Could you tell us about your career path with CENMA and what it means to you to lead the organization at this stage?


I direct the Ecuadorian Pet Nutrition Committee (CENMA), part of the Association of Balanced Feed Producers of Ecuador (APROBAL). This private, nonprofit organization brings together animal feed manufacturing companies in Ecuador.

In this role, I lead the sector's agenda, which addresses market needs in regulation, quality, competitiveness, access to international markets, and training, with nutrition and animal welfare at the center.

I joined CENMA in 2023, and since then, one of our main challenges has been strengthening the Committee as the technical and representative body that coordinates and represents the Ecuadorian pet food industry in an organized manner.

Leading CENMA means representing an industry that is growing and professionalizing rapidly, while driving actions that deliver concrete results for the sector and pet owners. Over these years, we have strengthened company participation, built common objectives, and consolidated technical dialogue with authorities, academia, and other stakeholders.

For me, leading CENMA also means bringing technical knowledge closer to those who ultimately decide on pet nutrition. One challenge is putting purpose-driven nutrition into practice: ensuring veterinarians and pet owners have the information they need to make better choices, making it a habit to review and understand a label, and helping dispel myths that persist because of a lack of knowledge.

The challenge is to keep strengthening an increasingly technical, competitive, and quality-driven industry while ensuring this development also translates into greater knowledge and better decisions about our companion animals' nutrition.

Bas Versluis: “Automation is no longer optional; it is mandatory in the pet food industry”

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Bas Versluis: “Automation is no longer optional; it is mandatory in the pet food industry”


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From your perspective, how has CENMA evolved over the past few years, and what do you consider to be the main changes in its role within the pet food industry?


CENMA's evolution has been marked by increasingly active participation in issues affecting the development of the pet food industry in Ecuador. We have strengthened ongoing coordination with authorities and promoted regulatory actualization through technical practices. This participation has strengthened our contribution to quality, nutrition, and competitiveness.

At the same time, we have expanded our work into other areas. We are working to ensure that pets' role in households and society is reflected in concrete decisions and actions. Along this path, we have strengthened partnerships with academia, expanded training initiatives, increased industry information, and strengthened our communications agenda to promote knowledge about pet nutrition.

A key change has been strengthening quality and nutrition as pillars of our industry agenda. Representing the sector means not only addressing the industry's challenges but also promoting knowledge, good practices, and standards that support its evolution and build trust.

Our educational work complements this. At CENMA, we launched a campaign on correctly reading pet food labels to help pet owners understand what to look for when choosing food and give them better tools to make informed decisions. This initiative also seeks to bring technical knowledge closer to veterinarians and help dispel myths about companion animal nutrition.

Another milestone reflecting this evolution was CENMA's initiative to achieve a 0% VAT rate for pet food. Beyond the tax outcome, this advanced recognition of nutritional pet food in households and made it more accessible to pet owners. In addition, pet food has been added to the Basic Household Consumption Basket (CFBC), acknowledging its role in household spending and officially recognizing the sector.

Today, CENMA combines representation, coordination, and technical action. It has evolved from identifying common needs to driving initiatives that contribute to knowledge, quality, competitiveness, and the responsible development of the Ecuadorian pet food industry.


The pet food industry is undergoing constant transformation. What are the main challenges you currently see in terms of training, professional development, and keeping knowledge up to date?


The current dynamism of the pet food industry in Ecuador and the region requires professional development to move beyond isolated efforts and become a continuous institutional pillar. At the Ecuadorian Pet Nutrition Committee (CENMA), we have identified that the central challenge is translating scientific knowledge into pet nutrition, as well as food technology into practical and accessible tools for the entire value chain.

At the same time, we urgently need to strengthen technical judgment amid nutritional misinformation and unsupported trends proliferating in the digital environment. The major challenge is to foster science-based education and communication that help us understand and dynamically present the nutritional contribution of pet food.

This update aims to strengthen companies' work in product development, production, quality control, and communication by highlighting the scientific knowledge and technical expertise that underpin pet food.


How does CENMA respond to the industry's new needs, and what role does the generation and updating of knowledge play in its approach?


Knowledge generation has become one of CENMA's strategic pillars. We have identified common needs and created spaces for training and exchange among specialists and academic partners. Our objective is to translate knowledge into better production, quality, safety, and nutrition practices by strengthening technical capacity and competitiveness in Ecuador's pet food industry.

At the same time, we have signed agreements with the Universidad Tecnológica Equinoccial (UTE) and Universidad de Las Américas (UDLA) to build long-term academic relationships. For CENMA, knowledge is not about accumulating training sessions. It is connected to the goal of improving professional judgment, raising standards, and building trust around pet food.


What opportunities do you see for CENMA, and what are the main objectives you have set to continue supporting the evolution of the industry?


One of our key opportunities is to build on the collaboration we have established among companies, academia, technical committees, and government authorities to promote initiatives that enhance competitiveness and strengthen the capabilities of an increasingly specialized industry.

Today, Ecuador has access to industry data that was previously unavailable. At CENMA, we collect and consolidate data that allows us to assess the pet food industry's contribution and understand its evolution. Our goal is to expand this knowledge base and turn it into a tool for identifying growth opportunities and supporting technical dialogue on the sector's future.

We will continue to promote verification and continuous improvement programs, specialized training, and strategic partnerships. Through this agenda, we aim to strengthen Ecuadorian pet food's position, raise awareness of our companies' capabilities, and support their growth within and beyond the country.


Based on your experience, what do you consider essential to continue strengthening the education and professional development of people working in an increasingly specialized pet food industry?


We are committed to providing ongoing, specialized training that addresses the real challenges facing the industry.

We need spaces where professionals can integrate theory and practice: understand a nutritional requirement, but also what happens to nutrients during an industrial process; know a raw material, but also its implications for formulation, quality, and stability; interpret a label but also know how to communicate that information clearly to the pet owner. That is why our vision is to maintain an ongoing agenda with the various partners we have brought together since the Committee was created.

The future of pet food will increasingly depend on science, technology, and consumers demanding more information. To support that future, we need skilled professionals and an industry willing to share knowledge.

CENMA coordinates and manages initiatives to build a comprehensive professional community with technical expertise and a vision aligned with the importance of nutrition for pets' health and well-being.

Thank you, Pamela, for sharing your experience and insights on trade association representation and the development of the pet food industry with the All Pet Food community!

By Pamela Ruales
Source: All Pet Food Magazine

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Interviews

Interviews Bas Versluis: “Automation is no longer optional; it is mandatory in the pet food industry”

7+ MIN

07/08/2026

Bas Versluis: “Automation is no longer optional; it is mandatory in the pet food industry”

From your perspective, how are the global pet food and aquaculture markets evolving, and what are the key trends shaping both industries today?
Both the pet food and aquafeed markets are growing and becoming more complex, but the drivers behind that complexity are different.

In pet food, we see a clear move towards diversification, premiumization and personalization. Consumers increasingly want products that are tailored to the specific needs of their pets. That can be based on breed, size or age, but also on lifestyle, allergies, sensitivities, health conditions and even the dietary preferences of the pet owner. Pet food has become a highly consumer-driven market, and brands need to respond quickly to changing trends.

This has a direct impact on production. Many factories were originally designed for large-volume production with a limited number of recipes. Today, those same factories may need to handle dozens or even hundreds of product variations, with shorter production runs, more frequent changeovers and full traceability. That creates a shift from traditional mass production towards much more flexible and recipe-driven production.

The challenge is that the market often moves faster than a factory can physically adapt. Customers need flexibility, but they also need consistency, quality and efficiency. That is where automation and smart batching systems become essential.
KSE operates across both pet food and aquaculture sectors. How does the company position itself within these industries, and what role do your solutions play in modern production environments?
KSE positions itself as a specialist in batching systems for the animal nutrition industry. Our expertise lies in accurately collecting, dosing, weighing and transporting ingredients as part of a fully controlled batch process.

That includes micro dosing, minor and macro ingredient dosing, ingredient automation systems, batch transport and process automation. In practice, this means that we help producers handle many different ingredients and recipes in the right sequence, within the required batch time, and with the required accuracy and traceability.

