19/12/2024

Data-driven Innovation for Robust Product Consistency

Palatants are flavor enhancers used in pet foods to improve their palatability and increase pet acceptance. Developing an effective palatant involves a systematic approach to selecting the best combination of ingredients that provide the optimal aroma and taste for cats and dogs. However, some ingredients have inherent natural variability that must be managed to ensure the robustness and consistency of the palatants.   To address this, an innovative data-driven approach utilizing several analytical techniques can be implemented. Chemical characterization of raw materials—focusing on parameters such as protein, ash, fat, moisture, amino acids, and biogenic amines—is essential for monitoring variability between different types and suppliers of these raw materials.   Ensuring robustness and consistency involves several key steps:   1. Comprehensive Ingredient Analysis: Regularly analyzing raw materials for their chemical composition helps identify and control variability. This analysis includes measuring levels of proteins, fats, moisture, and other critical components.
2. Predictive Modeling: Utilizing advanced predictive modeling techniques can classify chemical fingerprints of raw materials quickly and accurately. These models help in anticipating and compensating for variations, maintaining a consistent quality in the final product.
3. Supplier Evaluation: Continuously evaluating suppliers based on the chemical profiles of their materials ensures that only the most consistent and high-quality raw materials are used.
4. Quality Control Protocols: Implementing stringent quality control protocols at various stages of production helps in detecting and addressing any deviations from the desired chemical profiles.   By integrating these strategies, the development of palatants can achieve higher robustness and consistency, leading to better product performance and increased pet satisfaction.   DATA-DRIVEN ANALYTICAL TECHNIQUES   These techniques involve leveraging data analysis methods to inform decision-making.     PREDICTIVE MODELING FOR CONSISTENCY   The integration of fingerprints data with advanced predictive modeling techniques allows for the classification and comparison of raw materials. Machine learning algorithms can be trained on the chemical fingerprints to predict the quality and consistency of the those samples, ensuring that variations are detected and managed effectively.     IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY   This step is important to develop actionable strategies for optimizing processes and outcomes.     CONCLUSION   A data-driven approach to managing the variability of natural raw materials in palatants and pet food can significantly enhance product consistency and robustness. By leveraging advanced techniques such as chemical characterization, fingerprint analysis, and predictive modeling, we ensure our products meet the highest standards of quality and palatability for pets.   This innovative strategy not only maintains consistency but also drives continuous improvement in our product offerings. By comprehensively analyzing raw materials, rapidly classifying chemical fingerprints, and implementing predictive models, we can anticipate and mitigate variations, leading to a more reliable product.   Moreover, continuous supplier evaluation and stringent quality control protocols ensure that only the best ingredients are used, further reinforcing the robustness of our palatants. This holistic approach not only meets current quality standards but also sets a foundation for ongoing enhancement and innovation in pet food flavor enhancers.   For more information, contact AFB's Customer Technical Insights team by visiting afbinternational.com/contact or your AFB Account Representative.   Source: AFB International

16/12/2024

Protein digestibility kinetics: A key criterion for discriminating between protein sources in pet food (Part 1)

Introduction    The search for innovative protein sources is on the rise as a result of increasing global food consumption and consumer concerns about sustainability, animal welfare, and strain on agricultural land. In line with the humanization trend, pet owners are likely to select a pet food based on their own dietary preferences. Moreover, the increased awareness of the importance of proper nutrition has led pet owners to become more and more careful when looking at pet food labels. Clean label is amongst the top trends in the pet food market and seems to be driven by the perceived link between health and naturalness. Consequently innovative protein sources are of great interest in the Pet Industry as a way to meet the growing market demand for pet nutrition.    Proteins: The importance of digestibility and absorption kinetics    Proteins are biological macromolecules made up of amino acids. Protein bioavailability is strongly related to its amino acid composition, size, and mass range. Big proteins, proteinassociated molecules and nucleic acids have lower digestibility compared to free amino acids and small peptides, which have been exposed to a multiple nitrogen hydrolysis process that makes them more bioavailable (Figure 1).      The digestion process is complex. It is driven by enzymatic activities and is pH dependent. In monogastric animals, this process starts in the stomach where protein denaturation occurs due to pepsin activation. In the duodenum, pancreatic and intestinal wall enzymes continue the digestion process, breaking down the proteins. The absorption of amino acids, dipeptides and tripeptides occurs in the jejunum. The large intestine is the site of microbial fermentation, where short chain fatty acids (SCFA) are produced.    Supplying animals with a protein source that is already processed and rich in free amino acids and small peptides helps ensure better absorption in the gut.    Protein digestibility of feed materials is an important factor for nutritionists, but it does not reflect the timing of absorption in the gut. The kinetics of protein absorption should be considered in addition to protein digestibility. It allows nutritionists to properly assess the quality of the protein source. Many properties and functionalities of proteins are related to their absorption kinetics. The kinetics of protein absorption helps categorize the protein fraction according to the speed of absorption. Four categories can be defined as flash, fast, slow and resistant along the digestive tract (Figure 2).     Did you know? Indigestible proteins are used as a substrate for undesirable bacteria in the gut, inducing proteolytic fermentation. 
Ultimately, it may lead to diarrhoea due to microbiota dysbiosis (Jung Gao et al., 2019). Therefore, the higher the protein digestibility, the greater the protein source for animals from a digestive standpoint.    Kinetics of protein absorption: How is it measured?     Several in vitro methods simulating the digestive processes have been developed to estimate the protein digestibility and the kinetics of absorption.    For example, the Boisen standard method (Boisen and Fernandez, 1995) is very accurate in measuring in vitro protein digestibility, which is calculated from the difference between nitrogen in the raw material sample and undigested residue measured at different time points of the intestinal pase (Figure 3).     Did you know? In most cases, validation of the methods is based on the relationship between in vitro results and values of apparent digestibility at the fecal or ileal level (Furuya et al., 1979; Metz and van der Meer, 1985; Graham et al., 1989; Cone and van der Poel, 1993). However, endogenous losses of proteins at the ileal level might have a great influence on in vivo digestibility while in vitro digestibility reflects the real digestibility of proteins and amino acids (Boisen and Eggum, 1991). Since in vitro digestibility does not take into account endogenous losses, the apparent ileal digestibility can only be predicted accurately from in vitro measurements, after correcting for the endogenous losses. 
These losses may be influenced by a variety of factors, especially the fiber content in the diet (Taverner and Farrel, 1981; Wünsche et al., 1987). Alternatively, a considerable part of this variation may be explained by the amount of undigested dry matter at ileal level (Boisen, 1991).    By: Francesca Susca -Global Pet Product Manager- and Lisa Saibi -Product Manager Yeast derivatives & antioxidants   Source: Lallemand Animal Nutrition 

05/12/2024

LALPROBIOME, the Lallemand Animal Nutrition’s platform for Pet well-being

BLAGNAC, FRANCE – December, 2024 – Lallemand Animal Nutrition is proud to introduce you to LALPROBIOME, its platform of innovative microbial solutions tailored for pets. The brand offers a broad range of yeast and bacteria-based solutions including prebiotics, probiotics, postbiotics and antioxidative solutions. From digestive care to immune support, antioxidant optimization to cognitive function, LALPROBIOME offers a broad range of specific solutions allowing for petfood, treat, and supplement customization and differentiation.   Dr. Francesca Susca, Global Pet Category Manager, explains: 'Our company is a global leader in the selection and application of microbial strains to address nutrition and well-being of human and animals. We've capitalized on this legacy to bring LALPROBIOME to the petfood market. LALPROBIOME leverages the natural power of yeast and bacteria with cutting edge science to support pet health and well-being.'   She added: 'We understand that every business is unique, which is why we're thrilled to offer LALPROBIOME. This gives our customers the ability to elevate and differentiate their brands with novel ingredients that support unique and specific benefits. LALPROBIOME products have been exhaustively tested for safety and efficacy, providing customers with proven, healthy products.'   Lallemand's LALPROBIOME solutions can bring benefits such as: Digestive care Immune support Antioxidant optimization Nutritional optimization Palatability Well-being (gut-brain axis)   About Lallemand Animal Nutrition
Partnering in microbial solutions for a changing world   We are Lallemand Animal Nutrition – a global leader in the science of fermentation – and a primary producer of yeast and bacteria. Our passion is harnessing microorganisms to optimize animal well-being and performance, forage management, and the animal environment. We remain unwavering in our commitment to helping our industry partners and farmers sustainably feed a growing global population through improved animal performance – and enhancing the well-being of livestock & companion animals.   We provide the broadest range of innovative microbial products, services and solutions for customers around the world.
We deliver tailor-made services according to your specific needs and offer expert technical support to ensure the optimal application and efficacy of our solutions.
Leveraging the natural power of yeast and bacteria, we develop, produce and market highly technical products including probiotics, silage inoculants, and microbial derivatives. Using sound science, proven results and knowledge from experience, we apply the right strains for the right applications.
Lallemand Animal Nutrition is Specific for your Success!
For more information, please visit https://lalprobiome.lallemandanimalnutrition.com Connect with us at [email protected] Not all products are available in all markets nor associated claims allowed in all regions.

Source: Lallemand Animal Nutrition

03/12/2024

Spray-dried plasma included in the formulation allows for higher meat inclusion in diets

  Several initial tests were completed to prove the concept. The dry blend feed rate was established, and adjustments in fresh meat and SDP feed rates to the dry blend feed rate were evaluated initially with a twin-screw extruder. Limits were determined by the extruder inability to continue the production of kibble. Feed rate ranges from 2.5 to 20% SDP and 25-50% fresh meat were evaluated. With initial concept testing, SDP feed rates from 2.5 to 20% allowed for increased fresh meat feed rates to 45-50% depending on the feed rate of SDP and formulation type.     Follow-up evaluation tests were completed formulating SDP into the dry blend with the least cost formulation. These formulas were evaluated on both single and twin-screw extruders. Targets of 2.5 and 5.0% SDP in the final kibble were formulated into the dry blend in both grain-free and grain formulas. Ranges of meat feed rates from 25 to 45% were again evaluated. Overall, the addition of plasma in the dry blend formula allows formulators to increase meat levels while improving kibble durability and palatability, all while increasing meat inclusion levels.   REVIEWING KEY RESULTS   INCLUSION RATES & DURABILITY / SINGLE SCREW EXTRUSION WITH GRAIN-FREE FORMULA   35% MEAT CONTROL VS. 2.5% AP 920/35% MEAT     CONCLUSIONS   • Plasma included in the formulation allows higher meat inclusion in diets. • Cook and Durability are maintained or improved. • Palatability was improved in both cat and dog kibbles.     By: Dr. Joy Campbell, Senior Director of Global Pet Food Technical Service, APC   Source: All Pet Food Magazine  

27/11/2024

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

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

19/11/2024

Caring for our pets' bacteria

A few years ago, it seemed incredible to think that our bodies contain more bacterial cells than human ones, but this is indeed the case. In a 70 kg human, the number of bacteria is around 3.8 x 10¹³, while human cells are estimated at 3 x 10¹³. Some studies even suggest this difference could be greater, making us a true ecosystem where various types of bacteria coexist with our own cells. This concept is not only applicable to humans but also to other animals, including our pets.   Pets are now perceived as family members, and the efforts to improve their diet and health have drastically increased in recent years. Numerous advances in understanding how the bacteria in their bodies affect their health have made the search for new foods and products to care for these bacteria fundamental in maintaining a healthy balance.   The microbiome and its importance   The set of microorganisms that coexist in balance within the bodies of our companion animals is known as the microbiome. The microbiome plays a crucial role in the host's health, protecting against pathogenic microorganisms, modulating the immune response, contributing to the production of neurotransmitters, and participating in digestive processes such as fibre breakdown. The microbiome in a specific part of the body is called the microbiota, and depending on its location, certain types of bacteria will predominate. Thus, in the same animal, the bacteria living on the skin, in the mouth, or in the intestines will differ. Moreover, the microbiome is specific to each individual and depends on factors such as hygiene habits, stress, the animal's age, its living environment, contact with nature, and diet.   A prolonged imbalance in the microorganism population can lead to dysbiosis, which, in turn, can trigger various diseases. For instance, in the mouth, dysbiosis can cause dental problems, gum inflammation, bad breath, digestive issues, promote the growth of caries-causing bacteria like Streptococcus mutans, or even increase the risk of cardiovascular or neurological diseases. In the gut, dysbiosis is associated with diseases like irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease, which alters the intestinal microbiota that disrupts key functions such as metabolite production and the intestinal barrier. This can lead to symptoms like diarrhoea, vomiting, loss of appetite or weight, though some pets may be asymptomatic. Treating dysbiosis involves dietary changes and the use of prebiotics, probiotics, or symbiotics, alongside managing underlying gastrointestinal conditions.   On the other hand, the loss of beneficial bacteria leaves a niche available for opportunistic microorganisms, which can be pathogenic for both our pets and us. This is the case with some bacteria like Escherichia coli or Clostridium perfringens in dogs. Microorganisms may not always be serious pathogenic for animals, but they can be for humans, as in the case of toxoplasmosis (Toxoplasma gondii) in cats, highlighting how our health is directly linked to that of our pets.   Helping to care for their microbiome   As we have seen, it is essential to care for our pets' microbiomes to maintain their health, focusing on proper nutrition and habits. Among the available foods, some can help maintain, enrich, or enhance the microbiota in their digestive system. An example of this is foods rich in prebiotics, compounds that our pets cannot metabolise, but which serve as food for the beneficial bacteria in their bodies. Compounds, such as plant fibres, fructooligosaccharides, beta-glucans, various arabinogalactans, and inulin are particularly effective in promoting the development of intestinal microbiota. These compounds can be found in pet-safe foods like pumpkin, sweet potatoes, chicory root, or wheat bran, among others.   Numerous studies have shown that consuming foods rich in prebiotics boosts the abundance of microorganisms from the Bacteroides, Bifidobacterium, or Lactobacillus genera, all of which are beneficial. Another advantage of prebiotics is that, since pets cannot digest them, they help control weight by reducing calorie intake and suppressing appetite.   Another noteworthy group is probiotics. These foods contain live microorganisms that, when consumed in adequate amounts, can colonize different parts of the digestive tract, protecting the host from pathogens and directly benefiting health. Many probiotics belong to the lactic acid bacteria genus, which can be cultivated and introduced into our pets' diets.   Fermented foods typically consumed by humans, which contain bacteria from the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium genera or fungi like Aspergillus, also offer such benefits. Currently, new functional foods include these strains in prepared foods for both humans and pets, usually obtained from healthy individuals and tested to ensure they promote balance and provide health benefits. An example is the colonization of Lactobacillus bacteria that has been shown to reduce pathogenic bacteria from the Enterobacteriaceae genera or C. perfringens in dogs. When a probiotic is combined with a prebiotic, results in a symbiotic. These products enhance the benefits of both by providing both positive strains and the food they need to thrive in their target niche, typically a segment of our pets' intestines.   Lastly, postbiotics are metabolites produced by bacterial activity. These include short-chain fatty acids, enzymes, antimicrobial peptides, and other compounds. A subgroup of postbiotics is parapostbiotics, which are postbiotics obtained after lysing the bacteria that produced them, preventing their viability and development in the host. Industrial biotechnology has utilized these metabolites as natural preservatives since many microorganisms produce substances that inhibit the growth of undesirable microbes. By optimising the production and purification of these compounds, it is possible to offer natural and sustainable solutions to improve both food and cosmetics, extending the shelf life of these products.   Development at 3A BIOTECH   We are committed to a comprehensive development of these three key areas for the proper functioning and maintenance of intestinal microflora: we combine prebiotics from our raw materials, develop products with probiotics cultivated from our own strains, and obtain the best blends of postbiotics, ready for application by our clients to their products. Under these principles, at 3A BIOTECH we have developed the Bioprotect range, formulations with 100% natural ingredients that allow our clients to use clean label ingredients. These products are not only more environmentally friendly but also offer safer alternatives to synthetic compounds, meeting the growing demand for more natural and sustainable options.   Among this range is Bioprotect-RT, a product enriched with reuterin, a natural postbiotic with activity against Salmonella, produced by the probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri, which is well known for its benefits in both oral and intestinal health. One of our standout solutions in this range is Bioprotect-DF, a product generated from the fermentation of the bacterium Propionibacterium acidipropionici, enriched with short-chain fatty acids with antifungal activity, ideal for wet pet food.   This line comes as a result of expanding our facilities, including larger volume bioreactors, or as we like to call them, biofactories. These large tanks are essential for maintaining the optimal conditions for microbial growth and production of the desired compounds. Additionally, local waste by-products can be used as raw materials in these bioprocesses, improving the sustainability of the region—a fundamental principle for our company.   In addition to the Bioprotect range, we have developed other innovative formulations that not only promote intestinal microbiomes in humans and pets but also act as antioxidants and preservatives in foods, enhancing their shelf life. Furthermore, they improve the organoleptic profile, adding distinctive aroma, flavour, and texture, making products more palatable and attractive to pets.   At 3A BIOTECH, we aim to expand into new markets, building new biofactories to become leaders in Spain and developing new product lines for both human and animal nutrition. With the help of our microorganisms, we will continue to be "The shield for tomorrow's well-being" for years to come.   By: 3A BIOTECH   Source: All Pet Food Magazine

05/11/2024

AFB International Celebrates Grand Opening of Asia Pacific Regional Headquarters and Manufacturing Facility in Thailand

With this facility in Asia, AFB will be able to enhance operational efficiency and ensure a more reliable supply chain, allowing for faster delivery and improved service.   'The opening our facility in Thailand marks a major milestone in our global expansion efforts. Our customers asked us to be local, and now we are! This facility strengthens our commitment to the region, allowing us to better serve our customers with enhanced efficiency, speed, and local support,' said Dale Spence, President of AFB International, reflecting on the milestone.   The new facility will serve as the regional hub for AFB International's Asia Pacific operations, bringing together corporate offices, manufacturing, R&D, and quality teams under one roof.   'Thailand, the world's third largest pet food exporter, is an ideal location for our new facility,' said Bas Melssen, General Manager/Vice President of Asia Pacific. 'As a hub for innovation in the pet food industry, Thailand aligns perfectly with our commitment to advancing product development and manufacturing excellence. Establishing our Asia Pacific headquarters here allows us to leverage Thailand's expertise and leadership in the sector, being closer to our existing customers here, while further enhancing our ability to innovate and meet the growing demands of the region.'   'Our Thailand facility is a crucial step in aligning our operational goals with our sustainability objectives,' noted Stephanie Hackmann, Vice President of Global Operations, recognizing the broader impact of the new facility. 'By localizing production, we can serve our customers more efficiently, respond faster to their needs, and significantly reduce transportation-related emissions – a win for both efficiency and the environment.'   The opening ceremony welcomed over 130 guests from 7 countries, including representatives from leading pet food manufacturers and trade associations across Asia.   Following the formal opening ceremony, AFB will continue the celebration at the company's booth N01 at Pet Fair Southeast Asia 2024, taking place from October 30 to November 1, 2024, at the Bangkok International Trade & Exhibitions Center (BITEC) in Bangkok, Thailand.   'This is a proud moment not only for our company but for the community we are becoming a part of,' Melssen added. 'We welcome all industry professionals to visit our booth, join the festivities, and learn more about the exciting new chapter we're starting with our facility in Thailand.'   About AFB International AFB International was founded in 1986 in St. Louis, Missouri, USA with a vision to create the best palatants and make pet food taste great. Today we are an international company with resource centers and production facilities designed to service pet food manufacturers across the world. Our portfolio of palatants are formulated to deliver optimal performance for each customer's unique needs.   About Ensign-Bickford Industries Ensign-Bickford Industries, Inc. (EBI), founded in 1836, is a privately-owned high technology conglomerate, which today is focused on space & defense, pet food science, and biotechnology. They participate in businesses that are relevant to the future of the world and have multi-generational growth prospects.   Source: AFB International

