous dynamic flow range. The ratio between the minimum and maximum flow rate is easily 1:1000 (from grams to kilograms per second), with a dosing accuracy of approximately 2 grams. With a screw feeder, the dynamic flow range is no better than 1:20. An increase in speed not only translates into an increase in capacity, but also into an increase in slippage. It is true that placing a second screw under the main screw reduces the flow to, for example, 1 % of the maximum flow, however, the investment costs for materials and especially the control system will strongly increase. In addition, starting a pull-out screw at low speed requires an extra strong motor with a frequency controller. This extra power is necessary I order to provide the breakaway torque. This requirement does not apply to a dosing slide. Dosage precision With a dosing slide, minimum dosage quantities approach 0 grams; with a dosing screw, this quantity is determined by the volume in one turn of the screw. Once the dosing screw's discharge opens a screw compartment, this compartment flows out completely. In addition, there is the risk of the product's continuing to flow (primarily if the product has the tendency to become fluid). It is, of course, possible to install a shut-off after the dosing screw for more precise dosages, but the next dosage then amounts to at least that quantity of material that the shut-off held back. By contrast, a dosing slide closes immediately and completely. The dynamic flow range results in the dosing slide's being able to provide both rapid and precise dosing. With a dosing slide/scale combination, the limiting factor to precise dosage is the scale, not the dosing slide. For this, a weigher-in-weigher can be helpful. This offers the possibility of dosing both 50 g and 100 kg from the same silo in a single batch weighing system with the precision of a few grams within flow ranges up to 5 kg. Controls A dosing slide requires a greater investment than a dosing screw, but with the deployment of six or more dosing slides under a silo block, it is cheaper than using six dosing screws with shut-offs. This is because dosing slides (whether this be 4, 6 or even 24 dosing slides) are all powered by one single hydraulic cylinder. This single cylinder activates a framework to which the dosing slides can be linked at will. The power consumption of a dosing slide is extremely low. For example, it is possible to dose up to 50 kg/second with a 3 kW motor. For this same amount of effort, a dosing screw requires at least a 25 kW motor. Furthermore, every dosing screw requires its own power unit and frequency controller.   Discharge characteristics The controls for a dosing slide are more intelligent and, consequently, more complex than those of a dosing screw (for a screw, flow is proportional to RPM, within certain limits). A dosing slide, however, allows for variation in the percentage of opening, stroke length and frequency. For certain applications, the shape of the vanes can also be adjusted (more or fewer progressive openings). This allows the achievement of optimum discharge properties for the material to be dosed.   Image 1: Dosing slides have a fixed lower grid and upper grid that moves back and forth during the dosing process.   Image 2: A platform of dosing slides is operated by a single drive motor.   Image 3: A dosing slide in operation.   About KSE Partner in optimizing production processes Increasing complexity forms the biggest challenge for animal nutrition manufacturers; more recipes, a growing number of ingredients, additions that are difficult to dose and higher quality standards contribute to this trend. For over 50 years, KSE has been supplying future proof solutions to stay ahead of the trend in the form of modular machinery and smart software that fit together perfectly. We create flexible processing solutions that enable a responsive production process. Automation, accuracy and contamination control are at the basis of our future-proof innovations. Our aim is to not only improve the production process, but also to make a significant contribution to increasing margins and achieving targets. Together we create the solutions with the best results! For more information about KSE click HERE.   By KSE Source: All Pet Food 

Dosing Efficient and Safe Production of Pet Food
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5+ MIN

Efficient and Safe Production of Pet Food

The production of pet food requires efficient production lines with high availability rates and reproducible quality. This only works with optimal system technology and processes that are designed to meet the specific requirements of the product in question. This article shows what else is important. Pets have not only been popular companions since the Corona pandemic; in Germany alone, almost every second household has some sort of pet. As a result, the demand for high-quality pet food is increasing, and this is happening worldwide. 'The USA, Europe and Asia are still growing markets in terms of pet food, and this means that we are in demand as plant manufacturers,' says Ingo Pütz, responsible for global sales at Zeppelin Systems in Rödermark, describing the market situation. In addition, the technological demands on plants and components are growing, as Pütz explains, 'Pet food formulas now consist of 20 to 50 different raw materials, each of which has its own unique properties.' This can be extruded material that is mixed in particularly gently or a moisture-sensitive raw material that has to be conveyed in a very dry state. Smooth production therefore requires not only knowing the properties of a wide range of products, but also understanding the process down to the last detail. 'Ultimately, the consumer must be able to rely on the feed always having the exact composition as well as the same shape and consistency. The feed must neither stick nor crumble,' says Pütz, describing the difficult balance. Flexibility in plants is a necessity In general, the production quality requirements for pet food are similar to those of human food. Among other things, this means eliminating or minimizing cross-contamination, easy to clean, maintaining clean production and compliance with hygiene standards. And as with food for humans, pet food is subject to special scrutiny and requires, for example, extremely accurate measurement technology. Moreover, in pet food, new formula concepts are being developed to meet the needs of individual animals, whether young, old, prone to obesity, wheat intolerant, etc. At the same time, manufacturers must be able to deal with changing raw materials – for example, some raw materials used to be available as powders, but are now marketed as granules. Raw materials may also vary from region to region. These variations can, for example, affect different bulk densities, which in turn affects handling. Manufacturers therefore require a very high degree of flexibility in their plants. It must be possible to adapt them without major conversions. High reliability and availability of the plants, which run around the clock, are a given.
Coordinated plant processes Zeppelin Systems accompanies almost every processing stage in pet food production. This starts with raw material intake, through filling into the silos, grinding technology, up to recipe-accurate dosing including inline screening machines upstream of the mixers and gentle dense phase conveying. Drying and coating processes have to be integrated just as much as systems for dust removal, temperature control, quality assurance measures, and concepts for explosion protection. A striking feature of developments in recent years: Plants are being operated ever closer to their peak performance without diminishing any accuracy. 'This can only be achieved by keeping an eye on the entire raw material handling process. We master all process steps and the respective process and measurement technology. That's why we can offer comprehensive, perfectly coordinated solutions from a single source,' Pütz explains further. Kibbles without break At first glance, the individual process steps do not appear complicated, yet the processes are changing. For example, gentle pneumatic conveying of dry feed now plays an increasingly important role. Neither the animal lover nor the producer wants to find crumbs in the feed. With Dense-Tec conveying and sometimes extended lines, conveying succeeds without destroying the structure of the raw materials. Dense-Tec is mainly used in the pet food industry as a continuous conveying system, because the individual process steps, such as cooling or coating, are also mainly carried out continuously. Precise dosing of even the smallest quantities When weighing and dosing very small quantities, such as vitamins, components in the 2-3 kilogram range have to be added evenly distributed throughout mixtures weighing several tons. 'We have developed innovative manual and automated solutions especially for these small components,' reports Pütz. For example, Zeppelin Systems offers customized solutions ranging from components for batch weighing to differential scales including controls. For handling liquids, on the other hand, volumetric systems or gravimetrically operating components such as liquid scales and mass flow meters are used. 'It is crucial that the dosing and weighing is done accurately contamination-free,' Pütz lists additionally. 'After all, ingredients are being scrutinized more and more critically by consumers.' High demands on hygiene and quality Hygiene requirements have also increased in the pet food sector and are now oriented toward the food industry. 'For example, we have long relied only on stainless steel in our plants,' says Pütz 'Batches have to be traceable just as they are in human food. This is where the process management system we developed helps.' This logs every change in the recipe and allows all raw materials supplied and batches delivered to be traced. All production data, batch records, etc. are archived and can be retrieved at any time. Accordingly, there is greater focus on control, automation and documentation. This gives the consumer peace of mind. Summary and outlook Regional differences require country- specific solutions. Since production follows the customer, plant engineering know-how is needed directly on site. Zeppelin Systems is globally oriented, which ensures nationwide support. Moreover, digital services, such as remote access to the plants, are now part of everyday life. Another topic of concern to the pet food industry is energy use and efficiency levels. This is particularly important for large plants with higher conveying capacities, for example, 40 to 60 tons per hour. 'We supply solutions that allow more output from the plants. For example, we replace mechanical conveyors with pneumatic ones because they deliver faster and display higher performance with larger volumes. They also work more energy- efficiently, can cover greater distances, and require less maintenance,' says Pütz, listing one example, but concluding with a completely different yet decisive factor for success: 'Our customers don't really care how their process works; they want process reliability and high plant availability. We ensure this with on-site service, but also with intelligent automation technology and a wide range of sensors that safeguard the process. by Ingo Pütz ist General Manager Sales Food Processing Plant at Zeppelin Systems GmbH

Dosing Benefits of modern batching systems
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8+ MIN

Benefits of modern batching systems

Batching systems play an important role in product quality and plant efficiency for pet food and treat processors. Equipment design can ensure product uniformity, consistent product flow, and efficient changeovers from batch to batch. There are a number of common options for batching systems in pet food and treat applications, and processors must consider several factors when looking to upgrade their facilities. Evaluating batching systems 'When considering an automated batching system for pet food ingredients, it is important to look at several factors which will influence the type of batching system recommended and optimize ingredient cost savings and overall ROI,' said Sharon Nowak, business development manager, Coperion K-Tron USA Food & Pharmaceutical Industries, Sewell, N.J. 'The top three for consideration include batch accuracy required for the specific ingredient, desired batch times, and overall plant design considerations including height limitations, space requirements, and support structures for the batching system.' 'It's a little different for everyone,' added Matt Lueger, vice president of sales, NorthWind Technical Services, Sabetha, Kan. 'But the big factors that we typically see are accuracy, traceability and flexibility. Most customers not only want a system that consistently produces a quality product, but also tells them what went into each batch without restricting their ability to continually change their ingredients or recipes.' Pete Ensch, chief executive officer, WEM Automation, LLC, New Berlin, Wis., agreed on the importance of traceability for today's processors. 'The batch system needs to incorporate lot code traceability,' he said. 'Pet food producers' value is directly linked to their track record of producing safe quality food. In the event that something goes wrong, you need the ability to quickly track the problem and contain it. Traceability needs to be automated and working in the background. Beyond the safety side, traceability also helps to control inventory management and control, and can be linked back to your ERP to help automate purchasing. This keeps production flowing and controls cost.' Other factors to take into consideration include throughput, types and quantities of product that need to be conveyed, and quality and repeatability. 'At the end of the day, you need a batching system that can accurately weigh out your ingredients and consistently mix them,' Ensch explained. 'Pet food has some unique challenges in that there are many different ingredients with a variety of densities and flow rates. Several of the raw ingredients, because of the nature of protein, have a significant amount of variability. Equipment and controls need to be able to handle the de variety. All of the downstream processes like extrusion and drying perform better if you provide them a consistent, quality input.' Batching options Modern batching systems are designed with factors such as accuracy, reliability, traceability, flexibility and food safety in mind. 'Due to the increased food safety regulations and requirements to adhering to exact ingredient percentages in a given pet food recipe, the use of high accuracy LIW [loss-in-weight] batching using gravimetric screw feeders is quickly becoming the most reliable batching device of choice,' Nowak said. 'LIW batching utilizing Coperion K-Tron high-accuracy screw feeders provides a significant accuracy and process time advantage over traditional GIW [gain-in-weight] batch techniques. LIW batching is used when the accuracy of individual ingredient weights in the completed batch is critical or when the batch cycle times need to be very short. In addition, LIW feeding affords broad material handling capability and thus excels in feeding a wide range of materials from low to high rates.' Regardless of feed rates, LIW batching can offer accuracy, speed and variability benefits over traditional GIW methods. (Source: Coperion) 'There are several different types of batching systems,' added Joe Lewis, marketing, Sterling Systems & Controls, Inc., Sterling, Ill. 'These include semi-automatic hand prompt/add batching systems, semi-automatic self-contained 'kitchen type' batching systems, and automatic batching systems.' Utilizing different systems and features allows pet food and treat processors to fine-tune the batch process from start to finish. Options include manual or automatic batch delivery, various ingredient storage methods, and integration to the ERP system to communicate production schedules and ingredient usages. 'Most modern batch controls have dozens of features, but a couple of useful ones for pet food are an order grid and automatic bin level checking,' Ensch said. 'An order grid includes order number, formula name, the amount of material to be produced, the required date, destination bins and comments. The grid can have orders entered direct or interfaces with your ERP system. Automatic bin level checking has the system check bin levels of each ingredient in a production run prior to starting the batch. The system will alert the operator of any insufficient ingredients. 'Another useful feature is production usage tracking and inventory management with lot code tracking,' Ensch added. 'This allows the batch system to track material used for each production run, batch, and track respective lot codes for ingredients. Statistical process control (SPC) charting is one more feature that's great for fine-tuning the batch process. A system tracks the production data to the level to produce statistical process control charts. Being able to understand when a system is in control or out of control and having the data to either troubleshoot it or reduce variation for greater accuracy can change your business.' Product quality  There are several ways in which batching systems can impact product quality. 'Vacuum conveying systems help to provide the right amount of ingredients or final products to the next processing or packaging step,' said Andrea Bodenhagen, communication and content manager, Piab Vakuum GmbH, Butzbach, Germany. 'Thanks to the closed system, it also provides a dust free environment and protects the product from contamination. While the pet food industry is often still using mechanical or manual material handling, vacuum conveying systems are state of the art in the pharma and food sector. Pet food manufacturers, therefore, benefit from the long-term experience of Piab in these sectors as well as all the developments that have been done for these industries to keep the original product quality during the conveying process.' 'Batching systems play a significant role in the overall product quality of pet food and treats,' Lueger said. 'Not only in the accuracy and consistency of the ingredients that make up the product, but also in the visibility of what went into the product in the event of a quality issue. Batch reports and historical trends can go a long way toward preventing future product quality issues.' Jim Gaydusek, sales director, United States and Canada, Cozzini LLC, Chicago, agreed that batching systems have an important role to play in consistency and product quality. 'One of the greatest benefits is consistency from batch to batch,' he said. 'Auto management of recipes removes much of the human factor and reduces processing error. Scales accurately weigh the ingredients to ensure the proper weight(s) get added and the HMI [human-machine-interface] can sequence through the processing steps according to the program.' Plant efficiency Batching systems can also impact plant efficiency for pet food and treat processors. 'In addition to improving product quality over traditional manual weighing methods, the automation of the material handling/product transfer as well as the batching can greatly affect overall efficiency,' Nowak said. 'The use of automated dispensing systems, which can also integrate pneumatic conveying systems for material transfer, can greatly reduce the amount of human interaction as compared to manual methods of weighing and transfer. This maximizes social distancing and adheres to strict COVID guidelines of safety. 'Properly weighing and accurately delivering the ingredients without manual intervention can result in a number of process advantages, including overall food safety, fewer mistakes, better accuracy, lower bulk costs, improved product quality and savings in manufacturing costs,' he added. 'Eliminating manual batching reduces scrap costs, increases efficiency and throughput,' Lewis noted. 'Automatic systems can be customized with multiple scales for speed of batch production without sacrificing accuracy or quality, resulting in fast high batch rates and accuracy of weighments. Dust containment and collection options for automatic batching systems improves safety and operator efficiency.' Processors must be able to track and trace each ingredient throughout the process to ensure quality and safety and, in the case of a product issue, pinpoint exactly where and what went wrong. (Source: Coperion) To maximize overall efficiency, factors such as system design and sequencing must be taken into account. 'You want a system that moves from one batch to the next seamlessly and with little idle time between batches,' Ensch said. 'Some of this is system design, things like having holding vessels, surge bins and multiple scales so that you can weigh up ingredients before the mixer; optimizing cleanout times between batches and changeovers; the use of high and low bin level indicators and automated routing to make sure the batching system is never starved for ingredients. The system must manage all the timing, so the batching process is nearly continuous in nature.'  New advancements Batching systems continue to evolve to meet changing needs and requirements. Modern batching systems now have huge advantages over their predecessors in a multitude of areas. 'Over the past decade the number of different types of formulations and the raw ingredients used has grown exponentially,' Ensch said. 'This has made batching systems larger and more complex. Having a blending control system that has formula-based scaling and mixing parameters is extremely helpful. The trend of higher protein pet food has also increased the content of fibrous protein ingredients, which have the much greater variation. Formulations contain many ingredients and there is a need for a batch system that can measure major, minor and micro ingredients with very low dispersions like vitamins and minerals.' 'There have been a significant number of design improvements to batching systems for pet food and treat processing,' Nowak said. 'They include improvement in weighing technologies and batching controls, improvements in overall design of equipment to improve cleanability and food safety while minimizing downtimes, improvements in feeder design options ideal for difficult flowing materials, and improvements in feeder technology to alleviate pressure/vacuum influences on the feeder output.' Advancements in technology have also vastly improved traceability of ingredients. 'The amount of technology that is utilized to track and trace ingredients continues to evolve,' Lueger noted. 'From simple bar-coded lot numbers on bags to RFID [radio-frequency identification] tracked totes/IBCs [intermediate bulk containers] and hoppers on tracks or AGVs [automated guided vehicle]. Innovation and technology gains continue to support traceability regardless of size, equipment configuration, system capacity, etc.' By Richard Rowlands & Matt Lueger  Northwind Technical Services - Pet Food processing 


Market Information

Market Information

09/10/2024

Lesaffre acquires majority stake in Biorigin to strengthen and broaden its savory ingredients offering

As a result of the deal, Lesaffre will become the controlling shareholder of Biorigin with 70% of its total corporate capital, while Zilor will remain a shareholder with 30%. The deal includes Biorigin's production unit in Quatá/São Paulo, an industrial plant, based in the attractive country of Brazil where there is abundant sugar, water and renewable energy resources.
The aim of this deal is to leverage Lesaffre's and Biorigin's complementary capabilities to enable enhanced yeast derivative and savory ingredient solutions for customers worldwide. The business combination between Lesaffre and Biorigin will offer customers benefits by upgrading production capacity and new solutions based on the production and marketing of naturally derived ingredients for human food and animal nutrition industries.
For Brice-Audren Riché, CEO of Lesaffre, "This acquisition of a majority stake in Biorigin represents an exciting new chapter for Lesaffre. It will offer development opportunities to meet the growing needs of the human food and nutrition industries, as society currently demands savory ingredients from natural sources. We are stepping up to a new dimension thanks to this strategic move to reinforce Lesaffre and its Business Unit Biospringer by Lesaffre as global players in the field of yeast extracts for the savory ingredients market. Importantly, we are doing this with a key strategic partner, Zilor, who shares similar values to Lesaffre and a strong focus on Corporate Social Responsibility. Committed to deliver responsible taste through Biospringer, and together with Biorigin, we are well-positioned to deliver enhanced yeast derivative and savory ingredient solutions to customers around the world."
For Fabiano Zillo, CEO of Zilor, 'Biorigin's 20-year history has been marked by innovation and commitment to sustainability. Throughout this time, Biorigin has built solid, long-term business partnerships, with great respect for its customers and other stakeholders. We believe this partnership will be a great opportunity to contribute to sustainable development and enhance the supply of yeast derivatives to the human food and animal nutrition markets. This deal will allow Biorigin to incorporate greater expertise, market insight and access to advanced R&D capabilities from Lesaffre and will allow Biorigin's parent company, Zilor, to join forces with a highly capable and experienced strategic partner."   Biorigin's brand will be kept for producing, marketing and selling the products.
The units in Lençóis Paulista (SP) and Macatuba (SP), and the products made from alcoholic fermentation yeast and brewer's yeast, manufactured at those locations will continue to be handled and sold by Zilor.   The deal is subject to the fulfillment of the usual preconditions for such transactions, including the approval from creditors and other legal and regulatory approvals, including the Administrative Council for Economic Defense (CADE), and it is expected to be concluded over the next few months.
Until then, Biorigin and Lesaffre shall remain totally independent, keeping their businesses as usual.   ABOUT LESAFFRE   Lesaffre is a key global player in fermentation for more than a century. Established on all continents through 80 production sites in 50 countries, it counts 11,000 employees and more than 96 nationalities. On the strength of this experience and diversity, Lesaffre works with customers, partners and researchers to find ever more relevant answers to the needs of food, health, naturalness and respect for our environment. Thus, every day, Lesaffre explores and reveals the infinite potential of microorganisms. To nourish 9 billion people, in a healthy way, in 2050 by making the most of our planet's resources is a major and unprecedented issue. We believe that fermentation is one of the most promising answers to this challenge. Lesaffre – Working together to better nourish and protect the planet    ABOUT ZILOR   Zilor, a Brazilian multinational with 78 years of experience, is one of the leading companies in the sugar-energy sector and diversifies its portfolio into two divisions: agroindustry, focused on the cultivation and processing of sugarcane for the production of sugar, ethanol, and clean, renewable electric energy; and natural ingredients, operating through the Biorigin unit, which specializes in biotechnological processes for the production of ingredients for the food, pet food, and animal nutrition and health industries. The agroindustry division has three production units in Brazil, located in the countryside of São Paulo state, in the cities of Lençóis Paulista, Macatuba, and Quatá; the Biorigin division also currently operates three production units in Brazil, located in the same cities. Additionally, Biorigin has three Distribution Centers, one in Brazil and two abroad, located in the United States and Belgium, enabling the distribution of natural origin ingredients to over 60 countries, marking its presence on all continents. Zilor - Build wealth and promote the well-being of society, through the transformation of innovative and natural agricultural resources into food and energy.
    Source: Lesaffre  