We have built this knowledge over more than 50 years, and we continue to develop it every day. What makes KSE different is that we are not a general automation supplier. We focus specifically on animal nutrition. That means our systems are designed around the real production challenges of this industry: powder behavior, ingredient flowability, dosing accuracy, cross-contamination risks, batch integrity, recipe management and traceability.

Today, we combine our practical experience with advanced software, intelligent algorithms and AI-supported models. These models are already being used in commercial applications and have been running in the field for the past one to two years. They help our systems make better decisions during production by processing data from recipes, raw material characteristics, machine behavior and process requirements.

For our customers, the result is a more stable and predictable production process. They become less dependent on individual operators, reduce the risk of manual errors, and gain more control over quality and output. In modern pet food, that level of control is no longer optional. It is becoming a requirement.   Looking at regional dynamics, how do you assess the development of markets such as Latin America compared to more mature regions?   Latin America is developing at a high pace, both in pet food and aquafeed. We see that the region is moving towards solutions that have already been applied for many years in more mature markets such as Europe and North America.

In Europe, for example, a high level of recipe variation, strict regulation, advanced traceability and strong quality requirements have been standard for a long time. Many producers in Latin America are now facing similar challenges as their markets mature and become more demanding.

What makes Latin America particularly interesting is the combination of volume, growth and ambition. In pet food, countries such as Brazil and Mexico are very important markets with strong domestic demand and increasingly sophisticated consumers. 

Because of the large production volumes in the region, companies are increasingly able and willing to invest in better technology. They understand that automation, process control and traceability are important for future competitiveness.

For KSE, this creates an opportunity to bring proven technology from mature markets into a fast-growing region. The challenges may be newer in Latin America, but they are not new to us. We can use our experience from Europe and North America to help customers take the next step in their production development.

There is also a long-standing trade relationship between Europe and Latin America, which creates a natural basis for cooperation. We see our role as helping producers in the region build the next generation of feed production facilities, capable of meeting today's requirements and tomorrow's market expectations.
In increasingly complex production systems, how important are automation, data management, and ingredient handling solutions in improving efficiency and consistency?   They are absolutely critical in today's production environment. Margins are becoming smaller, not only financially, but also in terms of acceptable error margins. Producers need to make more products, in shorter timeframes, with more ingredients, stricter specifications and fewer available operators. At the same time, quality standards, food safety requirements and customer expectations continue to increase.

That combination is very difficult to manage manually. In the past, many decisions in the production process were made by experienced operators. Today, that knowledge needs to be embedded into the system. The factory must be able to make the right decisions based on data, software logic and process intelligence. 

That is why automation, data management and ingredient handling are so important. Automation ensures that the process is executed consistently. Data management ensures that every step is logged, monitored and available for analysis. Ingredient handling systems ensure that raw materials are dosed and transported correctly, even when they behave differently in practice.

Within KSE, we use intelligent models and AI-supported software to bring these factors together. The system can evaluate production parameters in real time and adjust the process where needed. For example, if an ingredient has difficult flowability, the system can compensate through machine behavior and dosing strategy.

This leads to more consistent production, higher quality and better use of raw materials. It also reduces waste, rework and unnecessary manual corrections. That is important from an efficiency point of view, but also from a sustainability perspective. If you dose more accurately and produce more consistently, you use ingredients more efficiently and reduce losses in the process.

Ultimately, automation and data are not just about productivity. They are about business continuity, quality assurance and long-term competitiveness.
What are the main strategic priorities for KSE as it continues to expand its presence in the pet food industry?   Our main strategic priority is to be a long-term technology partner for our customers in the animal nutrition industry, especially in markets such as pet food where complexity is increasing rapidly.

We want to help customers solve structural challenges in their factories: operator shortages, increasing quality demands, higher production volumes, more recipe variation and the need for greater flexibility. That requires more than simply supplying equipment. It requires understanding of the customer's business, their market, their production process and their long-term ambitions.

One of our key priorities is AI and data-driven production. We are already applying AI-supported models in commercial systems, and we see a lot of potential to further improve process control, predictive behavior and production decision making.

A second priority is further automation to reduce operator dependency. Many producers are struggling to find and retain skilled operators. By automating ingredient handling, dosing and batching processes, we help customers reduce that dependency while improving quality and consistency.

A third priority is service and lifetime support. A batching system is a long-term investment. Customers need to know that their system will continue to perform, adapt and remain reliable over many years. That means strong service, lifecycle support, upgrades, performance monitoring and close cooperation throughout the lifetime of the installation.  

For KSE, the goal is not only to help customers solve today's bottlenecks. We want to help build factories that can continue to develop with their business for many years to come.
For the pet food sector, how are manufacturers leveraging automation and ingredient handling systems to improve product quality, traceability, and flexibility in production?   Pet food is a very dynamic market because it is directly influenced by consumer behavior. Product ranges change frequently, and manufacturers need to respond to trends such as premiumization, functional nutrition, breed-specific diets, age-specific diets, grain-free concepts, alternative proteins and health-focused formulations.

That creates major challenges in the factory. A plant that was originally designed for a limited number of high-volume recipes may now need to produce many different variations, often in shorter runs and with more frequent changeovers. At the same time, quality and traceability requirements are extremely high.

Pet food is also distributed through complex retail and logistics networks. If a quality issue occurs and a recall is required, the impact can be enormous. It can create high costs, but also significant damage to brand reputation. That is why producers want to prevent errors as early as possible in the process.

Automation and ingredient handling systems play a key role in this. By automating dosing, weighing, batch transport and recipe execution, producers reduce dependency on manual decisions. The system follows predefined protocols and quality parameters, ensuring that every batch is produced according to specification.

Traceability is another major benefit. Every ingredient movement, dosing step and batch action can be logged. This gives producers a complete production record and supports audits, quality control and regulatory compliance.

Importantly, automation does not reduce flexibility. When designed correctly, it actually increases flexibility. It allows manufacturers to switch between recipes more efficiently, handle a wider range of ingredients and produce smaller runs without losing control over quality.

For pet food producers, this balance is crucial: they need the flexibility to respond to the market, but the control and traceability required to protect product quality and brand reputation.

In a context marked by the growing complexity of production and the demand for greater flexibility, KSE continues to develop solutions focused on automation, traceability, and the intelligent use of data. For the company, supporting manufacturers as they evolve their plants will be key to meeting the demands of a constantly changing pet food industry.

Learn more about KSE's solutions at https://www.ksegroup.com/ By Bas Versluis
Source: All Pet Food

Interviews The Interview: Juan Manuel Peralta, President of the CIPAL Scientific Committee

7+ MIN

03/08/2026

The Interview: Juan Manuel Peralta, President of the CIPAL Scientific Committee

In addition to your role within the company, you are leading the CIPAL Scientific Committee this year. What does taking on this responsibility mean to you, and what is the main objective behind the development of the congress's academic program?
Chairing the CIPAL Scientific Committee is both an honor and, above all, a responsibility toward the entire region. CIPAL has established itself as the leading congress in the pet food industry in the Southern Cone. The upcoming edition will feature simultaneous conferences across three auditoriums, along with a dedicated innovation area. My role is to design the program, define its thematic pillars, and work closely with speakers to ensure both the scientific quality of the content and its relevance to the professionals who attend each edition seeking applicable knowledge.

For me, the congress serves a purpose that goes beyond the event itself: it acts as a bridge between academia and industrial operations. Much of the cutting-edge knowledge resides within universities, research centers, and scientific publications, and it does not always reach product developers and plant decision-makers in a timely manner. The program's central objective is precisely to shorten that gap—to identify and curate the knowledge the regional industry needs and present it in a way that becomes practical decisions regarding formulation, processing, quality, and market positioning.

This year, I designed the program around three thematic pillars that, in my view, capture where the industry is heading: naturalness and the Clean Label movement; precision nutrition—including nutraceuticals, nutrigenomics, microbiome, and clinical nutrition; and sustainability understood in its broadest sense, encompassing the planet, business performance, and industry development. Each session must meet a dual standard: it must withstand scientific scrutiny while also providing managers with actionable insights they can apply immediately. Achieving this requires close collaboration with speakers, helping them ground their presentations in solid evidence while connecting their findings to the economic and operational challenges facing the sector.