22/10/2024

All in on alternative proteins

The pet food industry is continually challenged with anticipating future trends and addressing evolving expectations from pet owners, such as a heightened focus on the environmental impacts of the products they purchase—from where and how ingredients are grown to how the foods are produced and packaged. At the same time, pet food brands are navigating ever-evolving regulations to reduce their own environmental impact, while also addressing increasing consumer demands for sustainability.   Environmentally conscious consumers as well as people choosing plant-forward lifestyles are fueling rising interest in alternative proteins—including plant-, insect- and cell-based sources. For instance, 42 percent of global pet owners say they want to purchase pet food with sustainably sourced ingredients, and one in five pet owners like to see plant-based or vegan claims on pet products, according to The Humanization of Pets 2023, a report released by market research firm FMCG Gurus. Brands that seize and invest in this new growth frontier will gain a competitive edge to meet pet owner demands.   Adopting alternative proteins   Plant- and yeast-based proteins can be used in pet food and treats to supplement or replace animal proteins. Even insect protein, like dried black soldier fly larvae (BSFL), is being used in some pet foods today. However, like the human nutrition market, reassurance is needed about the taste and nutrition of pet products made with novel ingredients to influence consumer buying behaviors and garner acceptance. ADM, a global leader in innovative solutions from nature, is investing in research to support the inclusion of alternative proteins in pet food.   For example, ADM partnered with researchers at the University of Illinois to determine the biological availability of essential amino acids from various plant- and yeast-based ingredients for use in dog and cat foods. The research, which appeared in articles published in the Journal of Animal Science and Journal of Translational Animal Science in 2020, found that dogs and cats were able to digest and absorb plant-based protein sources, such as soy, just as well as those of traditional animal protein.   Notably, ADM conducted a canine feeding study to better understand the nutritional value of flexitarian and vegan dog foods compared to conventional dog food containing animal-based proteins. In the study, dogs were assigned to one of four test foods: a conventional dog food as the control, two flexitarian foods formulated with either pea protein or soy protein and a vegetarian food. Results, published in a 2024 ADM Technical Bulletin, demonstrated that flexitarian and vegetarian dog foods, formulated with low or no inclusion of animal-sourced ingredients, can effectively meet the nutritional needs of adult dogs. These diets were shown to be palatable, digestible and supported a healthy gut microbiome in dogs.   "Sustainability efforts, such as emissions reductions, are a key factor both upstream and downstream of the pet specialty sector because environmental impacts are felt all along the supply chain."   Insect proteins are taking off   Among the insect-derived ingredients currently used in pet products is the black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens). Agtech company Innovafeed is a leading producer of black soldier fly larvae ingredients. Hilucia Protein and Oil contain unique components, including lauric acid, bioactive peptides and chitin. Lauric acid is a medium-chain triglyceride, a fatty acid prevalent in coconut oil, and is being studied for its potential benefits. The black soldier fly expresses over 50 unique bioactive peptides, which are small proteins with unique properties. Chitin acts as a dietary fiber to support digestive health. These components are in addition to the highly digestible essential amino acids that help dogs and cats meet their requirements.   ADM and Innovafeed collaborated on a research study carried out at the University of Illinois that investigated the protein quality of BSFL in dogs. The goal of the study was to determine the suitability of BSFL as a nutritious substitution for other commonly used protein ingredients in pet food. One trial measured the digestible indispensable amino acid score (DIAAS), a score based on amino acid digestibility that is used to assess protein quality. DIAAS values for Hilucia Protein were compared to scores for chicken meal, a high-quality common ingredient in pet food, and powdered egg, considered the gold standard for protein quality. Results demonstrated that Hilucia Protein is a suitable substitute for chicken meal in pet foods.   A second feeding trial examined dog diets that were specifically formulated for this research, including a controlled diet made with chicken meal, a diet that included 15 percent Hilucia Protein, and another test diet that included 30 percent Hilucia Protein. These levels represented using insect protein as a partial substitution for chicken meal and one that replaced chicken meal entirely. Findings indicated that the Hilucia Protein at both 15 percent and 30 percent inclusion was well accepted by the dogs. Additionally, all the diets had average fecal scores between 2 and 3, which is considered ideal. Researchers also noted that macronutrient digestibility values were very similar between the three diets, again suggesting that Hilucia Protein performs similarly to chicken meal in dog diets.   Furthermore, a 2024 ADM Outside Voice survey of U.S.-based dog and cat owners found consumers can be educated to enhance their likelihood of serving pet food made with insect protein. Initially, only 12 percent reported being "completely likely," while 43 percent expressed being "not likely at all" to feed their pets insect-based food. When asked the question again after receiving educational statements covering nutrition, safety, ethics and environmental benefits, 42 percent became more willing to consider purchasing insect-based pet food. This increase in consumer acceptance suggests that there is potential for growth in the market for insect-based pet food. This research is summarized in a new white paper, Pet Parent Perceptions of Insect Protein in Pet Food, and available in ADM's new Pet Nutrition Customer Academy on adm.com.   A real-life example of this education recently became reality with Innovafeed's "Powered by Hilucia" label being used by brand partners, Jiminy's and Arch Pet Food, that incorporate BSFL ingredients in their products.   Sustainability in the supply chain   Sustainability efforts, such as emissions reductions, are a key factor both upstream and downstream of the pet specialty sector because environmental impacts are felt all along the supply chain. Responsible sourcing of ingredients for pet products may include regenerative agriculture practices with soybean crops from field to market. As another example, manufacturing facilities can draw on renewable energy or focus on packaging made with recyclable materials.   Besides its alternative source of proteins and oils for pet diets, Innovafeed employs an "industrial symbiosis" production model. Indoor insect farms will be strategically located alongside grain processing facilities—such as ADM's corn processing plant in Decatur, Ill.—to upcycle grain byproducts as feedstock for Hermetia illucens, eliminating the need for energy to dry the feedstock and trucks required for transport.   Additionally, the Pet Sustainability Coalition (PSC), a nonprofit organization that strives to advance business through profitable environmental and social practices, is dedicated to creating a more sustainable pet industry by providing assessment tools, strategic support, accreditation and events. Members of the coalition include consumer brands, ingredient suppliers like Innovafeed and ADM, pet trade media, retail stores, packaging companies and more.   Tomorrow's innovations today   When presented a choice, more consumers are opting for sustainable and healthy options for themselves and their pets. Plus, a majority of pet owners say they are trying to make a difference to the environment through their buying habits. With more pets in the home than ever, there is a growing urgency to provide pet products that also support a circular economy.   For instance, ADM Ventures, the corporate venture capital division of ADM, has invested in startups like Bond Pet Foods to continue expanding available protein sources and responsible production practices in the pet nutrition sector. Bond Pet Foods will employ precision fermentation technology to make nature-identical chicken and other meat proteins for innovative pet food applications. Remarkably, this precision fermentation process requires no animal proteins.   With innovations such as these, the pet product market will continue to advance toward sustainability in the race to address the needs of environmentally minded consumers.   Source: Pet Product News

08/10/2024

Vegetable biocholine: An alternative to use choline chloride in pet food

By Erika Stasieniuk

Choline, also known as vitamin B4, is found in all ingredients used in the formulation of dog and cat foods, with greater availability in animal products, mainly in poultry by-product flour.   The classification of choline as a B-complex vitamin is controversial, as it does not behave as a coenzyme in metabolism and is required in higher amounts than other B-complex vitamins (Bertechini, 2013). Reis et al. (2012) highlight that, unlike other B-group vitamins, choline can be synthesized in animal livers because of serine amino acid in the presence of folic acid and vitamin B6. Due to its organic function, choline does not strictly fit the definition of a vitamin and could be considered an essential amino acid (Bertechini, 2013).   Nutritional recommendations of choline in dogs range from 1,640 to 1,890 g/1,000 g of dry matter. In cats, vary from 2,400 to 3,200 g/1,000 g of dry matter, depending on the animal life stage and energy maintenance needs according to FEDIAF (2021).   These recommendations are partially fulfilled with ingredients used in animal formulation. However, depending on the amount of animal ingredients, it can be necessary to supplement it with choline chloride. This compound salt is produced by chemical synthesis and is widely used in the pet food industry.   According to Leeson and Summers (2001), Combs Jr. (2008), and Ruts (2008), the powder form of choline chloride is extremely hygroscopic and can hasten the deterioration of other vitamins upon contact. On the other hand, the liquid form is highly corrosive and requires specialized equipment for handling and storage (Mcdowell, 2000). These characteristics make the handling of choline chloride in the feed mill or premix challenging, which can compromise the premixing with other microingredients and result in the loss of vitamins (Mallo and Paolella, 2017).   Naturally, choline is found in foods as phosphatidylcholine. This substance is made of esterified fatty acids and the choline itself. In agreement with Leeson & Summers (2001), Combs Jr. (2008), and Rutz (2008), less than 10% of choline in food is in free form or as sphingomyelin, which are analogs of phosphatidylcholine containing sphingosine instead of fatty acids.   In plants, it is found in phosphatidylcholine, free choline, and sphingomyelin forms. Nowadays, there are natural products that come from plants with a high content of choline in esterified form providing a high bioavailability, which can be an important alternative to the use of synthetic choline chloride.   One of these alternatives to the choline, called vegetable biocholine, is derived from vegetable extracts of the following plants: Trachyspermum ammi, Citrullus colocynthis, Achyranthes aspera, Azadirachta indica, Acacia nilotica, Silybum marianum, Andrographis paniculata, and Ocimum sanctum. It is worth mentioning that the composition of commercial vegetable biocholines available on the market may vary among suppliers.   The lower hygroscopicity of vegetable biocholine is positive as it reduces water-soluble vitamins in premixes compared to choline chloride. This is due to the reduced free water content in the mixture, resulting in a lower potential reactive. Moreover, excess water can cause operating problems in dog and cat feed mills.   Although there is limited research on pets, vegetable biocholine has been successfully used in broiled chicken and laying hens, demonstrating positive results in feed conversion, manufacturing, and egg weight (Chen, 2007; Calderano, 2015).   Three diets were evaluated in 40 Beagle dogs in a study conducted by Mallo and Paolella (2017): the first includes an herbal source of choline, the second with choline chloride, and the third as a negative control diet. Results demonstrated no significant differences in dog's preference for diets in quality and quantity of feces, or blood protein profile. However, compared to negative control diets, a reduction of triglyceride levels and HDL was observed in choline-supplemented diets.   Mendoza-Martinez et al. (2022) conducted a study with the following treatments: non-supplemented diets (377 mg choline/kg), choline chloride (3,850 mg/kg equal to 2,000 mg choline/kg diet), and vegetable biocholine (200, 400, and 800 mg/kg) for 60 days. Both sources of choline indicated similar responses, but vegetable biocholine demonstrated additional properties, such as prevention of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, cancer prevention, and inflammatory and immune response. Moreover, it affects the behavior and cognitive processes of dogs.   Nascimiento et al. (2022) concluded that vegetable biocholine could replace choline chloride in canine nutrition, as it does not damage lipid metabolism and other functions of the organism. On the contrary, there was an improvement in other functions, especially due to the significant reduction of liver enzymes, total cholesterol, and triglyceride.   By Erika Stasieniuk and Ludmila Barbi   Source: All Pet Food Magazine

19/09/2024

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

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

09/09/2024

Data-Driven innovation for robust product consistency

To address this, an innovative data-driven approach utilizing several analytical techniques can be implemented. Chemical characterization of raw materials—focusing on parameters such as protein, ash, fat, moisture, amino acids, and biogenic amines—is essential for monitoring variability between different types and suppliers of these raw materials.   Ensuring robustness and consistency involves several key steps: Comprehensive Ingredient Analysis: Regularly analyzing raw materials for their chemical composition helps identify and control variability. This analysis includes measuring levels of proteins, fats, moisture, and other critical components. Predictive Modeling: Utilizing advanced predictive modeling techniques can classify chemical fingerprints of raw materials quickly and accurately. These models help in anticipating and compensating for variations, maintaining a consistent quality in the final product. Supplier Evaluation: Continuously evaluating suppliers based on the chemical profiles of their materials ensures that only the most consistent and high-quality raw materials are used. Quality Control Protocols: Implementing stringent quality control protocols at various stages of production helps detect and address deviations from the desired chemical profiles.   By integrating these strategies, the development of palatants can achieve higher robustness and consistency, leading to better product performance and increased pet satisfaction.   Data-driven analytical techniques   These techniques involve leveraging data analysis methods to inform decision-making.       Predictive modeling for consistency   The integration of fingerprint data with advanced predictive modeling techniques allows for the classification and comparison of raw materials. Machine learning algorithms can be trained on the chemical fingerprints to predict the quality and consistency of those samples, ensuring that variations are detected and managed effectively.       Implementation strategy   This step is important to develop actionable strategies for optimizing processes and outcomes.       Conclusion   A data-driven approach to managing the variability of natural raw materials in palatants and pet food can significantly enhance product consistency and robustness. By leveraging advanced techniques such as chemical characterization, fingerprint analysis, and predictive modeling, we ensure our products meet the highest standards of quality and palatability for pets.   This innovative strategy not only maintains consistency but also drives continuous improvement in our product offerings. By comprehensively analyzing raw materials, rapidly classifying chemical fingerprints, and implementing predictive models, we can anticipate and mitigate variations, leading to a more reliable product.   Moreover, continuous supplier evaluation and stringent quality control protocols ensure that only the best ingredients are used, further reinforcing the robustness of our palatants. This holistic approach not only meets current quality standards but also sets a foundation for ongoing enhancement and innovation in pet food flavor enhancers.   For more information, contact AFB's Customer Technical Insights team by visiting afbinternational.com/contact or your AFB Account Representative.   Source: AFB International  

02/09/2024

Essential care for your pets' skin and coat

However, when pets' skin and coat are not adequately cared for, health conditions may arise, including allergies, hormonal imbalances that cause hair loss, and parasite infestations, such as mange and seborrhea.   A growing trend indicating the change in the relationship between humans and animals is the humanization of pets, now seen as family members. According to Mintel's report, 61% of US pet owners agree that their pet's happiness and well-being are more important than their own.¹   That humanization is reflected in family habits, which include animals spending more time indoors, allowing them to sleep on the couch or bed, and wearing more clothes.   Therefore, skin and coat health care is essential to minimize pets' exposure to harmful factors, such as allergens, microorganisms, and parasites, which can affect the well-being of pets and those living with them. So, how can we ensure our pets' skin integrity and coat health?   Ensuring pets' skin and coat health   Maintaining pets' healthy and beautiful skin and coat requires regular visits to a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment. However, following the tips below will help you maintain the skin and coat health of your cats and dogs, preventing diseases and promoting their well-being.
  Pet hygiene: Bathing and brushing are crucial to keep the skin clean and free from parasites. The frequency of bathing depends on the breed, type of coat, lifestyle, and environment in which the animal lives. It is important to animal-friendly hygiene products, dry them thoroughly, and regularly brush your pet's to remove loose coat and free from parasites. Balanced diet: A balanced diet should supply the nutrients your pet requires to maintain its skin strong, hydrated, and protected. Nutritional deficiencies may cause several dermatological conditions. Apply sunscreen: Sunscreen should be applied to thinning hair and bald patches to avoid sunburns. Caution: use sunscreens specifically formulated for pets. Prevent parasite infestation: Protect your pet from fleas, ticks, and other external parasites that can cause skin problems.   Dogs and cats can also benefit from the daily consumption of beta-glucans. Scientific evidence shows that beta-glucans can help alleviate atopic dermatitis symptoms, such as itching, redness, sloughing, thickening, and dryness. Do you want to learn more about pet skin and coat health trends? Download our e-book here!   MacroGard: Discover the mode of action of beta-glucans   MacroGard is a scientific and commercial benchmark as it is the most extensively studied source of beta-1,3/1,6-glucans used in animal feeds for their health, performance, and welfare benefits. Extracted from the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, MacroGard contains a minimum concentration of 60% beta-glucans.   Furthermore, MacroGard strengthens pets' immune systems, improves vaccine response in puppies, aids joint health maintenance, and improves the metabolism of obese animals by reducing glucose levels. To discover MacroGard and contribute to maintaining your pets' skin and coat health integrity, click here!   Pet food market demands    Pet food and product companies are aware of changes in the relationship between humans and pets and seek to meet current demands and trends. Consumers are spending more on pet care in general. According to a Mintel survey, during the last 12 months, 53% of Brazilian pet tutors reported spending more on food, 26% on hygiene and bath products, and 24% on sanitary products.¹   Therefore, the pet market has focused on skin and coat health issues. According to the same report, a greater proportion of food and pet product launches featured a low, no, or reduced allergen claim. In North America, 35% of labels presented the claim, 34% in Europe, 21% in the Asia Pacific, 11% in the Middle East and Africa, and 9% in Latin America¹.   Another significant finding was that pet tutors are increasingly aware of and value sustainable practices in pet food and product manufacturing, such as sustainable ingredients, eco-friendly materials and practices, and environmental footprint. In the US, 68% of the pet tutors between 18 and 34 years old favor pet food brands that limit their environmental impact,² while 37% of Thai adult pet tutors try to give their pets environmentally-friendly diets,¹ points out Mintel.   Biorigin has offered natural ingredients to meet the demands of the pet food market for 20 years, providing solutions that help to promote pet intestinal health, immunity, and food attractiveness.   MacroGard promotes health throughout the animal's life. Our product is a scientific and commercial reference, being the source of beta-1,3/1,6-glucans most studied and used in animal feed to maintain health and well-being. It has proven to be an effective tool to promote pets' skin, coat, and bone health, strengthen the immune system, and balance the metabolism of obese pets, among other benefits.   Thaila Cristina Putarov, Biorigin's Global Bussiness Manager of Animal Nutrition and Health, shares a fascinating insight: "MacroGard can be used at all stages of life to promote health and well-being in pets. It acts directly on the immune cells of the intestine since its molecular structure is recognized by the receptors present on these cells, which triggers the entire immunological cascade. This mechanism of action helps animals have faster and more efficient responses to everyday challenges."   For further information about Biorigin and our yeasts and yeast extracts, visit our website.   Source: Biorigin   References: ¹ Mintel - A year of innovation in pet food and products, 2024 ² Mintel - Pet Food – USA – 2023  