Market Information

04/10/2024

The first conversational AI for the veterinarian sector arrives in the UK

AITEM S.r.l., spin-off company of Dumarey Automotive Italy Spa and specialized in generative AI, announces the launch of LAIKA, the first artificial intelligence platform developed specifically for supporting veterinarians in clinic management and daily decision-making processes. Already active in the Italian and French markets, LAIKA now makes its entry into the United Kingdom. Moreover, thanks to AITEM's admission into the vHive Animal Health Incubator, a strategic alliance between Zoetis and the University of Surrey, partnered with SETsquared, LAIKA will be able to count on the support of industry experts and ensure a presence in the UK.
«LAIKA is characterized for being the expert conversational agent verticalized for the veterinary industry, based on a combination of AI language models known as Large Language Models (LLM) in order to obtain immediate answers to clinical questions posed by veterinarians, in outpatient and emergency room settings». Davide Tricarico, CTO of AITEM, explains. Developed to optimize time management and enhance the resources and skills of individual veterinarians, LAIKA is the result of a collaboration between experienced AI engineers and veterinary professionals: in fact, it is a patented system, continuously updated and already tested by more than 100 medical directors.   During this era in which artificial intelligence is changing in a significant way working methods, representing an increasingly relevant element in various fields, including veterinary medicine, LAIKA aims to support in simplifying daily activities, especially in high-pressure settings such as hospitals, where speed and accuracy are crucial. LAIKA is able to provide real-time consultative suggestions, such as anamnesis, the choice of therapies, the definition of diagnostic procedures, the analysis of test results and causes, and the formulation of differential diagnoses. By supporting veterinarians in the analysis of clinical data, it allows them to focus on defining targeted treatment plans, providing valuable support in clinical related decision, acting as a complementary tool and not a substitute of a professional judgment.  
«Every day, veterinarians around the world are dedicated with the utmost effort to taking care of animals. They face complex decisions, bearing the responsibility of patients' lives on their shoulders, and often live with the pain of not being able to save each of them.» - explains Massimiliano Melis, COO of AITEM. «Between 1979 and 2015, according to data from the U.S. CDC National Center for Health Statistics published in 2019, close to 400 veterinarians died by suicide and almost 60% experienced work-related stress, anxiety or depression so severe that they required professional help. That's why we created LAIKA: a knowledgeable AI colleague that helps them make the hardest decisions, manage their workload, and ensure that every patient receives the best possible care. Basically, an ally who takes care of them while they take care of others.» This is the concept of LAIKA.
LAIKA will be showcased at booth S3 – S15 S58 at the London VET Show on 14 and 15 November 2025, where it will be possible to interact with LAIKA and get a preview of the new technology being developed.
About us
LAIKA was born in 2022 with the aim of supporting veterinarians in taking care of their patients, simplifying their work, and thus reducing the extremely high burnout levels in the sector. An ambitious project, which was born thanks to the close collaboration between expert engineers in artificial intelligence and the best specialists in the veterinary field.   LAIKA is developed by AITEM SRL, specialised in generative AI and a spin-off from Dumarey Automotive Italia Spa, part of the Dumarey group, known for creating technologically advanced systems. Thanks to this union of competencies, we have created the veterinary colleague who can provide more insights and a deeper perspective on various topics for the well-being of dogs and cats.   Source: LAIKA

Market Information

01/10/2024

MPE-Chain-Vey Appoints Fernando Oliveira as Director of Latin American Sales

'As we continue to introduce groundbreaking products like Chain-vey's conveyor systems, it is vital that we enhance our presence in the Latin American market,' said Dan Ephraim, President of MPE 'Fernando's extensive expertise in managing client relationships and leading high-performing teams in dynamic markets makes him an invaluable addition to our team as we continue to grow in the region.'   Fernando brings over 35 years of experience in the food processing and packaging industries, with a distinguished career marked by leading successful teams and achieving exceptional customer satisfaction across Latin America, Europe, and Asia. Before joining our team, Fernando held several leadership roles in food equipment companies. Fernando holds a B.B.A in Business Administration, a B.A.S.c in Marketing, and an MBA from FGV in Brazil. He is fluent in Portuguese, English, Spanish, French, and Indonesian.     'I am thrilled to join an industry leader like MPE Modern Process Equipment – Chain-vey, renowned for its innovative and reliable solutions,' said Fernando. 'I look forward to contributing my deep understanding of the Latin American market to further strengthen our customer relationships and help businesses enhance their operational efficiency with our industry-leading solutions.'   About Chain-Vey   Chain-Vey is the global leader in the design and production of advanced conveying and processing solutions. Known for its highly adaptable and reliable conveyor systems, Chain-vey serves a variety of industries, including food processing, by enhancing productivity, improving quality, and reducing operational costs. Our global presence and commitment to excellence make us a trusted partner for businesses seeking to optimize their operations.   For more information, please visit www.mpechicago.com/chain-vey/.       About MPE Modern Process Equipment   Founded in 1957 and headquartered in Chicago, USA, MPE is a family-owned business with a longstanding reputation for innovation and excellence. MPE is dedicated to leading the industry in the invention, development, and manufacturing of advanced processing equipment, including grinders, conveyors, and comprehensive system solutions. We translate our expertise into value for our customers through professional solutions and exceptional service.     Source: MPE - Chain-vey  

Market Information

26/09/2024

Canada took largest share of $2.4 billion in US pet food exports in 2023

A new report from the American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) concludes that pet food exports were worth $2.4 billion (€2.1B) in 2023.   They make the second largest commodity by value among US animal food exports after corn co-products, which was worth $4 billion (€3.6B). The total value of all US animal food exports, including pet food, was $13.4 billion (€11.9B) in 2023. This is a 79% year-on-year (YoY) increase, while total export volumes were 19.8 million metric tons, depicting a 120% annual increase.     Sales and tax contributions   AFIA estimates that in 2023, around 5,650 US animal food manufacturers, including pet food manufacturers, generated $267.1 billion (€239B) in total sales. As per the association, dog and cat food led the animal food export categories by value, witnessing a 20% YoY increase.   Last year, the industry also totaled $98.4 billion (€61.2B) in value-added contributions and filed $18.5 billion (€16.5B) in local, state and national taxes. The animal food manufacturing industry also had a significant impact on employment. According to the data, it provided jobs to 80,300 people and paid $6.9 billion (€6.1B) in wages.   Top export markets   According to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), Canada ($1.2B/€1.07B), China ($257.7M/€230M) and Mexico ($206.2M/€184.5M) were the top 3 export destinations for dog and cat food in 2023. Japan ($122.3M/€109.4M) and Australia ($89.3M/€79.9M) were also in the top 5 export markets list. Other export destinations included the European Union, Colombia, South Korea, Costa Rica and Taiwan. The USDA's data also shows that this trend has, for the most part, remained the same since 2014.   Source: GlobalPets

Market Information Zoomark 2025:  spotlight on the supply chain
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Zoomark 2025: spotlight on the supply chain

Bologna (Italy), May 2025: this is the next unmissable appointment for the international pet industry. Registration is still open for the 21st edition of Zoomark, the international pet food and pet care trade show. The 2025 event will feature new sections, covering over 68,000 square meters of exhibition space, attracting leading exhibitors and visitors from across the globe, as Luisa Bersanetti, Exhibition Manager at Zoomark, explained.   Q: Zoomark 2025 is already around the corner. What are your main goals for this new edition of the show?   A: 2023 was a record-breaking year, with over 68,000 square meters of exhibition space, 1,060 exhibitors from 57 different countries and an incredible 28,000 visitors. For the next show we are even more ambitious, and the signs are already looking good as registrations have been flying in. We aim to offer an even more innovative and rich presence of companies in the pet industry and stimulate the interest of the increasingly numerous operators from all over the world, also thanks to the new Buyers' Program, which will bring together supply and demand through pre-arranged B2B meetings.   Q: Zoomark 2025 it's shaping up to be a remarkable event, especially with the introduction of some brand new projects, as the new Factory Area. Could you tell us a bit more about what Factory is and what inspired its creation?   A: Factory is a new space specifically designed to highlight the entire manufacturing supply chain for the pet industry. We recognized that there's a growing demand for a dedicated platform where suppliers of raw materials, innovative ingredients, packaging, logistics, and other essential services can connect directly with manufacturers and distributors. The idea is to create a dynamic environment where innovation, sustainability, and quality take center stage, offering companies a golden opportunity to showcase their latest developments and make significant business connections. To answer to the needs and requests of exhibitors and visitors, interested to specific categories of products, the new layout has been designed to optimize visit times to the new Factory area, facilitated by a more efficient, fluid and easy-to-read exhibition itinerary.     Q: You mentioned innovation and sustainability as key themes for Factory. How these will be featured?   A: Innovation and sustainability are at the heart of what we're doing with Factory. For instance, in the area of raw materials and ingredients, we're seeing a shift towards natural, organic, and sustainable options. Consumers are more conscious than ever about what they're feeding their pets, so there's a big push towards healthier, more nutritious products. We'll have exhibitors focusing on alternative solutions like insect flours and plant proteins, which are gaining traction as sustainable options in pet food. Packaging is another area where sustainability is critical. We know that pet owners are increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of packaging. That's why Factory will spotlight the latest in eco-friendly and smart packaging solutions. These innovations not only help preserve product quality but also reduce waste and meet the new European regulations on packaging reuse and recycling.   Q: It's clear that Factory will cover a wide range of important topics. Beyond the exhibition of products and services, will there be any educational opportunities for attendees?   A: Absolutely. Education is a big part of what we aim to offer at Zoomark 2025, and Factory will play a key role in this. Inside this area we will organize seminars, workshops, and panel discussions that will allow companies to share their expertise and insights. These sessions will cover a range of topics, from the latest trends in sustainable ingredients to innovations in logistics and packaging technology. It's an opportunity for professionals to learn, exchange ideas, and stay ahead of the curve in this rapidly evolving industry.   Q: That sounds incredibly valuable for attendees. Now, regarding companies exhibiting at Factory, who are the main target exhibitors, and what can they expect to gain from participating?   A: The main targets for Factory are supply companies for manufacturers and distributors of pet foods, accessories and pet care products. This includes companies supplying raw materials, premixes, semi-finished products, and those specializing in production and packaging equipment. We're also looking at companies that provide cutting-edge logistics, industrial services, and distribution solutions. By exhibiting at Factory, these companies will gain unparalleled visibility within the global pet industry. They'll have the chance to connect with key decision-makers like purchasing managers, quality managers, R&D experts, and production engineers. It's a unique opportunity to establish or strengthen their presence in a market that's not only growing rapidly but is also incredibly receptive to innovation.   Q: It certainly seems like Factory will be a must-visit area for industry professionals. Finally, what would you say to companies considering exhibiting at Factory or attending Zoomark 2025?   A: I would say that Zoomark 2025, and especially the Factory area, is an unmissable opportunity for anyone in the pet industry. Whether you're looking to showcase your latest innovations, connect with potential business partners, or simply stay informed about the latest trends, this is the place to be. Participating in Factory could open doors to new business deals and collaborations that could drive your company's growth for years to come. So, don't miss out and join us at Zoomark 2025!   Source: Zoomark

Market Information The Global Pet Industry is Meeting in Bangkok, Thailand
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The Global Pet Industry is Meeting in Bangkok, Thailand

With its fully B2B show concept, Pet Fair South East Asia serves as a global partnership hub for distribution, retail, and sourcing far beyond the ASEAN region. Located in Thailand's vibrant capital, Bangkok, the 2024 edition will be held at the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre, covering well-over 20,000 square meters of exhibition space. The show is jointly organized by VNU Exhibitions Asia Pacific, based in Bangkok, Thailand, and Globus Events, the company behind Pet Fair Asia, based in Shanghai, China.   The 2024 edition of Pet Fair South East Asia will host 400 exhibitors from 45 countries, showcasing the entire pet industry value chain. As of the end of August, the exhibitor mix stands at 75% international and 25% local, highlighting the global nature of the event. Among the confirmed exhibitors, 39% are from East Asia, 34% from Southeast Asia, 18% from Europe, 6% from North America, and 2% from Oceania. On the visitor side, the organizers forecast 15,000 trade visitors from 75 countries.   "We are excited to welcome the international pet industry back to the exciting city of Bangkok," says Johannes C. Kraus from VNU Exhibitions Asia Pacific. "We look forward to delivering both exhibitors and trade visitors an unparalleled industry experience.'   In addition to a vibrant show floor, trade visitors can anticipate a comprehensive and international speaker lineup, featuring over 30 conference sessions covering a wide range of topics.
The 2024 edition of Pet Fair South East Asia will also bring back the popular networking event, 'One Night in Bangkok,' offering exhibitors of the show and their key customers a memorable evening high above Bangkok's skyline.     Pre-registered visitors can attend the show free of charge, while those who have not pre-registered will be required to pay a small on-site fee of 350 THB (approximately 10 USD).   For more information and to pre-register for free, visit www.petfairsea.com. Preview the 2024 edition at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=67Cg_kU_fqo Watch the after movie of the 2023 edition at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OOHPhPAsD_c
  Source: Pet Fair South East Asia


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Vitamins

Vitamins

11/07/2023

Nutritional needs of cats and dogs

Pet food can be complete or complementary. Complete pet food is nutritionally complete: providing all the nutrients in the amounts and proportions your pet needs. Complementary pet food (e.g. treats) is designed to be only a part of the diet and it won't meet the nutritional requirements when fed alone. Pet food manufacturers have developed the nutritional expertise to ensure pet food contains the right ingredients in the right amounts to supply the needed nutrients. They often work together with independent nutrition scientists or follow guidelines which have been developed by a group of scientists working together. The broadening knowledge of pet nutrition and food technology has transformed the pet food industry remarkably over the years. It is now widely recognised by the veterinary profession and other stakeholders that improved nutrition is an important factor which helps pets to live longer, healthier lives. Besides water there are 5 key nutrients: Proteins Carbohydrates Fats Vitamins Minerals
The first 3 provide the energy your pet needs for e.g. growth, digestion, temperature regulation and of course activity. Proteins Proteins are made up of amino acids. There are hundreds of different amino acids, but a number of these are required for dogs and cats. Pets can produce some amino acids themselves; those are the so-called non-essential amino acids which do not need to be present in the diet. Others are essential and need to be part of the pet food: for dogs there are 10 essential amino acids, for cats there are 11. Proteins are the building blocks of organs, muscles, bones, blood, immune system and hair and nails. Proteins in pet food can come from various different ingredients, both from animal and vegetable origin like poultry, beef, pork, fish, eggs, corn, rice, peas or soybeans. It's important that the pet eats the right amount of proteins and that the protein can be easily digested and absorbed, which is influenced by the source of the protein and the processing of the food. In prepared pet food, manufacturers generally select a variety of ingredients to provide the required amount and type of proteins/amino acids. Excess proteins which are consumed by the pet are not stored in the body and also not used to make even more muscle tissue. Feeding extra protein in excess of the amount that your pet requires provides no health benefit to your pet. Carbohydrates Carbohydrates are used by the body to provide immediate energy for activities and are stored in the liver and muscle as glycogen. Energy use is needed for various body functions like metabolism and the function of the brain and nervous system. There exists no minimum level of carbohydrates which needs to be in pet food, but carbohydrates provide a concentrated source of dietary energy and dietary fibre. There are two types: digestible carbohydrates (starches and sugars) which provide energy and indigestible carbohydrates (fibre) which are important for stool quality and gut motility. Fibres can help in weight management because they are low in calories and help provide the feeling of satiety. The ingredients providing carbohydrates are mainly plant ingredients like corn, barley, peas, rice, wheat and potatoes. Dietary fibre sources include for instance dried beet pulp, wheat bran or soybean hulls. Many sources of carbohydrates also provide other nutrients like protein, fat or vitamins. Because of the manufacturing process of grinding and cooking the carbohydrates become easily digestible. A genetic change in the ancestors of our modern dogs (compared with wolves) allowing them to thrive on a diet rich in starch was a crucial step in their early domestication. Also cats can utilise glucose from digesting starch in their diet. A key exception is the pet's ability to digest lactose (milk sugar) because they have lower levels of the enzyme lactase required to split the lactose into individual sugars. Dietary fat Fats in pet food are a source of essential fatty acids which are needed to make certain hormones and maintain the cell membranes. Certain vitamins (A, D, E and K) can only be absorbed, stored and transported by fat. Dietary fats improve palatability and add texture for greater enjoyment of the food. And of course, fats are a great source of energy because they provide about 2 ½ times the level of energy that proteins or carbohydrates can provide. So especially for active animals fats are important, while at the same time we need to be careful with the fat intake for many indoor pets where controlling fat intake helps them not become overweight or obese. Fats in pet food come from animal and vegetable sources. Two key fatty acid families are the omega-3 and omega-6 (or n-3 and n-6) families. Omega-3 fatty acids are needed for cell membranes and reduces inflammation. Good sources of omega-3 fatty acids are fish, shellfish and flaxseed. Omega-6 fatty acids are important to aid in the process of repairing tissue and are found in vegetable oils. Minerals & Vitamins The major or macro minerals needed in the body are calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, chloride and magnesium. The amounts needed of the trace elements are much smaller and these include for instance iron, copper and selenium. Vitamins are nutrients needed in very small amounts, but they enable many functions in the body. Dogs and cats cannot make all the vitamins they need; so these must be supplied by the food. Minerals and vitamins are partly provided by the ingredients which deliver the major nutrients of protein, carbohydrates and fat and the other minerals and vitamins are added to the recipe. by FEDIAF 

Vitamins

09/06/2023

How important is choline for cats

Choline is a vitamin-like component that plays an important role in liver health and nerve transmission, and thereby also cognitive function and muscle function in cats. As said above, cats produce some choline naturally, but due to its importance, pet food brands are advised to add this nutrient into the food. Krill – a natural source of phosphatidylcholine Choline is available in various forms, choline chloride, lecithin, or choline bitartrate. The commonly used one is choline chloride which is 12 times less bioavailable than the choline found in krill (phosphatidylcholine) Krill meal is made from Antarctic krill (Euphausia Superba), which is a crustacean related to shrimp. The choline found in krill is all-natural and in form of phosphatidylcholine. Krill is also rich in phospholipid omega-3s, marine proteins, and astaxanthin. herefore, one of the ways to increase choline intake in cats is to include in their diet a pet food with krill meal, which provides choline. Choline - an essential nutrient for cats In 2018, a survey of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention estimated that 60% of cats and 56% of dogs in the United States were overweight or obese. This has serious health consequences for pets, including fat accumulation in the liver. A balanced, healthy diet for cats accompanied by regular physical activity is essential for overall health. In addition, nutritional supplements may help to reduce the risk of weight-related issues or optimize nutrition for cats. One way to do that is to provide cats with pet food with krill meal containing choline in the form of phosphatidylcholine. Phosphatidylcholine is one of the most fundamental molecules that make up the living cell. Being an essential component of the cell membrane, it is also the most abundant in a class of phospholipids known as 'essential phospholipids', as it forms the structural barrier that surrounds the cell. Choline and its metabolites have multiple physiological roles in the body which are important for the building of cell membranes, liver fat transport to prevent fatty liver, nerve impulse transmission in brain and muscles, and provision of methyl groups that maintain liver, heart, and kidney health.  What is choline essential for? 1. Building of cell membranes Phosphatidylcholine is an integral part of almost every cell in the animal body, being a major constituent of cell membranes. It's also important for normal cellular membrane composition and repair. Its role in cell membrane integrity is vital to all basic biological processes such as the information flow within cells from DNA to RNA to proteins. 2. Liver fat transport to prevent fatty liver Choline improves and maintains a healthy liver function and can aid in the proper metabolism of fat. In other words, choline is very important for the proper functioning and regulation of the liver and gallbladder. This vitamin-like substance aids in hormone production and minimizes fat accumulation in the liver by regulating fat and cholesterol metabolism. 3. Nerve impulse transmission in the brain and muscles Choline is needed for the proper transmission of nerve impulses and is a constituent of acetylcholine, the major neurotransmitter. This is essential in supporting brain development, the learning process, the nerve transmitters and affects the overall mental well-being of pets. 4. Providing methyl groups that maintain liver, heart, and kidney health Being a structural element of cell membranes (as phosphatidylcholine), choline supports lipid transport and acts as a source of methyl groups (after it is transformed into betaine) for various chemical reactions in the body. By controlling protein function and gene expression, choline is important for the proper function of the heart and blood vessels, nerve system, liver and reproduction. Therefore, we can say that choline in the form of phosphatidylcholine is an essential nutrient that cats require for a healthy and happy life. It supports muscle function, cognitive function and memory, it helps maintain normal cholesterol values, and protecting the liver from toxicity (without phosphatidylcholine, fat and cholesterol accumulate in the liver due to reduced low-density lipoprotein levels). Moreover, choline can prevent the appearance of the fatty liver syndrome and also support normal liver function. It can reduce insulin requirements in cats with diabetes, and diminishes seizure frequency, being important in the treatment of epilepsy. By Qrill Pet   

Vitamins

09/05/2023

DSM Establishes Tonganoxie, Kansas, Pet Food Premix Plant

The new facility, located in the KC Animal Health Corridor, will supply the pet food industry with high-quality nutritional premixes for use in branded pet food products worldwide. The investment will include precision micro-batching capabilities, allowing for precise automated micro-addition of numerous ingredients to premixes in a fully traceable manner. Operations are scheduled for early 2025. 'The pet food industry has been looking for a better source for the highest quality, traceable and reliable nutritional ingredients for their products and we are thrilled to be able to deliver for the industry and for 'pet parents' with this new facility in Tonganoxie,' said DSM Co-CEO, Dimitri de Vreeze. 'We appreciate the support of Governor Laura Kelly, the Kansas Department of Commerce, the Leavenworth County Development Corporation, the City of Tonganoxie, Evergy and the Animal Health Corridor in making this state-of-the-art facility a reality.' DSM, part of DSM-Firmenich, is a global, purpose-led leader in health and nutrition, applying bioscience to improve the health of people, animals, and the planet. 'DSM is a welcome addition to Kansas and the Animal Health Corridor,' noted Kansas Governor Laura Kelly. 'Having another industry leader locate here further enhances the globally recognized animal health ecosystem that is anchored in Kansas.' 'With the highest concentration of animal health assets in the world, the Kansas City region is home to a robust industry network, as well as abundant manufacturing and distribution resources,' added Kimberly Young, president of the KC Animal Health Corridor. 'The region continues to attract top companies in the industry, and we're proud that DSM has selected the corridor for this state-of-the-art, innovative new facility.' by DSM
 

Vitamins

16/09/2022

Are all omega-3 ingredients in petfood the same?