I also see this as a contribution to the development of regional talent. We will welcome leading experts from Argentina, Brazil, the United States, Colombia, Mexico, Spain, Belgium, Portugal, and Chile. I am particularly enthusiastic about fostering dialogue between basic science and industrial application. This year, I will also have the pleasure of moderating a panel on practical gut health alongside researchers from CONICET and biotechnology companies from across the region. That is exactly the kind of rigorous, applicable discussion that the congress seeks to promote.
From your perspective, what topics, challenges, or trends are essential to the pet food industry agenda today and will be reflected in this year's conference program?
I prefer to answer from the perspective of what we will actually be discussing at CIPAL, because the program is the result of months of listening to the industry. The first pillar is naturalness and the Clean Label movement. Consumers are conducting what could be described as a moral audit of the supply chain: they reject controversial chemical additives and demand clear, honest labeling. This is driving innovation in both ingredients and processes, favoring simpler and more natural solutions. One concept I find particularly powerful is that of shared well-being: the integration of human and animal health under the same guiding principles.

The second pillar is precision nutrition, encompassing nutraceuticals, nutrigenomics, the microbiome, and clinical nutrition. Health has become the new premium. We are talking about specific prebiotics designed to support beneficial microorganisms; bi- and multifunctional prescription diets; functional ingredients that promote healthy aging—because our pets are living longer and this new stage of life requires targeted nutrition—and a public health challenge that now affects both humans and animals alike: obesity.

The third pillar is sustainability, approached from a comprehensive perspective that includes the planet, business viability, and industry development. This encompasses mono-material and recyclable packaging, biodegradable plastics, refill systems at the point of sale, hybrid processing technologies that combine fresh meat, dehydrated and freeze-dried ingredients with kibble, renewable energy, and a concept I consider fundamental: reducing unnecessary additives and processing steps simultaneously enhances both naturalness and efficiency.
As an innovation specialist, what transformations do you believe are having the greatest impact on the pet food industry in terms of technology, production processes, and new product development?
The most visible transformation is taking place in production processes and functional ingredients, and it is directly linked to the demand for naturalness. We are moving from a single dominant product format and manufacturing technology toward a broader range of gentler processing methods and ingredients designed with a clear functional purpose rather than being driven solely by cost-benefit considerations. It is no coincidence that freeze-dried, baked, and fresh formats are growing at rates well above the market average. This raises the bar for process engineering, and CIPAL's program strongly reflects this trend.

The second major transformation is the engineering of biological functionality. Incorporating live biotic ingredients and maintaining their activity through demanding industrial processes is one of today's greatest technical challenges. This is complemented by the development of probiotics validated through controlled trials in pets and by the rapid growth of postbiotics, which have expanded significantly in recent years due to their stability during processing. In terms of product development, we are seeing remarkable advances in alternative proteins and functional snacks containing bioactive compounds.

I also want to be honest about artificial intelligence, because it tends to dominate many conversations today. AI is undoubtedly a tool with enormous potential for process analysis and optimization. My belief is that AI enhances our ability to innovate, but it does not replace biology. Ultimately, the pet's acceptance of the food remains the final and irreplaceable judge.
How are new consumer demands—such as traceability, sustainability, functional nutrition, and animal welfare—influencing the innovation agenda of companies in the sector?
These demands are the primary drivers shaping the innovation agenda, and their strength stems from a broader phenomenon: humanization. The region with the highest percentage of pet owners who regard their pets as family members is, in fact, Latin America. When pets are treated as family, owners apply their own consumption criteria to pet food: they want to know what it contains, where it comes from, what benefits it provides, and under which ethical and environmental standards it was produced. It is no coincidence that the congress's three thematic pillars align almost perfectly with these expectations.

The strategic consequence is clear: scientific validation and professional ethics have become critical competitive differentiators. In a market where everyone makes promises, the winners are those who can provide proof. The challenge for companies is not to treat these demands as marketing checks, but rather to integrate them authentically into product design, formulation, and manufacturing processes. Today's consumers quickly recognize the difference between cosmetic claims and real benefits. Lasting innovation begins with science and reaches the shelf—not the other way around.
What opportunities do you see today for Latin American companies seeking to grow and compete in an increasingly globalized market?
The first opportunity is structural and unique to the region. Latin America is a powerhouse in both animal and plant protein production, which places it in a privileged position relative to the three major trends driving the global agenda: naturalness, which requires fresh meat and high-quality raw materials; functional nutrition, which depends on differentiated ingredients; and sustainability, which favors short, traceable supply chains. We already have many of the resources the world is looking for.

The second opportunity lies within the fastest-growing market segments. Premiumization continues to gain momentum, while the wet pet food segment—which still has relatively low penetration in the region—is expanding faster than dry food. At the same time, fresh, cooked, baked, and freeze-dried formats are gaining ground rapidly. In recent years, we have seen a steady increase in the establishment of these types of production facilities in Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina—a phenomenon that was once largely limited to multinational corporations is now increasingly being driven by local companies as well.

The third opportunity is the one I am most passionate about: knowledge. Competing in a globalized market no longer depends solely on industrial scale; it increasingly depends on the ability to innovate with scientific support. In this regard, Latin America possesses a tremendous asset that is sometimes underestimated: its talent. This is demonstrated by the CIPAL program itself, which brings together local experts who interact with world leaders on an equal basis. A Latin American company that invests in formulation, university partnerships, genuine sustainability initiatives, and strong scientific communication can compete with any global player as equals and may even move faster in niche markets where large corporations are slower to adapt or have different business priorities.

My conviction is that the region is at a turning point. We have raw materials, consumers who value their pets more than almost anyone else in the world, and the technical talent needed to support a differentiated value proposition. The challenge is to align these three elements through a long-term strategic vision. Events like CIPAL exist precisely to accelerate that alignment—to enable knowledge sharing, foster partnerships, and help the Latin American pet food industry evolve from a trend follower into an increasingly influential trend creator.

I look forward to seeing you in September. Discover the full CIPAL 2026 program at https://cipal.com.ar/program

Thank you, Juan Manuel, for sharing your insights and expertise with the All Pet Food community! By Juan Manuel Peralta
Source: All Pet Food Magazine

Interviews Automation, Flexibility and Quality: Simatek Bulk System’s Vision for the Future of the Pet Food Industry

5+ MIN

29/07/2026

Automation, Flexibility and Quality: Simatek Bulk System’s Vision for the Future of the Pet Food Industry

Simatek Bulk Systems has built a strong presence in process technology for the pet food industry. How do you evaluate the current opportunities and challenges within the European and Latin American pet food markets?
The pet food industry continues to grow in both Europe and Latin America, driven by increasing pet ownership and the trend of pet humanization. Consumers are demanding higher-quality products, more premium ingredients, and greater product variety.

For manufacturers, this creates opportunities to expand production capacity while maintaining product quality and consistency. At the same time, challenges include rising raw material costs, labor shortages, stricter sustainability requirements, and the need for greater production flexibility.

In both regions, producers are looking for reliable automation solutions that can improve efficiency while protecting product integrity. This is particularly important in pet food applications where product appearance, shape, texture, and coating quality directly influence consumer perception and brand value.

As product quality becomes an increasingly important differentiator, gentle handling throughout the production process is essential to minimize breakage, dust generation, and product waste.   What solutions and technologies is Simatek Bulk Systems currently highlighting for pet food manufacturers looking to improve efficiency, automation, and product handling?
Simatek Bulk Systems specializes in gentle conveying solutions designed to transport fragile and valuable pet food products with minimal degradation and product loss.

A key technology is our Pendulift Bucket Elevator®, which allows manufacturers to move kibble, treats, pellets, extruded and coated pet food both vertically and horizontally while maintaining product integrity. The buckets remain level throughout the conveying process, significantly reducing breakage, dust generation, and product segregation.

One of the unique advantages of the Pendulift Bucket Elevator® is its ability to incorporate multiple inlet and discharge points within a single conveying system. This provides pet food manufacturers with greater flexibility in plant design and production flow, allowing products to be distributed efficiently between processing, coating, storage, and packaging areas while minimizing transfer points and product handling.

In addition, we offer the Drumfeeder, a unique solution designed for the gentle transfer of products between different processing stages. Unlike conventional transfer points that can subject products to impact and mechanical stress, the Drumfeeder provides a smooth and controlled product flow, helping preserve product quality throughout the process.