28/08/2024

3R's - Reduce, recycle, reuse

1. Reduction of food waste   Reducing food waste is a global challenge. According to the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations), one-third of the food produced worldwide is wasted. In the European Union, around 59 million tonnes of food are wasted annually. At 3A BIOTECH, our production of natural antioxidants and preservatives, along with the evaluation of their synergy, allows us to REDUCE food waste by controlling the deterioration of animal feed products, thereby extending their shelf life.   A significant portion of pet and livestock feed ingredients suffer from oxidation and microbial spoilage, reducing their availability and use. Increases in rancidity and microbial spoilage lead to greater wastes. We develop formulations of natural antioxidants (such as tocopherols, rosemary, olive, tea, among others) and preservatives (short and long-chain organic acids) that prolong shelf life, extending the expiry date by up to 70% or more, depending on the composition of the ingredients and the doses used.   Through this strategy of REDUCING food waste by using antioxidants and preservatives, 3A BIOTECH aligns with the European Green Deal through the Circular Economy Action Plan and the Farm to Fork Strategy.   2. Recycling of By-Products   The main activity of 3A BIOTECH includes the RECYCLING of by-products obtained from various production processes, including:   Extraction of a natural extract rich in rosmarinic acid: from recycling a by-product generated during rosemary extraction. This natural extract has technological antioxidant properties to control feed rancidity and extend its shelf life, as well as biological antioxidant properties to prevent cellular damage.   Antioxidants from olive by-products: especially from olive leaves, which have antioxidant and prebiotic properties, extending food shelf life and promoting bacterial balance.   Tocopherols from vegetable oil by-products: recycled from deodorization distillated during vegetable oil refining, they are widely known as natural antioxidants in animal feed.   Reuse of almond shells: used as a support in the formulation of natural antioxidants and preservatives.   Animal and fish by-products: used in another recycling cycle for the production of meals, fats, and oils, where we apply our additives to ensure food preservation and safety.   Our ability to recycle various industrial by-products and isolate antioxidant and preservative molecules is a hallmark of 3A BIOTECH's R&D Department.   3. Reuse of Food Ingredients   Many antioxidants and preservatives are REUSED in different applications. Natural antioxidants, besides extending the shelf life of food ingredients, have other uses:   Prebiotics: modulate the intestinal microbiota in animal and human nutrition.   Biological antioxidants: protect against cellular damage.   Technological adjuvants: control the Redox potential in fermentation processes and the drying of food colourants.   Additionally, the by-products generated at our biotechnology plant at 3A BIOTECH are REUSED to design probiotic systems in animal feed. In this regard, the cellular biomass obtained from various biotechnological processes is reused due to its probiotic properties.     4. 3A BIOTECH's triple R Model   This model makes us a company committed to and involved in the reduction of waste, recycling, and reuse of by-products, providing the animal feed industry with the economic and environmental sustainability, so essential in these times.   At 3A BIOTECH, we contribute to making moments of quality, benefiting end consumers and minimising waste by extending the shelf life of food. Our goal is to maintain organoleptic properties and health benefits for longer, reflecting our effort to return the resources consumed to society and form an eco-sustainable production chain.   By: 3A Biotech  Source: All Pet Food Magazine

23/08/2024

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

A healthy GI microbiome is essential for proper nutrient absorption, metabolism, and gut immunomodulation, which are crucial for the overall health and development of companion animals1,2. Probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics have all shown promising results in improving GI health in adult companion animals3,4,5. Given the importance of establishing a robust GI microbiome, researchers at Hill's Pet Nutrition have investigated the effects of a novel prebiotic blend on growing puppies in a recent study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science6.   Prior research using this proprietary prebiotic blend resulted in positive effects on stool quality, pH, short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production, and GI microbiome signatures in adult dogs and cats7,8. For the current study, 22 puppies between the ages of 4 and 10 months were fed a prefeed food for 2 weeks, then transitioned to the test food containing the prebiotic blend until they were 14 months old. The puppies showed normal growth and development throughout the study.   Much like the adult dog study, the puppies had marked improvements in key parameters of GI health. Stool quality was improved and fecal short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) were increased. Fecal SCFAs are important for maintaining intestinal homeostasis and supporting gut barrier function, which are important for proper nutrient absorption and metabolism. The puppies also showed an increase in serum immunoglobulin A levels suggesting an improved immune response9. Interleukin-17 (IL-17), an inflammatory cytokine, concentration decreased linearly over time and interleukin-18 (IL-18) trended towards linear decrease, which may indicate a reduction in inflammation over the course of the study. IL-7 is associated with inflammatory diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease10, while IL-18 has been associated with intestinal inflammation in mice11. While these results are promising, more work needs to be done to evaluate the effects of fiber consumption on inflammatory markers in puppies.   Overall, this research contributes to the understanding of nutritional science concerning the GI health of puppies. As one of the first studies examining the impact of a prebiotic blend in puppy nutrition, this research offers insights for creating diets that provide superior nutrition for developing companion animals.   By: Renea Creech Senior Specialist, Scientific Communications Hill's Pet Nutrition   Source: DVM 360º
    References Lyu Y, Su C, Verbrugghe A, Van de Wiele T, Martos Martinez-Caja A, Hesta M. Past, present, and future of gastrointestinal microbiota research in cats. Front Microbiol. (2020) 11:1661. doi: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.01661 Sarkar A, Yoo JY, Valeria Ozorio Dutra S, Morgan KH, Groer M. The association between early-life gut microbiota and long-term health and diseases. J Clin Med. (2021) 10:459. doi: 10.3390/jcm10030459 Wernimont SM, Radosevich J, Jackson MI, Ephraim E, Badri DV, MacLeay JM, et al. The effects of nutrition on the gastrointestinal microbiome of cats and dogs: impact on health and disease. Front Microbiol. (2020) 11:1266. doi: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.01266. Pilla R, Suchodolski JS. The gut microbiome of dogs and cats, and the influence of diet. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract. (2021) 51:605–21. doi: 10.1016/j. Cvsm.2021.01.002 Lee D, Goh TW, Kang MG, Choi HJ, Yeo SY, Yang J, et al. Perspectives and advances in probiotics and the gut microbiome in companion animals. J Anim Sci Technol. (2022) 64:197–217. doi: 10.5187/jast.2022.e8 McGrath, A. P., Motsinger, L. A., Brejda, J., & Hancock, L. (2024). Prebiotic fiber blend supports growth and development and favorable digestive health in puppies. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 11, 1409394. Fritsch DA, Jackson MI, Wernimont SM, Feld GK, Badri DV, Brejda JJ, et al. Adding a polyphenol-rich fiber bundle to food impacts the gastrointestinal microbiome and metabolome in dogs. Front Vet Sci. (2022) 9:1039032. doi: 10.3389/ fvets.2022.1039032 Wernimont SM, Fritsch DA, Schiefelbein HM, Brejda JJ, Gross KL. Food with specialized dietary fiber sources improves clinical outcomes in adult cats with constipation or diarrhea. FASEB J. (2020) 34:1. doi: 10.1096/fasebj.2020.34.s1.09918 Patel A, Jialal I. Biochemistry, immunoglobulin A In: StatPearls. Treasure Island, FL: StatPearls Publishing LLC (2024) Willis CR, Seamons A, Maxwell J, Treuting PM, Nelson L, Chen G, et al. Interleukin-7 receptor blockade suppresses adaptive and innate inflammatory responses in experimental colitis. J Inflamm. (2012) 9:39. doi: 10.1186/1476-9255-9-39 Kanai T, Watanabe M, Okazawa A, Sato T, Yamazaki M, Okamoto S, et al. Macrophage-derived IL-18-mediated intestinal inflammation in the murine model of Crohn's disease. Gastroenterology. (2001) 121:875–88. doi: 10.1053/gast.2001.28021

14/08/2024

The effect of thermal processing on palatant performance in wet pet food

Overview   Palatants designed for wet pet food applications face a unique challenge compared to palatants designed for kibble coating that is thermal processing. Wet pet food palatants may be exposed to one or more thermal processing steps, such as steam or retorting before being consumed. These thermal processing steps have the ability to alter a palatant's color, composition, and performance.   Thermal processing of palatants also generates various organic compounds which can enhance the aroma of the formulations. During this study, we examined the effect of thermal processing on the: (a) color development, (b) compositional changes, (c) palatability, (d) the release of volatile organic compounds from eight different palatants.   Experimental design   A total of eight palatants were chosen, comprising two derived from fish proteins (WP1 & WP2), three from chicken proteins (WP3, WP4 & WP5), two from vegetable proteins (WP6 & WP7), and one from dairy proteins (WP8). The palatants were subjected to thermal processing for simulating the retort conditions used during the sterilization of wet pet food. Thereafter, the volatile organic compounds were analyzed to determine their variability.   Fifteen cats were included in a two-bowl palatability test, with each bowl containing a raw mixture of meat and 1% inclusion of palatant (WP2, WP3, WP6, WP7 or WP8), heated in a pressurized retorting system (F0 value of 8). The control bowl was the same for all tests and it contained WP1 (palatant with fish protein). Each cat's first choice was recorded, and the intake ratio was calculated (in %). The differences in diet preference were tested using Friedmans two-way ANOVA.   Results     Figure 1 Thermal processing of wet pet food palatants may result in color change.   Thermal processing can impact a palatant's color and composition. The extent of this impact on palatant color varies depending on the formulation of the palatant. Figure 1 shows that there may be great differences in color, such as WP6 (vegetable proteins) and WP8 (dairy proteins), and some may have so little that the difference is not even visible to the naked eye, WP1 (fish proteins).     Figure 2 Thermal processing of wet food palatants may result in compositional change.   The findings also revealed that WP8 (dairy proteins) and WP4 (chicken proteins) exhibit considerable differences in the compositions before and after thermal processing as seen in Figure 2. On the contrary, WP6 (vegetable proteins) and WP7 (vegetable proteins) show similarities before the reaction, but as the reaction progresses, they start developing in different directions.     Figure 3 Palatability results of wet pet food palatants after thermal processing.   Palatants WP2, WP3, WP6, WP7, and WP8 were chosen for palatability testing and volatile organic compound (VOC) analysis. The palatability results can be seen in Figure 3, revealing that WP6 (vegetable proteins) and WP7 (vegetable proteins) had significantly equal, WP8 had significantly lower, whereas WP2 (fish proteins) and WP3 (chicken proteins) had significantly better palatability compared to WP1 (fish proteins). Having identified which palatants have superior palatability after thermal processing; it was needed to determine which VOCs were generated and their relation to increased palatability.   Eighty different VOC's were detected and used to group palatants that produced similar compounds under thermal processing. The grouping, as well as the results from palatability, was used to divide the palatants into two classes: premium and super-premium. This classification can be seen in Figure 4. It was noted that the palatants classified as premium contained higher concentrations of aldehydes, whereas the super-premium palatants had higher concentrations of sulfur containing compounds.     Figure 4 Classification of wet pet food palatants according to VOC composition and palatability.   Conclusion   Thermal processing can impact a palatant's composition and color. This compositional change includes the generation of high concentrations of certain volatile organic compounds that enhance the flavor and palatability. High concentrations of sulfur containing compounds were noted in super-premium palatants and high concentrations aldehydes in premium palatants.   AFB understands how thermal processing can impact the palatant's color, composition and palatability and is thereby able to produce wet pet food palatants that remain stable during thermal processing.   For more information, contact your Account Representative or afbinternational.com/contact.   By AFB International Source: All Pet Food Magazine

12/08/2024

How wet pet food is made

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

07/08/2024

Functional properties of spray dried plasma (Part 4)

As previously mentioned, SDAP is an ingredient that presents high concentrations of essential amino acids and bioactive compounds, such as immunoglobulins, peptides, growth factors, enzymes, and metalloproteins. Due to its composition, this co-product also has an immunomodulatory, prebiotic, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective role.   There is still limited research on its role in the health of dogs and cats. However, in other species, especially in pigs and rodents, and even in humans, its main demonstrated actions refer to prebiotic effects in the intestine, through the elimination of pathogens, modulation of the microbiome, improvement of mucosal integrity, and effects on immunomodulation (Pérez-Bosque et al., 2016).   Part of the protective action of the SDAP is associated with the presence of IgG in its composition, which gives this ingredient an action of control in the population of pathogenic microorganisms and prevention of lesions on the intestinal mucosa. It was found that the ingestion of SDAP resulted in 5-10% of these biomolecules intact in dogs' feces, which suggests its action throughout the passage in the digestive tract (Rodriguez et al., 2007). In rats fed with diets containing 8% SDAP, an increase in microorganisms of the phylum Firmicutes was observed (Miró et al., 2007; Moretó et al., 2020), which are associated with the production of short-chain fatty acids, which helps maintain intestinal pH and regulate the growth of pathogenic microorganisms, with indirect effects on the intestinal immune tolerance of the animals.   Some authors associate the microbiome modulating effect of the SDAP to the presence of immunoglobulins and other bioactive compounds present in its composition, or that can be produced from the digestion process of this ingredient. These compounds would be responsible for reducing the population of pathogenic microorganisms (Han et al., 2009; Balan et al., 2011). On the other hand, other researchers suggest a prebiotic effect, meaning that the action of SDAP would be related to its selectivity, with an increase in beneficial microorganisms and a consequent reduction in pathogens (Pérez-Bosque et al., 2008; Moretó et al., 2020). These mechanisms still need to be better investigated, but regardless of this, in piglets in the weaning phase, it is widely used for these effects, since it reduces the mortality rate of animals, the frequency of diarrhea and minimizes the effects of post-weaning stress, due to its intestinal and immunological effects.   It is known that intestinal fermentative processes are directly related to the activation of the immune system and may lead to the induction of more inflammatory responses or, on the other hand, promote greater immune tolerance of the individual. This activation occurs by trans epithelial communication mechanisms in the gut, activated by microorganisms or fermentation products, causing a response cascade activated by several cytokines, which can activate more or less inflammatory responses. Figure 1 shows some cytokines and their effects on inflammation.   Figure 1: Relationship of pro-inflammatory (black arrows) and anti-inflammatory (red arrows) cytokines. Some cytokines exhibit dual function, as can be seen. Original image published by de Subbarao (2021).   In two studies in rats fed with 8% SDAP, the prebiotic and immunity effects of SDAP were evaluated (Miró et al., 2017; Moretó et al., 2020). In the first, the authors observed a reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-2, IL-6, IL-7, and MCP-1, and an increase in the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-10, in the intestinal mucosa (Miró et al., 2017). Already in the second study, the authors included 8% SDAP in the diet of rats and verified a prebiotic effect, characterized by increased populations of Lactobacillus spp. and Blautia spp. which are directly related to the production of short-chain fatty acids, accompanied by increased expression of immune tolerance markers of intestinal dendritic cells and macrophages, and also of the cytokines IL-10 and TGF-β, both related to greater immune tolerance. Similar results were also observed in fish and pigs by other authors (Tran et al., 2008; Tapia-Paniagua et al., 2020).   In a recent study with healthy dogs, it was observed that feeding a 2% SDAP blend associated with prebiotics and probiotics had beneficial effects on fecal quality and immune function of the animals, with increased fecal IgA and CD4:CD8 T lymphocyte ratio in the group that consumed the blend. Modulation of the fecal microbiota has also been observed for some genera of the phylum Firmicutes spp. and other groups considered to produce short-chain fatty acids (Lee et al., 2022). The increase in IgA production is also related to the effects of additives having an effect on the gut microbiota, and a possible mechanism of activation of regulatory cytokines, such as IL-6 (a dual function cytokine), IL-10 and TGF-β.   Because of the high protein value of SDAP and its effects on intestinal health and immunity, more recently, some studies investigating its activity in neuroprotection in senior individuals have been published. The aging process in humans and some animal species, such as dogs and cats, is similar, which is characterized by advancement in neurological degeneration processes and in a chronic subclinical inflammatory process, called inflammageing, which affects in a general way several systems of the organism and predisposes to chronic degenerative diseases. In a study conducted with mice predisposed to premature aging of the SAMP8 strain, it was observed that providing 8% SDAP was able to minimize the impacts of aging on the animals. In this study, SDAP contributed to the improvement of cognitive function, verified through short and long-term memory tests, in addition to the reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6, NFk-β), and the increase of IL-10, related to anti-inflammatory actions (Garcia-Just et al., 2020), in a similar manner to its gastrointestinal effects mentioned above. In this study, the authors further observed that the animals fed with SDAP showed higher concentration of adhesion molecules at the blood-brain barrier (ZO1 and E-cadherin), which are related to a greater protection of the nervous system from the permeability of macromolecules, which may accelerate the inflammageing process. Figure 2 shows the main results of this study.     Figure 2: Results of including 8% SDAP in the diet of mice predisposed to premature aging (SAMP8) versus Control (CTL) group, at 2 (2M) and 6 (6M) of age, on cytokine gene expression (A) and short- and long-term memory tests (B). Results published by Garcia-Just et al. (The Journal of Nutrition, Volume 150, Issue 2, February 2020, Pages 303-311).   Although there are few studies specifically in dogs and cats, investigating its functional properties on intestinal health markers, immunity and cognitive functions, in the scientific literature of the last 20 years, approximately 55 published studies are found, specifically with investigations of this ingredient on the responses mentioned above, mainly in pigs and rats, evidencing its effects. This way, due to its multifunctionality, SDAP has potential applications in pet food that have not been explored much, especially in extruded foods, which are the basis of more than 90% of pet food nowadays. To summarize the data presented in the 4 parts of this article published in Pet Food Brazil Magazine, in Figure 3, it can be verified, in summary, the different functions of the SDAP and the species studied so far.     Figure 3: Effects of SDAP studied in different animal species.   By Ricardo Souza Vasconcellos and Lucas Ben Fiuza Henríquez - APC Source: All Pet Food Magazine   References: Balan, P., Han, K.S., Rutherfurd-Markwick, K., Singh, H., Moughan, P.J. Ovine serum immunoglobulin has immunomodu-latory effects in growing rats gavaged with Salmonella enteritidis. J Nutr. 2011, 141, 950-956. https://doi.org/10.3945/jn.110.131433. Balan, P., Staincliffe, M., Moughan, P.J. Effects of spray-dried animal plasma on the growth performance of weaned piglets—A review. J Anim Phys Anim Nutr 2021, 105, 699–714. https://doi.org/10.1111/jpn.13435. Garcia-Just, A., Miró, L., Pérez-Bosque, A., Amat, C., Polo, J., Pallàs, M., Griñán-Ferré, C., Moretó, M. Dietary spray-dried porcine plasma prevents cognitive decline in senescent mice and reduces neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. J Nutr 2020, 150, 303–311. https://doi.org/10.1093/jn/nxz239. Han, K.S., Boland, M., Singh, H., Moughan, P.J. The in vitro anti-pathogenic activity of immunoglobulin concentrates extracted from ovine blood. Applied Biochemistry and Biotechnology 2009, 157, 442–452. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12010-008-8352-7. Lee, A.H., Lin, C., Do, S., Oba, P.M., Belchik, S.E., Sstellman, A.J., Schauwecker, A., Swanson, K.S. Dietary supplementation with fiber, 'biotics,' and spray-dried plasma affects apparent total tract macronutrient digestibility and the fecal characteristics, fecal microbiota, and immune function of adult dogs. J Ani Sci 2022, 100, 1 -15. https://doi.org/10.1093/jas/skac048. Maijó, M., Miró, L., Polo, J., Campbell, J., Russell, L., Crenshaw, J., Weaver, E., Moretó, M., Pérez-Bosque, A. Dietary plasma proteins attenuate the innate immunity response in a mouse model of acute lung injury. Brit J Nutr 2012, 107, 867–875. doi:10.1017/S0007114511003655. Miró, L., Garcia-Just, A., Amat, C., Polo, J., Moretó, M., Pérez-Bosque, A. Dietary animal plasma proteins improve the intes-tinal immune response in senescent mice. Nutrients 2017, 9, 12. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9121346. Moretó, M., Miró, L., Amat, C., Polo, J., Manichanh, C., Pérez-Bosque, A. Dietary supplementation with spray-dried porcine plasma has prebiotic effects on gut microbiota in mice. Scientific Reports 2020, 10, 1. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-020-59756-z. Pérez-Bosque, A., Polo, J., Torrallardona, D. Spray dried plasma as an alternative to antibiotics in piglet feeds, mode of action and biosafety. Porcine Health Management 2016, 2, 16. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40813-016-0034-1. Rodriguez, C., Blanch, F., Romano, V., Saborido, N., Rodenas, J., Polo, J. Porcine immunoglobulins survival in the intestinal tract of adult dogs and cats fed dry food kibbles containing spray-dried porcine plasma (SDPP) or porcine immunoglobulin concentrate (PIC). Anim Feed Sci Tech 2007, 139, 201–211. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.anifeedsci.2007.01.012. Tapia-Paniagua, S. T., Balebona, M.C., Firmino, J.P., Rodríguez, C., Polo, J.; Moriñogo, M.A., Gisbert, E. The effect of spray-dried porcine plasma on gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) intestinal microbiota. Aquac. Nutr. 2020, 26, 801–811. Tran, H., Anderson, C. L., Bundy, J. W., Fernando, S. C., Miller, P. S., & Burkey, T. E. (2018). Effects of spray-dried porcine plasma on fecal microbiota in nursery pigs. Journal of Animal Science, 96, 1017–1031. https ://doi.org/10.1093/jas/skx034