Omega-3s have many recognised health benefits for dogs and humans alike. Pets are unable to produce sufficient omega-3s naturally in their bodies. However, they are an important nutrient to any diet, benefitting everything from brain development to hearth health. But not all omega-3s are effectively utilized by pets. Therefore, offering the right source is important. The power of marine-sourced omega-3s Studies show that marine-sourced omega-3s remain the most effective source for pets, as pets are unable to convert enough of the plant-sourced version in their bodies. The omega-3s that seem to be most efficient are those bound to phospholipids, such as found in krill. Krill are tiny crustaceans that are present in all oceans, holding a vital position in the marine food chain. Antarctic krill is also a superior source of marine omega-3s, with a distinctive advantage when it comes to the form their omega-3s are made of. This is known as the phospholipid advantage. Recent studies have shown that the phospholipid-bound omega-3s from krill are more effective in raising omega-3 levels in a dog's body compared to triglyceride-bound omega-3s, such as those found in fish oil. Known as the foundation of all cells, omega-3s are more effectively incorporated into tissues cell membranes when bound to phospholipids. And this incorporation is crucial to obtain the health effects of omega-3s. Once in place in the cell membranes, the omega-3s EPA & DHA support the health of several vital organs, including the heart, kidney, liver, joints, brain, eyes, skin and coat. But there is more to krill than this… Krill is also naturally rich in choline, astaxanthin and marine proteins.Choline is a vitamin-like component that plays an important role in liver health and nerve transmission, and thereby also cognitive function and muscle function. Dogs produce some choline naturally, but due to its importance, petfood manufacturers are advised to add this nutrient to the food. However, the choline additive commonly used (choline chloride) is 12 times less bioavailable than the choline found in krill (phosphatidylcholine). The astaxanthin found in krill is a natural antioxidant that protects all body cells from oxidative damage. It has 10 times higher antioxidative capacity than α- and β-carotene and lutein, and more than 100 times higher capacity than vitamin E (α-tocopherols). QRILL Pet, the krill ingredient from the leading biotech company Aker BioMarine is the first krill ingredient for pets certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) as being sustainable and traceable from sea to product. Besides besides, Aker BioMarine's krill fishery  is rated as the world's most sustainable reduction fishery, receiving an 'A' rating from the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership for 7 years in a row. By Tonje Dominguez, Director of QRILL Specialty Animal Nutrition All Pet Food

Vitamins What You Need to Know About Dog Foods Made with Crickets and Grubs
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What You Need to Know About Dog Foods Made with Crickets and Grubs

Growing awareness over the need for sustainable pet food solutions as well as concerns over pet allergies is driving an increased interest in foods made with alternative proteins including some surprising options, such as cricket proteins and grubs. For many dog owners, sustainability is at the core of a switch to foods made with alternative protein options. For Jiminy's, a Berkeley,Calif.-based manufacturer of Cricket Crave, a kibble that combines insect protein with plant-based ingredients, the use of crickets drives a more sustainable process. 'Crickets are a swarming species so they're not too worried about personal space, and grubs are even less inhibited,' explained Anne Carlson, CEO of Jiminy's. 'That allows an insect farm to produce the maximum amount of protein for the minimal amount of water and land. It's a simple formula and it's exactly why insect protein will be forever atop the sustainable food chain. We're happy to be in this space at this moment in time. Don't forget, dogs in the USA consume 32 billion pounds of protein each year, causing enormous stresses on land and water.' Jiminy's has also released its Good Grub line of food and treats, which are made with dried black soldier fly larvae, in an effort to continue building out and offering consumers new products—and new proteins. 'Grub protein is even more sustainable than cricket protein since the gains get larger as the insect gets smaller and needs less land and water,' Carlson said. 'The nutritional benefits of grub protein are essentially the same as cricket protein. It's prebiotic and humane, fights climate change, has all the essential amino acids and is hypoallergenic too. Considering how well the insects live, their short lifespan and the outstanding protein yield, it's almost as if insects were engineered for meat production.' Scout and Zoe's use of black soldier fly larvae is helping the company accomplish its mission to do good for the pet, the planet and the community, said Cynthia Dunston Quirk, founder of the Anderson, Ind.-based manufacturer. 'How the black soldier fly larvae are grown and what they eat makes them very sustainable,' she explained. 'The larvae feed on fruits and vegetables that are past their prime and heading to the landfill. So, the little larvae are cleaning up the environment just by eating. The lifecycle of the larvae is three weeks from egg state to larvae, and they are voracious eaters. They grow one million percent of their body weight and utilize no additional water as they grow. All the water they need is available in the fruit and veggies consumed.' Like cricket farming, Dunston Quirk said that black soldier fly larvae require significantly less land than cattle. 'According to the Natural Resources Conservation Service, it takes 546 acres of land to raise 300 head of cattle,' Dunston Quirk continued. 'On that same acreage, billions of black soldier fly larvae can hatch, develop and be harvested, utilizing the space above the ground as well as the ground itself. The larvae also emit less carbon and methane gas, which is good for protecting the ozone layer, and need no additional water to grow.' While sustainability is important to many of those who try foods with alternative protein sources, potential food sensitives and allergies may have started them on the journey in the first place. Jim Galovski, co-founder, CEO and president of Needham, Mass.-based Guardian Pet Food Co., said food sensitives and allergies prompted the company to create a vegan bar in its NOBL food line. The vegan recipe is made with peas, lentils, chickpeas, fava beans and dried yeast, all of which offer a good source of protein, according to the company. Of course, sustainability has also been paramount. Galovski said that there's a quantity standpoint to look at. The two-ounce NOBL food bars can feed a 25-pound dog for the day. With higher digestibility, Galovski said that pets are receiving more of what they need in a lesser quantity—with less waste, too. The Nutrition Factor - When 'Meat First' Is the Mindset  There are a number of factors that are likely to hold dog owners and even retailers back from getting onboard with foods made with alternative proteins. A big one is the 'meat first' mentality. 'The pet industry has done a great job marketing real meat first, but we've been trying to shift the conversation to it being not as much about the ingredients but the nutrients,' said Jim Galovski, co-founder, CEO and president of Needham, Mass.-based Guardian Pet Food Co. 'Still, this remains a heated topic. Should you ever want to alienate a group, just bring up religion, politics or what they feed their dog.' Dogs are omnivores, so meat isn't as vital to their diet as it has appeared to consumers over the years, said Anne Carlson, CEO of Jiminy's, a Berkeley, Calif.-based manufacturer of pet food and treats that combine insect protein with plant-based ingredients. 'Dogs do need the 10 essential amino acids, so your dog food has to contain all of them,' she continued. 'Jiminy's insect protein has all 10 and at levels exceeding [Association of American Feed Control Officials] AAFCO standards.' Insect meat is very high in protein and compares very favorably to traditional proteins, Carlson explained. For example, 100 grams of beef yields 22 grams of protein, while 100 grams of insect meat yields 32 grams of protein, she said. Carlson added that insect meat also doesn't create the allergy issues that dogs have developed with traditional proteins over the years. But retailers might have to overcome their reluctance to embrace this category in order for it to truly take off, said Cynthia Dunston Quirk, founder of Scout and Zoe's, a manufacturer in Anderson, Ind. There is a sense of discomfort with bug protein that retailers themselves might feel. 'Dogs eat bugs whether the owner is feeding them to the pet intentionally or not,' she said. 'Watch any dog roam in a yard—they're foraging and finding and eating bugs. Ultimately, retailers do need to champion this as an option for more consumers to be willing to give it a try.' Carlson said that Jiminy's has been fighting the 'ick factor' since day one. 'The most effective response is to get the treat in a pet owner's hands,' Carlson continued. 'Once they see that it's a very familiar-looking and -smelling treat—[our] soft and chewy training treats also have a beef jerky scent—and learn about insect protein's unique benefits, it's game over and we have a convert.' Denise Strong, co-owner of Pawz on Main, a pet store in Cottonwood, Ariz., said that she hasn't gotten any inquiries about alternative proteins yet—and she does think the ick factor of bugs might be hard to overcome with consumers. Strong said that she is personally waiting for more evidence to prove that bugs could be a primary source of protein in a dog's diet. Jason Ast, owner of Just Dog People, a pet store in Garner, N.C., is also reluctant and a firm believer in carnivorous diets that are low in sugar and carbs. Whenever possible, he looks to convert dog owners to a raw diet and said he has seen it effectively address some customers' allergy concerns. But Ast does get vegan or vegetarian pet owners who really want to feed their dogs a similar diet. He acknowledges that for many of these pet owners, raw is a challenge because the sight and smell of the food can make them incredibly uncomfortable. Ast said that no matter what approach or beliefs a retailer may have, looking down on a pet owner's food choices is never the answer. 'Personally, I do enjoy crickets and some of the other novel proteins for treats,' Ast continued. Product Selection -  What You Need to Know Given the newness of pet food options made with alternative protein sources like crickets and grubs, the industry can expect to see more new products like these coming down the pipeline. With more alternative-protein pet diets coming into the market, retailers should remain diligent in vetting new products and select foods made with high-quality ingredients, according to industry insiders. Anne Carlson, CEO of Berkeley, Calif.-based Jiminy's, said retailers should start with where products are coming from. If a product is North American sourced, it is a good indicator of high-quality ingredients, she added. 'Specific to insect protein, production control at insect farms is rigorous,' Carlson said. 'A cricket farm is like a warehouse, so everything is contained and can be easily overseen. The general principles associated with the breeding, rearing, and processing of insects for feed and food have been established and are available for public access.' Insiders expressed some concern over the 'copycats' that are jumping into this space, which is why vetting new products is so important. 'Retailers should be aware of where insects are grown,' said Cynthia Dunston Quirk, founder of Scout and Zoe's, a manufacturer in Anderson, Ind. 'There are already some doing this outside of the U.S.' Jim Galovski, co-founder, CEO and president of Needham, Mass.-based Guardian Pet Food Co., said that retailers and consumers alike need to demand transparency from manufacturers. 'It's so important to ask for a digestibility study,' he said. 'If the company says they don't do them, you really should look for another company. A digestibility study is measuring the bioavailability of nutrients in the food—it's almost unethical not to do that for dog parents who are going to be putting their trust and faith into a food.' Galovski said that retailers should also demand transparency in terms of sourcing as well as processes. Ultimately, Galovski said he would like to see more acceptance as the industry moves into the future. 'It's important that retailers and pet parents give some of these new options a chance, assuming they've done their due diligence on them,' he said. 'It's time to encourage some innovation within the category. Whether it's some of the new alternative protein sources or alternative food formats, there is definitely room to grow.' by Pet Products News
 

Vitamins 5 ways cats can benefit from krill
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2+ MIN

5 ways cats can benefit from krill

Why? Because krill is rich in health-promoting omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, choline, astaxanthin, and marine proteins. All these essential nutrients are important for the healthy development and maintenance of a cats' body. More than that, omega-3s found in krill play a very important role, as both cats and dogs can't produce them naturally and rely on their diet to maintain healthy levels. Here are some ways cats can benefit from having a diet that includes krill. Read more on how important is the right omega-3 1. Skin Care and Coat Health
Fat is very important for healthy skin and coat in cats. Lack of fatty acids can initially result in a dull, dry coat and itchy skin, as they are crucial for the skin and coat barrier. A regular diet based on essential fatty acids like those found in krill is therefore essential to keep the skin barrier fit and the coat shiny. They may help prevent dandruff and reduced shedding which can lead to fewer hairballs. Being anti-inflammatory, they may also prevent skin problems related to e.g. atopy or allergies. 2. Heart Support
Omega-3s are important for a healthy heart and can help reduce inflammation in cats that have existing heart disease. They may also lower blood pressure and prevent dangerous blood clots that could be damaging to the heart. 3. Healthy Joints
Krill's omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties and may contribute to reducing joint pain caused by aging or osteoarthritis. Several studies show that senior cats suffering from osteoarthritis-related joint pain had improved motion and had more energy after receiving a consistent diet based on omega-3s. 4. Improved and Stronger Immune System
Omega-3s and astaxanthin found in krill strengthen the immune system in your cat by making immune cells more flexible and resistant. A healthy, balanced diet that includes omega-3s and omega-6s can support and enhance the immune system of cats of all ages. Even perfectly healthy cats can benefit from the immune-boosting properties as their risk for serious illnesses increases with age. 5. Cognitive Function
Omega-3s and choline found in krill are essential for the cognitive and behavioral function of cats in every stage of life. They support brain development, the learning process, the nerve transmitters and affect the overall mental well-being of cats. It may also diminish the amount of neuronal loss happening when aging. Giving cats pet food or supplement with krill can therefore help their mind and vision to stay strong and focused. It is true omega-3 fatty acids can do wonders for your cat's health and wellbeing, but for that to happen your furry friend needs to get enough of these essential nutrients from diet alone. Krill is also a sustainable marine source Besides being a natural source of health-promoting nutrients for pets, krill is highly sustainable and therefore environmentally friendly, reducing your cat's carbon paw-print. by Written by Ana Dumbravescu - Marketing Manager Qrill Pet 


Formulation

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

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

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

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
    References Lyu Y, Su C, Verbrugghe A, Van de Wiele T, Martos Martinez-Caja A, Hesta M. Past, present, and future of gastrointestinal microbiota research in cats. Front Microbiol. (2020) 11:1661. doi: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.01661 Sarkar A, Yoo JY, Valeria Ozorio Dutra S, Morgan KH, Groer M. The association between early-life gut microbiota and long-term health and diseases. J Clin Med. (2021) 10:459. doi: 10.3390/jcm10030459 Wernimont SM, Radosevich J, Jackson MI, Ephraim E, Badri DV, MacLeay JM, et al. The effects of nutrition on the gastrointestinal microbiome of cats and dogs: impact on health and disease. Front Microbiol. (2020) 11:1266. doi: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.01266. Pilla R, Suchodolski JS. The gut microbiome of dogs and cats, and the influence of diet. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract. (2021) 51:605–21. doi: 10.1016/j. Cvsm.2021.01.002 Lee D, Goh TW, Kang MG, Choi HJ, Yeo SY, Yang J, et al. Perspectives and advances in probiotics and the gut microbiome in companion animals. J Anim Sci Technol. (2022) 64:197–217. doi: 10.5187/jast.2022.e8 McGrath, A. P., Motsinger, L. A., Brejda, J., & Hancock, L. (2024). Prebiotic fiber blend supports growth and development and favorable digestive health in puppies. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 11, 1409394. Fritsch DA, Jackson MI, Wernimont SM, Feld GK, Badri DV, Brejda JJ, et al. Adding a polyphenol-rich fiber bundle to food impacts the gastrointestinal microbiome and metabolome in dogs. Front Vet Sci. (2022) 9:1039032. doi: 10.3389/ fvets.2022.1039032 Wernimont SM, Fritsch DA, Schiefelbein HM, Brejda JJ, Gross KL. Food with specialized dietary fiber sources improves clinical outcomes in adult cats with constipation or diarrhea. FASEB J. (2020) 34:1. doi: 10.1096/fasebj.2020.34.s1.09918 Patel A, Jialal I. Biochemistry, immunoglobulin A In: StatPearls. Treasure Island, FL: StatPearls Publishing LLC (2024) Willis CR, Seamons A, Maxwell J, Treuting PM, Nelson L, Chen G, et al. Interleukin-7 receptor blockade suppresses adaptive and innate inflammatory responses in experimental colitis. J Inflamm. (2012) 9:39. doi: 10.1186/1476-9255-9-39 Kanai T, Watanabe M, Okazawa A, Sato T, Yamazaki M, Okamoto S, et al. Macrophage-derived IL-18-mediated intestinal inflammation in the murine model of Crohn's disease. Gastroenterology. (2001) 121:875–88. doi: 10.1053/gast.2001.28021

Formulation

12/08/2024

How wet pet food is made

Ingredient selection   Many of the ingredients used in the manufacture of pet food are described as animal (or fish) derivatives or by-products. These ingredients are the parts of the animal surplus to the requirements of the human food industry. Examples of by-products include liver, kidney, lung and various byproduct meals. These ingredients come from species also most commonly found within the human food chain.   In wet pet foods, by-products arrive at the factory in a fresh or frozen state. They may be chopped and added to the recipe mix directly or finely minced, mixed with dry ingredients such as cereals, formed into ribbons and diced into chunks of various sizes and shapes. Other ingredients are included such as oils and fats, vitamins, minerals, cereals, pasta, grains, or vegetables. Water is also frequently added as an ingredient to facilitate processing and to give the food its final form and texture.   Ingredient weighing and preparation   Ingredients are carefully selected according to a pet food manufacturer's specific recipe, which is formulated to deliver complete and balanced nutrition for cats and dogs and also to meet other requirements of the product such as the variety, age range or size range. Once the ingredients for a specific recipe are mixed they enter the can, pouch or tray. For some forms of wet food, a mix of water, thickening agents and flavours may be added to form a gravy or jelly during the cooking process.   There are several different types, or formats, of manufactured pet food including wet (can, pouch, tray), dry (extruded or baked), cold pressed and raw. The label will indicate if the pet food is 'complete' or 'complementary'. 'Complete' means the product contains all the nutrients a pet needs for healthy bodily function in each daily ration, whilst a 'complementary' pet food e.g. treats will need to be fed along other sources of food to provide the right nutrition. The method of production and the ingredients used varies according to format.   Sealing and cooking   The can, pouch or tray is then sealed and enters a cooking process. The temperature and length of cooking, also laid down in the legislation, are carefully controlled in order to prevent spoilage over the shelf life of the product, as well as to optimise the taste and protect the required nutritional content.   Cooling and labelling   After cooking products are cooled. Cans are labelled. Information on tray and pouch products is usually printed upon the packaging itself.   Storage and distribution   Individual containers are packed into boxes or trays and stored in warehouses before being dispatched to customers.   Pet food safety and quality   Whatever the pet food format, all pet foods are subject to strict legislation to ensure safe, quality products. In addition to the legislation, FEDIAF members follow industry Codes of Practice such as the Guide to the Manufacture of Safe Pet Food.   Source: FEDIAF

Formulation

29/07/2024

β-Glucans and MOS in Pet Food: Origin, Properties, Benefits

Yeast-Based Ingredients in Pet Foods   Yeast-based ingredients derived from ethanol production have been widely used in pet foods for decades, mainly as a source of protein and other nutrients (such as B-complex vitamins) and as a palatability enhancer. However, yeast has typical components in its structure that make up the cell wall: β-glucans and mannan-oligosaccharides (MOS). The concentration and availability of these carbohydrates vary according to the type of yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae or others) and the fermentation process (brewers, bakers, molasses, distillers' grains, etc.), as well as the following technologies applied to obtain different final products (inactive dry, autolyzed, hydrolyzed, etc.).   β-Glucans   The β-glucans in the yeast cell wall are β-1,3 and 1,6-glucans, different from those found in cereals (such as oats, bran, and others), which are β-1,4 and 1,3-glucans. This physicochemical difference will affect their biological function because branched or linear β-1,4-glucans have limited activity (major proportion in plant cells), while β-1,3-glucans with additional branching have the greatest immunomodulatory effect (PETRAVIĆ-TOMINAC et al., 2010). Thus, the β-glucans in the cell wall of Saccharomyces cerevisiae consist mainly of β-1,3-glucans linked in a central backbone with β-1,6-glucan branches of varying sizes (PETRAVIĆ-TOMINAC et al., 2010), which in turn are linked to manno-proteins, serving as an anchor for the structure and integrity of the manno-protein layer (MAGNANI & CASTRO-GÓMEZ, 2008).   MOS   The mannan-glucan complex will maintain the primary stability of MOS as it is and its insolubility in water. This is crucial for its biological function in the animal's gut. The main known mode of action of MOS is to serve as a binding site for pathogenic bacteria, preventing their adhesion to the intestinal epithelium and subsequent colonization and infection (MORAN, 2004). Bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli use type 1 fimbriae, a mannose-specific lectin, to recognize glycoproteins on the surface of enterocytes (MORAN, 2004). Thus, this mechanism controls and reduces the bacterial enteric load and infection.   MOS is widely referred to and classified as a prebiotic in the literature; however, it may be possibly misunderstood, as the definition of a prebiotic is 'a non-digestible food ingredient that beneficially affects the host by selectively stimulating the growth and/or activity of one or a limited number of bacteria in the colon and thus improves host health' (definition by Glenn & Roberfroid, 1995). Subsequently, the concept was updated by the International Scientific Association of Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP) as: 'a selectively fermented ingredient that results in specific changes in the composition and/or activity of the gastrointestinal microbiota, thereby conferring health benefit(s) to the host.' According to ISAPP, the most studied and used prebiotics are inulin, fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and more recently, human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs).   Benefits of Pet Food   Studies on dogs in the literature have reported the benefits of MOS supplementation related to changes in the gut microbiota (significantly increasing beneficial bacteria and decreasing pathogenic bacteria), digestive system (intestinal integrity, reduced fecal odor, and improved stool quality), modulation of immune system responses (phagocytic activity, interleukins, immunoglobulins), among others (SWANSON et al., 2002; GRIESHOP et al., 2004; MIDDELBOS et al., 2007; PAWAR et al., 2017; THEODORO et al., 2019). However, many studies report the use of a yeast cell wall product (a combination of β-glucans and MOS) or do not fully clarify the composition of the MOS product used. This could lead to a misinterpretation of the mode of action and benefits of MOS vs. β-glucans.   The body does not synthesize β-glucans, so they must be recognized by the immune system, inducing immune responses (PETRAVIĆ-TOMINAC et al., 2010), known as immunomodulators. The process begins with recognition by phagocytic cells (macrophages, monocytes, dendritic cells, neutrophils, natural killers) with a toll-like receptor on their cell surface, which recognizes microbial patterns and induces an immediate innate immune response. The structure that allows recognition by the immune system is the pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), and among the best known are β-glucans, which trigger responses to protect the host against pathogen invasion, characterizing innate immunity (MAGNANI & CASTRO-GÓMEZ, 2008). After this activation and phagocytosis, the phagocyte presents a processed antigen fragment. It stimulates a chain response by releasing pro-inflammatory cytokines and activating the production, release, and mobilization of additional phagocytic cells (produced in the bone marrow) (PETRAVIĆ-TOMINAC et al., 2010), phagocytic activity, and other cell-mediated immune responses.   This immunomodulatory effect means training the innate immune system and preparing it for a faster, better, and smarter response to challenges (PETRAVIĆ-TOMINAC et al., 2010). The practical result is reducing the inflammatory process (costing less to metabolism), controlling infections and their consequences (oxidative stress, cell damage, etc.), and improving the production of immunoglobulins and antibodies (against specific pathogens/antigens or vaccine titers).   Several purified and concentrated β-glucan products are available, and their immunomodulatory effect has been proven over the years, as well as when β-glucans are complexed with MOS in the yeast cell wall. These benefits seem essential for puppies (due to the developmental stage of the immune system and intestinal tract, as well as the intense vaccination period), elderly animals (due to the susceptibility of the immune system at advanced ages), animals with intestinal problems, or diseases that can cause a depression in immune response.   Conclusion   MOS and β-glucans are key components of yeast products. Their composition, concentration, and availability are closely related to the type of yeast they come from. MOS and β-glucans benefit pet food diets due to their interesting properties for balancing microbiota, preserving intestinal health, and modulating the immune response. Having a deeper understanding of these key properties helps to better appreciate them in pet food applications and allows for their tailored use to address specific challenges that companion animals face, such as growth, reproduction, and recovery.   Source: ICC Animal Nutrition   References Grieshop, C.M, et al. Gastrointestinal and immunological responses of senior dogs to chicory and mannan-oligosaccharides. Arch Anim Nutr. 2004 Dec;58(6):483-93. doi: 0.1080/00039420400019977. International Scientific Association of Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP). Consulted on September 19th, 2023. https://isappscience.org/for-scientists/resources/prebiotics/ Magnani, M. & Castro-Gómez, R.J.H. β-glucans from Saccharomyces cerevisiae: constitution, bioactivity and obtaining. Semina: Ciências Agrárias, Londrina, v. 29, n.3, p. 631-650, jul./set. 2008. Middelbos, I.S. et al. A dose-response evaluation of spray-dried yeast cell wall supplementation of diets fed to adult dogs: effects on nutrient digestibility, immune indices, and fecal microbial populations. J Anim Sci. 2007 Nov;85(11):3022-32. doi: 10.2527/jas.2007-0079. Moran, C.A. Functional components of the cell wall of Saccharomyces cerevisiae: applications for yeast glucan and mannan. In book: Nutritional biotechnology in the feed and food industries, Nottingham University Press, pp.283-296, 2004. Pawar, M.M. et al. Effect of dietary mannanoligosaccharide supplementation on nutrient digestibility, hindgut fermentation, immune response and antioxidant indices in dogs. J Anim Sci Technol. 2017 May 11;59:11. doi: 10.1186/s40781-017-0136-6. Petravić-Tominac, V. et al. Biological effects of yeast β-glucans. Agriculturae Conspectus Scientificus, n. 75, v. 4, 2010. Swanson, K.S. et al. Supplemental Fructooligosaccharides and Mannanoligosaccharides Influence Immune Function, Ileal and Total Tract Nutrient Digestibilities, Microbial Populations and Concentrations of Protein Catabolites in the Large Bowel of Dogs. J Nutr. 2002 May;132(5):980-9. doi: 10.1093/jn/132.5.980. Theodoro, S.S. et al. Effects of the solubility of yeast cell wall preparations on their potential prebiotic properties in dogs, PLoS ONE 14(11):