Together, the Pendulift Bucket Elevator® and Drumfeeder help manufacturers: Reduce product breakage and waste.  Preserve coating quality and product appearance.  Minimize dust generation and product segregation.  Improve production efficiency and product yield.  Simplify complex product flows through multiple inlet and discharge configurations.  Ensure reliable and automated product handling throughout the facility. 
  Furthermore, our systems feature compact designs, low energy consumption, and high operational reliability, enabling manufacturers to optimize plant layouts while reducing operating costs.

By combining gentle handling with efficient automation, we help pet food manufacturers improve productivity while maintaining the high product quality that consumers expect.  
 
The pet food industry is increasingly demanding more flexible and sustainable production methods. How is Simatek Bulk Systems adapting its solutions to meet these evolving market needs across different regions?
Flexibility and sustainability are key priorities for today's pet food producers.

We address these needs through solutions specifically designed to protect products while optimizing production efficiency. Our modular Pendulift Bucket Elevator® systems can handle a wide variety of product shapes, sizes, and densities, enabling manufacturers to adapt quickly to changing recipes, product formats, and market demands.

The ability to integrate multiple inlet and discharge points within the same conveyor system also provides manufacturers with the flexibility to accommodate future production expansions and process changes without major modifications to plant infrastructure.

The Drumfeeder further supports these objectives by ensuring gentle product transfer between processing equipment. By reducing product damage and minimizing fines generation, manufacturers can achieve higher yields while reducing unnecessary waste.

From a sustainability perspective, our technologies contribute to: Lower product losses.  Reduced energy consumption.  Improved resource utilization.  Higher production efficiency.  Less rework and waste disposal. 
  As sustainability targets become increasingly important across Europe and Latin America, solutions that improve yield and reduce waste will play a growing role in helping manufacturers meet both environmental and economic objectives.

We work closely with customers worldwide to tailor solutions to their specific products, production capacities, facility layouts, and local requirements, ensuring long-term value and operational performance.   Looking ahead, what trends do you believe will shape the future of pet food production in Europe and Latin America, and how is Simatek Bulk Systems preparing to support manufacturers through these changes?
Several trends are expected to shape the future of pet food production: Continued growth of premium and functional pet food products.  Increased automation and digitalization of production facilities.  Greater focus on sustainability and waste reduction.  More product variants and shorter production runs.  Higher quality expectations from consumers.  Increased demand for traceability and process optimization. 
  As pet food products become more sophisticated and valuable, manufacturers will place even greater emphasis on preserving product quality throughout the production process. Gentle handling will therefore become increasingly important.

At the same time, producers will increasingly require flexible conveying solutions that can support more complex plant layouts and evolving production requirements. The ability to transport products gently while serving multiple process lines from a single system will become an important competitive advantage.

Simatek Bulk Systems is preparing for these developments by continuously enhancing technologies such as our Pendulift Bucket Elevator® and Drumfeeder, which are specifically designed to protect fragile products while supporting highly automated production environments.

Our focus is to help manufacturers increase throughput, reduce waste, maintain product quality, and create more sustainable operations. By ensuring gentle handling at every stage—from product transfer to conveying—we enable producers to meet future market demands without compromising product integrity.
  We believe that the combination of automation, flexibility, sustainability, and gentle product handling will be key to the next generation of pet food manufacturing, and we are committed to supporting our customers throughout that journey.

As production requirements continue to evolve across Europe and Latin America, automation, flexibility and careful product handling will play an increasingly important role in helping manufacturers remain competitive. Through innovative conveying solutions, Simatek Bulk Systems continues to support pet food producers in improving operational efficiency while maintaining the quality consumers expect.

Find out more at https://simatek-bulk.com/ By Michael Hvid, Head of Sales at Simatek Bulk Systems
Source: All Pet Food

Interviews Jerry Frankl on Innovation, Growth and APC’s Commitment to Customers

3+ MIN

08/07/2026

Jerry Frankl on Innovation, Growth and APC’s Commitment to Customers

As President & CEO of APC, Frankl combines deep industry knowledge with a strong commitment to delivering value and supporting customer success. In this interview, he reflects on his professional journey, the evolution of APC, and the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of the animal nutrition industry.
APC has grown into a global reference in specialty ingredients. When you look at the company today, what evolution makes you most proud? And what keeps you ambitious?
What makes me most proud is how APC has grown from its early focus on plasma technology into a global leader in functional proteins. Since our founding in 1981, we have stayed committed to understanding how these ingredients can support animal health and performance, and that commitment has led to more than 700 peer reviewed studies.

Today, we are not only delivering high quality ingredients, but also providing insights backed by research, technical expertise, and real-world application.

What keeps me ambitious is the opportunity ahead. There is still so much to learn about how nutrition can support animal health, productivity, and sustainability. Our mission is to help animals thrive, and that continues to drive our investment in innovation and continuous improvement.
Many multinational companies talk about 'being close to the market.' For APC, what does regional presence truly mean in practice, especially in Latin America?
For APC, being close to the market means more than having a presence in the region. It means having the right people on the ground who understand local production systems, customer priorities, and day-to-day challenges.

In Latin America, this shows up in how our team works alongside customers, building relationships and staying engaged in their operations. That proximity allows us to respond quickly, offer practical support, and anticipate needs before they become challenges.

It also reflects how we operate as a company. We take ownership, stay connected, and focus on delivering real outcomes for our partners.
How is APC adapting its solutions to meet the specific needs and dynamics of customers across Latin America?
Latin America is a diverse region, and each market has its own set of needs and opportunities. Our approach is to listen first and then adapt.

We work closely with customers to understand their goals, whether that is improving performance, managing health challenges, or optimizing costs. From there, we apply our knowledge and research to help tailor solutions that fit their systems and conditions.

Our continued investment in research and development plays a key role here. With a strong scientific foundation, we are able to bring practical solutions that are supported by data, while still being flexible enough to meet local needs.
Latin America is a region of both volatility and opportunity. What makes it strategically attractive for APC at this moment in time?
Volatility is part of the reality in Latin America, but it is also a region with strong potential. Animal protein production continues to grow, and there is a clear focus on improving efficiency, animal health, and overall performance.

What makes the region especially attractive right now is the combination of that growth and the need for more advanced, functional solutions. Producers are looking for ways to do more with less, and that aligns well with what we offer.

As a global company with operations across multiple regions, we are able to bring both scale and local understanding to support our partners in Latin America as they continue to grow.
If we revisit this conversation in five years, what would success in Latin America look like for APC?
Success for APC in Latin America would mean being seen as a trusted partner that customers rely on, not just for products, but for support, insight, and long-term collaboration.

It would mean continuing to build on the strong team we already have in the region, while adding even more depth and expertise locally. Strong local teams are essential to staying close to our customers and supporting them in meaningful ways.

Most importantly, success would be measured by the impact we have in helping our customers improve performance, support animal health, and operate more efficiently. 

Ultimately, our success is reflected in the success and growth of our customers.
  With more than four decades of experience and a strong commitment to functional nutrition, APC continues to invest in solutions that support animal health, productivity and sustainable growth across the animal nutrition industry. Find out more at: www.apcproteins.com  
  By Jerry Frankl
Source: All Pet Food

Interviews The Road to Zoomark 2027: Shaping the Future of the Global Pet Industry

3+ MIN

06/07/2026

The Road to Zoomark 2027: Shaping the Future of the Global Pet Industry

In this interview, Pascale Sonvico, Show Office and Sales Manager at Zoomark, shares the event's vision for the future, its response to emerging market trends, and the innovations companies can expect in 2027, 11-13th May in BolognaFiere (Italy)   Looking ahead to Zoomark 2027, what are the main objectives and vision for the next edition of the event?
Zoomark 2027 aims to further strengthen its role as one of the leading international business platforms for the global pet industry. Our vision goes well beyond organising a successful trade show: we want Zoomark to be a continuously active ecosystem where business, innovation, networking, and knowledge sharing create value throughout the year.
  The strong market response already confirms this direction, with more than 60% of the exhibition space reconfirmed well in advance. Our goal is to welcome over 1,500 exhibitors and more than 33,000 highly qualified visitors from around the world, while continuing to foster meaningful business opportunities and long-term international partnerships.
  Ultimately, Zoomark 2027 will be a place where companies can not only showcase their products, but also anticipate market trends, discover new business opportunities, and connect with the key players shaping the future of the pet industry.
How is Zoomark evolving to respond to current trends in the global pet food industry and strengthen its international reach?
The pet industry is evolving rapidly, driven by innovation, sustainability, premiumisation, technology, and changing consumer expectations. Zoomark evolves alongside the market by continuously adapting both its exhibition offering and its business services.
  Our established special areas—Factory, Next, Atelier, Aqua Project, Pawfect!, and Pet Vision—allow visitors to explore every stage of the pet value chain, from manufacturing and ingredients to retail innovation and consumer trends. For 2027, Pet Vision will be further enhanced through the involvement of retail professionals, providing even deeper insights into the products and concepts shaping tomorrow's market.
  Internationalisation also remains one of our strategic priorities. Through the expanded Buyer Program, developed with the support of ITA/ICE, we will welcome an even larger number of qualified buyers from specialised retail, grocery, e-commerce, and wholesale channels. Advanced matchmaking tools and a dedicated Incoming Team will help exhibitors maximise the quality of their business meetings.