02/08/2024

Category 3 Animal Fat - an important Pet Food Ingredient

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

29/07/2024

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

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

25/07/2024

Popular Functional Ingredients in the Pet Food Industry

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

16/07/2024

Odor Adsorbents: How to Use Them Strategically in Pet Foods

By Ludmila Barbi T. Bomcompagni

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

04/07/2024

Interview with Thaila Cristina Putarov: PalaUp and Innovations at Biorigin

At FENAGRA, we had the opportunity to interview Thaila Cristina Putarov, Biorigin's Global Business Manager of Animal Nutrition & Health. Biorigin stands out for producing natural ingredients through biotechnology processes. Having a global presence and industrial operations in Brazil, it offers innovative and safe solutions to the human, pet, and farm animal food industries. Since its foundation over 75 years ago, the company has developed a strong basis in fermentation processes. Its commitment to innovation is reflected in the total control of the production chain, ensuring product traceability and safety from raw materials to the final product.   PalaUp: Intensifying Pet Food Flavors   Biorigin presented its new product at this event: PalaUp is an innovative solution that naturally intensifies pet food flavor, providing specific flavor notes, such as umami, meat, and roast chicken. PalaUp stands out as a glutamic acid source, offering intense flavors that can be used in various ways. This adaptability allows PalaUp to mix with other ingredients, improving pet food.

    Source: All Pet Food   

02/07/2024

Natural ingredients in Petfood: Glycerine replacement with AMN CarryMoist®

The replacement of glycerine with a clean label ingredient has been, for a long time, a topic of concern for Petfood manufacturers. Glycerine, also known as glycerol, is a chemical compound derived either from vegetable oils or from animal fats, and is used as a technical aid in Petfood since it confers plasticity to semi-moist pet foods and treats.   AM Nutrition aimed to evaluate CarryMoist®, pre-gelatinised Pea Starch Concentrate as a  replacement of glycerine in a formulation of semi-moist dental sticks. In the formulation of the product, different plant proteins were used such as wheat gluten, corn gluten and AMN Pea Protein Concentrate. The carbohydrates evaluated consisted of pre-gel wheat, pre-gel corn, pre-gel rice and CarryMoist® (pre-gel pea starch by AMN)   The study was run at the Research facilities of Passion4Food, Ålgård, Norway. Results indicated that glycerine can be totally replaced with CarryMoist®. The functional properties of the sticks may change in terms of springiness, but no differences were found in terms of chewiness and overall elasticity. By addition of AMN Pea Protein Concentrate, the external appearance, texture and colour of the sticks changed into a 'jerky-like' appearance which can be considered as a positive attribute in the treats. Our special thanks to Milka, Damir Tesla and Zahra Salimi for the dedicated work done in this study.   Source: AM Nutrition

06/06/2024

Additives in pet food

The term 'additive' can be applied to a range of ingredients that manufacturers add to the basic ingredients that are at the heart of pet food. These minor ingredients include mainly essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals, but also flavours, colours and agents to prevent harmful spoilage of the pet food due to fats going rancid or through bacterial contamination. Vitamins and minerals are presented in the factsheet 'Nutritional needs of Cats and Dogs'.   Preservatives   Pet food safety is of critical importance. Preservatives may be added, largely depending upon the type of pet food product and processing, to ensure that food products remain nutritious and safe for consumption throughout their shelf life. The food must be protected from bacterial or mould contamination and spoilage, further it must be protected from degradation and the loss of nutrients during storage. The method of preservation used depends on the type of food because the way of processing also contributes to the food integrity and shelf life: Dry pet food: The manufacturing process kills microbes and the low moisture content helps to inhibit the growth of most organisms. Moist pet food: The heat applied in cooking of canned or pouch pet food kill microbes and the packaging excludes air, protecting the food. Chilled pet food: Processed chilled pet food has undergone a controlled thermal process and this, together with refrigeration during storage helps suppress spoilage. Semi-moist pet food: This generally has a low pH and contain humectants that bind water to the product, making it less available for use by invading organisms.   Antioxidants   Antioxidants are used to protect pet food from deterioration due to oxidation. All pet food has some fat and/or oil content and these should be stabilised by including antioxidants to prevent fats from reacting with oxygen in the air (oxidising) and food becoming rancid which leads to losses in nutritional quality. The inclusion of antioxidants helps to maintain wholesomeness and quality of the food. Antioxidants are incorporated into dry and semi-moist pet food to protect them from exposure to oxygen after processing. Antioxidant preservatives that might be included in dry pet food include: a variety of herbal or plant extracts including: vitamin E (tocopherols), vitamin C (ascorbates) or manmade antioxidants, which have been used in various human food for many years.   Colouring agents   Colouring agents may be added to pet food to enhance the appearance of the food. These include a range of naturally occurring food colours, food dyes or mineral based colours.   Emulsifiers and stabilisers   Emulsifiers help keeping the fat in the food and prevent the water from separating. Gums and lecithin are used to prevent separation of ingredients and to create the gravy or gel in canned, pouch and other moist pet food. Food gums include seaweed extracts and seed gums such as guar gum (from the guar plant).   Flavours   Flavours are used to enhance the palatability in some pet food and to provide product variation. Much of the appeal of prepared pet food to the dog or cat stems from the choice of raw materials, such as fish, meat, vegetables or cereals. As with food for humans, the cooking process often increases the palatability of pet food. Some flavours may be added to some pet food and these can be natural flavours such as extracts from fish or poultry, or agents designed to mirror natural flavours.   Gut flora stabilisers   Gut flora stabilisers such as live micro-organisms can be added to pet food and have a positive effect on the gut microbiota. These live micro-organisms, classified as zootechnical feed additives by the European authorities and commonly known as 'probiotics', can be a good alternative to reduce the use of antibiotics in animals and more specifically in pets.   Source: FEDIAF.

04/06/2024

Manufacturers need partners who support them in understanding the Pet Food ecosystem

A supplier needs to understand its customers' reality to help them face daily difficulties and build a promising future. Challenges within our market can be found not only in the external environment (customers, pets, distributors, etc.) but also in the factories and, if you look deeper, inside the kibbles. Through services and shared knowledge, suppliers can contribute to the applicability of their solutions and evaluation mechanisms to make the most of their use.   Pet food producers do not need to have 100% of their needs met by their efforts. Suppliers that have been established in the market for a long time and are committed to the development of the pet food ecosystem have a lot to offer you. Production and application consultancy, analysis of physicochemical parameters of kibbles, additive utilization rates, and comparisons of the characteristics of your products versus your competitors are some examples of support services that Symrise Pet Food can offer you. You also need to have a thorough understanding of the expectations of owners and their pets, as well as the evolution of technologies and the market. This is not done by a stroke of luck but through an absolute knowledge of what constitutes this ecosystem.   Understanding pets and owners   Pets and their owners are a fascinating topic to study; That is why we have a series of tools and services that allow us to know them in depth to provide you with a unique holistic approach, which considers the vision and opinion of the owners and the preferences and behaviors of the pets.   On the one hand, having a clear voice from pets can be challenging. In fact, many decisions are made through the voices of our pets, after all, they are the real consumers. Imagine if the responses of dogs and cats were compromised in some way… Brands could go in very wrong directions.   Then, it is essential to have reliable, statistically robust responses aligned with animal ethics policies that guarantee excellent living conditions for pets. That's why you've probably encountered our Panelis team (our expert measurement center), whether at our facilities, conferences around the world, or in your office. They are the ones to help you make reliable, pet-based decisions, in addition to being one of our most visible commitments to the generation and transfer of knowledge for the construction of a promising future for our ecosystem.   Listening to what pets have to say is essential, but matching the voices of pet owners with pets is state-of-the-art. How do pet owners interpret their pets' satisfaction? What is the evidence for pets' pleasure in eating? The interaction of the actors in our ecosystem must interpret and answer both questions to ensure that this much-needed bond of care and affection between pets and owners is strengthened. Specific methodologies focused on pets and owners, such as the 'Liking Test' study protocol and in-home panel studies, are clear examples of tools to capture the interaction of pets and their owners. When we talk about the feasibility of listening to the voices of pet parents, challenges become even bigger. Options in many markets are more than limited and often inaccessible, whether due to budget restrictions, the quality of responders, or reactivity.   An increasingly digital environment has allowed new tools to be created and used to benefit our market. Symrise Pet Food acquired Yummypets in 2017 to complement our Panelis service by enlarging our comprehensive view with pet owners' insights. This tool now owns 7 proprietary pet owners' panels in 7 countries. This allows us to capture, analyze, and deliver insights into pet owners' expectations and buying habits/behaviors. Evaluating new claims, investigating the acceptability of new product positions, or even evaluating new packaging is becoming simpler and more accessible.   Proudly, standing by your side   Living together and sharing successes and failures in the same place is the most effective way to build a true partnership. Ever since our origins, we have made it clear that our goal would be to maintain a commercial relationship based on the local markets, following our motto 'the closer, the better,' come what may, and most importantly, without intermediaries that add time and demand unnecessary efforts.   At Symrise Pet Food, we put at your service an unparalleled industrial structure as well as an agile and reliable supply chain so that you can count on a constant and on-time supply. We oversee searching for and having the best suppliers nearby to provide products characterized by unmatched freshness. The same one that pets, and their owners adore. Thanks to our local experts, we can help you navigate the pet food market ocean by providing you with the most recent insights and informing you before anyone else about the trends yet to come. Have you ever wondered how your brand interacts with its direct competition? We can help you understand if your efforts for unique positioning are being appreciated by the market or if some small adjustments need to be made.   Finally, if you have questions about the kibble or the production process and don't know who can help you, we are here to work with you. The good thing about having our support is that you have experts by your side who know the process from end to end and better yet, who know all the aspects of kibble formulation and how they can impact the acceptance by our furry friends. Environmental safety & sustainability   Today, pet parents are more aware than ever of how pet food is made and how it impacts the environment. Symrise Pet Food understands this approach because it was born out of a desire to value side streams and make the most of local raw materials. That's also what led us to develop a unique tool: the Eco-Design matrix. It is responsible for measuring the environmental impacts of SPF products throughout their life cycle, from our suppliers' factory to the delivery to our customers.   We also extended our approach to our factories and processes: in 2019, we began to build all our plants following sustainable guidelines. Today, we are proud of our plants in Colombia, Brazil, and China that were built under LEED certification standards for the construction of green buildings. In our remaining 29 plants, we work every day to adapt them to current standards: effluent treatment systems, gas control, and optimization of energy use, among others. If you are eager to apply sustainable standards like these in your plant, we'll be happy to share with you all of our knowledge and best practices about it.   In the current context, we need companies committed to developing long-lasting, reliable, and forward-looking relationships that allow us to accompany the development of the pet food industry. Our comprehensive understanding of the market ecosystem is what enables us to provide our partners with the best solutions to meet the market expectations. Beyond our products, sharing this knowledge is most of all, a key part of the support we bring to pet food manufacturers, helping them reach common objectives: to improve pets' well-being, enhance owner satisfaction, and nurture their bond.   By; Symrise Pet Food. 
Source: All Pet Food Magazine. 

21/05/2024

Spray-dried plasma: Nutritional value and its effects in pet food processing (Part 2 and 3)

The high protein content of SDAP is also accompanied by an adequate composition of essential amino acids. For dogs, the most limiting amino acid in SDAP is methionine, like other animal ingredients. As the graphic in Table 1 shows, SDAP is high in protein and has an adequate amino acid score (EAA). The EAA is calculated by the concentration of a particular essential amino acid within the protein of the ingredient and divided by the concentration of the same amino acid relative to the protein recommendation for the species. This is a measure to identify the relative concentration of each amino acid in the protein source to classify it as limiting or not in the ingredient or diet. Values above 1.0 for the amino acid score indicate that the amino acid is in adequate concentration in the protein source. Table 1 shows the amino acid composition of some commonly used dry feed ingredients, with the EAAs of the main limiting amino acids in each.   Table 1: Amino acid composition of protein sources used in dog and cat foods.     FEDIAF - Table of nutritional recommendations for adult dogs and cats in maintenance; SDAP – spray dried plasma; PM – Poultry Meal; MBM – Meat and Bone Meal; EP – Egg Powder; SB – Soy Bean; SPC – Soy Protein Concentrate; CG – Corn Gluten; WG – Wheat Gluten.   Due to the spray-dry processing, plasma maintains its high solubility, which positively affects its digestibility characteristics and processing effects. The digestibility coefficients of this ingredient for dogs and cats have not yet been determined, but its effects when included in pet food on dietary digestibility have been demonstrated.   Quigley et al. (2004) conducted 3 experiments in dogs, with the inclusion of up to 3% of SDAP in the animals' diets, and compared with a negative control treatment. These authors found consistent results in increased apparent dry matter (DM) digestibility in all trials and increased crude protein digestibility in two studies. Similar results were found by Rodriguéz et al. (2016) using wet cat diets containing 3% SDAP or 3% wheat gluten (WG) as binders. These authors found increased digestibility of DM in animals that consumed the diet with SDAP.   Recently, we also included 1% or 2% SDAP in dog diets, and its effects on digestibility coefficients were determined. As shown in Figure 1, there was a gradual increase in the digestibility of organic matter and crude protein as the inclusion of SDAP increased.   Figure 1: Digestibility coefficients of organic matter and Crude Protein in dogs fed diets containing 1% or 2% Spray-dried Animal Plasma (SDAP).   The protein portion of plasma, which corresponds to 80% of the ingredient is mainly composed of albumin, immunoglobulin G (IgG), and coagulation proteins (Aldrich, 2012), which are preserved by the spray-drying process while maintaining their solubility (Patel et al., 2009). Due to this, SDAP has important functional properties in wet food processing in the form of pâté or chunks in sauces as an emulsifying and binding agent (Aldrich, 2012), playing a similar role to hydrocolloids.   Hydrocolloids represent a diverse group of long-chain polymers that form gels by thickening, emulsifying, coating, and stabilizing food components (Li and Nie, 2016). Although SDAP is not classified as a hydrocolloid, it has very similar properties and is widely used in wet food for this purpose. In Brazil, many wet food products contain SDAP in the composition, associated or not with other agents such as xanthan gum, guar gum, carrageenan gum, modified starch, wheat gluten, soy protein, and whey protein, which have similar functionalities in the process.   Wet food is mainly formulated with by-products from the meat industry, with high protein and lipid content and high moisture content (70-85%). To avoid phase separation and promote better texturization and homogenization, gelling and emulsifying agents are used (Dainton et al., 2021). In a study comparing the technological properties of binders commonly used in wet food in the form of chunks in sauce or loaf, Polo et al. (2006) found that the inclusion of SDAP at concentrations of 1.5% and 2.5%, respectively, increased the breaking strength and reduced water loss relative to wheat gluten. In another study by these same authors (Polo et al., 2013), the inclusion of 2.0% SDAP was compared with 2%, 4%, or 6% of wheat gluten, and similar results were verified, with 2.5 times increase in the food's breaking strength and an improvement in juiciness due to an increase in the absorption of water from the sauce in contact with the food, of approximately 20%.   Due to its high-water retention capacity, when included in high concentration in the diet, the SDAP gives hardness to the pâté, as can be seen in the Figure below, when compared to WG at the same concentration.   Figure 2: Photo of pâté produced with SDAP (left) or Wheat Gluten (right), at the same inclusion (Polo et al., 2013).   These properties, such as increased digestibility, especially of DM and CP, contribute to the reduction of excreted fecal volume and, when added to its emulsifying properties and as a binder, make SDAP a potential replacement ingredient for hydrocolloids, which have been associated with negative effects on fecal digestibility and quality (Craig, 21; Harper and Siever-Kelly, 1997; Karr-Lilienthal et. al, 2002) as well as inducing intestinal inflammation and gastric ulcerations, which have been described in rats, mice, rabbits, and guinea pigs ingesting hydrocolloids such as carrageenan gum or carboxymethyl cellulose (Martino et al., 2017; Wu et al., 2017).   Conclusion   Nowadays, the SDAP has been widely used in wet food due to its emulsifying, binding, and texturizing properties, with the objective of improving the presentation of food and adding to the nutritional composition, different from the additives commonly used for this purpose. Additionally, in dry food, this ingredient has demonstrated that, even at low inclusions in the formulations, it promotes significant increases in diet digestibility. In addition to the properties mentioned above, SDAP has some functional properties, especially prebiotic and immunomodulatory effects, which will be discussed in the next edition.   By: Ricardo Souza Vasconcellos, Lucas Bem Fiuza Henriquéz, Patrick Lourenço dos Santos. Source: All Pet Food Magazine.    References Aldrich, G. Plasma thermoplastic gel with pet health benefits. Accessado em: https://www.petfoodindustry.com/articles/4545-plasma-thermoplastic-gel-with-pet-health-benefits. (December-21-2012) Craig, J.M. Additives in pet food: are they safe? J Small Animal Practice 2021, 62, 8, 624–635. Dainton, A.N., Dogan, H., Aldrich, C.G. The effects of select hydrocolloids on the processing of pâté‐style canned pet food. Foods 2021, 10, 10. FEDIAF – The European Pet food Industry Federation. Nutritional Guidelines for complete and complementary foods for dogs and cats. FEDIAF press, Bruxeles, Belgium, 2017, p.49. Harper, E. J.; Siever-Kelly, C. The effect of fibre on nutrient availability in cats of different ages. In: Recent Advances in Animal Nutrition in Australia. Eds J. L. Corbett, M. Choct, J. V. Nolan and J. B. Rowe. University of New England, Armidale. 1997, p.110-116. Karr-Lilienthal, L.K.; Merchen, N.R.; Grieshop, C.M.; Smeets-Peeters, M.J.; Fahey, G.C. Selected gelling agents in canned dog food affect nutrient digestibilities and fecal characteristics of ileal cannulated dogs. Arch. Tierernahr. 2002, 56, 141–153. Li, J.M., Nie, S.P. The functional and nutritional aspects of hydrocolloids in foods. Food Hydrocolloids 2016, 53, 46–61. Martino, J. V., Van Limbergen, J. & Cahill, L. E. The role of carrageenan and carboxymethylcellulose in the development of intestinal inflammation. Frontiers in Pediatrics. 2017, 5, 96. Patel, R.P., Patel, M.P., Suthar, A.M. Spray drying technology: an overview. Indian J Sci Technol 2009, 2, 10. Polo, J., Rodríguez, C. Improving the juiciness of pet food chunks and pouches with plasma. Petfood Industry. 2013. October, 36-40. Polo, J., Rodríguez, C., Saborido, N., Ródenas, J. Functional properties of spray-dried animal plasma in canned pet food. Anim Feed Sci Tech 2005, 122 ,3–4, 331–343. Quigley, J.D., Campbell, J.M., Polo, J., Russell, L.E. Effects of spray-dried animal plasma on intake and apparent digestibility in dogs. J Anim Sci 2004, 82,1685-1692. Rodríguez, C., Saborido, N., Ródenas, J., Polo, J. Effects of spray-dried animal plasma on food intake and apparent nutrient digestibility by cats when added to a wet pet food recipe. Anim Feed Sci Tech 2016, 216, 243–250. Wu, Y., Pan, L., Tian, Q., Piao, X. Comparative digestibility of energy and ileal amino acids in yeast extract and spray-dried porcine plasma fed to pigs. Archives of Anim Nutr 2018, 72, 1, 76–84.