Formulation

25/07/2024

Popular Functional Ingredients in the Pet Food Industry

This trend is fueled by consumers' increasing attention to health issues, both human and pet. An ingredient is categorized as functional if it provides health benefits beyond basic nutrition when included as part of a complete and balanced diet.2 Examples of functional ingredients commonly used in the pet food industry include turmeric, chicory root, brewer's yeast, and marine oils.   Turmeric Turmeric is a spice derived from the roots of the Curcuma longa plant.3 This functional ingredient has gained considerable attention in the pet and human food industries due to its health-promoting properties. Curcumin, the active ingredient of turmeric, has been proven to be effective in dogs with naturally occurring osteoarthritis.4 In addition, curcumin has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.5   Chicory Root The root of the chicory plant is a naturally occurring prebiotic used commonly in pet food as a source of inulin.6 Research has shown that inulin derived from chicory root is more beneficial to host health than synthetic inulin and favors the growth of certain species of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus.7 Prebiotic ingredients help to support the growth and maintenance of healthy bacteria living in the gut.8 In addition, prebiotics have been observed to be effective in the enhancement of the immune system.9   Brewer's Yeast Historically, the pet food industry has used brewer's yeast as a palatability enhancer; however, recent research has shown that brewer's yeast also has immunomodulatory and gut health-promoting effects.10-12 Brewer's yeast supplementation results in beneficial changes in markers of intestinal function.13,14 In addition, yeast products may also boost antioxidant activity in cats and dogs due to their β-glucan and mannan content, which are thought to be the main actors in the antioxidant capacity of yeasts.15   Marine Oils In pet food, the use of marine oils has gained traction due to its EPA and DHA contents.16 It is known that supplementation of EPA and DHA improves the skin and coat quality of dogs with skin disease.17,18 In addition, EPA and DHA have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects in dogs with heart and hip diseases.19-21 Supplementation of DHA-concentrated marine oil has also been shown to be effective in supporting the cognitive health of puppies.22    The incorporation of functional ingredients into pet foods, treats, and supplements has grown in recent years. As consumer knowledge of animal health and diet quality has improved, so has the desire to maximize their quality of life.23   Source: BSM Partners

Formulation

16/07/2024

Odor Adsorbents: How to Use Them Strategically in Pet Foods

Among the odor adsorbent options used today, three stand out for being frequently present in different brands and categories of pet food: natural zeolite, bentonite, and yucca extract, each with its characteristics and modes of action. Knowing each of them better can be very important when optimizing the development of a product and its market positioning strategy.   The zeolite with proven benefits for pet food is the clinoptilolite type. It is a natural crystalline mineral with a structure full of cavities formed by chemical bonds, which confirms a large surface area and high adsorption capacity. One of the most important properties of zeolite is its high cation exchange capacity (CEC) compared to all other minerals of this type. Cation exchange is a process by which ions present on the surface of the zeolite are exchanged for others present in the surrounding solution. Its structure contains empty spaces that can be filled with ions, water, and other molecules. This gives the zeolite a high adsorption capacity for ions, especially cations. When added to dog and cat food, zeolite can adsorb compounds in the form of cations present in digestion, including ammonia, responsible for the unwanted odor of feces. Additionally, zeolite's ability to absorb moisture improves the format of animal feces and can also help extend the shelf life of food, preventing spoilage due to high humidity and toxin contamination, as it is also a mycotoxin adsorbent.   Bentonite, a clay composed essentially of minerals from the group of smectites and mortmorillonites, is characterized by its great capacity to swell when mixed with water since it has a laminar chemical structure with a surface charge between 0.2 and 0.6 by formula unit and the lamellae move away in the presence of water, acting like a sponge. Therefore, when added to animal feed, bentonite is capable of very effectively absorbing the moisture present in feces. The mechanism of action of bentonite in relation to odor reduction implies that its adsorption capacity also binds to compounds, such as ammonia, through cation exchange, secondary to its swelling action. However, it is important to note that the effectiveness of bentonite specifically in reducing fecal odor in dogs and cats is not well understood and may vary depending on several factors, including its purity, type, and purpose of inclusion in the formula.   Yucca extract is extracted from the Yucca schidigera plant, commonly found in deserts, and has saponin as one of its components, which has been studied in companion animals for some decades. One of the mechanisms by which cassava extract reduces the odor of excreta is by inhibiting urease, an enzyme that converts urea, a product of nitrogen metabolism, into ammonia. Thus, the lower the action of urease, the lower the amount of ammonia present in the feces and the subsequent reduction in fecal odor. Another hypothesis refers to the action of glycocomponents, the water-soluble part of the cassava extract, which has an affinity for ammonia and transforms it into nitrate and nitrite. The quality of the cassava extract is evaluated by the quantity and quality of the saponins and extract necessary to neutralize 50% of the ammonia in a 'standard' solution, a parameter known as B50.   The following table compares the main properties and benefits of each odor adsorbent described.     According to the table, zeolite has a greater ion exchange capacity, greater removal of ammoniacal nitrogen, and a slightly lower water removal capacity since, being laminar, it swells and can absorb more water. Considering the physicochemical properties of the additives, we can infer that zeolite has greater efficiency in removing ammonia due to its greater cation exchange capacity, compared to other additives evaluated for fecal odor.   Regarding the performance of in vivo tests, we found several studies that evaluated the inclusion of clinoptilolite zeolite and cassava extract at different levels of inclusion in diets for dogs and cats, and that also compared these two additives with each other. For bentonite, there are no studies that support evaluating inclusion at different levels, making it difficult to understand what the optimal level of use would be to reduce fecal odor in pet foods. For this reason, products that use bentonite as an additive, usually in the economy or standard category, use it to improve fecal scores and not to reduce odor.   A Maia et al. (2010) study evaluated the fecal odor of dogs at different zeolite levels of 0.50, 0.75, and 1.00% and YSE at a concentration of 125, 250, or 375 ppm in the diet of healthy dogs. Diets with zeolite at levels of 0.75 and 1.00%, respectively, had better classification in the sensory analysis, indicating a significant reduction in the odor of the evaluated material. Therefore, 0.75 and 1.0% levels of the additive provide a substantial reduction of fecal odor in the sensory analysis. This results in a high cation exchange and gas adsorption capacity of the clinoptilolite zeolite, which adsorbs the gases produced during digestion, removing them from the animal's intestinal gastric tract without releasing them into the environment.   Roque et al. (2011) added the same concentrations of zeolite and cassava extract for cats to a commercial food. The diet with 1.0% zeolite was considered similar to the control and inferior to the rest of the treatments. On the other hand, the doses of 0.5 and 0.75% of zeolite presented better fecal odor values than the control diet.   In practice, we see the use of zeolite more frequently in high-category and super premium food formulations, justified by the evaluation studies mentioned here and by its efficiency in eliminating odors and adjusting fecal score, being the first option for products foods with high added value. As has been demonstrated, cassava extract has an action on fecal odor, and, as it has an optimal inclusion level between 0.0125% and 0.035%, it is usually present in foods from premium to super-premium categories since the level of lower inclusion can reduce formula costs. However, a detailed evaluation is necessary, as cassava extract can cost up to more than 10 times the value of clinoptilolite zeolite.   Conclusion   Often, we come across commercial foods that use zeolite with yucca extract in the pet formula. By using these additives together in dog and cat foods, manufacturers aim to offer a comprehensive approach to animals' digestive and overall well-being. Zeolite is effective in improving fecal score and reducing odor, and, in association with yucca extract, these additives can promote beneficial effects on intestinal health, contributing to the long-term comfort and health of pets.   Source: All Pet Food Magazine   Bibliographic references: MAIA, G. V. C. et al. Zeolites and Yucca schidigera in commercial ration for dogs: Palatability, digestibility and reduction of fecal odors. Revista Brasileira de Zootecnia, v. 39, n. 11, p. 2442-2446, 2010. MOORE, D.M., REYNOLDS, JR. R. C., X-ray Diffraction and the Identification of Clay Minerals. Oxford University Press, Oxford, 1989. 332 p. ROQUE, N. C. et al. Increasing levels of zeolite and Yucca schidigera in diets for adult cats. Revista Brasileira de Zootecnia, v. 40, n. 11, p. 2471-2475, 2011.

By Ludmila Barbi T. Bomcompagni


Dogs

Dogs
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6+ minutos de lectura

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6+ MIN

Home-Cooked food for pets

This trend, like many others, is making its way into the pet food industry and driving consumers to adopt more process controlled feeding regimens for their pets such as home-cooked meals.2 
Home-cooked foods may serve many benefits for the pet but also require careful planning and consideration to ensure meals are nutritionally balanced and safe.   What constitutes a balanced diet?   Many home-cooked pet food recipes available online are unbalanced and do not provide adequate nutrition for the pet.3 A balanced diet must include the appropriate proportions of all nutrients: proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and vitamins and minerals, for a specific life stage and species. Similar to humans, the nutritional requirements for dogs and cats are quite specific and vary based on factors such as age, weight, spayed/neutered, and current health conditions. It is essential to seek advice from well-educated, credentialed individuals (such as a veterinary nutritionists or veterinary technician nutritionist) on these requirements to ensure adequate nutrition when preparing home-cooked pet diets.     Protein – Protein provides amino acids that dogs and cats need to maintain muscle mass and essential body functions. An essential amino acid cannot be synthesized and therefore are required in the diet and are required for maintenance, growth, gestation, and lactation. 4 Non-essential amino acids can be synthesized in the body from other amino acids and co-factors and may not necessarily be needed to be supplied through diet alone. According to AAFCO, the minimum protein requirement for dogs is 18.00% on a 100% dry matter basis (DMB) for adult dogs and 22.50% to support growth and reproduction. The minimum protein requirement for cats is 26.00% on a 100% DMB for adult cats and 30.00% to support growth and reproduction.5   Fat – Dietary fats are a source of concentrated energy for storage and utilization in the body and supply fatty acids that dogs and cats cannot synthesize (essential fatty acids).4 While some fat sources have been labeled as 'good' or 'unhealthy' it is important to select fats in a homemade diet that bring in an appropriate amount of fatty acids. Therefore, while some dietary fat sources sound better, they may not be the most ideal for the pet's requirements. According to AAFCO, the minimum fat requirement for dogs is 5.50% on a 100% DMB for adult dogs and 8.50% to support growth and reproduction. The minimum protein requirement for cats is 9.00% on a 100% DMB for adult cats and 9.00% to support growth and reproduction.5   Carbohydrates – Carbohydrates provide a good source of energy and dietary fiber for animals and are the primary energy source for omnivorous animals.4 Even though there is not a carbohydrate minimum requirement for cats and dogs according to AAFCO, it is important to note that glucose is the brain's preferred source of energy, which comes from the breakdown of carbohydrates. Additionally, carbohydrates, like fruits and vegetables, may also add notable amounts of vitamins and minerals to the diet.   Vitamins and Minerals – Adequate and balanced amounts of vitamins and minerals are essential to support normal physiological and metabolic functioning in animals.4 Vitamins and minerals are often supplemented in pet diets to ensure nutritional adequacy.   Advantages of home cooked meals   Customization – Home-cooking meals for a pet allows for customization specifically for a pet who has specific dietary needs or has food intolerances.   Control – Home-cooking meals for a pet allows the owner a greater control over what ingredients go into the meal, as well as what ingredients are not included. However, 'diet drift' can be just as dangerous as the benefits of knowing what all is in a pet's diet. Diet drift is a term used to describe the shifts over time to a pet's homemade diet that can lead to nutrient imbalances.   Bonding – Preparing a pet's meal can provide a sense of bonding between the pet and their owner.   Potential risks and how to mitigate them   Nutritional Imbalances – One of the most significant risks associated with homemade pet foods is having a diet that is not complete and balanced. As stated above, a balanced, home-cooked diet includes adequate levels of protein, fat, amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals according to AAFCO for the animal, which is vital to follow to ensure proper nutrition for the animal's optimal health. Providing an appropriate balance of these requirements may be difficult to navigate for the average consumer, so one may consider consulting with a veterinary nutritionist or a veterinary technician who specializes in nutrition to help design a diet that meets all the necessary nutritional requirements for a pet. Unless the diet is sent off to a third-party laboratory for testing, it is truly unknown if the diet meets all nutrient requirements.   Food Safety – When cooking at home for a pet, safe food handling and proper cooking techniques are critical to prevent the potential for foodborne illness. Not only are foodborne pathogens dangerous for the animal, but they will cause serious illness in the owner as well. Like checking nutrients, diets can be sent to third-party laboratories to test for microbes that may be present in the food. Similar to human food, the FDA has established a zero-tolerance policy on levels of Salmonella bacteria in pet food.6   Time and Cost – While the potential for bonding is present, home-cooking meals for a pet can be time-consuming and often more expensive than purchasing a commercial pet diet. One should consider the time, cost, and storage required before beginning to cook for their pet.   Practical tips for starting   Consult Your Veterinarian – Always consult with a Board-Certified Veterinary Nutritionist or a veterinary technician who is specialized in nutrition before changing a pet's diet. These individuals can be located online or through a local veterinarian but will require a consult and review of medical records before any diets are formulated.   Start Slowly – When transitioning a pet to a new diet, start slowly. Gradually introduce new foods into the pet's diet to avoid gastrointestinal upset. This is true for all diet transitions whether commercial or homemade.   Keep Records – When introducing a pet to a new food or diet, it may be helpful to document recipes, ingredients, and the pet's reaction to the new diet. This can be useful for monitoring health over time and can help inform whether changes to a diet would benefit the pet. It is also important to document the recipe in grams to keep log of any variations to minimize diet drift.   Consider Pre-Made Fresh Foods – Preparing home-cooked meals can be a daunting task for any pet owner and is a huge task to take on. Therefore, if pet owners still would like to have a gently cooked option they can consider pre-made fresh, gently cooked meals instead. Many options available on the market also offer customization if the pet has specific dietary needs or preferences.   Conclusion   Home-cooking meals for a pet can be a rewarding way to cater to their dietary needs; however, it requires a significant commitment to ensure nutritional balance and safety. By educating oneself and seeking professional advice, pet owners can provide meals that not only satisfy but also contribute to the health and well-being of their pet. Whether planning to supplement with home-cooked meals or fully committing to them, it is important to remember that these efforts have a direct impact on a pet's health.   Source: BSM Partners   References International Food Information Council. 2024 Food & Health Survey. June 20, 2024. https://foodinsight.org/2024-foodhealth-survey/ Phillips-Donaldson, D. (2024, January 4). 5 more human food trends for pet food to keep top of mind. Pet Food Industry. Fell, A. (2013, July 15). Homemade dog food recipes can be risky business, study finds. UC Davis. https://www.ucdavis.edu/news/homemade-dog-food-recipes-can-be-risky-business-study-finds National Research Council, Division on Earth, Life Studies, Committee on Animal Nutrition, Subcommittee on Dog, & Cat Nutrition. (2006). Nutrient requirements of dogs and cats. National Academies Press. Official Publication; Association of American Feed Control Officials: Champaign, IL, USA, 2024. Phillips-Donaldson, D. (2021, May 3). Will zero tolerance for salmonella in pet food ever change?. Pet Food Industry. https://www.petfoodindustry.com/pet-food-market/blog/15467710/will-zero-tolerance-for-salmonella-in-pet-food-ever-change

Dogs
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3+ minutos de lectura

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3+ MIN

Hill's Pet Nutrition Invests in Kansas State University's College of Veterinary Medicine with $1 Million Endowed Clinical Nutrition Professorship

The professorship, officially named the Hill's Pet Nutrition Clinical Nutrition Professorship, is designed to enhance the educational experience of veterinary students and contribute to the advancement of veterinary nutritional science. This initiative underscores Hill's long-standing commitment to improving the health and well-being of pets through education, research, and practical application.   "The new endowed professorship builds on the legacy of an exemplary veterinary medicine program Kansas State University is already known for," said Dr. Jolle Kirpensteijn, Hill's global chief veterinary officer. "It's important that vet students receive comprehensive education in pet nutrition, which will be a critical aspect of promoting lifelong overall health in pets. We look forward to a continued partnership to create a future generation of veterinarians, fully knowledgeable and confident in making nutritional recommendations."   Enhancing Veterinary Education and Research   The Hill's Pet Nutrition Endowed Clinical Nutrition Professorship will significantly enhance the college's capacity to deliver cutting-edge education and conduct groundbreaking pet nutrition research. The appointed professor will be responsible for developing and teaching courses that cover all aspects of small animal nutrition, from basic dietary requirements to advanced therapeutic nutrition strategies.   In addition to teaching, the professor will lead research initiatives aimed at improving nutritional practices and developing new dietary solutions for common and complex health issues in small animals. This research will not only benefit the academic community but also have practical applications in veterinary practices around the world, ultimately improving the lives of countless pets.   "This professorship will enhance our educational capacity in small animal nutrition, strengthening the preparation of our graduates for success in any role they take in veterinary medicine," said Bonnie Rush, DVM, MS, DACVIM, Hodes family dean of the college. "We are grateful to Hill's Pet Nutrition for their generosity, support and vision for supporting veterinary medical education at Kansas State University. Our partnership has provided tangible several benefits for our students and for clients of the Hill's Pet Health and Nutrition Center in the Veterinary Health Center, and will continue to do so grow with the establishment of this new professorship."   A Legacy of Support and Collaboration   Hill's Pet Nutrition has a rich history of collaboration with Kansas State University's College of Veterinary Medicine. In 2018, Hill's contributed $2.4 million to establish the Pet Health and Nutrition Center, which serves as a primary care clinic within the College for the community and beyond.   "Hill's Pet Nutrition's investment in Kansas State University's College of Veterinary Medicine is a testament to the company's unwavering commitment to pet health and well-being," said John Hazlin, president and CEO of Hill's. "By supporting the education and development of future veterinarians, Hill's is helping to ensure that pets receive the best possible care throughout their lives."   About Hill's Pet Nutrition
Founded more than 75 years ago with an unwavering commitment to science-led pet nutrition, Hill's Pet Nutrition is on a mission to help enrich and lengthen the special relationships between people and their pets. Hill's is dedicated to pioneering research for dogs and cats using a scientific understanding of their specific needs. As a leading veterinarian recommended pet food brand, knowledge is our first ingredient with 220+ veterinarians, PhD nutritionists and food scientists working to develop breakthrough innovations in pet health. Hill's Prescription Diet therapeutic nutrition plus our everyday wellness product line, Hill's Science Diet, are sold at vet clinics and pet specialty retailers worldwide. For more information about our products and nutritional philosophy, visit HillsPet.com.   About Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine   The Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine, established in 1905, is dedicated to scholarship through innovation and excellence in teaching, research, and service to promote animal and human health for the public good. We are committed to creating an environment that is fulfilling and rewarding, being recognized for good communication, productive collaboration, mutual respect, diversity, integrity, and honesty. To carry out this mission, the college's nationally recognized instructional and research programs provide the highest standards of professional education.   Contact: 
Ariana Brancato 
[email protected]    Source: Hill's Pet Nutrition

Dogs Next-generation foods: Microbiome, nutrition, animal health and wellbeing
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3+ MIN

Next-generation foods: Microbiome, nutrition, animal health and wellbeing

The Microbiome
  With this interest, the term 'microbiome' may be confusing, particularly to a person who is not a trained microbiologist. For instance, one reference may tell us that the microbiome is the complete set of microbiota (microorganisms, bacteria, fungi), its genes, and the metabolites they produce in the microenvironment in which they reside (habitat) either inside or on the body of an organism (e.g. the intestinal tract, the mouth, the skin, the reproductive system) and sometimes the term microbiome and microbiota are used interchangeably though they are different.
One way to grasp the term microbiome is by using a sports analogy. Imagine a football stadium filled with fans from diverse backgrounds and origins. Similarly, the gut microbiome (the football stadium) consists of a diverse population of microorganisms including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and more. What's more, each fan in the stadium has their own unique characteristics and preferences, as do the different microorganisms present in the gut microbiome.
We can expand this analogy further. Inside the football stadium (the gut microbiome), fans communicate and interact with each other and with the players during the game. Similarly, the microorganisms in the microbiome communicate and interact with each other and with the host (human, dog, or cat) through chemical signals and interactions.
This communication results in a strong association between the microbiome and the health of the gastrointestinal tract and other organs such as the brain, liver, skin, and others. And just as a successful football team requires a balance between offense and defense, the microbiome relies on a delicate balance of its microorganisms to maintain health. In contrast, an imbalance or unprepared team can lead to poor performance on the field, and a disruption of the balance in the gastrointestinal tract known as dysbiosis, can lead to health problems for the host.
While there are numerous factors that influence the composition of the microbiome (e.g. host genetics, age, environment), diet plays a fundamental role in the growth and function of certain microorganisms so they can thrive in their respective niches. Nutritional intervention through diet provides a daily opportunity to enhance the health of the microbiome and ultimately the health of the host. Studies show that phyla in the gut microbiome and the composition of bacteria and microorganisms respond predictably to dietary changes – high protein diets, and different types of fiber, to mention a few - in both humans and "healthy" dogs and cats.
It is not only important to know the specific phyla and strains, but also their functionality: what types of metabolic processes take place and what metabolites are generated. Metabolites that have been extensively discussed and researched are short-chain fatty acids, butyric, propionic, and acetic acids. It's important to note that the composition of the microbiota in the intestinal tract is unique to every person, and every dog, cat, and even human also has a unique microbiota profile.
What's next: New generation of foods
For some time now, customized and personalized food has been thought of as a way to tailor dietary recommendations and optimize food choices according to an individual's unique physiological needs for health and wellbeing.
What we already know about the microbiome gives us the starting point for truly personalized nutrition. We should be able to develop personalized food with the desired nutritional outcomes for specific cases and conditions. A study of an individual's microbiome can provide insights into its unique microbial profile and provide personalized dietary recommendations to modulate the gut microbiome to improve and enhance digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall gut health.
Modulating the gut microbiome to enhance wellbeing may seem like a tall order but discovering the secrets that the microbiome holds is key to a long and healthy life not only for our companion animals but also for us humans.   By: Juan Gómez-Basauri
Source: All Pet Food Magazine

By Juan Gómez Basauri, Ph.D.