Beyond the exhibition itself, initiatives such as PetBridge powered by Zoomark, launching in India in 2026, demonstrate our commitment to building strategic connections between fast-growing international markets and the global pet industry.
What new initiatives, formats, or opportunities can companies expect from the 2027 edition?
Zoomark 2027 will introduce several important developments while building on the successful formats that exhibitors and visitors already value.

One of the main highlights will be Beyond, a brand-new special area dedicated to memorial care and end-of-life services for companion animals, reflecting the evolution of the pet industry toward products and services that support the entire lifecycle of pets.
  The exhibition will also expand with the addition of Hall 37, creating more space for exhibitors and enabling further growth across product categories.
  Companies will once again benefit from the three curated thematic paths—Italian Style, Tech for Future, and Greenmark—which have been further refined to make product discovery even more intuitive and targeted. In parallel, multiple conference stages throughout the exhibition halls will host an extensive programme of talks, expert panels, and industry updates covering the most relevant trends affecting both the Italian and international markets.
  Finally, exhibitors will have access to an even more effective business platform thanks to enhanced digital matchmaking, pre-scheduled B2B meetings, and an expanded international buyer programme, ensuring that participation in Zoomark translates into concrete business opportunities and valuable global connections.
As preparations for Zoomark 2027 continue, the event remains focused on providing an international platform where innovation, networking, and business development come together.
  To learn more about Zoomark 2027, visit: www.zoomark.it Source: All Pet Food

Interviews <strong>Rob Strathman</strong>, Famsun President: “The Companies That Balance Innovation, Scalability and Cost Will Stand Out” 

4+ MIN

29/05/2026

Rob Strathman, Famsun President: “The Companies That Balance Innovation, Scalability and Cost Will Stand Out” 

To begin, could you briefly tell us about your professional journey and how you came to your current position within Famsun?      I like to say I got my start pretty early. I grew up on a dairy farm where I was feeding calves when I was 6 or 7, and before long I was running the farm's feed delivery, grinding, and mixing systems. Looking back, I probably had close to 10 years of practical feed milling experience before I ever stepped foot into college. 
  When I arrived at Kansas State, I didn't have everything figured out, but once I found their Feed Science program, it clicked pretty quickly. Extrusion especially caught my attention. I ended up working in their pilot plant and even teaching parts of a graduate program my senior year, which was a great experience for an undergraduate. 
  After joining Wenger Mfg., I spent a lot of time on the road commissioning systems. Very early on, I realized that while we knew how to run extrusion systems through trial-and-error, the 'why' behind them wasn't well understood. That pushed me to dig deeper. I eventually stumbled onto a new budding science at the time called glass transition, which was a theory being used to explain how heat and moisture affected physical properties of processed food. It was one of those 'lightbulb' moments for me. Once I started using these ideas, extrusion became much more predictable.  
  Later on, at Hill's Pet Nutrition, I moved into a factory optimization role. We focused heavily on reducing waste and improving uptime, but what I'm most proud of is helping build a more data-driven factory environment. The combination of good data and continuous improvement dramatically changes how a plant performs. I witnessed factories go from a reactive firefighting mode to a proactive streamlined operations.     From your perspective, what are the main challenges the pet food industry is currently facing in terms of production and plant efficiency?     Improving factory performance remains critical, especially in inflationary periods. The biggest barrier is often a lack of quality data that shows systemic system weaknesses. The kind that are counter intuitive and left hidden behind the noise of a complex process. 
  Going digital and building a data-driven culture, supported by automation and continuous improvement programs, are key to characterizing inefficiencies, implementing lasting solutions, and sustaining peak factory performance.    The demand for more sophisticated products, such as functional, premium, and highly traceable pet food, continues to grow. How is this impacting plant design and processing technologies?     Every consumer wants safe and nutritious products. Food safety, which includes traceability, is paramount in factory, process, and product design. Traceability is a function of the factory control software. Our MOM software is designed with this function deeply embedded. 
  At the same time, product and ingredient diversification creates challenges in plant design, especially around flexibility and bin space, so systems must be designed with future growth in mind.    In a context of increasing competition and more demanding markets, how can pet food producers differentiate themselves through technology and their production capabilities?     We're seeing a lot of new formats entering the market like freeze-dried, steamed, baked, and others, as companies look for ways to stand out. In many cases, it's the same core nutrition, just delivered in a different form with a different consumer story around it. 
  That creates opportunity, especially from a marketing standpoint, but it also introduces some real challenges on the production side. Many of these processes are batch-based or lower throughput, which can make them more expensive and harder to scale compared to traditional extrusion. 
  Where technology really comes into play is in flexibility. Producers that can design systems to handle multiple product types, or adapt to shifting trends, will be in a much better position long term. At the same time, there's still a strong need to maintain efficiency and control costs, especially for high-volume production. 
  So, in my view, differentiation isn't just about creating something new, it's about finding the right balance between innovation, scalability, and cost. The companies that can do all three well are the ones that will stand out.    Thanks, Rob, for sharing your vision with the All Pet Food Community!  By Rob Strathman
Source: All Pet Food

Interviews Dr. Rowena Arzt on Interzoo 2026 and the Future of the Pet Industry

5+ MIN

06/05/2026

Dr. Rowena Arzt on Interzoo 2026 and the Future of the Pet Industry

Each new edition of Interzoo brings together key players from across the global pet industry. What were the main objectives set for this edition, and what new features or developments would you highlight compared to previous years?
Interzoo is the world´s leading trade fair for the pet industry. As it befits a perfect host, we not only want to lay the groundwork for successful business projects but also aim to pave the way for the growth and development of our industry in general. We want to provide guidance and inspiration, which is why Interzoo offers so much more than just exhibition space. We support the various segments of the pet industry by creating high-quality networking opportunities and formats where exhibitors and visitors can exchange ideas, discuss the latest trends, and forge new connections. 
 
This is especially important with all the changes and geopolitical challenges we are facing around the world. The ongoing changes require companies to be more agile and lead to greater diversity and stronger market fragmentation. Taking this into consideration, we created a supporting program to match, offering something for everyone. The topics for our high-caliber academy sessions range from single market analysis to healthcare and social media, and we have a dedicated platform for the pressing issue of successful cross-border procurement processes. 
 
A particular highlight that I'm personally looking forward to is the first Interzoo Sustainability Conference on 11 May, the day before the trade fair begins. This conference is aimed at CSR managers and sustainability experts in the pet industry, as well as anyone interested in sustainability in this sector.  
 
Another highlight is the first Interzoo Groomers' Day on 14 May, a new event for groomers and professionals in the pet care sector. And of course, Interzoo is delighted to welcome the Petfood Forum Europe again, which will also take place on 11 May.
This edition brings together a wide range of companies. Could you share what types of exhibitors will be present, and which countries or regions will have the strongest representation?
With over 2,350 exhibitors, visitors to Interzoo 2026 can certainly expect a very diverse range of companies and brands. On top, we will have 36 exciting presentations of brand-new ideas and concepts from start-ups and established players alike. 
 