13/05/2024

Kemin Industries' request for use of rosemary extract as antioxidant feed additive for cats and dogs authorized by European Commission

Kemin Industries, a global ingredient manufacturer that strives to sustainably transform the quality of life every day for 80 percent of the world with its products and services, submitted a request to the European Commission to allow the use of liquid rosemary extract as an antioxidant feed additive for cats and dogs and has received authorization through Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/1068.   The submission leading to this authorization was initiated by Kemin Nutrisurance, the pet food and rendering technologies business unit of Kemin Industries, and the resulting regulation was published in the Official Journal of the European Union on April 15. The Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/1068 categorizes and approves of the additive as a "technological additive" within the "antioxidants" functional group and goes into effect May 5.   Before this groundbreaking approval, the European Union's pet food market primarily consisted of tocopherols for antioxidants, with limited options for antioxidant molecules of natural origin. This new addition of rosemary extracts not only expands the range of available antioxidants but also addresses critical supply chain challenges.   "By diversifying sourcing and mitigating dependency on a single ingredient, Kemin Nutrisurance reinforces its commitment to sustainability and supply resilience in the pet food industry," said Beth Mann, Global Director of Quality and Food Safety, Kemin Nutrisurance. "Rosemary extract is a versatile and effective antioxidant that can help pet food manufacturers meet the growing demand for clean label, high-quality, and environmentally friendly products."   Since 1996, Kemin's Specialty Crop Improvement team has used conventional breeding methods to continually develop lines of proprietary rosemary with high levels of carnosic acid, a molecule with powerful antioxidant capabilities. Today, Kemin is one of the most vertically integrated suppliers of plant-based ingredients. Across the supply chain, Kemin controls the breeding, plant selection, growing, harvesting, and extraction for many of its specialty crops, allowing Kemin to ensure that every batch of product is consistent.   "We are thrilled to receive this authorization from the European Commission, which is the result of decades of research and development, as well as close collaboration with the authorities," said Dr. John A. Greaves, Vice President of Specialty Crop Improvement, Kemin Industries. "This is a game-changer for the pet food industry, as it opens new possibilities for natural and sustainable pet nutrition."   Kemin Nutrisurance is proud to offer rosemary extract as part of its portfolio of innovative solutions for the pet food industry. Kemin is committed to providing customers with the best quality, safety, and performance for their products, as well as supporting them with technical expertise and regulatory assistance. From oxidation control and food safety to palatability and nutrition, Kemin is Compelled by Curiosity™ to ensure pets around the world are living happy and healthy lives.   Click here to learn more about Kemin's Specialty Crop Improvement program.   About Kemin Industries   Kemin Industries (www.kemin.com) is a global ingredient manufacturer that strives to sustainably transform the quality of life every day for 80 percent of the world with its products and services. The company supplies over 500 specialty ingredients for human and animal health and nutrition, pet food, aquaculture, nutraceutical, food technologies, crop technologies, textile, biofuel, and animal vaccine industries.   For over half a century, Kemin has been dedicated to using applied science to address industry challenges and offer product solutions to customers in more than 120 countries. Kemin provides ingredients to feed a growing population with its commitment to the quality, safety, and efficacy of food, feed, and health-related products.   Established in 1961, Kemin is a privately held, family-owned-and-operated company with more than 3,000 global employees and operations in 90 countries, including manufacturing facilities in Belgium, Brazil, China, Egypt, India, Italy, San Marino, Singapore, South Africa, and the United States.   Source: Kemin.

09/05/2024

Yeast nucleotide advancements in pet food

What is the nucleotide？
  From a genetic point of view, nucleotides are an important part of cells. It is a monomer that makes up DNA (genes) and RNA (ribonucleic acid) and plays an important role in cell structure, metabolism, energy and regulatory functions. From the perspective of application, nucleotides play an important role in the immune regulation, brain development and intestinal flora improvement of pets, especially newborn and young pets, and can also improve the immunity of pets. From a source, nucleotides are also found in food. For example, fish, animal organs, fungi, etc., of which yeast is particularly rich in nucleic acid content, and yeast nucleotide content is more abundant after industrial nucleotide enzymolysis.   Why the nucleotides need to added in pet food?
  Studies have found that although the pet body can synthesise nucleotides itself, the nucleotides synthesised in the body cannot meet the needs of various tissues with high metabolism, such as the immune system and intestinal tissues. The lack of nucleotides in pet food can affect the heart, liver, intestine and immune function of pets.   The application trend of yeast nucleotides in pet food   Yeast nucleotides improve pet intestinal health   Nucleotides play an important role in the gut, promoting the growth, development and repair of intestinal cells. Nucleotides can stimulate the proliferation of beneficial bacteria in the body and effectively reduce the probability of diarrhoea in young pets. Nutritional studies have shown that injection of nucleotides and the addition of nucleotides to infant formula can improve intestinal health and immune system development in infants and young children. Because nucleotides and small peptides can maintain intestinal health, adding yeast source nucleotide nutrition to pet food fed by young dogs and cats can effectively improve the diet structure and promote intestinal health of young pets.   The addition of yeast nucleotide to pet cat food can improve the balance of intestinal flora. The experimental study of yeast nucleotide in pets conducted by Beijing Academy of Agricultural Sciences shows that the abundance of bifidobacteria in the added yeast nucleotide group is higher than that in the treatment group, and the lactobacillus abundance in the yeast hydrolysis group is also higher than that in the control group and other treatment groups. The results showed that adding yeast nucleotide improved the intestinal tract of pet cats better than other treatment groups. (Figure 1)     At the same time, the effects of yeast nucleotide addition on the contents of indole and skatole in pet cat faeces were detected. The test results showed that after the addition of yeast nucleotide, yeast nucleotide significantly reduced the contents of skatole and indole in faeces, effectively increased the content of bifidobacterium in pet faeces, and improved the intestinal health of pets (Figure 2).   Yeast nucleotides improve the immune system   When pets have some external conditions, such as intestinal damage, rapid growth, too little protein intake or stress problems, the immune system is triggered, the amount of self-synthesis is far from enough to provide support. So this extra intake of exogenous nucleotides optimises its physiological function. Pet mucous membranes, bone marrow, hematopoietic cells and lymphocytes, these tissues are more dependent on exogenous dietary nucleic acids as a remedy pathway. Studies have shown that pet food supplemented with yeast nucleotides can increase phagocytic activity of pet leukocytes and improve the ability of lymphocyte division. After addition of yeast nucleotide, pet vaccination resulted in increased anti-parvovirus antibody titers at 14 days, increased non-specific immunoglobulin levels at weaning, and improved peripheral blood mononuclear cells.   Yeast nucleotide strong freshening agent   Sodium inosine (IMP) and sodium guanylate (GMP) mixtures are used as fresheners in pet food. Umami, as one of the five basic tastes, can bring pleasure to pets and represents the characteristic flavour of most amino acids and nucleotides Yeast nucleotides are added with nuclease, so that the nuclease in yeast is decomposed into four free nucleotides (UMP,GMP,CMP,AMP). The four free nucleotides in the product have very good flavour and nutrition enhancement, and are suitable for pet food industry with better flavour.   The application prospect of yeast nucleotide feed additives   The raw materials of yeast nucleotides are extensive, the extraction technology is mature, rich in nucleotides can promote the healthy development of the intestines of pets, improve disease resistance and immunity, in addition, its degradation products such as IMP, GMP, etc. are themselves a kind of substances that affect the flavour, can indirectly improve the nutritional value of pet food, and commodity value, which is of great significance in pet nutrition.   Source: All About Feed.

29/04/2024

The importance of One Health for pet and human health

Humans and pets share the same environment, and this interaction will impact their health. As it is considered a member of the family, water and food containers, toys, beds, and all other items are close to the human family items. In some cases, feeding occurs side by side. Therefore, it is crucial that we take care of the health and hygiene of animals and the environment. Humans are in contact with urine and feces when cleaning the environment, and animals often perform their physiological needs indoors.   Taking care of hair, skin, and oral hygiene is extremely important to minimize exposure to undesirable situations, such as allergens and unwanted microorganisms. Animals can be hosts to parasites, such as fleas and ticks, and effective control of these parasites is vital for the health of pets and the people who live with them. Vaccination is an effective way to protect pets' health and helps prevent diseases that can affect humans, so it's crucial to keep your pet's vaccinations up to date.   As for pet food, a nutritionally complete and balanced diet prevents diseases, strengthens the immune system, and improves intestinal health, contributing to the prevention of zoonoses. "I am passionate about the pet industry, and I believe that this industry was born with the concept of One Health. The pet industry can transform waste from the food industry into nutritious and safe ingredients for pets. Biorigin's yeast-derived products are the best example of this, as some come from the food industry and the sugar cane industry, which have several benefits for animal health in addition to being safe and with full traceability. Our yeasts are ingredients of natural origin and support the pet industry in developing foods that follow the trends and needs of pets, such as humanization, premiumization, and specific nutrition, in addition to being part of a sustainable chain." is what Thaila Cristina Putarov, Global Animal Nutrition and Health Business Manager at Biorigin, says.   Several scientific studies demonstrate the benefits of the human-animal bond, such as reducing stress, anxiety, and loneliness and promoting general well-being. Improved mental health is one of the significant benefits of the relationship between humans and pets. According to a survey by The Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI – 2021) with pet owners in the US, 87% said they experienced improvements in mental health after adopting a pet, and more than one in five owners have had a pet recommended for their health by a doctor or therapist.   The One Health concept encourages research and innovation in animal nutrition, seeking to develop safer, healthier, and more sustainable pet foods. Biorigin has been offering ingredients of natural origin for 20 years to meet the demands of the pet food market, providing solutions that help improve intestinal health, pet immunity, and the attractiveness of food. As with our products, MacroGard, scientific and commercial reference, is the source of beta-1,3/1,6-glucans most studied and used in animal feed to maintain health and well-being. It has proven to be an effective tool for skin and hair health, bone health, weight control, and pet immunity. The prebiotics ActiveMOS and HyperGen are rich in mannan oligosaccharides (MOS) that function as substrates for the microbiota and are essential for maintaining intestinal health and local immunity. Additionally, Biorigin's yeast extracts can also make food tastier for pets. To learn more, read our article on palatability and discover the PalaUp line.
  Source: Biorigin.

04/04/2024

Might pet food provide better prospects for lab-grown meat?

The noise surrounding cultivated or lab-grown meat is increasing all the time but the level of activity involving the end product is not yet justifying the hype. Hurdles, including the high cost of producing meat from animal cells, gaining regulatory approval and convincing customers and the end consumer that it's something they need and want, are either still to be successfully cleared or yet to be approached. For all of the food-tech, or just plain tech, businesses looking to make a name for themselves and for all of the investment money that has flowed into what some see as, depending on the level of hyperbole, the future of food and the saviour of the planet, months and years go by without many of these businesses being much further advanced than when they started out. In November 2020, US-based cultivated-meat business Good Meat became the first company to win approval to sell meat created in a laboratory from cells when it was given the green light by Singapore's regulator. The company, part of Eat Just, has since won similar approval in the US, alongside another company, Upside Foods. However, as Josh Tetrick, the company's founder, told Just Food in December: 'Ultimately, we want to make millions of pounds of cultivated meat but we need to do a lot of work on things like cell density and reducing the cost of the growth medium.' Tetrick said his business was making good progress but added: 'There's no doubt it is a massive challenge to be able to produce it on a large scale. This is a significant challenge for cultivated meat.'   Lab-grown meat and pet food If the companies that have already won regulatory approval and have an end product on sale – albeit in a very limited way – see it as a 'massive challenge', what hope for everyone else? Well, there are signs that cultivated-meat firms may have found a new target, one that would allow them to get their product to market more quickly, to cut down on cell-growth costs and require a less rigorous level of regulation: pet-food. In November, Czech Republic-based Bene Meat revealed it was targeting the EU pet-food market and claimed to be the first to have listed its cultivated cells on the bloc's European Feed Materials Register. No approval is required for animal feeds as long as they are safe and comply with existing regulations. The Prague-based business, backed by medical devices company BTL, has been working on the development and technology of cultivated meat production since 2020.   Meeting the needs of pet-food manufacturers Bene Meat said its pet food will be 'full of pure, high-quality animal protein, without the need for a single animal to die in its production'. Its product, like those of other cultivated-meat manufacturers, is produced in a laboratory in bioreactors by removing cells from a living animal and then growing them in a nutrient-rich medium. Roman Kříž, the company's managing director, said in November: 'We know that at this stage of the research we have already met the needs of pet-food producers, who are constantly looking for ethically and economically meaningful ways to satisfy their demanding customers, pet owners, with their products.' Price – especially of the growth medium – has often been a barrier to manufacturing at scale but Bene Meat said it has developed the technology to 'produce cultured meat in such a way that the resulting price is competitive in comparison with the prices of products made from traditionally-sourced raw materials'. 'There is no inherent reason why it [cultivated meat] should be costly. It's more a question of teething problems and problems of realisation,' Tomáš Kubeš, the company's head of strategic projects, says. 'Bene Meat intends to be a one-stop-shop so we have our own medium and cell lines.' Without giving away company secrets, Vendula Kucerova, Bene Meat's head of sales and marketing strategy, adds: 'We have a cost-effective medium which means we can bring it to the market. Our medium with no FBS [foetal bovine serum] is something different.'
FBS is a by-product of the meat industry and is usually collected from blood at commercial slaughterhouses. Understandably, companies might want to distance themselves from this particular growth medium.   Structural issues Kucerova makes another point about costs when it comes to using cultivated meat for pet food.
'There is a structural issue in trying to create something close to normal meat. For pet food you don't need to do that. It is in the form of processed meat,' she says. Therefore the theory goes that the growth period is shorter, which would be useful when trying to scale-up production. There always seems to be a 'jam tomorrow' element to when cultivated meat products will finally emerge into the daylight but Kubeš is confident Bene Meat is getting close. 'We are already talking intensively with [pet-food] manufacturers and hopefully in Q1 we will start small-scale production trials. 2024 will primarily be for testing,' he says.
'We have built a facility for the pilot scale trial and also hope to have an industrial scale facility by the end of the year to allow us to produce on a commercial scale.'   Assessing pet-food makers' demand for lab-grown meat But why would pet-food companies want lab-grown meat for their products?
Kucerova says: 'Trends have suggested there might not be enough meat in the future and that will impact prices. So, the demand from pet-food manufacturers is quite high. They are looking at alternative protein sources. From feedback, we have found they want alternative protein at an affordable price.'   "Demand from pet-food manufacturers is quite high. They are looking at alternative protein sources"
Vendula Kucerova, Bene Meat   Her view would seem to be backed up by the development of pet-food based on alternative protein sources such as crickets. Last month, Ÿnsect was granted authorisation by the Association of American Feed Control Officials to use de-fatted mealworm proteins within dog nutrition. It is the first time mealworm-based ingredients for pet food have been approved in the US. US-based Hill's Pet Nutrition – owned by Colgate-Palmolive – is to test products for regulatory review and market evaluation based on animal protein created through fermentation by Bond Pet Foods. The companies have also announced a second joint development agreement to create an additional animal protein for potential use in Hill's products. The aim is to 'develop a source of more sustainable animal protein to fulfil the dietary needs of dogs and cats'. This search for alternative protein among pet food manufacturers has not been lost on Canada-based Cult Food Science. In August, Cult Food Science announced a deal with Everything But to use the South Korean start-up's cell-cultivated chicken in its pet-food brands, which include Noochies, Marina Cat and Indiana. The regulatory pathway for pet-food in the US requires approval from the Center For Veterinary Medicine, a branch of the US Food and Drug Administration. In a statement at the time, Cult Food Science said: 'Our collaboration with Everything But is illustrative of our commitment to shaping the future of food at a truly global scale. These ingredients will allow us to reach even more customers with innovative products.' Expanding on its plans in a recent conversation with Just Food, Cult Food Science CEO Mitchell Scott says it is also partnering with another cell-based meat company. 'We are also working with Umami Bioworks from Singapore. We are shipping from Singapore and have a co-packer in the US. We are looking at creating a pilot facility in Boston with Umami,' he says. 'The first product will be Marina Cat, a cultured-snapper product. We're really excited to have a product that can be tasted and tested and hope that will generate additional interest and investment.'   Initial scepticism Scott admits he was sceptical about the idea of using lab-grown meat for pet food at first, largely because of how much it would cost to produce. 'My thoughts at first were that it doesn't make sense but, when I dug into it, I got excited and we saw an opportunity,' he says. 'There is a much quicker regulatory pathway [than food intended for humans]. And, on the cost thing, we can harvest cells mid-term because it doesn't have to have the same structure as meat if it is getting mixed in.
These are not necessarily 100% meat products which helps to make them profitable. Pet food is already a mix of stuff which is fine as long as it's high protein. And, from a consumer point of view, it's not animals eating other animals and it's also sustainable.'   "Given the demand for premium, speciality pet-food the time is right now"
Mitchell Scott, Cult Food Science   Scott believes Cult Food Science could be at the start of a growing trend. 'If it's profitable for us and makes sense at the scale we are doing it, the larger pet-food companies may look at doing it,' he says. 'It's about bringing the product to market and proving there's a demand there.
And some of the cultivated-meat firms are starting to have these conversations as it may mean they can get a product to market in six months rather than a few years. Given the demand for premium, speciality pet-food the time is right now.' Analysts and investors have been quick to pick up on the potential for lab-grown meat and pet-food to have a symbiotic relationship. Lever VC, a New York- and Hong Kong-based investment firm, was one of the first to see the potential of cultivated-meat businesses and recently led a $7m funding round in US-based Clever Carnivore, which is producing cultivated pork sausage with plans to unveil its prototype product, the Clever Bratwurst, this year. On the potential market for cell-based protein in pet food, Nick Cooney, Lever's managing partner, who has previously spoken about Clever Carnivore's 'astonishingly low cost of production' and 'phenomenal science', says he has come round to thinking the idea could have legs.   "It will take a while for cultivated meat to get to a price point where pet food can work"
Nick Cooney, Lever VC   'Prior to this [involvement with Clever Carnivore], we would have been sceptical of cultivated meat for pet-food from a price point of view but Clever Carnivore has made me think again,' he says. 'Not one of the businesses we have looked at has even come close to what Clever Carnivore is doing in terms of production costs.' Cooney stresses that, even so, 'it will take a while for cultivated meat to get to a price point where pet food can work, even within the premium segment'.
But he thinks ongoing premiumisation in the sector is an important factor here and add that 'cats and dogs are less discerning customers as long as it tastes good'. 'And there is a good story to tell in terms of sustainability,' he says.   Easier path to market Hannah Cleland, a research analyst at Just Food parent GlobalData, can see why pet-food has triggered interest from producers of lab-grown meat. 'Cultured pet-food could find an easier path to market than cultured meat is finding for human consumption as there is significantly less red tape for approval of sale for pet-food,' she says. 'On the consumer end however, the biggest drawback will be the cost. Currently, pet owners are predominantly unwilling to commit to more sustainable choices for their pets with 81% globally saying they hadn't bought environmentally friendly/ethical pet-care products between April and June 2023. 'The number one reason cited for this was that sustainable pet products are deemed too expensive. That said, Bene Meat's claim that its cultured pet food is competitively priced against traditional pet food could be a breakthrough in the market.' If the producers, investors and analysts are right, the noise surrounding cultivated meat soon may well be dogs and cats voicing their approval. Source: Just Food. 