Cats

Cats
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7+ min reading

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7+ MIN

Catering to cats

The natural cat food and treat category has taken a positive turn as consumers focus more on their felines' distinct needs and preferences. "So many more people are catering to their cats and recognizing that they are different, not like dogs, and they have unique needs that finally are being addressed," said Diane Dewberry, owner of The Healthy Animal, a retailer in Pembroke, Mass.   The result has been a large cat-owning clientele willing to spend money to ensure their cats get quality food and nutrition, she added. "The new [customers] coming in don't care what they spend; they want the better food because their cats like it," Dewberry said.   With this desire for quality food and nutrition, consumers are turning to natural foods and treats. People's embrace of clean eating for themselves may be an influence as well. "For cats, the emphasis in the natural category tends to be on clean eating—choosing minimally processed, real foods that provide maximum nutritional benefits," said Heather (Acuff) Mendoza, director of research and development for Nulo Pet Food, a manufacturer in Austin, Texas.   Not only do consumers realize that cats need quality nutrition for their overall health, but owners also want and need foods that address their pets' most common needs, said Janet Scott, owner of Rawz Natural Pet Food, a manufacturer in York, Maine. "The current trend favors natural food options offering solutions, such as recipes high in meat, low in carbohydrates and focused on addressing specific needs," she said.   Romina Tasahuaman, store manager for Choice Pet, a retailer in Stamford, Conn., reported an uptick in sales of natural cat foods, especially those that are formulated to address special conditions such as diabetes and urinary tract issues. "When customers find natural foods and try them, and they see their cats have no issues going forward, they stick with that brand," she said.   For those less familiar with premium and natural cat foods, guidance is especially welcome. "Unfortunately, not everyone has access to the education or access to people that feed more naturally, and it can be kind of scary to switch over," said Alexandra Dameron, owner of Noah's Natural Pet Market in San Diego. "Most cat owners are told to just feed dry food and wet food as treats occasionally and so are nervous to branch out." This is where independents often set themselves apart with the education and expertise to help cat owners with questions, concerns, information and coaching. "During this age of information, retailers are faced with the challenge of delivering the right information to consumers, on the right platform, at the right time," Mendoza said. "This sets the bar high for retailer education, but when done right, will build trust and rapport with consumers."   Industry insiders noted several key training topics for retail associates. The unique nutritional needs of cats. "Cats are different than dogs and have very different nutritional needs," Dameron said. "Cats are obligate carnivores, which means they have no carbohydrate requirement. They need meat, fat, organs and bone to survive and thrive." Product knowledge. "Learn about the products. Read about the products, learn the contents, understand why we have it and what it will do for the cats," Dewberry said. Sourcing for quality. "With the many options available, along with marketing techniques, it can be a bit overwhelming for shoppers to determine which products are the best quality," said Fernando Maluf, vice president of international sales for Natoo Pet Foods, a manufacturer in São Paulo. He recommends knowing where a product is made, what ingredients are in a product and where the ingredients come from. "How and where ingredients are sourced can play a key role in the quality of the product," he added. Engaging with customers. Teaching associates what questions to ask to get more information from customers on their cats' needs and preferences is crucial to helping shoppers select appropriate diets, Dewberry said. Personal experience. "The best education … is having experience with the food or treat in question," Dameron noted. Tips for transition. "We all need to know how best to gently guide a customer to the more natural/alternative categories for their kitties while still honoring the cat's preferences," Dameron said. "We all have to be aware of the ways to start introducing new textures and flavors and the tricks you can use to help a cat want to try something new."   Texture trends & flavor preferences    Getting cats to eat new foods can be a challenge, as they have a reputation of being finicky for good reason. This is where Dewberry finds sampling to be very helpful. "Texture is a big thing," she said. "Some cats are imprinted on certain textures or smells. We always sample, which is good when companies offer them." Dry foods remain a best-seller. These diets offer a convenience consumers appreciate.   For those looking for a natural, grain-free, single-protein dry food option, Rawz Natural Pet Food is introducing Limited Rabbit Recipe for Cats this month. The kibble is made with real rabbit, contains marine microalgae oil (algal oil) and features a freeze-dried raw rabbit coating, Scott said, adding that it is free of eggs, potato, corn, rendered fat, dairy, wheat, soy and canola oil. Limited Rabbit Recipe for Cats "is made with easily digestible ingredients and is a great solution for cats with food sensitivities," she noted.   Canned diets have been a feline food staple for decades, and they are very popular in the natural market, with pâté, minced, shredded and stews ranked as top textures, industry experts agreed. At Global Pet Expo in Orlando, Fla., in March, Nulo launched a line of 10 natural, high-meat canned cat food formulas. Featuring diversified textures, the new diets include fine minces, regular minces and flakes. Proteins include chicken, beef, duck, lamb, quail egg, salmon, tuna, crab and prawn, and the canned diets contain organ meats and broth. "Pâtés have been the classic canned food format for decades, but with recent advantages in processing technology, the ability to innovate in this category is almost limitless," Mendoza said. "This line is focused on providing high animal-based protein, flavorful broths, and functional ingredients like pumpkin and inulin to support gut health."   Raw and freeze-dried fare are gaining attention in the natural pet food market, retailers said, and many independents reported that they encourage customers to feed these foods. "While frozen raw food is the absolute best way to feed your kitty, some cats won't take to the texture," Dameron said. "Softer freeze-dried and air-dried are becoming more popular for cats, and we are helping educate around why these foods are better than traditional kibbles for cats. "We also are seeing freeze-dried and air-dried treats being extremely popular," she added.   For shoppers ready to make the switch to raw, Dewberry uses freeze-dried foods and treats as an effective bridge. "Most cats can't go straight from dry to raw, and it takes cats time," she said. "We always try to slowly transition them from dry to the freeze-dried, then canned and then raw." While customers are less reserved about spending money on quality cat foods, some retailers have found rising prices are affecting raw purchases. The market for raw cat food and treats has certainly grown, Tasahuaman said, but "price increases have made it harder for some to keep feeding raw. Many use raw as a topper or a treat because of the expense."   Toppers in general are gaining popularity as a simple way to add more natural nutrition into any cat's diet, insiders said. This September, Natoo plans to unveil meal toppers for cats in Chicken & Sweet Potato and Salmon & Sweet Potato flavors. The single-protein treats are similar to a wet food, with shreds of chicken or chunks of fish in a broth, and they contain no byproducts, preservatives, or artificial colors or flavors. "Perfect for cats of all ages and sizes, they can be enjoyed alone or mixed with dry food for added nutrition," Maluf said. "Made with limited ingredients, they're easily digestible and great for pets with sensitive stomachs or allergies. Plus, they are rich in folic acid, biotin, antioxidants and fiber, and are fortified with essential vitamins A, B12 and D3."   In addition to texture, flavors and palatability are key considerations. Chicken and fish remain the most common and popular proteins in cat food and treats, according to insiders. "Our poultry- and fish-based formulas tend to be our Nulo fan favorites and top-selling proteins for cats," Mendoza said. "We're also seeing increased interest in red meat options, such as beef and lamb."   For owners who prefer feeding a rotational diet, more products are now available in a variety of flavors and proteins, Scott said, such as turkey, duck, rabbit and pork. Offering lots of protein options can be beneficial to cats, Dameron noted. "We encourage a lot of variety as it helps to prevent the stereotypical 'picky' cat, so we encourage customers to explore more novel proteins and diversify their cats' foods and treats," Dameron said. "If you understand your cat is a predator and carnivore, you can focus on the ways they play and hunt to determine what they might like. Red meats if they are a ground hunter and poultry if they like to fly through the air."   Source: Pet Product News

Cats
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3+ min reading

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3+ MIN

Cats’ noses appear to function like powerful aroma analysis equipment

Published in PLOS Computational Biology, the study was funded by Waltham Petcare Science Institute and led by Ohio State University, Monell Chemical Senses Center and the University of Pennsylvania.   These new findings deepen our understanding of the domestic cat's enhanced sense of smell, aiding new strategies to meet cats' food preferences.   Researchers created an anatomically accurate 3D computer simulation of a domestic cat's nose to understand how cats smell. They used a variety of techniques to create the simulation, including high-resolution micro-CT scans to generate an accurate model of a cat's nose. The simulation of air and odor flow through the virtual cat nose revealed similarities with a parallel coiled gas chromatograph.   In basic gas chromatography, the substance being analyzed is vaporized and carried by a steady flow of gas through a tube. Different chemical components in the substance interact with the tube in distinct ways, which enables them to be separated and identified.  In a cat, its complex nasal structure is made up of multiple tubes, like a parallel coiled gas chromatograph, making the process even more efficient than the basic chromatography technique.   'We have partnered with leading institutions to further understand cats' sense of smell', says Dr. Scott McGrane, sensory science expert at the Waltham Petcare Science Institute. 'Computational Fluid Dynamics (or CFD) is usually used to solve engineering questions related to how fluids flow.  In our case, we have applied CFD to study airflow and how aroma compounds move through the cats' nose.  Cats' noses have a complex structure that enhances their ability to smell, akin to the snail-like coiled cochlea which we know enhances hearing sensitivity'.  'This new research shows a cat's nasal structure is about 100 times more efficient in detecting aroma compounds than having a single straight tube, which most amphibians have', Dr. McGrane added.  The study and findings deepen our understanding of cats' enhanced sense of smell and present the potential for future computational and behavioral studies on the palatability of cat food, including in the area of new sustainable protein sources.  It's a topic we are exploring through our sensory science work, which aims to further our understanding of the sense of smell and taste in cats and dogs.  Our recent research has discovered new insights into the taste perception of pets by studying the sensitivity of taste receptors using a range of approaches, including computational modelling. One study looked into bitterness and its relationship with toxicity for dogs, while another explored the kokumi taste receptor of cats, which is described as a taste enhancer rather than a taste on its own.   We are committed to using scientific research to gain a better understanding of how cats and dogs experience and enjoy the food they eat. It means we can continue meeting their needs nutritionally, while at the same time ensuring they savor their meal, for happy pets, as well as healthy pets. 

Source: Whaltam PetCare

Cats How Long Can Your Always-Hungry Cat Wait For Dinner?
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5+ MIN

How Long Can Your Always-Hungry Cat Wait For Dinner?

Many cats put on Oscar-worthy performances to convince their parents they are constantly starving. Often, they start with jumping on your head at 4 a.m., perhaps followed by biting your toes, stealthily pushing priceless breakables off the counters, or pacing in front of their bowls and yowling nonstop. But how can you tell if your cat is really getting enough to eat, and how long can they reasonably wait for their next meal? There are a number of factors that need to be considered to answer these questions. For starters, how old your cat is, the kind of foods your cat eats, and any health conditions your cat has can all influence how often your cat needs to eat.  For example, there are big differences in the nutritional needs of growing kittens and pregnant cats, compared to adult cats who are mostly sedentary indoors. It is always best to consult your veterinarian and defer to their recommendations when it comes to the particular nutritional needs of your cat. Here are some general guidelines that may help. How long can your cat wait between meals? The short answer is that it depends. And no one knows exactly. Wild felines who hunt need to eat many small meals throughout the day but may also go long stretches without food. On average, hunting cats eat about eight to 10 small prey a day, so they spend the majority of their waking time stalking, chasing, and hunting in order to meet their dietary needs. For our pet cats who spend most of their time lounging indoors, they tend to burn many fewer calories and have access to higher quality diets. Their needs for food are quite different. Studies have shown that cats' stomachs empty between four to eight hours after a meal, depending on what they eat. So, while your cat may be able to go up to eight hours between meals, most nutritionists recommend feeding many small, frequent meals throughout the day to attain the best physical and mental health for your cat. So, if you're planning to go out of town, it's important that you instruct your cat sitter as to how often your particular cat needs to eat. Do different foods affect hunger differently? What you feed your cat may affect how often they need to eat and how quickly they become hungry after a meal. Some factors that influence this include protein content, fiber content, and whether you feed a dry kibble versus canned wet food. In cats, protein content influences their satiety, or feeling of fullness, the most. A high-protein diet may keep a healthy cat feeling full the longest. Some cats should not have high-protein diets, such as those with kidney disease, so make sure to speak with your vet before switching to a high-protein diet.   Fiber is also known to play a role in feelings of fullness and to slow down the emptying of the stomach and intestines. This seems to play a smaller role in cats, compared to humans or dogs. Commercial high-fiber cat diets have not been shown to significantly affect fullness in cats, but certain fiber supplements containing inulin do seem to have more of an effect. As always, consider these supplements after consulting with your veterinarian to make sure it is safe and appropriate for your cat. Be aware that adding too much fiber or introducing it too suddenly can lead to gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea and diarrhea.   When it comes to keeping cats full, there is some evidence that kibble actually stays in the stomach longer than wet food, which may keep them feeling full longer. The debate over feeding dry food versus canned food is endless, and there are many valid reasons to choose one over the other. In general, canned food tends to have higher water content, which is very important for keeping cats hydrated. Canned food usually has a pureed consistency, which may cause it to be digested more quickly and easily. In most cases, cats should not eat dry food exclusively for overall good health, but there may be strategic ways to incorporate small amounts of dry food into your cat's diet. How can you keep your cat from constantly crying for food? Depending on your cat's particular life stage and health, there are many ways to help them feel satisfied while allowing you to get some sleep, too. For kittens and pregnant cats that need to eat frequently, a timed feeder may be a good option to provide snacks overnight and in the early morning. Remember that these feeding devices are not usually recommended for cats in other life stages because they can lead to overeating and risk of obesity. For adult cats, food puzzles are a great way to provide smaller, frequent meals while improving your cat's activity level and mental enrichment. These can be homemade or commercially available puzzle-style feeders that require your cat to 'work' for their food.  It slows them down and allows them to snack gradually and also gives them a challenge to figure out how to get the food out. The simplest form of a food puzzle would be just hiding kibble around the room for your cat to seek out. More complex puzzles are also available in a variety of styles.   In general, providing smaller, frequent meals may help your cat to feel more satisfied and for those cats that have no health concerns, adding a little extra fiber and higher protein content may also keep them feeling full longer.   Look for these signs of actual starvation or illness in cats. It is important to note that cats cannot safely skip several meals in a row. This is especially serious for young kittens, pregnant cats, cats with underlying health problems, and overweight and obese cats. If your cat skips multiple meals, it is a sign of illness, and they should be seen by a veterinarian right away. It is also not safe to intentionally skip feedings as a weight-loss strategy. Overweight cats are prone to a condition called hepatic lipidosis, aka fatty liver, that can be triggered by skipping meals. For this reason, it is critical to follow your vet's recommendations on feeding guidelines, especially if you are trying to encourage your cat to reach a healthy weight. by Dr. Amy Fox, DVM
 

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Laboratory

Laboratory Two essential parameters for pet food launching
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4+ MIN

Two essential parameters for pet food launching

The fierce competition in the pet food market not only highlights the need for differentiation and excellence in pet food formulation but also emphasizes the importance of validating their effectiveness. Carrying out digestibility tests and fecal score evaluation is one of the crucial methods for evaluating the nutritional pet food quality.   Two essential parameters for pet food launching   Digestibility test The digestibility test is a crucial tool in evaluating the efficiency with which animals use and absorb food nutrients. This method provides a deep understanding of the digestion and absorption capacity of essential nutrients, which is essential for optimizing diet formulations and ensuring adequate nutrition for living beings. By analyzing the digestibility rate of various components present in food, such as proteins, fats, and starch, the digestibility test contributes significantly to the development of more efficient and sustainable feeding strategies, benefiting pet food products. Fecal score evaluation Assessment of fecal score in dogs and cats is a practical and valuable method for monitoring the digestibility of food consumed by these animals. The fecal score refers to the consistency and appearance of feces, being a visual indication of gastrointestinal health and digestive efficiency.
This method involves assigning an appropriate score to stool, usually on a scale from 1 to 5, based on characteristics such as consistency, color, and shape. When applied to food digestibility studies for dogs and cats, fecal score plays a crucial role. Well-formed stools with adequate consistency indicate good nutrient absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. On the other hand, excessively soft stools, diarrhea, or other abnormalities can be attributed to poor diet digestibility. Fecal score assessment is often performed in experimental feeding studies in which animals are subjected to different diets. By comparing fecal scores over time, researchers can infer the relative digestibility of different food ingredients or formulations. Diets that result in better-formed and more consistent stools generally indicate better use of food nutrients. Visual examination of the fecal score can complement the assessment of digestibility. This approach provides a more comprehensive understanding of the impact of food on the gastrointestinal health of dogs and cats, allowing adjustments to formulations to optimize nutrition and digestibility, thereby promoting pet health and well-being. Evaluating these parameters before launching a pet food product onto the market can give you advantages in comparison with competitors, evaluating whether the processing was done correctly, and identifying in time the need for changes in formulations. A demonstration in practice would be excess carbohydrates in the diet, for example, which leads to accentuated lactic fermentation, and the feces appear pasty with a light color and acidic smell (without a rotten smell). The same occurs when the feed is poorly processed. Normally, to manufacture dry food, a process called extrusion is used, which consists of applying steam and pressure to a crumbled mass, forming those granules that we technically call 'kibbles.' In this process, starch is essential for making the feed expand. However, if it does not undergo good cooking (or gelatinization) there is a risk of causing osmotic diarrhea in the animal fed with the feed in question. (Saad et al., 2014). The use of ingredients with lower digestibility directly impacts the fecal score. Ingredients such as soybean meal, widely used in standard or economical pet food manufacturing, contain 20% non-starch polysaccharides (NSP). Soluble PNAs can reduce the digestibility of nutrients and energy in the diet due to the increase in the viscosity of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and the reduction in food passage time, making it difficult for digestive enzymes to access the food bolus and interfering with diffusion and transport of nutrients, resulting in loose stools and large quantities. To minimize the adverse effects of ingredients with less digestibility, their use can be restricted to small inclusions. Otherwise, additives, such as enzymes or adsorbents, can be used. In the case of diets with raw materials rich in NSP and its influence on the fecal characteristics of dogs and cats, for example, the inclusion of a zeolite-type adsorbent additive adjusts the diet fecal score, since this additive, when passing inert through the GIT, adsorbs water and gases and reduces the elimination of ammonia, which improves the fecal characteristics and odors of animals. The animal's fecal score after consuming a feed plays a significant role in consumer satisfaction and can directly influence the repurchase decision. Thus, the digestibility and consistency of the fecal score reinforce consumer confidence in the product. If the food provides healthy and regular digestion, owners tend to associate this quality with the brand, thus strengthening customer loyalty.
Brand trust is crucial for repurchase, as consumers look for products that consistently meet expectations in such a competitive market.

By Ludmila Barbi T. Bomcompagni

Laboratory

31/01/2024

Quality Control in the Pet food industry through cutting-edge solutions

However, this trend presents significant challenges. Quality control and laboratory analysis processes are often slow and expensive, resulting in production delays, loss of raw materials, reprocessing of batches, and, consequently, the loss of time and valuable resources. All of this has been an obstacle to the efficiency and competitiveness of companies in the industry. The solution to these challenges lies in near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy technology, which has revolutionized the way the pet food industry approaches quality control, ingredient analysis, and process control. NIR instruments allow multivariate analysis to be performed in less than 10 seconds, providing accurate data for critical parameters such as moisture content, protein, fat, fiber, and ash, among others. As a result, not only is the quality control process significantly accelerated, but a substantial reduction in costs associated with traditional laboratory analysis is also achieved, giving companies the competitive advantage they need to stand out in the industry.   Pet food manufacturing process: critical points   Within the framework of the pet food manufacturing process, there are critical stages identified that require special consideration to achieve efficiency and productivity to obtain a final product of excellence. We cannot reach a good final result if our raw material does not meet the requirements. NIR instruments can quickly provide us with the information necessary to decide whether a batch we are receiving meets them or not. Each food has its recipe, and each variety has its nutritional composition. NIR equipment can help us confirm if the mixture or formula was correctly made prior to entering the extruder. After drying, it is common to apply coatings with fats, oils, or flavorings to make them more palatable, and, in some cases, vitamins and minerals can also be added to strengthen the nutritional content. NIR equipment can monitor the fat or oil content at this stage. Prior to packaging, and after the cooling process, obtaining an accurate reading of the humidity value of the product is essential to prevent common problems, such as the growth of mold or other types of fungi, which can cause deterioration of the product, affect its quality, and lead to significant economic losses. The ideal task for an NIR instrument will not only give us an accurate reading of the humidity value, but also allow us to verify that our final product meets the nutritional requirements we communicate on our packaging. PerkinElmer has been leading the market for years with its DA 7250 analyzer, the third generation of NIR instruments in the company's more than 60-yearhistory. This equipment combines Near Infrared Reflectance technology and a diode array (DA) detector, allowing accurate and reliable results in less than 10 seconds. Thanks to its excellent signal-to-noise ratio, large analysis surface area, and light range used with superior penetration capacity, grinding of raw materials or pre-treatment of samples before analysis is not needed. In addition to its speed in obtaining results, the DA 7250 stands out for its efficiency, simplicity of use, robustness, simple maintenance and cleaning, as well as its extremely friendly operating environment. It also has two online and inline versions, the DA 7440 and DA 7350 respectively, fully compatible with each other in terms of calibrations.     Mathematical models, prediction, and security in the results   Thanks to spectral data from more than 15,000 dry dog ​​and cat food samples from worldwide manufacturers (including kibble, biscuits, tricks, and more), calibrations have been developed to model relationships between NIR spectra and reference chemical results. This has been achieved using Honigs™ Regression (HR) types and Artificial Neural Network Regression (ANN) algorithms, as well as the application of a temperature stabilization pretreatment.