The majority of the Interzoo exhibitors will present food, accessories and services for dogs and cats, but of course there will also be many exhibitors showcasing products for small animals and rodents, ornamental birds, aquatics and terrarium animals. The pet food technology sector will also be well represented this year, with at least 235 companies and brands set to display their latest solutions.

I think there will be many stunning new products on view. Many exhibitors focus on their product development specifically on Interzoo, using our trade fair as a platform for the world premiere of their innovations.
 
As I mentioned earlier, Interzoo is more diverse than ever, offering a truly unique and comprehensive overview of the international pet industry. Almost 88% of exhibitors at the world's leading trade fair come from abroad. After companies from Germany, the largest contingents of exhibitors come from China, Italy, Turkey, the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, the USA, Poland and the UK. New exhibiting countries that were not present at the previous Interzoo 2024 are Egypt, Kazakhstan, Mexico and Saudi Arabia. And you can look forward to a total of 16 country pavilions, representing China, France, the UK, Hong Kong, India, Italy, Canada, Malaysia, Spain, Sri Lanka, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, the Czech Republic, Turkey and the USA. Turkey, Thailand and Spain are represented with their own country pavilions for the first time.
Interzoo's program often anticipates key market trends. Which topics or industry challenges will be at the center of this year's conferences and activities?   This year, sustainability ranks high on our agenda. Sustainability is increasingly influencing the product development, raw material sourcing, packaging, and brand positioning of pet food manufacturers. A growing number of pet owners want to feed their pets sustainably. In Germany, for example, a recent study by TakeFive Media showed, that almost 50 per cent of pet owners prefer sustainable solutions and are willing to spend more money for it. According to the Pet Sustainability Coalition, 62 per cent of pet owners in the USA are much more likely to buy sustainable product vs.46 per cent of non-pet owners. In addition to changing consumer behavior, stricter legal requirements, such as the EU Supply Chain Act as well as anti-greenwashing initiatives, are forcing manufacturers to produce more sustainably, too. 
 
Recognizing the significance and need for sustainability, Interzoo is dedicating a separate conference to this key topic for the first time on 11 May, at the Interzoo Sustainability Conference. This inaugural conference will open with a keynote by Elliott Harris, former Deputy Secretary-General of the UN. It will cover a wide range of topics from segmenting green pet parents to AI-powered solutions for measuring a product's carbon footprint to sustainable aquarium fishery in the Amazonas. The conference will offer practical recommendations for implementing changing regulations, strategic perspectives, and numerous networking opportunities. We will also be selecting the first Interzoo Sustainability Award recognizing outstanding initiatives or business solutions within the international pet industry that create a positive impact.
 
Additionally, there is a new 'Sustainability' Showcase just behind the entrance 'Mitte', showcasing the latest sustainable products in the pet sector.
 
The second major trend is healthcare and wellness. An increasing number of pet owners consider their pets as part of the family and as a result, animal lovers care just as deeply about their pets' wellbeing as they do about their children's. They want to ensure their pets have a long life and want to take preventative measures to keep their pets healthy and fit. Therefore, you can expect to see a lot of premium food, functional snacks and supplements for dogs, cats and rodents, as well as innovative products for health monitoring at Interzoo 2026. We will also have a dedicated Healthcare Academy Session this year and a special Healthcare Showcase behind entrance Mitte
 
There is clearly an overlap between these two key topics when it comes to ingredients.
To conclude, what message would you share with professionals and companies who are considering attending or participating in this edition of Interzoo?
The growing exhibitor numbers from every continent confirm that Interzoo is the essential meeting place for industry decision-makers worldwide. The entire pet industry from all five continents comes together in Nuremberg during Interzoo! 
 
At Interzoo, global business contacts can be maintained, and new supplier relationships are established. For four days, industry and retail experts, as well as start-ups, come together to discuss ideas and visions, expand their networks, and develop business partnerships, of course. As a trade fair, Interzoo reflects market trends and serves as a marketplace for opportunities. It is a barometer of trends and a testing ground for new ideas and concepts.
 
The atmosphere and energy are truly inspiring. So don't miss out when the who of the pet industry gathers at the world's leading pet trade fair in May! We look forward to meeting you at Interzoo.
Thank you, Dr. Rowena Arzt, for sharing your insights with us. To learn more about Interzoo 2026, visit their official website: https://www.interzoo.com/en
  By Dr. Rowena Artz
Source: All Pet Food

Interviews The Interview: Aulus Cavalieri Carciofi, Coordinator of the Pet Food Committee of CBNA

5+ MIN

04/05/2026

The Interview: Aulus Cavalieri Carciofi, Coordinator of the Pet Food Committee of CBNA

How has your path as a professor and researcher in animal nutrition developed, and which areas have you primarily focused on over the years?
I am a veterinarian, graduated from FMVZ/USP in 1991, where I completed both my master's degree in nutrition and my PhD in nutritional diseases. In 1998, I began teaching at the Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias (FCAV) at UNESP, Jaboticabal campus, at the Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery. Within the veterinary hospital, we established a clinical nutrition service for dogs and cats that focuses on treating patients requiring nutritional support for specific diseases. At the same time, veterinarians are trained to work in this field. It was a challenging yet rewarding initiative.

In 2002, in collaboration with the former company Guabi, now MBRF Pet Food, we built the 'Prof. Dr. Flávio Prada' research laboratory dedicated to nutrition and nutritional diseases in dogs and cats. This was something new, particularly within the Brazilian model of collaboration between industry and public universities. Over time, a network of trust was established among all stakeholders, demonstrating that it is possible to conduct internationally relevant, neutral research with material support from the private sector. Today, we have a group of dogs and cats, and we've conducted research on nutrition and health that has led to practical changes in the work of professionals in clinical nutrition care and food production companies—which makes it highly rewarding. In parallel, we developed a food extrusion laboratory, equipped with a complete extrusion system for dogs, cats, and aquatic organisms, supported by Manzoni Industrial. These three pillars—the clinical nutrition service, the research laboratory, and the extrusion facility—complement and strengthen each other in generating knowledge and training specialized professionals. However, they would not function without public funding and contributions from companies in the nutrition sector, which support all projects. With strong participation from students and collaborators, we have also created two biennial events at FCAV/UNESP, running for over 20 years, which have contributed to disseminating knowledge across Brazil and Latin America: one focused on clinical nutrition and the oter in industrialized food production.

Our work at the university has always been to educate and support undergraduate and graduate students, bringing together scientists and technical professionals capable of contributing to the growth of the pet food sector in Brazil. Today, former students from our program are present in companies, universities, clinics, and laboratories both nationally and internationally, which is deeply gratifying.
Based on your experience, how has dog and cat nutrition evolved in recent years from a scientific perspective?
Globally, evolution has been very positive. However, it is important to recognize that significant gaps remain in fundamental data, including requirements for amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, particularly for dogs and cats in maintenance stages. Brazil has followed this trend and, in some areas, has even led this growth. At international conferences, the country stands out for both the number and quality of researchers and scientific contributions. For example, at last year's European College of Veterinary and Comparative Nutrition congress (Leipzig, Germany), Brazil had the highest number of participants and scientific contributions in pet food. Of the four awards presented at the event, two were granted to Brazilian researchers, highlighting the country's research capacity. However, some aspects of the sector's growth are concerning—particularly the excessive humanization of dogs and cats. This trend has unnecessarily complicated feeding strategies, increasing costs and the environmental impact of pet food. This issue, more related to commercial evolution than scientific progress, deserves broader discussion to achieve a better balance.
You are currently a member of the CBNA committee and its coordination. What is your role within the institution, and what objectives are pursued?
The CBNA (Brazilian College of Animal Nutrition), as an institution dedicated to nutrition, is currently chaired by veterinarian Godofredo Mitenberg. Our role is to coordinate the Pet Committee, which is responsible for organizing the CBNA PET Congress. I consider this congress to be one of the most important technical events globally in nutrition and pet food production. Its applied, technical, and integrated approach covering both individual nutrition—addressed in the workshop of nutrology held the day before, coordinated by SBNutriPet (a committee integrated to CBNA)—and production, industrial, and safety aspects, gives the event a unique profile not commonly seen in other international congresses. As part of a dedicated and highly qualified team, all decisions and programming are developed collectively with the Technical Committee, aligning with the sector's needs. This has positioned the event as a key platform for disseminating innovations, concerns, and trends that have supported the growth of the Brazilian pet food industry.
The CBNA PET Congress is highly relevant from a scientific perspective. How is the agenda defined, and what criteria are prioritized?
The program is structured around four main areas: nutrition, processing, safety, and market. Although nutrition receives greater emphasis due to CBNA's core expertise, professionals from different sectors find valuable content related to professional development, technical solutions, and continuous learning. The scientific committee, comprising both industry professionals and academic members, defines the program, ensuring a balance between practical needs and scientific rigor. The committee actively gathers feedback from participants, including suggestions for future topics to align with real industry demands.
Currently, in the field of dog and cat nutrition, which research areas do you consider most relevant and with the greatest application potential for the industry?
There are traditional areas that will always require further research, such as a deeper understanding of nutritional requirements and ingredient utilization, as well as their metabolic implications. The effects of raw material processing have also been a long-standing focus, particularly regarding extrusion and its impact on nutritional value and the metabolism of starch and proteins.