21/02/2024

What food category does my pet need?

By Armando Enriquez de la Fuente Blanquet

Years later, the well-known "Ken-L Ration," canned horse meat, was born in the United States, and thus the first wet diet appeared. Later, in the 1940s, nutrition programs for life stages began. In the fifties, the first therapeutic diets came out, and in the seventies, we saw the first personalized diets by race. It was not until 1980 that the National Research Council published nutritional requirements for dogs and cats. Thanks to this, the nutritional bases are established, along with other guides such as AAFCO or FEDIAF, to provide balanced nutrition to pets. The following are, in very general terms, some examples, since the specific amounts may vary depending on the food formulation: Dog nutritional requirements: Proteins
Puppies: Minimum 22%
Adults: Minimum 18% Fats
Puppies: Minimum 8.5%
Adults: Minimum 5.5% Fiber
Varies depending on the specific formula needs. Vitamins and trace minerals
Specific to the dog's needs and life stage

2. Cat nutritional requirements Proteins
Puppies: Minimum 30%
Adults: Minimum 26% Fats
Puppies: Minimum 9%
Adults: Minimum 9% Fiber
It varies depending on the specific needs of the food. Vitamins and trace minerals
Specific to the cat's needs and life stage. Over the years, a wide variety of foods have emerged. With this, the market has had to organize into types or food categories to provide the consumer with the nutrition they are looking for to meet the needs of each pet.  In many countries, pet foods are subject to regulations and standards set by authorities. This includes ensuring that foods meet certain nutritional standards and clear labeling. An important point to consider with any food type is to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the appropriate daily amount based on your pet's age, size, and specific needs. Currently, there is a clear definition of food for dogs, cats, birds, rodents, reptiles, etc. However, the nutritional requirement varies depending on factors, such as age, size, activity level, and specific pet needs. So, in addition to species, pet food should be classified by these subcategories. Within the wide variety of pet food categories, there is one established with the economic capacity of each pet parent (in addition to the digestibility of its nutrients): Economy, Standard, or Premium, in very general terms. Within each segment mentioned above, there are other more complex subcategories. Let's talk about some of these: Dry food
This type is the most widely sold in the world and usually contains a balanced mix of essential nutrients. It is produced under the extrusion process to achieve certain physicochemical characteristics. Some nutrients, especially micronutrients, can degrade with processing and time, so it is important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations regarding expiration date and storage. Wet food
This type has a high-water content. Some pets prefer it because of its texture and flavor. It is recommended as a diet supplement of dry foods to promote dental health, as wet food may not be as abrasive. Semi-moist food
It is a combination of the above. BARF food (an acronym for "Biologically Appropriate Raw Food")
It consists of raw foods such as meat, bones, organs, and vegetables. It is based on the idea of being more like the one an animal would find in nature. The raw diet may lack some essential nutrients, so it is important to consider supplements, as well as make sure to maintain high hygiene standards to avoid bacterial contamination. Breed-specific foods
Foods formulated to meet the particular needs of certain breeds. Foods for specific life stages
These can be for puppies, adults, or seniors. Foods for pets with special dietary needs
We can mention, for example, grain-free, hypoallergenic, or foods for pets with weight problems. Snacks and treats
These are small portions of tasty foods for training or as a reward. They are not substitutes for the main meal. Nutritional supplements (vitamins and minerals) They are designed to ensure that the pet receives all the necessary nutrients. Not all animals need supplements. We should remember that a pet will eat the food their owner selects for him and, usually, it will be the same for long periods of time. This food must be balanced and provide all the nutrients so that a pet remains in good health and well-being. Pet parents now have access to more food options and information, and research on pet nutrition has become more advanced and available. As we have seen, there is a category designed by years of research for each specific pet. These foods are prepared to cover each and every one of the nutritional requirements of a dog or cat, considering various factors, including the species, life stage (puppy, adult, senior), size (small, medium, large), breed, activity level, and any special dietary needs.  It is important to note that food choice should be based on the specific needs of each individual pet, as today, food categories that nourish the pet 100% are available for everyone.

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

16/02/2024

Wet Pet Food Quality

Wet pet food is a popular choice among pet owners, with more than 6.5 billion kgs sold in 2022¹. Pet owners often see wet pet food as a more premium option than traditional dry kibble diets.
They expect their preferred wet pet food brand to be palatable to their pets and have the same appealing aroma, color, and texture every time they open a can or pouch. Consistency in these qualities is particularly important for pet food manufacturers to maintain their brand image. Flavor, aroma, color, and texture can be affected by key parameters of pet food production, including processing conditions, pH, grind size, and thickeners.   Kemin: Your partner in wet pet food Testing solutions in wet pet food is more complex than in dry foods. Kemin has invested in a wet pet food pilot facility to provide partnership opportunities with customers seeking solutions to their wet pet food challenges. This facility is used to build pilot-scale wet pet food batches of loaf or chunk in gravy formulas in cans, trays, and pouches. This facility offers an opportunity to leverage Kemin's expertise across the value chain to help address several key challenges, including palatability, biogenic amine formation, and color retention. At Kemin, we care that our solutions work in pet food matrices and have minimal impact to product integrity and quality standards. Therefore, pilot-scale wet pet food runs can be tested for many success criteria, including palatability, texture, viscosity, pH, color, weep, and aroma analysis, depending on customer needs.   The right texture  While each wet pet meat dough manufacturing process may be unique, it has been observed that meat grind and disintegration quality affect loaf pâté texture or hardness. It has been observed that cats preferentially eat diets with significantly softer loaf pâté texture versus a harder one. Pet parents may also prefer the look of a softer loaf pâté versus a hard, brittle one². Loaf pâté quality is a metric Kemin measures on diets manufactured at their Wet Pet Food Pilot Plant. Kemin Texture Testing³. A texture analyzer with a ball probe can simulate the feel of meat in an animal's mouth and on their model diet. Diets with various meat cutting shear were manufactured at the Kemin Wet Pet Food Pilot Plant and compared to a commercially available Turkey and Giblet Loaf Pâté diet using Tukey Honest Square Differences statistical analyses, with a p-value less than 0.05 to distinguish texture differences.
The Turkey and Giblet Loaf Pâté recipe with minimal meat grinding and cutting shear had a significantly harder loaf pâté than two times and three times more shear [Figure 1]. Compared to desired texture of the benchmark loaf pâté diet, it is observed that too little cutting shear created a significantly harder loaf pâté. Using two times and three times more cutting shear made similar texture hardness to benchmark loaf pâté.       Achieving the ideal "look"   Just like cooking a steak or chicken breast releases juices, meats in a wet pet diet release water during sterilization cooking through the retort process. Meat scientists refer to these juices as weep, syneresis or expressible moisture. Loaf pâté diets sometimes have too much liquid weep, which may thin out the gravy or gel. Too much weep can adversely affect consumer perception, as some consumers view quality wet pet diets as having thick liquid like a gravy or gel. Often thickeners like starches, gums, and proteins are added to diets and special processing is used to enhance soluble proteins and reduce liquid weep. Literature from Kansas State University confirmed that wet pet diets containing only the ingredients necessary for complete and balanced nutrition may be too thin to rapidly fill cans, have sedimentation challenges, and express too much liquid after sterilization cooking. The type and quantity of thickeners must be balanced to achieve the right 'look', including the right amount and thickness of the liquid in a wet diet. Both 'Thick to Thin' and 'Thin to Thick' ingredients are necessary. 'Thick to Thin', Guar gum is a popular ingredient to add to nutritious wet pet meat doughs to thicken it, maintain a homogenous mixture, and to rapidly fill cans. After sterilization cooking, wet pet diets with added guar gum resemble diets with no guar gum. In other words, viscosity and thickness provided by guar gum assists in cooking but not to maintain a thick liquid after cooking. 'Thin to Thick', Other thickeners, gums, and proteins are added to nutritious wet pet meat doughs to enhance their qualities after sterilization cooking. These gums are considered 'Thin to Thick' ingredients, among them kappa carrageenan, xanthan gum, and locust bean gum. These thickeners offer some viscosity before the cooking step but have been observed to thicken remaining liquid and to significantly reduce liquid after sterilization cook.   Overall palatability   After optimizing look and texture, the last step is to ensure that the wet diet is palatable enough to encourage enthusiastic consumption by the target customer- the pets. There are many factors that impact palatability including texture, ingredient type and quality, processing and the type of palatability system that is used. Freshness + Palatability. Ingredients are carefully selected by availability, quality, price, flavor, and processability to meet market needs. Many wet pet manufacturers use both fresh and frozen meats to make their product, which has advantages and disadvantages. Frozen meats have a significantly longer shelf-life and provide ingredient flexibility and availability. On the other hand, frozen ingredients can be difficult to grind or disintegrate, require more energy to activate than fresh meats, and require storage management. Fresh meats can be less expensive and are easier to process than frozen but are difficult to preserve more than a few days and challenging to minimize microbial growth. Aged, fresh meats grow micro-organisms which impact meat dough quality by developing biogenic amines and shortening mandate time – the time between seaming cans and starting sterilization cook process – for wet pet manufacturers. Figure 2 shows that cats prefer lower biogenic amine diets, which can be achieved by using fresher meat or utilizing an antimicrobial treatment to help maintain fresh character.

    Use of a Palatability Enhancer. Wet pet food is often perceived to be highly appealing to cats, but some cats may be reluctant or refuse to eat a diet altogether. Pet food manufacturers can elevate the profile of wet cat food diets by adding palatability enhancers to the finished diet. Figure 3 shows that the addition of a dry palatant in the chunk component of a chicken-based chunk and gravy diet was statistically preferred to a control diet with no palatant. Palatability performance increases with increasing palatant application rate. All rations were made in the Kemin pilot plant.     Moreover, palatant addition to the wet cat diet can transform an amalgam of animal proteins into a product with a clean, unified consumer aroma. Palatants tested in the Kemin Pilot Plant have changed the perception of cat wet pet diets from one that is gamey or pungent to more pleasant meaty flavors or aroma typical of the retorted foods industry. CONCLUSION There are many factors that can influence the overall consumer experience of a wet pet food brand. Understanding how to make a consistent, appealing product is key to satisfying loyal customers and further gaining market share with new customers. Pet food manufacturers should consider the value of partnering with suppliers that understand the complexities of wet pet food production and make solutions tailored to their specific needs.   By: Gregg Schieffer, Ph.D Associate Scientist-Palatants, Kemin Nutrisurance. Source: Kemin Nutrisurance. 

  1 Euromonitor, 2022. 2 Hagen-Plantinga, E.A., Orlanes, D.F., Bosch, G., Hendriks W.H., van der Poel, A.F.B. Retorting Conditions Affect Palatability and Physical Characteristics of Canned Cat Food. J Nutri Sci. (2017), 6, e23, 1-5. 3 Dainton, A.N., Dogan, H., Aldrich, C.G. The Effects of Select Hydrocolloids on the Processing of Pâté-Style Canned Pet Food. Foods. (2021), 10, 2506-2519. 4 Kemin Internal Document: (SD-23-25564). 5 Kemin Internal Document: (SD-22-25122).

15/02/2024

Pet supplements on the rise

By María Candelaria Carbajo

Over time, as countries have gradually eased restrictions and fear, pent-up demand and fiscal stimulus measures facilitated market growth in various sectors. Currently, we are witnessing a fusion of pre-pandemic strategies with the accelerated adoption of digital technologies, shaping a new era of market dynamics. Among the products that are developing the most, we find the pet supplements sector, so much so that an analysis by Grand View Research predicts it will reach 1,050 million dollars by 2027.   Current market situation   When we talk about supplements, we are talking about vitamins, minerals, herbs, botanicals, enzymes, amino acids, or other dietary ingredients.
Although the pandemic already seems like something of the past for many, the truth is that some sectors or markets, as is the case with this one in particular, owe a lot to it for the boom they experienced. Free time, little social life, the adoption of more pets, and the increase in time spent with them have made people not only more aware of the health of their animals but also have time to inform themselves about how to sustain it and enhance it over time. This is when the word supplements appears for many owners, and they begin to consider these products as an alternative to adding to the diet of their dog and cat children. The pet food supplementation industry primarily works with vitamins, nutritional supplements production, storage, and distribution among other nutritional supplements that may be critical to a pet's health and growth, including birds, dogs, cats, and other domesticated animals. Products are extensively researched and quality-checked before they are available on the commercial market with the goal of ensuring animal welfare and promoting healthy growth throughout their lives. Some supplements have generic applications, while others address specific problems, such as digestive problems, joint pain, or skin conditions. And while the industry is facing tremendous growth, it is also facing new challenges and complications. Microbiome health ingredients, such as prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics, are of an ingredient category where the most research is being done these days. Prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics generate significant interest in both humans and animals. Specific research is very important in this class of ingredients because the intestinal microbiome of different animal species can vary considerably.   Investigation and development   The increasing rate of pet ownership drives market demand. Several reasons, including personal decisions and medical factors, are causing a growth in the number of people who choose to have pets, such as remaining child-free by choice, the impossibility due to advanced age, and the economic instability that threatens more than an international population. Some of the most common side effects due to supplement consumption include allergic reactions, overdoses, and digestive problems. Some of them may be more serious than others. However, it is one of the main restrictions on the industry's growth. One of the key opportunities to pursue development is the investment obtained for study, development, and innovation. Currently, there is a significant lack of innovation in product development in the supplements sector at an international level. And, if we observe how people's lifestyle and eating consumption habits (and, consequently, their pets) change, it is expected that this will impact the needs, problems, and diseases that arise or disappear with the passing of time. Therefore, more investment is necessary to obtain more resources in understanding the segment to achieve generalized and specific product development without side effects.   The importance of knowing pet supplement consumers
  Knowing the humanization process that has been strongly impacting the entire pet market, it is not surprising that, with the increasing attention paid to product labels, many ingredients that appear in human supplements have moved into categories of pets. If we talk specifically about supplements, we can already identify in the industry that consumers of pet supplements have stronger or more pronounced tendencies and preferences than the average pet owner. These owners (and those in charge of the pet food purchasing decision) who buy supplements are characterized by proactively seeking information about nutrition. The most reliable source for them is their known veterinarians and, secondly, Internet sites: the same sources for seeking advice and information on human nutrition.
Other very reliable sources for pet owners when it comes to obtaining information about any product type or service for their pets (veterinarians, toys, food, exercise) are their friends and family. This is a key factor for all those companies that want to retain customers because they are the ones who, free of charge, share and recommend (and, therefore, spread) the brands they trust.
  Conclusion   The supplements market has a lot of potential today if we analyze and consider all the trends that reach the pet food industry due to the demands and needs imposed on human industries. To achieve sustained growth, it is essential to promote development, research, and innovation.

Source: All Pet Food.

14/02/2024

Pet food definition, according to categories

By Candela Bonaura

Diet is a fundamental part of health, life quality, and slowing down physiological processes such as aging, prevention, and even treatment of multiple illnesses. And even though nowadays we have plenty of information on the nutritional requirements of pet animals, it is difficult to reach a consensus. In this article, we discuss some concepts based on my analysis study and experience with my patients, considering that dogs and cats are carnivorous and, as such, require a greater supply of protein and ingredients of animal origin in most of their stages and states. Food categories Depending on their degree of processing: We will have ultra-processed foods (UP = dry or canned food or any other food intended for consumption by pets that is manufactured by carrying out a thermal or pressure processing step) or minimally processed (MP = fresh, frozen or any other food intended for consumption by pets, manufactured without thermal or pressure processing or one of them). By the % of water, we can divide them into dry (8-12% water), semi-humid (15-30% water), and humid (around 70% water). Depending on their function: complete foods (which cover a pet's whole nutritional needs) or supplements (for example, snacks or treats). Depending on its manufacturing type: they can be commercial or homemade foods (cooked, BARF, or raw). Depending on their age: Puppies (age will depend on animal size, up to 12-16-24 months) mainly focused on learning, immunity, development, and growth. Adults (from 12-16-24 months to 6-7 years of age), depending on animal size, whose main objective is balance and maintenance.Gerontes (+ 6-7), who seek a quality of life, promoting health by slowing down aging and the appearance of typical age-related diseases (kidney, heart, joint care, intestinal balance, nervous system health, etc.). Natural foods: They lack artificial colorings, flavors, and antioxidants while having a lower degree of processing. This represents a better life quality, greater digestibility, and use of certain nutrients. Functional foods: They include the so-called nutraceuticals or functional ingredients in their formula, which exert different functions or purposes in the body, such as joint protectors, immunomodulators, probiotics, antioxidants, anti-inflammatories, etc. These give the food added value beyond what is strictly nutritional. According to its quality: Ultra-premium, super-premium +, low super-premium or super-premium, premium, standard, or Economy. To enter a category, a food must meet most of its characteristics (beyond what a label says).