    As an example, the following table shows data from calibrations carried out for samples of dry food for dogs and cats:   The great product variability incorporated in the calibrations, added to the aforementioned characteristics and virtues of the instrument, guarantee accurate and robust measurements over time. The models can be used for whole and ground pet foods with similar prediction accuracy. In parameters such as humidity, protein, fat, fiber, and ash, these models are very precise, with similar differences to the deviations obtained between the two reference laboratories. In conclusion, in a market with increasing demands in terms of quality, nutritional value, and cost, NIR instruments are a powerful solution that offer fast, accurate, and robust results for all stages of the production process, reducing costs and leading to the efficiency and quality of our product at optimal levels.   By: Leonel Fulcheri - PerkinElmer
Source: All Pet Food Magazine

Laboratory

17/08/2023

Bühler offers solution to reduce mycotoxin levels in pet food

Mycotoxins, a poisonous chemical found in the corn used in pet foods, are causing animal sickness and irreparable brand damage. To solve this issue, SORTEX LumoVision, a solution developed by Swiss technology group Bühler, uses the spectral scale to kick out mold from pet food, keeping the costs of market recall down and pets safe. In 2021, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) alerted customers of fatal levels of aflatoxin, a strand of mycotoxin that attacks the liver, found in 1,000 lots of pet food. From the bad batch, it is reported that 130 dogs died. This statistic provoked lawsuits and anger from dog owners and the wider industry. However, the damage of mycotoxin contamination does not stop there. RECALLING PRODUCT IS EXPENSIVE One of the major costs of mycotoxin contamination is market recall. Recalling a product from the market is not cheap, in fact, the Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) discovered that the average cost of market recall is USD10 million in direct costs alone. The financial hits of recalling product include: disposing of the product, reimbursing customers, and business interruption. The GMA survey showed that 81% of respondents deemed the financial risk of market recall to be 'significant to catastrophic'. CONTAMINATED PRODUCT DAMAGES BRAND IMAGE Financial costs and damage to health are not the only repercussions of mycotoxin contamination. Once the media are aware of the situation, brand image can take a significant hit. For consumers, it takes a lot to repair trust in a brand, and while brand damage is difficult to measure, this can further cost companies millions in lifetime value. CONTAMINATED PRODUCT CAN CAUSE MASS WASTE Before the LumoVision, contaminated grain would have been disposed of in large amounts. During testing, if the batch has a high concentration of mycotoxin, in many cases, the entire batch is destroyed. In fact, as few as 2 highly contaminated grains in 10,000 can render an entire batch unsafe. The Food and Drug Association (FDA) estimate that USD932 million is lost per year to crops contaminated with mycotoxin. This removal of the contaminated material may protect the consumer, but it costs businesses and the environment a lot more. WHAT CAN BE DONE? Bühler SORTEX faced the challenge of mycotoxin contamination head-on. After discovering a breakthrough 'invisible indicator' of contamination on the spectral scale, Bühler created the LumoVision, an optical sorter that can reduce the aflatoxin level by up to 90% (as indicated by industrial trials). This reduction brings many samples to regulation levels, saving companies from the costs of large-scale material waste and market recall. It works by analysing the colour each kernel fluoresces as it passes under powerful UV lighting in the sorter. It is known that contaminated kernels fluoresce a specific bright green colour, a substance called kojic acid, which is produced by the Aspergillus fungus at the same time as it produces aflatoxin. LumoVision's proprietary, highly sensitive cameras and a powerful LED-based UV lighting system can precisely detect this colour of fluorescence. Within milliseconds of detection, air nozzles deploy to blow contaminated kernels out of the product stream. When dealing with toxins, early intervention is critical. This is not only important in reducing the toxins consumed by pets, but also to lower wastage and the environmental footprint. Without proper cleaning and sorting, poisonous mycotoxins can cause large-scale wastage of materials, mass market recalls, and harm to pets. Dr Gerardo Morantes, Director of Food Safety-Americas Region at Buhler, had the following to say: 'Mycotoxins are a worldwide concern. However, technology made possible by Bühler SORTEX enables a preventative solution, meaning that mycotoxins can be dealt with early, stopping the spread and removing the contamination to meet regulatory standards.' Without intervention, mycotoxin contamination can bare a large cost for businesses, including, brand reputation, market recalls and material waste. With the SORTEX LumoVision, brands can stay profitable, customers can stay happy and pets can stay safe. By Bühler Group

Laboratory

04/01/2023

DON-V™ ONE - The World's FIRST fully quantitative lateral flow strip test for vomitoxin (DON) in finished feed formulations - including pet foods!

DON-V™ ONE offers the world's first lateral flow strip test capable of measuring vomitoxin (DON) in complete feeds and pet foods.  Using a simple, barcode-based universal calibration, DON-V ONE delivers numeric results in minutes while improving safety and sustainability for field, process and laboratory testing environments.  DON-V ONE eliminates high-stakes calibration, reduces time to result and offers unmatched performance for DON monitoring in finished feeds Benefits Safe – Eliminates toxic calibration chemicals
Value – No hidden costs or sample batching required
Fast screening – Actionable results in 5 minutes*
Sensitive – Limits of detection as low as 0.20 ppm
Wide range – 0.20 to 40 ppm†
Convenient – Easily performed on-site or in the lab
Accurate – Results equivalent to HPLC methods   *after extraction † Using high range procedure
This procedure has been validated for a wide range of finished feeds, including pet food by Vicam Source: All Pet Food 

Laboratory

23/11/2022

US startup aims to transform pet food with lab-made chow

Most pet food includes animal protein, which requires the slaughter of animals and is ultimately a source of planet-warming gases. Rich Kelleman's Colorado-based Bond Pet Foods, however, is aiming to sidestep both pitfalls by making those same proteins in a biotech process. His inspiration comes in part from his own disgust over the treatment of livestock on its way to the food supply. He was also shocked when he read a study showing that pets in the US consume as many calories sourced from animals as France's population, which numbers more than 65 million. Livestock's impact on climate change added to his resolve, as raising animals for food is responsible for a whopping 14.5 percent of human-linked greenhouse gas emissions, according to UN data. But vegetables alone aren't necessarily enough nutrition for cats and dogs. Kelleman was convinced by research that if a company could 'crack the code' for lab-grown pet food there would be a market for it. 'For dogs and cats, it has to be palatable, but it doesn't have to look like a fully formed steak or breast,' Kelleman told AFP during a visit to the startup. 'It's not about the mouth feel; the sizzle; the taste, and the texture that have to be so precise for people to embrace it.' In development, Kelleman's startup drew blood from a pedigree chicken, extracted DNA from the sample and inserted it into a microbe. The resulting microbe was added to a fermenter to produce lab-grown animal proteins. 'It sounds like a weird, strange process, but it is something that has been around for quite a while,' Kelleman said. – Nutty, with a hint of cheese – His dog, Rumples, seems to enjoy it. And an AFP reporter given a sample noticed its nutty flavor that includes notes of parmesan cheese. But the company has many hurdles to cross in its quest to become the new normal in pet food. First is the price, because even environment-loving 'dog moms' watch their budgets when it comes to the cost of kibble. Using fermentation tanks has enabled Bond to cut the cost of protein to $5 per kilogram (2.2 pounds) from $100 per kilogram. Chief technology officer Tony Day says the price can be driven even lower. It is expected to take at least two years, though, of tests and evaluation to assure regulators that the kill-free pet food is a safe and viable. Bond is aiming to sell their proteins to pet food makers by the second half of 2023. A crucial question is whether the lab-grown pet food passes the smell test with humans concerned about the well-being of their animal friends. In a park not far from the startup in the Colorado city Boulder, dog owners were interested but wary. 'I'd like to think I could give my dogs real meat protein without harming the planet,' Rochelle Loughry said while watching her two Australian Shepherds. 'In theory it looks good, but we should know if, in the long term, the benefits are the same as with real meat,' said another dog owner Jason Ackermann. Meat in pet food often arouses fierce debate. Greg Okin received raging criticism from both conservatives and animal rights activists for his academic study of pet protein consumption, which helped inspire Kelleman's startup.  'I think the fear was that I was telling people kill their cats and dogs, or not feed them, which is not what I was saying at all,' said Okin, a professor at the environment institute at the University of California, Los Angeles. 'I got a lot of hate.' Julie JAMMOT
 


Conveyors

Conveying Systems

04/12/2023

Countdown to Pet Food Conveyor Launch: Starting Up On Time and With Confidence

To move delicate pet food products or powders, most processors do extensive homework before purchasing a tubular drag cable conveyor to ensure that it meets their needs in terms of function and price. After the purchase, the conveyor must be expertly assembled and tested to ensure smooth production startup and continued performance. The challenge is that the typical third-party contractors installing various plant systems might need to become more familiar with specialized pet food conveyors and, thus, are more prone to make costly errors. A more prudent choice is using the OEM's team of experienced technicians. The OEM's experts have the advantage of designing the specialized conveyor and understanding its installation, operational requirements, and potential problem areas. 'If a tubular drag cable conveyor is installed incorrectly by a third party, it often needs to be completely pulled apart and rebuilt, which is costly and time-consuming. If the conveyor is run incorrectly, damage will occur, and components must be replaced. All this only delays startup,' says Terry Derby, Director of Parts and Field Service for Automated Handling Solutions (AHS). AHS is the service-focused subsidiary of Cablevey Conveyors, an Oskaloosa, Iowa-based conveyor manufacturer that has been designing, engineering, and servicing enclosed cable and disc tube conveyors for 50 years and is in more than 65 countries. As a solution, pet food processors seeking superior conveyor performance from the start rely on expert-supervised installation and commissioning to ensure they will be ready to run products on time, at the necessary volumes. Today, a tubular drag cable conveyor requires considerable expertise to install. These systems gently move material through a sealed tube using a coated, flexible, stainless-steel drag cable pulled through on a loop. Solid circular discs (flights) attach to the cable, pushing the product through the tube without air.  'This type of conveyor is uniquely engineered to transport delicate materials gently. The tubes form a continuous loop that must be carefully assembled for a tight fit to ensure no misalignment or gaps between sections. While the modular components lend great flexibility to system design, each component must act in concert with the rest for proper conveyor functionality,' explains Derby. After selecting and purchasing a conveyor, the pet food processor's next step is installing it, which often requires professional assistance. Reliability Starts with Supervised Installation Whether relying on internal staff members for installation or contracting the job to an outside team of millwrights or skilled pipefitters, supervised conveyor installation can ensure proper system installation. Getting expert assistance is still essential during installation, even with the manual that has detailed instructions and QR-code links to videos for each conveyor component. 'Supervised installation is important to ensure that your system is installed properly so you don't run into maintenance problems due to an improper install,' says Derby. Derby insists that 'supervised installs are probably the most important support service we offer.' This step is often neglected when a less experienced third party performs the installation, which can escalate costs. At this point, AHS is frequently asked to complete final preparations and correct any problems before production startup, a process known as commissioning.  'When a processor brings us to their facility after declining a supervised installation, we often have to work backward for a day or two to correct issues. Having us there for supervised installation eliminates the need for correction and any idle contractors waiting on us for the repair, so it pays for itself,' says Derby. In the case of AHS, the company's technicians have logged hundreds, if not thousands, of hours on-site in various manufacturing facilities worldwide. This singular focus gives them the knowledge and expertise to streamline the installation process and prevent issues that can lead to system inefficiencies, product loss, or complete system failure. As part of the supervised installation, skilled technicians ensure the correct positioning of the conveyor's hangers and the proper torque for couplings. The system is properly cleaned to remove any metal fragments or foreign contaminants introduced during installation. In addition, the technician confirms that all conveyor inlets are in place and that all discharges are functioning. Even seemingly minor gaps or misaligned areas in the conveyor tubing can become a severe issue. 'If gaps are in the conveyor's tubes, the discs will 'catch' when crossing the joint, causing excessive wear on the cable and motor. If not corrected, this could lead to premature failure, production downtime, and added repair and replacement costs,' says Derby. According to Derby, another common wear item in tubular drag cable conveyors is sweeps, areas where the tube changes direction. He explains that sweeps are where the cable is under the most significant tension and where the discs rub inside the tube. Since sweeps show the first signs of wear, proper installation can reduce the wear and significantly prolong tube and cable life, simplifying maintenance. 'With a supervised install, processors can ensure that their conveyor is assembled correctly to enable seamless startup, reliable production, optimal output, and greater longevity for the system and its parts. Our reputation is on the line to get it right from the start,' says Derby. In addition, a supervised installation includes a full report outlining actions to correct any issues found. Due to the attention to detail, a supervised installation also preserves the standard warranty for the system's components. Of course, operators also play a critical role in conveyor performance. For this reason, having experts onsite can be one of the best ways to train the operators and maintenance crew on properly running, cleaning, and maintaining the system.    Reliable Production Requires Expert Commissioning When the installation is complete, the next step is to schedule commissioning. The average commissioning visit for a single-system installation usually lasts an entire day.  The onsite commissioning process readies the conveyor for total production and identifies any immediately correctable issues to keep the startup on schedule. At this point, the system must be installed entirely, including all mechanical and electrical components. The conveyor material must also be ready for introduction to the system. This is where a botched installation by a third party can come to light without supervised installation by the OEM. 'We are often asked to 'fix' poor installations by third-party contractors. We have had to tear whole systems apart. This frequently requires a complete rebuild and replacement of damaged parts, which adds cost, creates downtime, and delays startup,' says Derby. In the case of AHS's commissioning service, the technician conducts an inspection using a camera that runs through the entire system layout to ensure that everything is correctly assembled and ready for testing. The technician then performs a test run of the product, from the inlet feed through the sweeps to the discharge outlet, and verifies that it flows at the desired speed. 'Tailoring the conveyor to the material conveyed can require adjustments to fine-tune the process. With the commissioning, the goal is to increase efficiency, production volume, and reliability,' says Derby. He adds that 'checking the system's health' also uncovers any issues that might arise, which technicians can address to prevent production downtime. He points out that commissioning also extends Cablevey's standard warranty. As a final step in the commissioning process, the technician issues a report for the processor that documents all findings from the full-system inspection. Completing conveyor installation, commissioning, and start-up is only the start of the OEM's and processor's relationship since the system's lifespan can be decades. In addition to traveling on-site for emergency service calls, the company offers an annual service visit to conduct a detailed system inspection and address any issues, identify worn parts, ensure predictive maintenance is being conducted, and provide any additional training needed. This complete system audit aims to extend the conveyor's lifespan and prevent unexpected downtime. 'Our mission is to provide conveying equipment and ensure it performs as required, with minimal downtime and maintenance. Once a pet food processor buys a system, they become part of our family. We will continue to support them every way we can, even as their needs evolve,' concludes Derby. By Del Williams is a technical writer based in Torrance, California. Source All Pet Food

Conveying Systems

27/11/2023

Mobile 'Smart Cart' Automates Food Conveyor CIP for Pet Food Manufacturers

To promote food safety and sanitary compliance, pet food manufacturers are increasingly seeking the ability to clean-in-place (CIP), an automated method of cleaning the interior surfaces of tubular drag conveyors without disassembly. Now, with the advent of mobile tools like an innovative 'smart cart' that quick-connects to any tubular conveyor and enables simple, customizable 'single button cleaning recipes,' CIP is becoming easier, faster, less labor-intensive, more repeatable, and almost fully automated. Tubular drag conveyor systems gently move product through a sealed, enclosed tube using a drag cable and circular discs pulled through on a loop, so they are ideal for delicate items. Designed to handle a variety of different forms and sizes, from kibble to seeds or pellets and nutrients, tubular conveyors maintain both quality and proper proportions. In a wet CIP process, the system is flooded with water, flushed, rinsed, cleansed, and thoroughly sanitized. Although the process is very effective, streamlining its automation and simplifying the process for all a facility's tubular drag conveyors has been a priority for leading innovators in the industry. 'The standard system required port hookups to water lines and installing piping. The processor also had to make decisions, such as which water temperatures to utilize, or whether to use a cleaning solvent - and the correct amount to add manually,' says John Adair, Engineering and Quality Director for Cablevey Conveyors, an Oskaloosa, Iowa-based conveyor manufacturer that has designed, engineered, and serviced enclosed cable and disc tube conveyors for 50 years, and is in more than 65 countries. To simplify the wet cleaning process, Adair and his engineering team at Cablevey have developed a small, mobile 'smart cart' with integrated water line hookups that a single technician can easily take to any tubular drag conveyor in a facility. The cart is specifically designed to be a fraction of the size of similar carts on the market to facilitate mobility. When the cart is in position and connected to water lines, the CIP process is automated and controlled by a programmable logic controller (PLC) that reduces the need for manual labor and virtually eliminates the risk of improper cleaning. 'Once it is set up, all you do is press a button, and it will bring in the required amount of water at the correct temperature with the necessary amount of solvent for cleaning,' says Adair. The smart cart is designed to store and utilize pre-programmed CIP recipes to flush various residual materials from the tubular drag cable conveyors in a facility before new production runs. The cleaning recipes enable even those with very little training to use the cart, which is helpful in today's tight labor market and allows the technician to move on to other tasks once the cleaning process begins. The use of easily executable recipes ensures a superior, repeatable clean that essentially 'error-proofs' the process. This is particularly important when the technician may be new or less familiar with the production equipment. 'Depending on the product conveyed, sometimes all you need is a wet rinse or a specific cleaning solvent. All that information is saved, so after the first cleaning, it can be automatically repeated. Just push a button to start the appropriate recipe, whether you have one conveyor running multiple products or dozens of conveyors running various products,' says Adair. To meet strict compliance standards, the smart cart also documents all critical CIP information, such as water volume and temperature, chemicals used, and cleaning time by date, in an easily retrievable data log. Since decreasing production downtime between conveyor cleanings is a priority for pet food manufacturers, Cablevey provides new capabilities with the cart that expedites the CIP process. Currently, the CIP process floods the tubular conveyor system but is not designed to clean the discs specifically. 'Operators would manually clean each disc and advance the system disc by disc when the discs had to be cleaned of particularly viscous substances,' says Adair.   Once it is set up, all you do is press a button and it will bring in the required amount of water at the correct temperature with the necessary amount of solvent for cleaning.   Now, as an option on the cart, a disc washer can be integrated with the conveyor turnaround to spray a pressurized cleansing solution on the discs. This helps to remove stickier substances that could remain after routine CIP cleaning. 'The disc washer sprays high-pressure water directly on the discs, so it acts like an automatic car wash. At the push of a button, the discs and cable are run through, and spray cleaned, which reduces CIP time and eliminates the need to manually clean the discs,' says Adair. To further reduce downtime, Cablevey also offers a new sanitary blower option. 'After the wet CIP process, a sanitary blower attachment on the smart cart can dry the discs and other parts of the system 75% faster than typical air drying,' says Adair. He points out that the faster the conveyor is cleaned and dried after a product change, the sooner it can be put back into service, which improves profitability. According to Adair, Cablevey's Mobile Smart Cart was already available since it was officially unveiled at Pack Expo, a premier packaging and processing show held at the Las Vegas Convention Center in September. The event featured full-scale setups of machinery in action. The company also offered traveling demo smart cars to customers in September for free so clients could test drive the units. Pet food manufacturers can now purchase the demonstration unit used in their facilities, with hands-on training available immediately. While the pet food manufacturing industry is aware that automated CIP can improve conveyor system production uptime, barriers to implementation have slowed adoption. Utilizing a mobile smart cart with integrated water hookups will help manufacturers easily implement CIP in tubular drag conveyors throughout their facilities: expediting conveyor cleaning, production changeover, and sanitary compliance. By: Del Williams - Technical writer based in Torrance - California Source: All Pet Food Magazine

Conveying Systems

29/08/2023

New German test facility allows processors to try solutions before they buy

These systems come as an investment, making it crucial for manufacturers to understand what they're buying before pulling out the company credit card. This is where OEM test facilities come into play, which offer processors the opportunity to try before they buy, often supported by the expertise of seasoned process engineers and salespeople who represent the supplier and its solutions. Testing, testing According to Emmanual Ricohermoso III, Ph.D., testing and facility manager at Automated Handling Solutions (AHS) Germany GmbH, parent company of Cablevey, testing equipment before making a purchase is a progressive approach that can optimize design and material selection for durability, efficiency and environmental impact. 'From the client's perspective, conducting product testing offers them the valuable opportunity to experience the device firsthand before making a purchase commitment,' Ricohermoso added. 'It allows them to assess the device's performance, functionalities and suitability for their specific needs without the obligation of buying it outright. Additionally, during the testing phase, clients can engage directly with our knowledgeable team, leveraging their technical expertise to address any questions or concerns they may have. 'This interactive experience fosters better communication and understanding between our team and the clients,' he added. 'Ultimately, seeing the device in action reinforces the clients' belief and confidence in its capabilities, validating the effectiveness of the solution being offered, or simply, 'to see is to believe.'' The company's 645-square-meter (6,942-square-foot) testing facility is centered around a test workshop equipped with product transfer systems from brands that fall under the AHS and Advanced Material Processing (AMP) umbrella, including Cablevey, Spiroflow, Kason and Marion. The test workshop itself accounts for 71% of the total space. According to Ricohermoso, the German test facility was designed to not only enable testing of conveyors and material transfer systems from point A to point B, but to also integrate relevant processing steps including bag conditioning, bulk bag discharging and filling, dewatering, sieving, mixing and drying. 'Additionally, the test facility boasts a cutting-edge, in-house laboratory dedicated to material characterization,' he noted. 'This enables our engineers to gain a deep understanding of the material properties, allowing them to design tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of our customers. The Friedrichsdorf test facility is now up and running and saw its first customer in early May 2023. Ben Ayrton, managing director and vice president of operations and supply chain for AHS and AMP in Europe, noted that the facility is now fully operational and offers more than 50 products for customer trials and testing across all four brands.  'We are immensely proud to have the most comprehensive testing facility in Continental Europe,' Ayrton said. 'Our expansion and future is exciting, as in addition we are looking forward to introducing a brand new 5,500 m square production facility in the UK in the first half of 2024.' The Friedrichsdorf facility will serve multiple AHS and AMP brands for testing, spare parts, European engineering and sales, as well as aftermarket spare parts and maintenance teams. Prioritizing positive client experiences Understanding why clients want to test or compare equipment performance is the No. 1 consideration when developing a test plan. For example, Ricohermoso said one of the main focuses for today's pet food processors is throughput. Once he has a better idea of a client's priorities, Ricohermoso requests a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) to better understand the handing requirements and potential risks related to the product or material in question. He also asks for cleaning, process flow integration, and tolerance information to create a comprehensive test plan for the client. 'If the client's primary objective is to observe the operation without specific test requirements, I take the initiative to design the test plan myself,' Ricohermoso said. 'The clients are then given time to review the plan internally and communicate any concerns they may have. 'By following this streamlined process, we ensure that the test day runs smoothly, with clear communication and alignment between our team and the clients.' Leaning on OEM expertise Cablevey operates in more than 66 countries and has delivered its solutions for the food, pet food, coffee, powder, nut and frozen food industries for over 50 years. Such equipment includes enclosed cable and disc tube conveyors. 'Cablevey provides a gentle conveying solution, making it particularly suitable for products that are sensitive and have low tolerance for breakage,' Ricohermoso said. 'Its unique conveying method ensures that fragile products can be transported without compromising their integrity or quality.' At Cablevey's stateside test facility — which is located in Oskaloosa, Iowa — the company recently launched a 360-degree immersive experience enabling virtual visits in real time. A Zoom-meeting format developed during the COVID-19 pandemic now allows Cablevey to showcase test runs of its machinery in-person and online simultaneously, which provides convenience for those unable to travel or larger work groups, according to the company. Ricohermoso noted the company plans to add this capability to the German test facility over the next few months.  