In a global context marked by the growth in human and animal population, research on by-products and sustainable sources of protein and energy with lower environmental, social, and economic impact has become critical. Food safety and nutritional stability during shelf life are also key research areas related to quality and nutritional safety, especially considering the prolonged consumption of pet food products. While there has been strong scientific output in nutraceuticals and functional ingredients, more fundamental research areas still require greater attention from the scientific community.
In a rapidly evolving pet food industry, what are the main trends and challenges you foresee in the short and medium term?
It is necessary to further mature the relationship between commercial strategies and the scientific foundations of nutrition. Driven by the global humanization trend, companies are innovating across nutrition, processing, and product presentation—often following patterns observed in the human food market. However, it is important to recognize dogs and cats as species with specific nutritional requirements that differ from those of humans and must be respected. Academia, regulatory bodies, and society all play a role in this process. Addressing this challenge in the mid- to long-term is crucial to reach dynamism, financial growth, as well as nutritional quality, animal health, and environmental and social sustainability. By Aulus Cavalieri Carciofi
Source: All Pet Food Magazine

Interviews Michel Bauer Pereira from FAMSUN: “Brazil is Becoming a Strategic Hub for Advanced Pet Food Manufacturing in Latin America” 

5+ MIN

31/03/2026

Michel Bauer Pereira from FAMSUN: “Brazil is Becoming a Strategic Hub for Advanced Pet Food Manufacturing in Latin America” 

Michel Bauer Pereira is a seasoned professional in the pet food industry with extensive experience in processing and extrusion technologies. As Technical Director of the Pet Food Business Unit at FAMSUN, he is responsible for business development and strategic market expansion across Latin America and other key regions. His work combines deep technical expertise in extrusion systems, from grinding and conditioning to extrusion, drying and coating, with a strong focus on process efficiency, industrial performance and long-term collaboration with pet food manufacturers. 
  Brazil is one of the most dynamic pet food markets in Latin America. How does Famsun assess the current stage of the Brazilian industry, and what opportunities do you see for advanced manufacturing solutions?    Famsun assesses Brazil's pet food industry as entering a structural upgrade phase driven by premiumization. As the largest market in Latin America, accounting for 62.1% of the regional share in 2025 and expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.98% between 2026 and 2031, Brazil presents strong opportunities, although the industry still faces a manufacturing gap between the growing demand for premium products and existing production capacity. The key opportunity lies in deploying intelligent, flexible, low-carbon and regulatory-aligned advanced manufacturing solutions that help producers capture high-growth segments while optimizing total cost of ownership (TCO). 
  FAMSUN supports pet food companies in enhancing product competitiveness and differentiation by providing customized solutions for premium positioning and sustainable development. Our high fresh-meat extrusion and baking technologies enable the production of high-end dry pet food. In addition, our integrated solutions for wet food, treats and cat litter help brands expand their product portfolios and strengthen their overall market competitiveness. 
  Famsun's solutions are designed to address Brazil's specific industry needs through four key areas. First, intelligent and flexible production lines that support premium, functional and small-batch pet food production, enabling fast product changeovers and stable nutritional control. Second, high-efficiency and low-carbon processing technologies reduce energy consumption and operational costs while meeting thef growing demand for sustainable production. Third, solutions adapted to local ingredients, optimizing the use of Brazil's abundant raw materials such as soy, corn and regional functional ingredients, improving yield and product consistency. Finally, digital smart factory systems with full-process traceability and real-time monitoring, helping producers comply with strict regulatory requirements while enhancing operational stability. 
  Beyond infrastructure investments, how is Famsun strengthening its long-term presence in Latin America in terms of local support, technical services and partnerships?    Beyond infrastructure investments, Famsun's long-term strategy in Latin America is based on localization, empowerment and collaborative value creation. We adopt a 'local for local' approach, with a regional hub in São Paulo and Portuguese- and Spanish-speaking teams across key markets. Regional spare-parts warehouses in São Paulo and Mexico City allow parts delivery within 48–72 hours. This network is complemented by 24/7 remote diagnostics and on-site technical service within 72 hours for critical situations.    Our technical services include full turnkey pet food plant solutions, from plant design to post-launch optimization. Localized training programs in Portuguese and Spanish help teams strengthen operational and maintenance capabilities, while customized programs address specific regional challenges such as local raw material optimization. We also collaborate with universities and industry associations to tailor solutions to regional needs. In summary, Famsun's long-term presence in Latin America is built not only on infrastructure but also on trust, local engagement and collaborative value creation within the industry ecosystem. 
  More than 200 manufacturers in Latin America use Famsun equipment annually. What makes Brazilian producers particularly demanding, and how does Famsun adapt its solutions to meet these expectations? 
  Brazilian producers stand out for their combination of cost discipline, premium quality expectations, strict regulatory compliance and raw material variability challenges, making them among the most demanding in Latin America. Producers must balance tight margins, driven by taxation and inflation, with consumer demand for premium, functional pet food comparable to international standards. At the same time, the reliance on local raw materials such as soy, corn and tropical ingredients requires production systems capable of handling variable raw material quality while maintaining stable output. 
  Brazil also has strict regulatory requirements. The Ministry of Agriculture mandates full batch traceability and strict safety standards, particularly for export markets. Additionally, the rapid expansion of the premium segment requires flexible production lines capable of small-batch manufacturing, rapid product changeovers and multi-product capabilities. 
  To address these challenges, Famsun develops localized, flexible and TCO-optimized solutions. Our production lines are designed to reduce energy consumption by 20–30% and incorporate predictive maintenance technologies that can reduce unplanned downtime by more than 40%. We optimize extrusion and drying parameters to stabilize raw material variability and improve yield and product consistency. Our integrated digital systems provide end-to-end traceability and real-time quality monitoring to ensure compliance with Brazilian regulatory standards. Flexible extrusion technologies, such as modular twin-screw extruders, support fast product switches and the stable production of high-meat, premium and functional pet food. In addition, our São Paulo hub provides localized support through Portuguese-speaking engineers, rapid spare-parts delivery and 24/7 remote diagnostics. 
  Automation and smart factory systems are becoming key differentiators. How is Famsun helping Brazilian pet food producers improve efficiency, traceability and sustainability through integrated solutions?    Famsun is transforming Brazilian pet food production by replacing fragmented manual processes with integrated digital systems. Our FMOM (Manufacturing Operations Management) platform enables the development of smart factories where efficiency, traceability and sustainability are integrated into the plant's operational structure. The system acts as the operational 'brain' of the factory, automatically generating production schedules and reducing central control workloads by more than 80%. 
  By minimizing equipment in idle time and implementing predictive maintenance strategies, producers can reduce failure rates by up to 50%, ensuring greater operational reliability and production continuity. Ultimately, Famsun provides a transparent and self-optimizing production ecosystem that allows Brazilian producers to scale operations while maintaining the high standards of quality, efficiency and resource management required by the modern pet food market. 
  Looking ahead, what role will Brazil play in Famsun's global strategy for pet food and feed manufacturing? 
  As the largest and most advanced pet food market in Latin America, Brazil plays a strategic role in Famsun's global expansion. The country acts as both a gateway to the regional market and a testing ground for advanced solutions focused on premiumization, intelligent manufacturing, and sustainable production. Famsun will continue investing in local technical innovation, service capabilities and talent development to support the ongoing transformation of Brazil's pet food industry.    In short, Brazil is a key pillar in Famsun's long-term strategy to strengthen its position in high-end pet food processing and to advance intelligent manufacturing solutions worldwide.    Discover more about FAMSUN solutions and technologies for the pet food industry at www.famsun.com.  By Michael Bauer
Source: All Pet Food