Ultra-premium or super-premium + Purchased at veterinarians or pet stores Foods with high-quality ingredients High nutritional density and greater digestibility Extensive portfolio that answers pet needs at different stages, sizes, and special requirements. With the greatest nutritional innovations on the market (functional ingredients +++) Size differential with kibble differential (in size and composition) Less fecal matter production Very digestible elements (a higher proportion of ingredients of animal origin and in the first orders) Greater benefits for the individual, such as shinier hair, more vitality, and better health Minimum digestibility of 80-90% Average protein and fat: 35-40/15-17, respectively Minimum animal protein of 70% Nutrient range with the highest industry standard Smaller portions needed No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives High technology to take advantage of all ingredients' biological value

Super-premium Found at veterinarians or pet stores High-quality ingredients High nutritional density and digestibility Extensive portfolio that answers pet needs at different stages, sizes, and special requirements Nutritional innovation (functional ingredients) Size differential with kibble differential (in size and composition) Less fecal matter production Greater benefits for the individual, such as shinier hair, more vitality, and better health Very digestible elements (large amounts of ingredients of animal origin) Minimum digestibility of 80% Average protein and fat of 30-40/14-16, respectively. Minimum animal protein of 60% High industry standard nutrient range Smaller portions needed No artificial colors or flavors

Premium May contain artificial colors and flavors More fat and calories Made with animal or vegetable flour A mix of flavors, variety, and croquette shapes. Ingredients that protect joints, improve intestinal health and facilitate digestion Digestibility of 70-80% Average protein and fat of 24-34/10-15, respectively Animal protein is close to 40-50% Usually have an average price

Standard - mainstream Low density (provided by proteins and fats) Low fat and protein content Digestibility less than 75% Target of consumers concerned about the price Protein source mixture of meat meal and other non-animal sources Low-quality ingredients Smaller portfolio (no size differentials, sometimes even stages, no special care products) Artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives Average protein and fat of 20-30/10-12, respectively Animal protein <40%

Economical Low density (provided by proteins and fats) The lowest fat and protein content on the market Digestibility is less than 60% Target of consumers concerned about the price Protein source is a mixture of meat meal and bone powder Lower quality ingredients Smaller portfolio (no size differentials, sometimes even stages, no special care products) Artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives Average protein and fat of 20-27/8-10, respectively Animal protein <30% Poorly digestible fibers 9. Therapeutic: These are foods intended for a specific stage of an animal or need. They can be temporary or permanent, aimed at preventing, helping, or treating a specific disease. They are another clinical tool, a therapeutic one, sometimes the main one of a treatment (DIETOTHERAPY). Although there is no specific legislation, we must consider the digestibility, type of meat or meat flour, differential of kibbles or sizes, portfolio, colorant presence, antioxidants, or palatability as important aspects when selecting the appropriate product for a pet's needs. Product price, in general, is determined by the ingredients used (which are or should be organized in descending order), energy density, protein quantity and quality, and nutraceutical addition. We must be able to guarantee complete food that covers the requirements of an animal according to their needs, stage and size, digestibility (maximum nutrient use), good energy intake (3000-5000 Kcal), palatability, and safety.   By: Dr. Bonaura M. Candela.
Source: All Pet Food Magazine.

07/02/2024

Hill’s Pet Nutrition and Bond Pet Foods Make Strides in Developing Sustainable Protein for Pet Food

Separately, the companies announced a second joint development agreement to create an additional animal protein for potential use in Hill's products. The collaboration between Bond and Hill's, announced in late 2021, aims to develop a source of more sustainable animal protein to fulfill the dietary needs of dogs and cats, company officials said. 'Hill's is known for its leadership in precise, complete and balanced, science-based nutrition. We are excited to continue our relationship with Bond and support their truly novel approach to produce animal proteins in a more sustainable way that meets our high-quality standards', said Dave Baloga, executive vice president, science and technology for Hill's Pet Nutrition. The two metric tons produced by Bond represents a major milestone toward commercializing its fermentation technology for pet food applications, officials said. The scale of the delivery will allow Hill's to formulate a variety of products at its Pet Nutrition Center in Topeka, Kan., for evaluation. That data will be used for the ingredient's eventual review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's Center for Veterinary Medicine, as well as to prepare prototypes for market evaluation, officials said. 'Producing tons of product at the 45,000 Liter scale is a major milestone in the Bond-Hill's collaboration', said Rich Kelleman, founder and CEO of Bond Pet Foods. 'Additionally, Hill's commitment to expand on our work together demonstrates the opportunity we collectively see in Bond's ingredients for their and the pet industry's food future'. According to Bond, its precision fermentation platform is safe and established—building off a process that has been around for more than half a century to make everything from enzymes (rennet) for cheese manufacture to vitamin B12. The process has been carefully reimagined to more efficiently produce proteins like chicken, turkey and beef for pet food applications, without the need to raise and process farm animals. In the U.S. alone, 74 million dogs and 56 million cats in households currently consume large amounts of animal-based protein, according to the companies.
As a result, as noted in a 2017 study published in the scientific journal PLUS One, pets account for up to 30 percent of the carbon dioxide emissions associated with domestic meat consumption. This represents both CO2 and additional greenhouse gas emission from animal production.

Source: Pet Product News.

02/02/2024

Spray dried plasma in pet food: The multiple functions of a unique ingredient

The connection between human and pet food production is very important to optimize the use of by-products and minimize environmental impacts. Practically all by-products generated from the processing of meat for human consumption are properly used in the production of rendered animal protein ingredients and other applications in various industrial areas, thereby strengthening the application of a circular economy. Despite its relevance, advancements in the qualitative aspects of ingredients for use in pet food are needed because the quality is still very variable. Furthermore, the development of high nutritional standards for the food segment, such as food safety, high nutritional quality, and the use of ingredients that have functional properties have been a major challenge for the pet food sector today. In this respect, fresh ingredients, enzymatically hydrolyzed and dehydrated by more refined processes, such as lyophilization or spray drying have shown a growing increase in their use in formulations by the Pet Food industry.   Image 1: Estimated excretion of dry matter (DM) and crude protein (CP) for each kilogram of ingredient ingested, considering the digestibility of the ingredients (Table 1).   The spray-drying process consists in drying liquid products in a spray drying tower, equipped with hot air circulation that generates a hot air circulation that, when in contact with micro-drops of the liquid sprayed in the system by the atomizers, makes the dehydration of the product, keeping its solubility characteristics and better preserving the nutrients and functional properties of the ingredient. Some animal by-products are commonly processed this way, such as egg powder, plasma, hydrolyzed protein sources, milk, and whey, among others. This form of processing provides digestibility coefficients that can be higher than 95% (Song et al., 2015), when compared to digestibility coefficients between 80-90% found in ingredients dehydrated by conventional processes. In addition to reducing the excretion of nutrients into the environment, for dogs and cats, in practice, since fecal volume is a relevant aspect, this means an extremely significant reduction in the amount of stool produced by animals when consuming foods with high digestibility content. In Table 1 some comparisons of digestibility coefficients of conventional ingredients such as egg and plasma produced by spray-drying are presented and in Figure 1 a simulation of the amount of dry matter excreted by animals with each of these ingredients is presented, in order to show how much in practice these differences in digestibility can reduce the fecal output of animals. It can be observed that fecal excretion can be reduced up to 75% with the consumption of highly digestible ingredients.   Table 1: Dry Matter Digestibility (DMD) and Crude Protein Digestibility (CPD) of conventional (Meat and Bone Meal; Standard Poultry Meal) and spray-dried (Egg powder and Animal Plasma, SDAP) ingredients.   Plasma is a by-product of pork and beef slaughterhouses, obtained from the bleeding process of animals considered safe for human consumption, followed by the addition of anticoagulants, and subsequent centrifuging of the blood, to separate the plasma and cellular fraction (red blood cells and platelets), followed by decontamination with ultraviolet light and drying, usually by the spray-drying process. This production process maintains the solubility of the ingredient and its functionality to be used in extruded and wet pet food for dogs and cats. Image 2 shows a schematic diagram of the production process of this ingredient.   Image 2: Summary production schematic of porcine or bovine spray drying plasma production (SDAP). Courtesy APC LLC, Ankeny, IA.   Spray-dried Animal Plasma (SDAP) is used in human, animalfeed, and in pet food and can be used for various purposes, as shown in Table 2.   Table 2: Major functions and effects of Spray-dried Animal Plasma (SDAP) observed in pet food.   In wet pet foods, due to the high content of moisture, fat and the possibility of phase separation, the main technological application of SDAP is as an emulsifying and binding agent to improve water retention in the product, texture, juiciness and homogeneity (Polo et al., 2005; Polo et al., 2007; Polo et al., 2009). In dry pet foods processed by extrusion, its technological properties have not yet been studied, but it is likely to have action as a structure-forming agent and emulsifier, due to high solubility and composition. Regarding the nutritional composition, the SDAP, as a blood component, it is a very nutritionally rich ingredient, with emphasis on the levels of amino acids and minerals, presenting higher levels of essential amino acids, even when compared to the egg, which is a protein source reference in quality. In addition to this, the SDAP has bioactive components that provide its biological functionality. The SDAP's high amino acid concentration also represents other functional aspects associated with this ingredient, achieved due to the presence of immunoglobulins, bioactive peptides, growth factors, enzymes and metalloproteins, which confer immunomodulatory properties (Balan et al., 2021; Kanagaratham et al., 2020; Hammer et al., 2003), prebiotic (Miró et al., 2017; Moretó et al., 2020; Perez-Bosque et al. 2016), anti-inflammatory (Pérez-Bosque et al., 2016; Moretó et al, 2020) and neuroprotective (Garcia-Dust et al., 2020; Miró et al., 2017; Rosell-Cardona et al., 2021). Because of these multiple functions of SDAP in animal and human nutrition, which match the current demands for quality, nutrition, functionality, and sustainability, the next issues of Pet Food Brazil Magazine will present the other chapters of this article, which will discuss separately the role of SDAP in dry and wet pet food processing (Part 2), nutritional value (Part 3), and functional properties (Part 4), showing the main practical applications of this ingredient, based on information available in the literature.   By: Ricardo Souza Vasconcellos Source: APC   References Balan, P., Staincliffe, M., & Moughan, P. J. (2021). Effects of spray-dried animal plasma on the growth performance of weaned piglets—A review. In Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition (Vol. 105, Issue 4, pp. 699–714). Blackwell Publishing Ltd. https://doi.org/10.1111/jpn.13435 Carciofi, A.C. (2008) Fontes de Proteína e Carboidratos para cães e gatos. Revista Brasileira de Zootecnia, v.37, Suppl., 27-41. Garcia-Dust, A., Miró, L., Pérez-Bosque, A., Amat, C., Polo, J., Pallàs, M., Griñán-Ferré, C., & Moretó, M. (2020). Dietary spray-dried porcine plasma prevents cognitive decline in senescent mice and reduces neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. Journal of Nutrition, 150(2), 303–311. https://doi.org/10.1093/jn/nxz239 Kanagaratham, C., el Ansari, Y. S., Lewis, O. L., & Oettgen, H. C. (2020). IgE and IgG Antibodies as Regulators of Mast Cell and Basophil Functions in Food Allergy. In Frontiers in Immunology (Vol. 11). Frontiers Media S.A. https://doi.org/10.3389/fimmu.2020.603050 Miró, L., Garcia-Just, A., Amat, C., Polo, J., Moretó, M., & Pérez-Bosque, A. (2017). Dietary animal plasma proteins improve the intestinal immune response in senescent mice. Nutrients, 9(12). https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9121346 Moretó, M., Miró, L., Amat, C., Polo, J., Manichanh, C., & Pérez-Bosque, A. (2020). Dietary supplementation with spray-dried porcine plasma has prebiotic effects on gut microbiota in mice. Scientific Reports, 10(1). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-020-59756-z Pérez-Bosque, A., Miró, L., Amat, C., Polo, J., & Moretó, M. (2016). The anti-inflammatory effect of spray-dried plasma is mediated by a reduction in mucosal lymphocyte activation and infiltration in a mouse model of intestinal inflammation. Nutrients, 8(10). https://doi.org/10.3390/nu8100657 Polo, J., Rodríguez, C., Ródenas, J., Morera, S., & Saborido, N. (2007). Use of spray-dried animal plasma in canned chunk recipes containing excess of added water or poultry fat. Animal Feed Science and Technology, 133(3–4), 309–319. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.anifeedsci.2006.04.008 Polo, J., Rodríguez, C., Ródenas, J., Morera, S., & Saborido, N. (2009). The use of spray-dried animal plasma in comparison with other binders in canned pet food recipes. Animal Feed Science and Technology, 154(3–4), 241–247. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.anifeedsci.2009.08.009 Polo, J., Rodríguez, C., Saborido, N., & Ródenas, J. (2005). Functional properties of spray-dried animal plasma in canned petfood. Animal Feed Science and Technology, 122(3–4), 331–343. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.anifeedsci.2005.03.002 Rosell-Cardona, C., Griñan-Ferré, C., Pérez-Bosque, A., Polo, J., Pallàs, M., Amat, C., Moretó, M., & Miró, L. (2021). Dietary spray-dried porcine plasma reduces neuropathological alzheimer's disease hallmarks in samp8 mice. Nutrients, 13(7). https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13072369 Song, M., Kim, S., Kim, Y., Park, J., Kim, Y. (2015) Value of Spray-dried egg in pig nursery diets. Journal of Agricultural Sciences, v. 42, n.3, 207-213.

02/02/2024

Palatability: The importance of flavor in pet nutrition

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people adopted dogs and cats to fight loneliness and bring joy to their families. Abinpet data confirm this increase in the number of pets in households: the dog and cat population in Brazil increased 3.5% and 6% in 2021 and 2022, respectively. However, not only has the number of pets in homes increased, but the relationship between owners and their pets has also evolved. Owners have adopted a more humanized approach towards their pets, treating them like children. According to the Euromonitor survey, 68.6% of respondents globally say they consider their pets family member¹. Pet owners wish their pets to have their values and lifestyles. According to a Mintel survey, 65% of German pet owners agree that their pet's diet has a direct impact on their emotional well-being². This indicates that the pet owners' are more concerned with their pets' health and nutrition has changed, and are now considered essential expenses. Promoting pet well-being and improving their quality of life have become priorities. The humanization trend has led many 'pet parents' to seek pet foods that contain the same ingredients and meet the same claims when purchasing their own and their family's foods. For instance, Mintel data shows that 38% of pet owners in the US seek natural foods for their pets³. In the UK, 53% of pet food buyers agree that those made with sustainable ingredients, such as byproducts from other food production, are more attractive². As a result of this new pet humanization trend, pet food companies have changed their production practices. In addition to sustainability, health, and trends such as Upcycling Food considerations, the industry has also focused on palatability. Pet food companies have given more attention to the characteristics of their products, including texture, aroma, perception, and, of course, flavor.   WHAT IS PALATABILITY   Just like with humans, food appreciation plays a key role in pet diets, ensuring that they consume the required amount of nutrients. But what is the role of palatability? Food palatability involves a combination of factors, such as texture, shape, odor, flavor, and mouthfeel. It also plays a key role in improving the flavor of foods for special diets, balancing the composition of essential nutrients and vitamins with a pleasant flavor for animals. In other words, palatability is related to food savoriness and desirability. After all, dogs and cats have their own preferences and may reject foods that do not meet their individual taste. The primary factor that affect palatability are:
    In short, palatability plays an essential role in dog and cat nutrition. Even though the food contains all the required nutrients, it will not be effective if it does stimulate the animals' appetite.   THE ROLE OF YEAST EXTRACT IN PALATABILITY   Choosing the right ingredients and flavor enhancers in pet food production plays an essential role in market differentiation. It increases the chances of getting the palatability right and, consequently, being appreciated by pets. The most frequently used natural flavor enhancers are yeasts, essential oils, fats, vegetable oils, organic acids, spray-dried animal plasma, protein hydrolyzate, distillates, or food roasting and heating. Adding yeast extracts to food stimulates the palate of dogs and cats, as they have an attractive flavor. Yeast extracts provides Umami, sweet, and sour flavors, optimizing food consumption and the utilization of specific amino acids. Yeast extracts can be incorporated in the food mash or as coating, together with other flavor enhancers. allowing its utilization in a variety of pet food formulations, from extruded dry diets to nutraceutical compounds.   IMPROVING PET FOOD PALATABILITY   Since 2003, Biorigin has used biotechnology to enhance the flavor of a wide range of human foods and to offer yeast-based solutions to increase the attractiveness of pet foods The company has recently launched the innovative PalaUp product line, which applies all its know-how in pet food ingredient production. The PalaUp line is clean label and sustainable. It provides Umami flavor, and specific meat and roast chicken notes, bringing the taste buds of the owner and their pet closer together. It can be used in different applications, and combined with different arrays of ingredients to provide unique sensory experiences to pets. By applying Biorigin's extensive knowledge in human nutrition, PalaUp contributes to make pets' lives even more pleasant and humanized! For more information on the PalaUp line, CLICK HERE. By: Biorigin Sources: ¹ Premiumisation in Pet Care: Inflation and Beyond (Euromonitor, 2023)  ² Patent insights: innovations shaping pet food (Mintel, 2022)  ³ A year of innovation in pet food and products (Mintel, 2023)

05/01/2024

Fiber Innovations - Time to shine

Gut Health Feeding complete foods rich in natural fiber is undoubtedly good for a pet´s health – a fact that is backed up by an array of scientific studies. As components of pet food and functional ingredients, specific fiber sources are primarily known for their ability to keep a pet´s digestive system healthy and balanced. Clinical studies have shown that supplementing dry and wet cat food with cellulose fiber helps to reduce typical hairball symptoms and to raise fecal hair excretion in cats. Preventing obesity As in humans, pet obesity numbers continue to increase year by year. According to the Association for Pet Obesity (APOP), nearly 60% of cats and 56% of dogs in the US are overweight or obese. Weight management foods enriched with concentrated cellulose fiber can help to better control weight in cats and dogs without affecting food palatability. Dental care Oral health is another top concern among pet owners. Approximately 70% of cats and 80% of dogs develop some form of oral health problem by the time they are three years old. Clinical studies have proven that dental foods and snacks enhanced with specific cellulose fibers work more effectively to promote oral health in dogs when compared with fiber-free control products. Standardized quality Consistency, texture, and uniformity of pet food products are key quality attributes that are important to consumers but may be difficult to maintain. Given the variable nature of ingredients and the complexity of the manufacturing process, creating the right consistency can be a challenge for the manufacturer. Well-known binders such as spray-dried plasma (SDP), wheat gluten, or egg white/albumin commonly are used in so-called restructured meat products like chunks and in all 47 meat applications for their high swelling, water retention, and emulsion capabilities. With a series of long-term pilot scale tests at their Technical Competence Center in Rosenberg (Germany), JRS demonstrated that a favorable cost-benefit is achieved by partially replacing conventional binders with functional cellulose fibers.
Regardless of the type of meat ingredient tested, replacing 2% SDF with 1% cellulose helps optimize the key parameters in a steam tunnel process and improves the textural parameters of the chunk before and after retorting. Fiber as a tool Fiber research is also currently underway into capturing product quality features in dry grain-free products with high meat inclusion in order to overcome typical extrusion challenges such as stickiness, reduced throughput, or poor product integrity. Natural products for the future As pet food trends follow our tastes and expectations discovering the functionality of simple, natural plant fibers is a key field of innovation.
These special natural fibers can help develop vegan meat alternatives giving the substitute products the right consistency and the desired structure. Moreover, many pet owners are exploring raw feeding with product convenience being a strong argument for consistent purchase. Natural plantfibers can make raw pet food firmer and more comfortable to handle while contributing to good digestion. Energy Savings Opportunities Each pet food and treat product format offers opportunities for cost savings and improvement in overall efficiency, especially during a global energy crisis, this fact is the focus of every entrepreneur. Specialized cellulose fibers have proven to make production processes more sustainable. In dry pet food, the drying time in production can be reduced by 50% making way for lower power consumption and relieving the bottleneck in drying, allowing for higher product throughput. Tailored Fiber Solutions With enormous demand across the pet industry for innovative products, manufacturers are looking for unique marketable, and functional ingredients. Specialized plant fibers can be considered the pet food technologist´s toolbox for providing a wide range of functionalities across the whole spectrum of pet food products: dry to wet, frozen to sterilized, and even dietary supplements such as tablets. As a leader in fiber products, JRS offers a comprehensive range of fiber ingredients that are suitable for all manufacturing processes and formulation options. Fibers that can help create sustainable pet food for better differentiation and improved pet health.   By: Dr. Astrid Bosse. JRS Petfood & Aquafeed Source: All Pet Food Magazine