Conveying Systems

25/08/2023

Automated Handling Solutions at FENAGRA 2023 in Brazil

Brad very brieflly introuced himself and the Company, the owners of Cablevey Conveyors and Spiroflow, and highlighted  its prsence in the pet food sector. Brazil has been a key market for them within the LATAM region, so they  have already planned to grow agresively in that market      About Automated Handling Solutions  AHS combines expertise in specialty conveyor and material handling and automation equipment technologies to help processors manage their lines effectively and efficiently. AHS' products target applications in high value environments and can support both wet and dry media. Primary end markets served include food and beverage, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, specialty chemical, and high value industrial. AHS is May River Capital's (May River) newest platform company. by All pet Food   

Conveying Systems Pet Food Industry Trends for 2023
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Pet Food Industry Trends for 2023

Growth is a great opportunity, but it also requires planning when it comes to how pet foods are conveyed in your facility. How are companies preparing to handle this type of growth at their processing facilities?     In October 2022, Cablevey Conveyors commissioned the independent research firm, Ascend2, to conduct a research study titled Evaluating and Implementing New Conveyor Systems. The 16-page study (download for free) asked 290 food processing professionals in the United States and the United Kingdom to provide their insight on critical considerations when evaluating conveyor systems. In this article, we will review and analyze the findings from 72 food processing professionals that are conveying pet food. What are they doing to prepare for growth? Finding #1: Budgeting for Growth. 85% of facilities processing pet foods are increasing their budget for conveying equipment and maintenance in the next 12 months. 35% tell us that they are increasing significantly the budget needed to meet growth opportunities. Why the increase in the budget? The increase is in response to how much these businesses grew in the past year. Finding #2: Can your workspaces facilitate needed growth? An important consideration of growth is your workspaces and facility requirements. What conveying systems are best for the space that you have available? According to the pet food processing experts surveyed, the #1 conveying system (46%) for maximizing available space is cable and disk conveyors. What are a few questions should you ask when evaluating the right conveyor system to optimize the space at your facility? Do you have enough floor space or ceiling height to accommodate certain conveyor types? Does the layout of the conveying system take into account easy access for cleaning and maintenance, worker safety, and operational performance? Here is a short video that shows a pet food conveying layout. Finding #3: Consider maintenance and downtime when you plan. For pet food, what conveying systems are the most efficient? Cable and disc conveyors lead the pack (by a wide margin) at 54% What are a few questions should you ask when evaluating the right conveyor system when it comes to maintenance and downtime?     Questions to ask: How much time will be spent disassembling and cleaning the system? Will maintenance and downtime costs exceed any savings that you realized when purchasing the system? Finding #4: Don't forget energy efficiency. What contributes to energy efficiency? The size of the motor and the amount of horsepower required to run a conveying system can have a major impact on production costs. What conveying systems is the most energy efficient for pet foods? Cable and disc conveyors are #1 at 44%. Here are two questions to ask regarding energy and efficiency: How much energy will this system use?
Is there a high or a low cut-off point at which this system becomes inefficient? Conclusion The pet food industry is growing and evolving. This research study provides insight into the specifics of how industry professionals are preparing for that growth and making the best decisions for their facilities. The research points to cable and disc conveyors as the superior solution for pet foods. Tubular conveyors help streamline pet food processing and maintain both quality and proper proportions in nutritional mixes, snack foods, and other pet food products, product characteristics important to pet food purchasers. To find out if a Cablevey system is the best solution for conveying your pet food, have the Cablevey Testing Center perform a free test for you. The Testing Center will provide you with the data to help you make the most informed decision for your specific need. This article only covers a portion of the finding from the Ascend2 research study. Download Evaluating and Implementing New Conveyor Systems for more insight into the food processing industry.
  by Cablevey Conveyor 

Conveying Systems Your Go-To Guide For Stainless Steel Conveyors In Food Processing
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Your Go-To Guide For Stainless Steel Conveyors In Food Processing

Automated conveyor systems play a vital role in virtually every stage of food processing, from transporting raw ingredients to packaging finished products. What's more, in the food and beverage industry, hygiene is of the utmost importance. That's why stainless steel conveyors are such a popular choice in this sector (especially for conveying  food).   Stainless steel is easy to clean and disinfect, making it the ideal material for conveying foodstuffs in accordance with FDA regulations. In this blog post, we will explore the use of stainless steel construction conveyors in the food production industry in more detail. We'll also look at some of the benefits of using this type of conveyor and explain how you can keep it clean and sanitary What is stainless steel? Let's start by taking a closer look at stainless steel. This is an alloy of iron, chromium, and, in some cases, other metals such as nickel and molybdenum. The main feature of stainless steel that makes it so suitable for food handling is its resistance to corrosion. This means that it won't rust when it comes into contact with oxygen. Regular steel (carbon steel), when exposed to oxygen, will transform into iron oxide (rust). Rust is porous and can flake off, becoming an excellent source of contamination. Stainless steel, on the other hand, forms a protective chromium oxide layer on its surface that prevents oxygen from reaching the iron beneath. As a result, it is much more resistant to corrosion than regular steel. What's more, stainless steel is also non-toxic and non-allergenic, which is important when you are conveying food products. Benefits of stainless steel conveyors Corrosion resistance is just one of the many benefits of using a stainless steel conveying solution in food processing. Let's take a look at some of the others: No product contamination – Unlike other materials that degrade over time and release particles into the product, stainless steel is inert and won't contaminate the conveyed material. It is also non-porous, meaning bacteria and other contaminants cannot become trapped on the surface. Easy to clean and sanitize – Because of its smooth surface, stainless steel is very easy to clean and disinfect. This is essential in the food industry, where hygiene is of paramount importance. We'll get into more detail about cleaning stainless steel conveyor solutions later on. Doesn't change food flavor – Outgassing is a phenomenon that can occur with certain materials, whereby they release gasses that can change the taste of food. Stainless steel is completely inert and doesn't outgas, so you can be sure your product will not be affected.
Resistant to high temperatures – Stainless steel can withstand high temperatureswithout being damaged. This means it can be used in applications where the product being conveyed is hot. Resistant to low temperatures – Just as stainless steel can withstand high temperatures, it is also resistant to low temperatures. This means it can be used in applications where the product being conveyed is frozen. Of course, these are not the only benefits of using a conveyor system for food made from stainless steel. Stainless steel is also a very strong material that is able to support heavy loads, making it ideal for use in the food industry. Is a stainless steel conveyor sanitary? To start answering the question of whether stainless steel food processing equipment is sanitary, we first need to understand what the term 'sanitary' means. In the food industry, the term 'sanitary' refers to an environment or piece of equipment that is free from contaminants such as bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. This is different from the term 'clean,' which simply refers to the absence of visible dirt. A piece of equipment can be clean but not sanitary, for example, if it has been cleaned with a cleaning solution that is itself contaminated. So, are stainless steel conveyors sanitary? The answer is no – no material is inherently sanitary. However, stainless steel is one of the most hygienic materials that you can use in food handling. This is because it is non-porous and non-absorbent, meaning that bacteria and other contaminants cannot become trapped on the surface. It is also made for easy cleaning and disinfection. That said, even stainless steel conveyors can become contaminated if they are not used and maintained properly. It is important to remember that bacteria and other microorganisms are everywhere – on our skin, in the air, and even on stainless steel. If left untreated, these contaminants can quickly multiply, compromise food safety, and cause foodborne illnesses. This is why it is so important to follow good hygiene practices when using stainless steel conveyors. In particular, you should ensure that the conveyor is cleaned and disinfected regularly, even if it is made of a food-grade material. Cleaning and sanitizing stainless steel conveyors Each facility has its own cleaning and sanitizing procedures developed according to the products being conveyed and the level of contamination risk. However, there are some basic steps that you can follow in cleaning and sanitizing your stainless steel conveyor: Remove loose dirt and debris – The first step is to remove any loose dirt and debris from the surface of the conveyor. The reason why it is important to do this first is that you don't want to spread contaminants around when you are cleaning. You can remove loose dirt and debris by brushing, vacuuming, or using compressed air. Pre-rinse – After you have removed the loose contaminants, you should pre-rinse the conveyor with water. This helps to remove any remaining impurities from the conveyor surface. Apply cleaning solution – Which cleaning agent you use will depend on the type of contaminants present and the manufacturer's recommendations. Rinse – Once you have applied the cleaning solution, you should rinse the conveyor with clean water. This helps to remove any remaining cleaning solution and contaminants from the surface. Inspect – Before sanitizing, you should inspect the conveyor to ensure it is clean. In particular, you should look for any areas that may have been missed during the cleaning process. Apply sanitizing solution – The final step is to apply a sanitizing solution to the conveyor. This helps to kill any remaining bacteria and other microorganisms. Once you have applied the sanitizing solution, you should rinse the conveyor with clean water. Note that some sanitizing agents may not need to be rinsed off, so be sure to check the solution manufacturer's instructions. Increase cleaning efficiency It's no secret that cleaning, sanitizing, and maintaining conveyors can be time-consuming. In fact, according to our State Of Conveying 2022 report, 54% of food processing managers and engineers said that cleaning and maintenance are the most challenging aspects of conveying. Reasons for this include: Downtime – When conveyors are taken offline for cleaning, it can lead to significant downtime and lost productivity. Cleaning frequency – The more often a conveyor is used, the more often it will need to be cleaned. This can make it difficult to keep up with the cleaning times and schedule, especially if the conveyor is in constant use. Complexity – Some food product handling conveyors are more complex than others, which can make them more difficult to clean. For example, some conveyors have many nooks and crannies that can be difficult to reach. Fortunately, there are methods you can use to increase the efficiency of your cleaning process. Have you come across clean-in-place (CIP) mechanisms? Clean-in-place systems A CIP system is a method of cleaning that uses special equipment to clean the interior surfaces of the conveyor without disassembling it. CIP systems are often used in the food and beverage industry, as they are an effective way to clean complex equipment quickly and efficiently. Cablevey offers two main types of CIP systems: Dry cleaning – Using brushes, air knives, urethane wiper discs, and special sponges with sanitizers. Dry cleaning is typically used for conveyors that move material that is not wet or sticky. Wet cleaning – Using water jets, sanitizers, and detergents. Wet cleaning is typically used for conveyors that move wet or sticky material. In this day and age, where every minute counts towards productivity, a CIP system can make a big difference. the conveyor type matter? If you choose a stainless steel conveyor for your food processing plant, does the type of conveyor matter? The answer is yes; of course, it does. The material the conveyor is made of is just one small part of the equation. You also need to consider the environment in which the conveyor will be used and the type of product that will be moved on the conveyor. Here are some common food manufacturing conveyors: Belt conveyor Perhaps the most widespread of all conveyors, belt conveyors are generally used to transport light to medium-weight products. A belt conveyor is composed of a belt that rests on two or more pulleys, which in turn rotate on shafts. The pulleys and shafts are powered by an electric motor. The belt on this type of conveyor can be made from a variety of materials. You can get plastic belt conveyors, rubber belt conveyors, and even metal belt conveyors. Not all of these represent a food-grade conveyor, though. Benefits: Good for fragile materials Can transport a variety of products Drawbacks: Not for steep inclines or vertical conveying Not for wet or sticky products If not enclosed, it poses a high risk of contamination Bucket conveyor Bucket conveyors, or bucket elevators, are composed of a series of buckets that are connected to a belt or chain. The buckets lift materials, such as grain, up to the top of the conveyor, where they are discharged into a chute. Even though horizontal bucket conveyors exist, incline conveyor options are more common, as they take up less space and can be used in a variety of settings. Benefits: Low driving power – energy efficient Good for facilities with small floor plans Good for inclines and vertical conveying Drawbacks: Ridiculously difficult to clean and maintain because of a lot of moving parts Pneumatic conveyor The main principle of material conveying in pneumatic conveyors is entrainment. In this type of conveyor, air is used to move materials through a system of tubes. A blower or a vacuum pump can generate the airflow. Benefits: High conveying speeds Low preventative maintenance and cleaning costs Flexible design – suitable for a variety of settings Drawbacks: Extremely hard on conveyed materials – material damage is common It requires a lot of power to control the speed Can be noisy Tubular chain conveyor A tubular chain conveyor is composed of a chain that runs inside a tube. Circular discs are evenly spaced along this chain, creating space between them for the conveyed material to fit into. The discs move along the tube, propelling the material forward. Benefits: Fully enclosed Can be used for inclines and vertical conveying Gentle conveying Drawbacks: Chain is in direct contact with conveyed material – high risk of contamination Difficult to clean and maintain Tubular cable and disc conveyor We saved the best for last. For specific material types, such as breakfast cereal, snack foods, nuts, beans, coffee beans, rice, and similar, tubular cable and disc conveyors are the best option. These conveyors work on a similar principle as tubular chain conveyors, with one major difference – instead of chains and discs, they use cables and discs. There is no direct food contact with the cable, which decreases the risk of contamination. Also, these conveyors are easier to clean and maintain. Benefits: Fully enclosed Gentle conveying – suitable for fragile materials Extremely low risk of contamination Easy to clean and maintain Drawbacks: Not for viscous or sticky materials Which conveyor to choose? A stainless steel conveyor system is only as good as the application it's being used for. Different conveyors are better suited for different tasks. To help you make a better decision, here are the top considerations you need to take into account: Conveyor type – As we've seen, there are many different types of conveyors. Make sure to choose the one that's best suited to your needs. Material type – Not all materials can be conveyed by all conveyors. Some materials are too fragile, while others are too dense. Make sure that the conveyor you choose can handle your material. Conveyor throughput – The amount of material that needs to be conveyed will play a big role in deciding which type of food processing conveyor to choose. Conveyor size and layout – Not every conveyor is suitable for every facility. The size of your facility and the layout of your production line will play a big role in deciding which conveyor to choose. Some other considerations are the cost of the conveyor, the energy efficiency, and how easy or difficult it is to clean and maintain the conveyor. Go for a sanitary design We've already explained how no material is completely safe from contamination. Even if you choose a food conveyor system that's easy to clean, there's always a risk of bacteria and other germs getting into the food. That's why it's important to go for a sanitary conveyor design. A hygienic design minimizes the risk of contamination. It includes: Easy access for cleaning – The conveyor should be designed in a way that allows easy access for cleaning. All parts of the conveyor should be accessible for cleaning, and there should be no dead spots where bacteria can accumulate. No traps in the conveyor frame – The conveyor frame design has to prevent food from getting trapped in it. All food should be able to fall freely from the conveyor, without getting caught in any nooks or crannies. No areas where water can accumulate – The conveyor should be designed to prevent water from accumulating anywhere on it. All wet areas should drain quickly, and there should be no places where water can pool. No fasteners – Welds should be used instead of fasteners to prevent food from getting trapped in them. It stands to reason that deciding exactly which type of stainless steel conveyor to choose for your food processing facility is a big decision. But with the right information, you can make the best choice for your needs. Conclusion Here are the main takeaways from this article: Stainless steel isn't sanitary by default. But it is an excellent material for conveyors because it's easy to clean and doesn't rust. The cable and disc conveyor is the best type of stainless steel conveyor for food processing applications. These food conveyors are fully enclosed, gentle, and have a low risk of contamination. When choosing an industrial conveyor, consider the type of conveyor, the material you're conveying, the throughput, the size and layout of your facility, and the cost. Make sure to choose a conveyor with a sanitary design to minimize the risk of contamination. A sanitary design includes easy access for cleaning, no traps in the conveyor frame, no areas where water can accumulate, and no fasteners. Ready to buy a stainless steel conveyor for your food processing facility? Cablevey Conveyor  can help you find the perfect one for your needs. Contact Cablevey today to get started By Cablevey Conveyor Source: All Pet Food  


Packing Machine

Packaging The STATEC BINDER customer service
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2+ MIN

The STATEC BINDER customer service

Our comprehensive, worldwide customer service includes numerous services, such as inspections, detailed customer trainings on site, the storage of spare and wear parts close to the customer and extensive maintenance by our service technicians.   The 1 - 6 - 11 service program enables customer advice and support after the delivery of a STATEC BINDER system with the highest level of expertise. The program allows the machines to be optimally adapted to the individual needs of the customer and enables our technicians to answer project-related questions in person.   1 - One month after commissioning   The machines are installed by our technicians together with the customer, the production capacity is tested, and parameter checks are carried out. In addition, the future machine operators receive extensive training.   6 - Six months after commissioning   The customer should already be confident and familiar with its system. The focus lies on fine-tuning the machine, whereby a further visit, parameter checks, refresher trainings and visual inspections are carried out. Further customer training takes place if required.   11 - Eleven months after commissioning   Our service technicians visit the customer one more time and inspect the machine. The technicians make recommendations for a better use of the system in the future, in order to complete the fine-tuning process. Finally, an individual maintenance plan is drawn up for the respective system to ensure smooth cooperation in the future.   In addition to the comprehensive service program, our customer service is also characterized by the wide range of spare and wear parts. Required spare parts can be ordered and shipped globally and easily. Our customers also benefit from our Remote Maintenance System. With this innovative technology, problems that cannot be solved by customers themselves can be identified from our company located in Austria. Beyond that, the further procedure can also be defined remotely.   In addition, after the delivery of the machine, our customers get largely informed about the optimization and modernization of their systems by our service team. The focus lies on fine-tuning the machines with various modernization measures, such as new standards or updates. In this way, we can continue to help ensure that the high-quality systems perform reliably for many decades to come.   By: STATEC BINDER   Source: All Pet Food Magazine

Packaging Siegwerk’s new coatings enable recyclable monomaterial pet food packaging
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Siegwerk’s new coatings enable recyclable monomaterial pet food packaging

Printing ink and coatings leader Siegwerk has announced a breakthrough in sustainable pet food packaging. Partnering with printing machine manufacturer Windmöller & Hölscher and bag-making and machine producer B&B, Siegwerk has developed a fully recyclable monomaterial pouch for dry pet food using its CIRKIT functional coatings. This innovation addresses increasing pressure from EU regulations on packaging circularity.   'New approaches are needed to meet the upcoming regulatory requirements for circular packaging,' said Belal Habib, head of Brand Owner Collaboration at Siegwerk. 'The challenge is to find a recyclable design that also meets the respective performance requirements of the packaging.'   Pet food packaging needs to be food-safe and have specific barrier properties such as grease resistance, in order to maintain freshness and structural integrity. Traditionally, these requirements meant complex, non-recyclable multimaterial structures with metallised layers.   'The problem: they are not recyclable,' added Habib. 'This is where innovative barrier coatings applied in thin layers and inline with regular printing inks can help to switch from an incompatible multimaterial structure to a fully recyclable monomaterial solution in the sense of a circular economy.'   The solution utilises two CIRKIT coatings: CIRKIT GreaseBar: An inline-printable grease barrier coating. CIRKIT HeatGuard: A coating that enhances sealing efficiency and heat resistance on film surfaces, also inline-printable.   These coatings, combined with full polyurethane inks suitable for mechanical recycling, enable the mono-polyethylene bag to achieve the same performance as traditional multimaterial structures while being fully recyclable. Importantly, the inks and coatings are solvent-based, deinkable, and inline-printable without sacrificing print quality.   'Together, we have succeeded in developing an innovation that is circular, delivers on performance and maintains current process efficiencies due to inline and high-speed conversion,' said Habib. 'This shows that, by joining forces, we are in a position to make recyclable monoplastic packaging a reality and thus counter the still wide presence of multimaterial laminated structures with future-oriented flexible packaging solutions made for circularity.'   Siegwerk's expertise spans the entire packaging life cycle, from raw material selection to recycling. This allows it to partner with companies to redesign packaging structures for sustainability according to current guidelines.   Source: Packaging Gateway.

Packaging

13/11/2023

STATEC BINDER: A PIONEER IN THE PACKAGING INDUSTRY

Foundation and Company History   The company was founded in 2008 as a joint venture between two renowned companies, BT Wolfgang Binder, and BINDER+CO AG. Both companies had already been active in the packaging and processing industry since the 1970s and brought many years of experience and expertise to the partnership. The merger created a new player in the packaging industry, STATEC BINDER. Over the years, STATEC BINDER has impressed with over 1800 successfully installed plants on all continents and in over 85 countries, underlining its global presence and expertise. The company continuously expanded its product range, from stand-alone machines to complete solutions for customers. Thanks to innovation, teamwork, and the pursuit of perfection, STATEC BINDER has always been able to meet the requirements of global markets and provide customized solutions for its customers.   Innovation and Product Portfolio   A key factor in STATEC BINDER's success is continuous innovation and the development of customized solutions for its customers. The product range of STATEC BINDER includes fully automatic as well as semi-automatic packaging systems for bags from 5kg to 50kg, BIG BAG filling stations, palletizing systems, and bag closing systems, which are developed specifically for customers' needs. Whether it is bulk materials such as grain, animal feed, fertilizer, plastic granules, or other materials, STATEC BINDER offers solutions for a wide range of industries.   Quality and Customer Service STATEC BINDER places great emphasis on the quality of its products and services. The packaging solutions are manufactured in a production facility and are subject to strict quality controls to ensure they meet the highest standards. The company is ISO 9001 certified, which underlines its commitment to maintaining high-quality standards. In addition to product quality, customer service is another key factor that distinguishes the company. STATEC BINDER's customers appreciate the personalized advice, individualized customer services, and comprehensive support the company offers. Working closely with customers enables the company to better understand their specific requirements and challenges, and to offer customers an all-around carefree package once they have purchased the equipment.   International Success STATEC BINDER's reputation extends beyond Austria, reaching a global scale. The company exports its packaging solutions to over 85 countries worldwide and maintains an extensive network of distribution and service partners across various regions, ensuring exceptional onsite support and guidance for its customers. This international presence reflects the trust customers worldwide place in STATEC BINDER's products and services.   Conclusion STATEC BINDER is a company that stands out in the packaging industry for its innovation, quality products, and dedicated customer service. With a strong focus on the needs of its customers, STATEC BINDER remains a major player in packaging technology and will continue to play a significant role in the industry in the future.   Source: All Pet Food Magazine

Packaging

20/10/2023

STATEC BINDER and NUPAC successfully conclude project together

Their goal was to increase bag filling capacity while reducing manual handling. For this, they turned to NUPAC in Australia, known as reliable suppliers of processing and packaging machinery and STATEC BINDER partners, who share a commitment to finding high-quality solutions for their customers. The Challenge: Enhancing Efficiency Massel Australia recognized the need to improve their bulk bagging process. The objective was straightforward: streamline operations, reduce labor requirements and elevate efficiency. They needed a partner who could not only provide cutting-edge machinery but also understand the unique constraints and demands of their production facility. Choosing NUPAC and STATEC BINDER: A partnership founded on individuality Massel Australia's journey toward a solution led them to NUPAC. What set NUPAC apart from the competition was more than just state-of-the-art equipment. Michael Caine, General Manager of Massel Australia, commented that they proceeded with NUPAC because "they displayed a genuine interest in coming up with a solution for us, listened to our needs and constraints, and were able to come up with a creative and efficient solution." The Solution for the customer: STATEC BINDER´s Acropac-T Machine NUPAC recommended the STATEC BINDER Acropac-T machine with gross weighing system and stainless steel execution. ACROPAC-T is a fully automatic open-mouth bagging machine which was perfectly tailored to Massel's requirements. This state-of-the-art equipment not only increased bag-filling capacity but also significantly reduced the need for manual operator input. One of the critical aspects was its ability to deliver substantial cost savings per bag filled. This cost-effectiveness made the investment in the new equipment an attractive proposition for Massel Australia. Overcoming Space Constraints Massel Australia faced a particularly challenging constraint—limited space, especially in terms of height. NUPAC worked closely with STATEC BINDER to overcome this challenge and find a solution that was compatible with the space available. This commitment to meeting every challenge head-on impressed Massel Australia and reinforced their trust in NUPAC as well as in the quality of STATEC BINDER machines. Massel Australia's encounter with NUPAC and STATEC BINDER was notably favorable. Michael Caine, in particular, emphasized that the entire process was an "overall excellent  xperience." He commended their professional handling of all queries and questions, creating a relationship that streamlined communication, especially during the planning and execution phases. When asked if they would recommend NUPAC and STATEC BINDER to others, Massel Australia responded with a resounding "Yes." Their recommendation is rooted in the positive purchasing experience and their trust in the post-sales support. They are confident that the ongoing support will maintain the same high standards of professionalism, positivity, and effectiveness as their initial interaction. In conclusion, this partnership has not only enhanced Massel's bag-filling process, thereby improving operational efficiency, but has also instilled confidence in NUPAC and STATEC BINDER's ability to provide unwavering support in the face of any challenge. By Statetc Binder Source: All Pet Food 

Packaging

11/10/2023

Purina calls on consumers to recycle pet food cans

The #PurinaRecyclesChallenge encourages pet owners to take aim at the recycling bin — rather than the trash can — when disposing of their used pet food cans. According to the Can Manufacturers Institute, the pet food industry utilizes roughly 7 million metal food cans annually. Approximately 25% of these are steel and typically used for dog food, and 75% are aluminum and normally used for cat food. While these cans are infinitely recyclable, there is ample room for improvement in their recycling rates, including among pet owners. An estimated 32% of American consumers recycle, according to the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) 2019 American Community Survey. The US Energy Information Administration claims the use of recycled aluminum cans to manufacture new cans requires 95% less energy than creating new cans from raw materials. 'We launched the #PurinaRecyclesChallenge to show just how easy it is to make an impact, and to help break down some of the barriers that keep people from recycling their pet food cans,' said Gopi Sandhu, vice president of environmental sustainability at Purina. 'Aluminum and steel are infinitely recyclable, and given the billions of cans produced in the United States each year, a seemingly small act of recycling can make a big difference.' The challenge invites pet owners to film a 'trick shot' of them banking a pet food can into the recycling bin and share on Instagram and/or TikTok with the hashtag #PurinaRecyclesChallenge. The company will donate $10 for every original post and $1 for every like, share or comment on those posts to The Recycling Partnership to support recycling education and infrastructure across the United States. The campaign will run through Dec. 15. Aside from this can recycling initiative, Purina has also committed to improving packaging sustainability across its entire portfolio. According to the company, almost 90% of its plastic packages used for pet food are designed to be recycled, a figure it hopes to increase to 95% by 2025. By Jordan Tyler - Pet Food Processing

Packaging

18/07/2023

Pet Food Label Modernization is Coming Soon!