Interviews <strong>CS Petfood & Aquafeed Symposium</strong>: Clivio Solutions’ Initiative to Strengthen Technical Knowledge in the Region

4+ MIN

11/03/2026

CS Petfood & Aquafeed Symposium: Clivio Solutions’ Initiative to Strengthen Technical Knowledge in the Region

With a career linked to the development of industrial projects in the animal nutrition sector, Diego Clivio has participated over the years in numerous plant design, optimization, and expansion projects across Latin America. This experience has allowed him to work closely with technical teams from different companies, gain insight into the operational challenges faced by industrial facilities, and deepen his understanding of the technologies involved in production processes within the sector. Based on this background, he founded Clivio Solutions, a company focused on connecting technical knowledge, technological innovation, and development opportunities for the pet food and aquafeed industries, supporting companies across the region in the implementation of industrial solutions and projects.   Clivio Solutions has taken a further step by launching the CS Petfood & Aquafeed Symposium 2026. What motivated you to create this dedicated space for technical training and networking?   The main motivation was quite clear: we feel that there is a strong need for high-level technical spaces in our region, where professionals can truly learn, exchange experiences, and openly discuss plant-level challenges.

Many industry events tend to have a more commercial or large-scale focus. We wanted to create something different: a more focused and technical gathering with a limited number of participants, where discussions can be deeper and truly useful.

The symposium was created with that idea in mind: bringing together plant decision-makers, international specialists, and technology companies to analyze processes, share experiences, and build meaningful connections among industry colleagues.   From your perspective as founder, what needs do you currently see among professionals in the pet food and aquafeed sectors that this symposium aims to address?   Today, industry professionals are facing a very demanding scenario. Production plants must become increasingly efficient, automated, and consistent in quality while operating under tight cost control and adapting quickly to market changes.

In this context, there is often limited access to practical information—how other plants solve certain operational challenges, which technologies deliver the best results, or which process decisions truly impact efficiency.

The symposium aims to address this gap by sharing applicable knowledge, real plant experiences, and technical perspectives that can help professionals involved in operations or management make better decisions.   The event proposes an analysis of trends, challenges, and applicable tools. What topics do you consider critical for technical decision-makers in production plants?   Several topics are particularly relevant today. One of them is process efficiency, especially in areas such as grinding, dosing, extrusion, drying, and material handling. Even small improvements in these stages can impact on costs and overall plant performance.

Another key area is plant automation and digitalization, which increasingly enable better process control and more informed, data-driven decision-making. Additionally, topics such as food safety, contamination control, ingredient management, and energy optimization are becoming increasingly important.

The goal of the symposium is to address these subjects from a practical perspective, with specialists who work on these challenges on a daily basis.   What role does networking play in an increasingly technological and automated industry? Why does in-person interaction remain important?   Technology is evolving rapidly, but the industry is still, to a large extent, a people-driven business.
Many of the best ideas and solutions emerge from informal conversations among professionals who face similar challenges. That is what networking enables: learning from others, gaining new perspectives, and building relationships based on trust. 

In-person interaction has a value that is difficult to replace. It enables more open conversations, spontaneous exchanges of ideas, and the opportunity to create connections that later develop into collaborations or projects.

That is why we wanted the symposium to also include a strong peer-to-peer interaction component.   How does this Symposium align with Clivio Solutions' long-term vision within the industry?   For us, the symposium is a natural extension of what we aim to do with Clivio Solutions.

Our vision has always been to connect knowledge, technology, and people within the industry, helping projects and production plants evolve with a more global perspective.

The symposium contributes to that goal by creating a space where regional professionals can access international expertise, discuss emerging trends, and generate new opportunities for collaboration.

We believe initiatives like this help strengthen the industrial ecosystem of the region.   Finally, what message would you give to professionals considering attending the CS Petfood & Aquafeed Symposium 2026?   I would say that if you work in the pet food or aquafeed industry and have technical, operational, or management responsibilities, this event is specially designed for you.

It is not only about attending presentations, but about participating in a space for learning, sharing experiences, and networking with the industry.

Because the event will have limited capacity, we want every participant to make the most of their time, interact with specialists, and take away concrete ideas to apply in their own plants.
Our goal is that participants return to their companies with new perspectives, connections, and opportunities.

To learn more about the Symposium and register, visit:
https://www.cliviosolutions.com/simposio-cs By Clivio Solutions
Source: All Pet Food
 

Interviews From Sampling to Sustainability: Tekpro’s Role in Modern Production Plants

3+ MIN

10/03/2026

From Sampling to Sustainability: Tekpro’s Role in Modern Production Plants

Tyrone Moy is responsible for driving Tekpro's global strategy and market expansion, working closely with both new and existing clients to strengthen product quality, sampling accuracy and operational reliability across feed and grain industries. In his role, he focuses on helping manufacturers implement proven technologies such as the Samplex bulk samplers, the Holmen pellet durability testers and the Insectomat insect detection system, solutions designed to ensure representative sampling, optimize quality control and support more efficient and reliable production processes.   From a global perspective, how does Tekpro position itself within the pet food industry, and what role do your solutions play in modern production plants?
Tekpro is recognized worldwide as a leader in sampling and pellet durability testing technologies, ensuring that every stage of the feed and pet‑food supply chain is backed by accuracy and consistency. Our Samplex samplers support reliable raw‑material intake, Holmen testers ensure pellet durability and product quality, and the Insectomat protects facilities from insect related contamination risks — all essential pillars of a modern, high‑performance production plant.    The pet food sector continues to evolve in terms of efficiency, traceability, and quality standards. How do Tekpro's technologies help manufacturers meet these increasingly demanding requirements?
Tekpro solutions give manufacturers tight process control and trustable quality data. Samplex delivers representative raw‑material samples for traceability and compliance, Holmen testers guarantee pellet durability to reduce rework and customer complaints, and the Insectomat enables early detection of infestation risks. Together, they reinforce consistency, safety, and audit readiness. 
In Latin America, producers face specific operational and economic challenges. How are Tekpro's solutions adapted to the realities of the LATAM market?
LATAM producers need reliability, simplicity, and strong ROI — exactly where our equipment excels! Samplex systems offer rugged, low‑maintenance sampling for busy intake points, Holmen testers improve pellet‑quality efficiency without over‑engineering, and the Insectomat helps prevent costly grain losses. These tried and tested solutions fit perfectly into facilities seeking global‑level performance without inflated operating costs. 
Beyond equipment or automation, what strategic advantages can pet food companies gain by implementing Tekpro's solutions in their production processes?
Tekpro elevates a producer's entire competitive position. Better sampling leads to smarter buying decisions, Holmen testing reduces waste and improves pellet durability, and early insect detection protects inventories. The result is lower operating costs, stronger claims about quality, and a more trustworthy product in the eyes of customers and regulators. 
  Sustainability and operational optimization are key priorities worldwide. How does Tekpro contribute to improving productivity while reducing waste, energy consumption, or operational risks?
Our technologies eliminate inefficiencies at critical control points. Representative sampling reduces material waste and disputes, Holmen testers cut reprocessing energy by ensuring pellets meet durability targets the first time, and the Insectomat prevents spoilage-related losses. Tekpro helps plants operate cleaner, safer, and more efficiently — with tangible reductions in waste and risk. Additionally, within our UK headquarters, we utilise renewable energy to power our factory, offices and vehicles wherever possible!
  Thanks, Tyrone, for sharing your expertise and vision about the industry with us! 
Discover more about Tekpro solutions at https://tekpro.com/ By Tyrone Moy, Sales Manager at Tekpro
Source: All Pet Food

Interviews The Interview: Stanley Andrade, Director of MBRF Pet

6+ MIN

03/02/2026

The Interview: Stanley Andrade, Director of MBRF Pet

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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