A final draft of the updated model regulations for pet food and specialty pet food was voted on by the executive committee and will be presented to the full membership on July 31st for a vote.  There are numerous changes to the regulations that will impact the labeling for all pet food, pet treats and specialty pet food and treats. Below is a discussion of some of the main changes that will impact your pet food label design. Please note that small and very small packages with a total printable area of 40 or 12 square inches or less respectively will have different layout requirements due to space constraints Changes to the front of the pack include the requirement for a verbatim intended use statement. This statement must be in the bottom ⅓ of the principal display panel and parallel to the bottom of the panel (front panel for packages that sit upright on the shelf and also on the bottom butt panel for packages that lay flat on the shelf), must be at least as large as the net quantity statement per FDA 16 CFR 500.21, must be in the same color and style font and on the same background color as the statement of net quantity and must be separated from the statement of net quantity and any other label material by the height of the 'N' above and below and by twice the width of the 'N' on either side.  Some examples of the verbatim intended use statements include:  'Complete Dog Food' for foods that are complete and balanced for all life stages, including growth of large size dogs. 'Complete Puppy Food' or 'Complete Food for Puppies' for growth products that include growth of large size dogs.  'Complete Food for Adult Cats' for adult maintenance cat foods. 'Complete Food for Puppies (<70 lb. as an adult)' for growth diets that are not appropriate for the growth of large size dogs. 'Complete Food for Dogs (except puppies >70 lb. as an adult)' for all life stages products that exclude the growth of large size dogs. Another major change is the replacement of the Guaranteed Analysis with a Pet Nutrition Facts section. This change was made to more closely align the nutritional information with the format on human food labels in order to help the consumer better understand what they are buying. The Pet Nutrition Facts is required to be included on all pet foods in a prominent place on the label (but not necessarily on the principal display panel). On most packages (except very small labels), this will be in a box set off by hairlines and will be all black or one-color type, printed on white or neutral background.  The heading 'Pet Nutrition Facts' will be centered in the top row of the box and must be twice the size of the other text in the box. The familiar household unit (cup, can, treat, etc) will be right justified in the next row and must include the weight in grams. A bold line must separate this information from the next row. Calorie content will appear in the next line of the box and will no longer be stated as kcal/kg. It must be stated in kcal/'familiar household unit' and will be left justified. If the calories are determined by a feeding study, the word '(fed)' will appear after the value. Maybe provide an example of a few familiar household units. Underneath the calorie content, indented text will appear indicating the calories from protein, fat and carbohydrates. The Modified Atwater formula is still the correct way to determine the calorie content.      Following the calorie content will be the guaranteed nutrient levels. Protein, Fat, Carbohydrates (calculated value), Total Dietary Fiber and Moisture are the required guarantees for every label. These will be expressed in % and also in grams/'familiar household unit.' If you don't have dietary fiber data for your recipes, now would be a good time to begin testing to obtain these values. If you have additional nutritional guarantees, they may be included similarly to today's labels. Essential guarantees must still follow the order of the AAFCO nutrient profiles and nonessential nutrient guarantees are listed following the last essential guarantee. The verbatim nutritional adequacy statement will still be required and must now live within the Pet Nutrition Facts box so that placement is consistent across all products. Feeding directions must be included on all labels and should be consistent with the intended use statement that is on the principal display panel. There are some other minor changes that may impact your labeling, but the information above captures the most impactful of the proposed updates to the regulations. The implementation workgroup is proposing 6 years for the timeline for labeling in the market to comply with the new regulations. Consumer outreach and education has been a top priority and as more brands launch compliant labels, pet parents will be looking for this new format. This could potentially become part of the buying decision for savvy pet parents. The North River Enterprises team is involved in several AAFCO workgroups helping to develop educational materials explaining the required changes once PFLM becomes a reality.  by Melissa Brookshire


Minerals

Minerals

14/06/2023

What Nutrients are Essential for My Pet?

 Here's a breakdown of all the essential nutrients according to the  Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) that are required for foods to be called complete and balanced for adult and growing cats and dogs. Included are also links to other blog posts that describe some of these nutrients and why they're essential. Protein and Amino Acids While the amount may differ between dogs and cats, and between adults and seniors, all pets have a minimum requirement for protein to make muscle in the body and help in many important body functions. Amino acids are the building blocks of protein and there are approximately a dozen essential amino acids in addition to a minimum of overall protein that all pets need: Arginine Histidine Isoleucine Leucine Lysine Methionine Cystine Phenylalanine Threonine Tryptophan Valine Taurine (cats)
  Fats and Fatty Acids All pets have a minimum amount of total fat that they need in their diet and there are also some specific types of fatty acids that are also required for different lifestages. Overall fats and specific types of fatty acids help your pet maintain a healthy skin/coat, regulate inflammation, and aid in development in growing pets. Linoleic Acid Arachidonic Acid (cats) Alpha-Linoleic Acid (growth) EPA + DHA (growth)
  Minerals  Minerals, some of which are also called electrolytes, are critical to keeping fluid balance, growing and maintaining bones, and helping to regulate many processes running in a pet's body, such as movement of muscles. The amounts required can vary between growing and adult animals, and there is also a required ratio of certain minerals such as calcium and phosphorus for optimal health, especially for growing large breed puppies. Calcium Phosphorus Potassium Sodium Chloride Magnesium Iron Copper Manganese Zinc Iodine Selenium
  Vitamins  Cats and dogs require many of the same vitamins as we do (except for Vitamin C, which they can make themselves!), but the amounts can be very different. One example is Vitamin D, where dogs need less than 1/10th the amount that humans do, so we have to be very careful about using human products (or any supplements for that matter!) in pets to avoid toxic amounts of vitamin D. Vitamins perform many functions in the body from supporting the immune system to breaking down food for energy, and are either water soluble (the B vitamins) or fat soluble (vitamins A, D, E and K). The essential vitamins for dogs and cats are listed below with common alternate names that you may see on your pet food ingredient lists. Vitamin A (retinol) Vitamin D (cholecalciferol) Vitamin E (tocopherol) Vitamin K (phylloguinone, cats) Thiamine (Vitamin B1) Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) Niacin (Vitamin B3) Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5) Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) Folic Acid/Folate (Vitamin B9) Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) Choline
   Where Can I Go To Learn More?  If you'd like to learn more about the exact amounts required of these nutrients in different lifestages and species, booklets are also available online from the National Resource Council with more details on each of these essential nutrients for dogs and cats. How Do I Know My Pet Is Getting All These Nutrients? Foods that have AAFCO nutritional adequacy statements that state they are complete and balanced have to include all these essential nutrients and stay between the minimum requirements and any maximums. Providing extra through supplements may actually harm your pet because you may unknowingly be providing a toxic amount of some nutrients that have narrow safety ranges! We recommend only giving supplements with any of these essential nutrients when recommended specifically by your veterinarian. by Deborah E. Linder, DVM, MS, DACVIM (Nutrition)

Minerals

04/08/2022

Darling Ingredients Inc. Completes Acquisition of Brazil's Largest Independent Rendering Company, FASA Group

The company first announced the acquisition in May 2022 for a purchase price of approximately R$2.8 billion Brazilian Real in cash ($542.6 million USD at today's exchange rate), plus or minus various closing adjustments and a contingent payment based on future earnings growth. As part of the transaction, Darling Ingredients has acquired 14 plants that process more than 1.3 million metric tons annually, with an additional two plants under construction. "Brazil will play a big role in feeding a growing world population, which makes it a premier location to grow our specialty ingredients business," Randall C. Stuewe, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Darling Ingredients. "FASA is a well-run business, will be immediately accretive and further de-risks the supply chain by providing an additional source of non-food based, low-carbon waste fats to be used in the production of renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel." About Darling Darling Ingredients Inc. (NYSE: DAR) is the largest publicly traded company turning edible by-products and food waste into sustainable products and a leading producer of renewable energy. Recognized as a sustainability leader, the company operates 250 plants in 17 countries and repurposes nearly 15% of the world's meat industry waste streams into value-added products, such as green energy, renewable diesel, collagen, fertilizer, animal proteins and meals and pet food ingredients. To learn more, visit darlingii.com. Follow us on LinkedIn. Contact: Suann Guthrie
VP, Investor Relations, Sustainability & Communications
(469) 214-8202, [email protected]

Minerals

17/02/2022

Trace minerals in pet food: what are their benefits and challenges?

However, there are conflicting positions! In this article we analyze the types of trace minerals, the different voices, advantages and disadvantages of incorporating this ingredient into pet food recipes. Pet owners, and especially millennials, are increasingly interested in providing the best nutrition, care and quality of life for their pets. In this sense, trace elements such as zinc, copper, iron and manganese are an essential part of this formula for well-being, since they play a key role in cellular functions, oxygen exchange and other bodily processes.   What are trace elements or trace minerals? Trace minerals are elements that are required in very small amounts to achieve a balanced diet, but which have a wide range of benefits for the proper functioning of various systems such as the immune system, musculoskeletal, skin and coat health, for example. Some of them are zinc, copper, iron and manganese. In the animal world, it must also be taken into account that the trace elements necessary for dogs and cats are not the same.   When we talk about the incorporation of these components into a pet food formula, 2 aspects should be taken into account: • The shape of the mineral offered. • The amount provided. These data significantly influence the bioavailability of the mineral in the animal's body.   Forms of the minerals offered Inorganic They are generally found in the form of sulfates or oxides. They are relatively soluble. Since many reactions that occur when ionized make them unavailable, inorganic trace minerals are often inefficient and must be supplied in greater amounts. As they come from extracted sources, safety and traceability must be part of the quality assurance process to avoid the inclusion of heavy metals which, if present in a diet, can be harmful to health. Organic These can be divided into complexes and chelates: Complexes They are compounds that help keep the mineral stable or non-reactive and available for absorption. Chelates These have more bonds than complexes, which improves stability while preserving their availability to be absorbed if necessary. This increases the likelihood that the mineral will reach the small intestine in a way that it can be absorbed.   Trace minerals, an element of interest (and controversy) Trace elements are a component that is equally interesting and confusing in the pet food industry. Historically, pet food formulas have relied on extracted or inorganic minerals to reach nutrient levels recommended by different associations, such as the AAFCO. What happens, as we previously discussed, is that inorganic minerals are difficult to absorb, which is why additional amounts used to be added. Voices against this practice claim that this approach does not necessarily meet the real needs of pets, especially in the stages of infancy, pregnancy, or old age.   Seeking to transition to organic trace elements The truth is that organic trace minerals are the most natural and the best option for pets. Opting for this option in food formulas facilitates the availability and absorption of its nutrients. However, the use of inorganic minerals has become widespread throughout the food industry (and not only for pets), which, although they are in common use, are often ineffective. Organic minerals have high stability, so they work better, they resist much more in the digestive tract, and as a result, the animal's body can absorb what it needs. Minerals are essential, but if they are ingested in excess, they can cause toxicity.   Why are inorganic trace minerals poor in absorption? The structure of the inorganic mineral makes it interact with other components during the digestion process. As a result, it forms an indigestible complex that eventually ends up outside the body without being absorbed. This is equivalent to poor bioavailability because, even though the food has trace minerals, they cannot be used by the body. The form in which the trace mineral is present can influence the absorption of other nutrients in the intestine, such as: Impact on the stability of vitamins The oxidation of vitamins, such as vitamin E, can lead to a reduced vitamin function and, the cause can be the oxidation of fats by the action of trace elements. Compromised antioxidant function Research has confirmed that commonly used antioxidants can be compromised by inorganic minerals. In cases where the mineral bond is weak, there is a significant negative impact on antioxidant activity. However, and despite the possible complications of the use of trace elements, various studies insist on verifying the great benefits of their use and incorporation in pet food formulas. The latest published study, which was completed in 2020, lasted 12 weeks and included 46 older dogs between the ages of 7 and 14 with an average age of 9.8 years. It looked at skin and coat health, hair growth, activity levels, weight, and body condition. They were observed, after a period of feeding them with formulas containing organic trace minerals, an improvement in all the aspects mentioned above. Summarizing we can say that today's pets are part of the family, and thanks to the relevance they have gained over the years, the industry has invested more and more resources in improving their quality of life. In this sense, food has become a priority factor for those owners who seek to provide their four-legged friends with the best on the market. With regard to today's topic, the responsibility of producers is to keep trace minerals as available as possible for their proper absorption, and preferably to use them in an organic format, in order to ensure successful nutrition and avoid any risk of intoxication. Definitely, continuing to work on optimizing nutrition by trace elements will lead to healthier pets with stronger and longer-lasting immune, musculoskeletal and gastrointestinal systems.   By: All Pet Food

By Luciana Chippano

Minerals

17/08/2021

Mineral choice matters: Maximizing pet food nutrition

These can be broadly classified as either inorganic trace minerals (ITNs) or organic trace minerals (MTOs). The latter are so named because they are complex, or otherwise associated, with organic linking groups. These linking groups include amino acids, small peptides, and organic acids, which influence the strength of mineral absorption. When comparing organic trace minerals, many factors must be considered, but basically the interaction force between the mineral and the binding group is the most important factor influencing bioavailability. By improving the binding of MTOs, finally, the bioavailability of the mineral can be increased. Therefore, the choice of the linking group is critical to the effectiveness of organic minerals. In recent years, research has highlighted the differences that exist between individual products. A poor choice of the linking group can result in the production of products that offer no benefit over inorganic mineral sources. In essence, not all MTO products are the same.   Antagonisms in food and feed Increasingly, interactions between food components, such as trace minerals, are under scrutiny, for possible negative interactions with other components of the diet, often overlooked. Recent studies have focused on evaluating these potential antagonisms. In this regard, it is useful to highlight the differences, not only between inorganic and organic trace minerals, but also to illustrate that not all MTO products are produced equally.   Impact of minerals on the stability of vitamins The oxidation of vitamins, such as vitamin E, can reduce the function of vitamins, and its cause could be the oxidation of fats but, frequently, it is due to the action of trace minerals. The type and particularly the form of the trace minerals will influence their effect on the stability of the vitamin. When it comes to trace minerals, oxidation-reduction reactions are the predominant cause of vitamin instability. The type of trace mineral will influence its reactivity, and, more critically, the way the trace mineral is presented plays an even more important role in its influence on the stability of vitamins. Studies examining the stability of vitamin E in the presence of inorganic or organic minerals show that in the inorganic form, the minerals can be detrimental to the stability of the vitamin molecule. However, depending on the source of MTO, the use of chelated minerals may not cause such a dramatic decrease.   Antioxidant function may be compromised by mineral choice Additional research evaluating the effect of minerals in food components has established that commonly used antioxidants can be compromised with the use of inorganic minerals. Furthermore, the data indicate that in cases where MTOs have shown weak mineral absorption, there is a significant negative impact on antioxidant activity. The choice of organic trace minerals, therefore, plays a fundamental role in ensuring the quality and stability of food components.   Conclusions When it comes to mineral choice, organic trace minerals are much less likely to adversely affect essential nutrients, such as vitamins, compared to inorganic sources. However, not all forms of organic minerals react in the same way. Therefore, we encourage diet formulators to pay more attention to their ingredient choices in order to not only maximize nutrition, but also the quality and stability of pet food.   Source: Alltech

Minerals Yeast and Derivatives for Companion Animals: From Palatability to Immunomodulatory Properties
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2+ MIN

Yeast and Derivatives for Companion Animals: From Palatability to Immunomodulatory Properties

Continuing its program of BioEvolution Webinar Series, Biorigin promotes on October 29 th at 9 am (Singapore time – SGT) the webinar 'Yeast and derivatives for companion animals: From palatability to immunomodulatory properties' presented by Thaila Cristina Putarov, Biorigin Global Technical Manager Pet food, a specialist in companion animal health and nutrition.  Yeast and its derivatives products are well known for their benefits in animal nutrition and are mainly used to help balance the intestinal microflora and help stimulate the host's natural defenses, besides the effects on palatability of pet food. 'Exploring and understanding the world of yeast and how these ingredients could be applied to pet food to reach the right objectives in a formulation are the mainly goals of this webinar', complements Mrs. Putarov. The webinar is free of charge and the registration is open on the link: https://gonatural.biorigin.net/webinar-pet-asia About Thaila Putarov Animal scientist with focus on companion animal nutrition and pet food processing. Her masters and PhD degrees were taken on companion animal health and nutrition and her postdoctorate training was based on the evaluation of pet food processing. From 2014 to 2020, Thaila was the coordinator of a center of research in companion animal nutrition. Since last July she is the technical manager for pet food at Biorigin.  About Biorigin Biorigin is a Brazilian company, founded in 2003, which mobilizes knowledge and technology to, using biotechnological processes, develop innovative solutions in 100% natural ingredients for the animals' health and well-being. Its portfolio is composed of 100% safe ingredients, assured by the total traceability of the vertically integrated production process, in addition to the quality assured by certifications FSSC 22000, ISO 22000, ISO 14001, GMP+ (Feed Safety Assurance), Kosher (food produced according to Jewish norms) and Halal (food produced according to Islamic requirements). It is the first company in its segment certified by The Bonsucro Chain of Custody for yeast extracts and derivatives produced from fermentable sugar and sugarcane yeast cream, as well as Ecovadis gold rating and Smeta audit showing the Biorigin's commitment to social, environmental, and economic practices through sustainable supplying.  www.biorigin.net   by All Extruded

Minerals Essential Nutrients for Companion Animals
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2+ MIN

Essential Nutrients for Companion Animals

They're our walking partners, service pets, and loyal friends. They're our children's secret keepers, snugglebugs, and playmates. They're our front door greeters and unofficial therapists. They support and bring joy to our uniformed men and women abroad and at home. They are, in the fullest sense of the word, our companions, and that's why we work so hard to make sure they get the trace minerals they require—and deserve—for exceptional health and wellbeing. Trace minerals, including zinc, manganese, and iron, are often referred to as micronutrients. Although they are required only in small daily amounts, they play an essential role in numerous metabolic functions. When fed as part of a well-balanced diet, trace minerals provide dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, ferrets, and guinea pigs with multiple benefits, including skin and coat quality, growth and development, reproductive performance, paw pad integrity, and energy metabolism. With Zinpro Performance Minerals® in a companion animal's diet, you'll see a visible difference in the health and appearance of your walking partner, your service pet, your child's best friend—companions that are essential to our own wellbeing and happiness. The Difference is Noticeable As trace minerals with the highest biological efficacy on the market, Zinpro Performance Minerals® allow companion animals to absorb more of these trace minerals to receive their full benefit. With the addition of Zinpro Performance Minerals to food, treat, and supplement formulations, you'll see a noticeable difference in the health and appearance of companion animals, such as: Health & Wellbeing Zinc, manganese, copper, and selenium have been shown to enhance and support immune function, including antioxidant activity to remove free radicals and protect cell membranes Skin & Coat Quality Zinc and manganese facilitate wound healing and skin integrity through improved epithelial production and repair, and they, in addition to iron, are important factors in optimal coat, hair length, and shine Paw Pad Integrity & Healing Zinc and manganese have been shown to aid in keratin synthesis for toenail hardness, antioxidant activity to protect cell membranes, and cell division for paw pad growth and repair Growth & Development Zinc is shown to improve skeletal soundness, manganese plays a vital role in bone matrix development and joint maintenance and repair, and iron contributes to overall growth and development Reproductive Performance Manganese has been shown to aid reproductive hormone production, while research shows zinc to improve reproductive performance in both males and females Energy Metabolism Zinc, manganese, and iron contribute to energy metabolism, including carbohydrate,
lipid, protein, and nucleic acid metabolism Source: ZINPRO