15/12/2023

Protect your pet food from oxidation, naturally

In this article from Symrise Pet Food's blog you'll find a description of the mechanisms behind oxidation and also some tips to take advantage of antioxidants and naturally fight for freshness.   You are invited to learn more HERE! Source: Symrise Pet Food

14/12/2023

Innovative FEED Act introduced in US House of Representatives

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

11/12/2023

Czech company earns EU registration for cultivated pet food

Prague-based Bene Meat has become the EU's first cultivated meat company to be cleared for sale in pet food after receiving approval from the European Feed Materials Register. The milestone is the latest development in the burgeoning cultured pet food sector, which has witnessed new tech, new brands, as well as rebrands. Bene Meat announced in a press release  that it had been 'certified by the European Feed Materials Register to produce and sell cultured meat for pet food'. Originally Reuters and others (including this publication) reported this statement as an official EU regulatory approval. However, Dr Hannah Lester, CEO and Principal Consultant at Atova Regulatory Consulting, told industry publication CellAgri that while 'Bene Meat has listed their cultivated cells of mammalian origin in the EU feed materials register…so it is true that cultivated meat could be classified as a feed material,' it was important to clarify that this is 'not the same as an EU regulatory approval or certification' as reported by Reuters in an article about the news. According to Dr Lester, 'any feed business operator (FBO) can list a new feed material on the Feed Material Register if it is not already listed in the EU Catalogue of Feed Materials. The Feed Material Register does not grant approvals or certification.' She added that 'Feed materials that are safe and compliant with Regulation (EC) 767/2009 can be used in pet food. There is no separate approval process for pet foods, but there are different labeling requirements.' Robert E. Jones, President of Cellular Agriculture Europe, said in a statement: 'While it is exciting to see the potential of cultivated meat explored for multiple purposes in the food system, it is critical that accurate information is communicated about how new products are regulated. This was not an EU approval. The company in question has self-listed its cultivated cells in the EU feed materials register, which is managed by the industry-led EU Feed Chain Task Force, and they do not grant approvals or certificates. It is important to clarify that animal feed materials do not require pre-market approval and have nothing to do with the robust EU novel foods process our members will go through to bring delicious and sustainable cultivated meat and seafood to consumers.' A spokesperson from Bene gave us the following updated statement about the news: ' To confirm, Bene Meat is officially registered as an FBO producing cultured cells of mammalian origin in the Czech Republic and registered this new feed ingredient in the European Feed Materials Register. Bene Meat has also extensively discussed the subject with the European Commission and Czech Authorities, and verified the application of classification 12 for cultured cells of mammalian origins and provided them with necessary documentation, description of the material and cultivation process. In this regard, Bene Meat has satisfied all legal requirements to bring the feed material based on cultured cells of mammalian origin to the market and is legally allowed to do so.' Editor's Note: we have updated our reporting to reflect this clarification with statements from Dr Hannah Lester, Robert E. Jones and a spokesperson from Bene Meat. Bene Meat first to list its cultivated pet feed on official EU register The Czech startup was founded in 2020 to make cultivated meat for human consumption but has pivoted to pet food for now, providing cultured meat as a raw material to global pet food manufacturers. It has been developing its own FBS-free growth factors since 2021, and now plans to boost production to produce several tonnes of cell-cultured meat daily by mid-2024. 'Thanks to the obtained certification, nothing prevents us from taking further steps,' said Tomáš Kubeš, Bene Meat's head of strategic projects. 'We're negotiating with feed manufacturers to get this wonderful product into production.' Its tech can be adapted according to manufacturers' requirements, offering an ingredient that can be fully used in the making of any pet food product. 'We look forward to working with manufacturers, as we're doing it for them and their customers,' added managing director Roman Kříž. 'Manufacturers have a unique chance to gain an unprecedented competitive advantage in the market, thanks to the existence of our product.' Kříž told Reuters that the startup is able to scale up its manufacturing at prices that make its meat commercially viable on par with premium and super-premium pet food products. Bene Meat is emerging in a market with strong acceptance of cell-cultured pet food. A Czech survey by NMS Market Research found that 48% of citizens prefer cultivated meat in pet food for health and safety reasons, while 27% cited ethical and ecological factors as purchasing drivers for cultured meat for their furry friends. The startup now plans to test how the meat tastes to pets, and will scale up production in its Prague lab as well as a new facility it's on the lookout for. Bene Meat expects to introduce the first cultured meat for pet food in the EU in early 2024. Meatly takes on the UK Another company planning to launch cultivated pet food in Europe – starting with its home market in the UK – is Meatly. If you've never heard of it, it's because this is the new name of the startup formerly known as Good Dog Food. The company, which raised £3.5M in seed funding earlier this year, has just rebranded as it prepares to launch in the UK. Its chairman Jim Melon, executive director of Agronomics has previously said that it would be easier to earn regulatory approval for cultured meat for the pet industry, rather than for human consumption. Meatly was only launched last year, and makes cultivated chicken by 'taking a sample of cells from a chicken egg just once'. It has already secured 'key partnerships with manufacturers' – including with petcare retailer Pets at Home – to get its pet food on shelves soon. 'Our pets love meat, but old-fashioned meat – produced through factory farming – requires a huge amount of land, water, and antibiotics and is a key cause of environmental degradation,' said Meatly CEO Owen Ensor. 'We need cultivated meat now more than ever. Pet food is the natural starting point, given consumers' excitement. We're thrilled to be at the heart of the future of meat production in the UK.' A kinder seafood brand for pets More recent developments include the formation of Marina Cat, a cultivated pet food brand born out of a collaboration between Canada's Cult Food Science and Singapore-based cultured seafood producer Umami Bioworks. Marina Cat will combine Umami's cultivated red ocean snapper and Cult's patented nutritional yeast ingredient, Bmmune, to make a 'high-protein, low-calorie' feline treat that 'provides benefits to a cat's cognitive function, based on its high levels of omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acid chains'. The startup aims to begin production this year, and expects its product to have widespread availability in 2024. 'My vision for the future is that we no longer have to slaughter other animals to feed our cats,' said Joshua Errett, Cult's VP of product. 'This brand brings me one very great step closer to making that a reality.' The AI opportunity More recently, Vienna-based BioCraft Pet Nutrition (formerly Because Animals) unveiled its proprietary AI and machine learning tool to accelerate R&D for optimal cell proliferation and nutrient production. The tool processes publicly available data and synthesises it into 'a picture of the biochemical machinery inside a cell'. It then analyses the data to identify nutritional inputs that can enhance cell growth, nutrient biosynthesis, or other biological processes key to cultivated meat production. 'The main costs and time sinks on the way to commercialization are R&D-related, and our AI has substantially streamlined this process, accelerated our progress, and reduced costs,' said BioCraft founder and CEO Shannon Falconer. 'In this application, AI can surpass the human brain for speed and efficiency, and helps us derive more complex conclusions by making more connections between more facts.' This came a few months after BioCraft had developed a chicken cell line for both cat and dog food, with the cultured chicken ingredient containing all essential nutrients found in conventional pet food, including high protein content, key vitamins, fats and amino acids like taurine. With the help of AI, BioCraft – which has previously unveiled cell-based mice meat – is engaging in fewer, more targeted experiments, to fine-tune its cell proliferation process and improve the health credentials of its meat. Additionally, it can identify less expensive inputs and ingredients, including those less likely to raise regulatory concerns. (So far, no company has received approval from the US Centre for Veterinary Medicine.) Why alternative pet food is crucial Pet food is a $144B market and one that's set to grow annually by 5.3% until 2028. But the industry carries a massive environmental burden. In the US alone, for example, manufacturing cat and dog kibble is equivalent to 25-30% of all animal-consumption-related emissions. And globally, dog and cat food emit around 64 million tons of carbon per year – that's the equivalent of over 13 million cars. In fact, according to one study, if cats and dogs were considered their own nation, they would rank as the world's fifth-largest meat-consuming entity. Moreover, health is an increasing priority for humans, and the continued humanisation of pets has led to a crossover of habits. This is where cultured pet food comes in. A 729-person study last year found that while 32.5% of Brits would be willing to eat cultivated meat themselves, they'd be more willing to feed it to their pets (47.3%). Of those who would try these proteins themselves, 81.4% would be happy to give them to their four-legged friends. A recent study exploring the environmental impact of vegan pets can provide an insight into the climate-friendly nature of cultured pet food too. The research suggested that if all dogs and cats went plant-based globally, it could help feed nearly 520 million people, save more greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those produced by entire nations, and free up land the size of several countries. Further research found that vegan diets can be just as healthy for cats as meat-based ones, shedding the 'obligate carnivores' universally associated with felines. It followed another study published last year that found that vegan diets are the healthiest and least hazardous choice for dogs. In fact, vegan cat food is a $9.2B market that's expected to nearly double by 2030, while the vegan dog food market is currently valued at £11.5bn ($14.1B), and projected to reach £21bn ($25.8B) by 2033, according to the Guardian. All the signs are there for the continued growth of alternative pet food, a category that also includes brands like Wild Earth (cell-based dog food) and Bond Pet Foods (cultured chicken for dogs and cats). These latest developments – notably the approval in the EU – are major markers of what's to come for this sector. This article was updated on November 10th 2023 to better reflect Bene's regulatory announcement. As per CellAgri's reporting and additional statements from Cellular Agriculture Europe, we have clarified our reporting to better represent the company's news. On November 13th 2023, we updated this article with a statement from Bene Meat. by Anay Mridul  -  AGreen Queen's resident news reporter. Originally from India, he worked as a vegan food writer and editor in London, and is now travelling and reporting from across Asia.  

06/12/2023

Agroloop commissions Bühler to provide proven insect-rearing tech for animal feed

Swiss company Bühler will deliver its proven crate-based nursery and rearing technology, enabling a quick ramp-up of the plant for commercial production. By the end of 2024, Agroloop plans to launch its first products, contributing to a more sustainable animal feed value chain. Industrial-scale insect plant Following its foundation in 2017 and the operation of a pilot facility, Agroloop got the green light to implement an industrial insect plant in Hungary in 2022.  Now, they have selected all execution partners and are working at full speed to construct the plant and get it operational.  In the new plant, Agroloop will produce more than 25,000 metric tons of black soldier fly larvae that will be turned into sustainable feed ingredients for the pet food, aquaculture and livestock sectors.  The plant is only the first step in Agroloop's strategy to make insect feed ingredients available for the Central and Eastern European (CEE) agribusiness.  'The abundance of food processing by-products presents a unique opportunity for Agroloop's multi-plant rollout strategy in the CEE region, ' says István Nagy, co-founder and CEO of Agroloop. 'We leverage our strategic partnership with the leading regional feed producer UBM Group to improve feed quality and sustainability by creating future-proof feed formulas. This enables Agroloop to focus on rapid expansion and solidifies our position as a key player in the region.'  Tech for short ramp-up time  Agroloop's insect growth technology has a big influence on plant yield, directly impacting the performance of business. Agroloop has chosen Bühler's nursery and rearing technology for their insect growth system, which has several years of track record in the insect industry.  'We've assembled a technology supplier portfolio to build our plant. Bühler is crucial in providing this design's framework and core components. By choosing Bühler's technology, Agroloop can enter the value chain with the highest standards,' says István Nagy.   Sustainable protein in demand   In pursuing sustainable and environmentally friendly practices, the CEE region increasingly turns to alternative sources for feed ingredients.  By incorporating insects into the feed supply chain, the region can address environmental concerns, reduce dependence on imported protein sources, and contribute to a circular economy approach. In addition, innovative feed formulations containing insects can optimize animal health and growth, thus leading to more efficient livestock production systems.  Insects can be reared on agricultural and food processing by-products, transforming these materials into high-quality protein. This approach reduces the environmental impact of this value chain and creates a closed-loop system where resources are reused and recycled.  The EU has previously depended on imported protein sources for animal feed, contributing to deforestation and habitat destruction in other parts of the world. By embracing the commercialization of insect-based livestock feed, the region can increase feed efficiency, reduce reliance on external sources, and contribute to local and regional food security.  Andreas Baumann, head of market segment insect technology at Bühler, adds: 'The incorporation of insect ingredients in animal feed presents a compelling solution to the challenges faced by the livestock industry.' 'Besides providing nutritious and sustainable protein sources, insects empower local economies to become self-sufficient. That is why insect protein is key to a more sustainable and resilient food system.'  Yesterday, Food Ingredients First reported that the UK Edible Insect Association said that European Novel Food regulations impose an 'extremely high barrier to entry for edible insect companies and ignore the sector's potential to build a more sustainable food system.' In other insect-based developments, US-based scientists recently revealed they are targeting dairy waste reduction by mass-producing the black soldier fly that feeds on it and evaluating the insect's potential as a feed for livestock and domestic pets. ' by Bühler

01/12/2023

Australian firm introduces flexitarian diets for dogs

Many pet parents are adopting one of pet food's hottest trends: raw, fresh and high meat diets. However, high meat diets typically have a high environmental impact. While many pet parents are resistant to turning their dogs vegan - although research shows they could - Planet A Pet Food helps people move to a flexitarian diet for their dogs.
 
Planet A launches Australia's freshest, entovegan dog food, combining upcycled veg and insect protein, with a food-grade plant-based meat analog, that's being used in restaurants and food service around the country.  "People have the idea that their dogs should eat meat, and a lot of it," says Planet A founder Amanda Falconer. "And they often say they're uncomfortable forcing their 'environmental' choices onto their dogs. When we created Planet A, we wanted to meet people where they were in their dog nutrition beliefs but also give them options to mix it up…just as they do for themselves. And that's because, even though I'm vegan myself, I know the majority of people are going to be meat reducers, not vegans." Even though dogs don't have a requirement for the ingredient - meat - but the nutrients it provides, giving dogs the pleasure of the taste and texture of meat was also important. Working with small animal nutritionist Dr Anna Sutton, Planet A Pet Food created nutritionally complete meat-free food that dogs love, featuring human food-grade plant protein, that looks and tastes like meat, but isn't.   The Planet A No-Meat Dinners also combine insect protein, food by-product ingredients together with sustainably harvested algae. Consumers just add water to rehydrate the food, so that it's fresh, when they need it. Food by-product ingredients include: Black solider fly larvae protein, produced using traceable pre-consumer food by-products, like bread from Bakers Delight, excess stock from Simplot and unconsumed food from McDonalds. The production of 1 tonne of insect protein powder creates 2.5 tonnes of insect fertiliser and utilises 14 tonnes of food by-products, preventing an estimated 28 tonnes of greenhouse emissions, resulting in a net offset of over 25 tonnes of carbon emissions per tonne of protein powder.  Vegetable powders from Australia's largest tomato processor, Kagome. They've developed LycoFibre®, an antioxidant-rich ingredient produced from tomato skins, and NinjinFibre® carrot fibre. About 25% of carrots used for juice is waste, and so Kagome's drying process converts 7000 tonnes of carrot pulp per year into 700 tonnes of value-added powder. Vegetable powders lightly dried from out of spec (size-wise) veg and the leaves of cabbages, broccoli and cauliflower. These are also used in human food snacks.  Up to a third of greenhouse gas emissions globally come from the food system and pet food accounts for about 25% of that and growing. About a quarter of all food grown never leaves the farm and Australia discards about 7 million tonnes of food every year. 42% of Australians have either reduced meat consumption or stopped eating it altogether. They have about 2.7million dogs between them.  By Planet A  

29/11/2023

Mycotoxins in dog and cat food: how to deal with them?

By Ludmila Barbi T. Bomcompagni

Mycotoxins are toxic substances resulting from the metabolism of some fungi and molds. For the development of microorganisms that produce these toxins, several factors are necessary, such as physical-chemical factors, type of substrate, temperature, and humidity of the storage place, in addition to the amount of water present in the grains and their pH (MAZIERO and BERSOT, 2010). Mycotoxins do not induce protective immunity since they are not antigenic, and therefore, their effects vary with the type, dose, and even the age, sex, and health of the animal. The main clinical signs reported in dogs and cats poisoned by mycotoxins present in their food are vomiting, diarrhea, convulsions, abdominal pain, polydipsia, polyuria, ascites, anorexia, and development of chronic liver damage. In canine medicine, it is common to record mycotoxicoses that occur silently, which makes differential diagnosis difficult (SILVA, 2019; WITASZAK et al., 2019). The main mycotoxins and their respective target organs, identified in the canine species, are aflatoxins (AFLA) and fumonisins (FUMO) in the liver, deoxynivalenol (DON) in the digestive system, ochratoxin A (OA) in the kidneys, zearalenone (ZEA) in the reproductive system, patulin (PTA) in the liver and kidneys, and citrinin (CIT) in the kidneys and digestive system (SOUZA and SCUSSEL, 2012). Contamination of dog and cat foods with mycotoxins can occur directly or indirectly. The first occurs when some of the ingredients are previously contaminated, and even with the elimination of the fungus during the extrusion process, the mycotoxins remain in the food, since they are resistant to high temperatures. The direct form is related to food contamination by toxigenic fungi and the subsequent appearance of mycotoxin production (FERREIRA et al., 2007).   The mycotoxicosis scenario in pet food factories is quite challenging Given this, we need strategies that guarantee the high quality of the ingredients used in the manufacture of food for dogs and cats or find solutions that prevent mycotoxins from being absorbed by the animals' bodies. Implementing a comprehensive mycotoxin monitoring program in the pet food plant is essential. This program should include several steps, from careful selection of ingredient suppliers to accurate and reliable laboratory testing. To address the problem of mycotoxicoses it is essential to adopt an approach that includes the identification, quantification, and understanding of the mycotoxins present in the ingredients which will be used to manufacture dog and cat foods. This involves the use of precise methodologies that allow us to determine which mycotoxins are present, as well as their concentrations, helping to evaluate ingredient suppliers and the possible harm that may be caused to animals. Currently, the most well-known methodologies available for the quantitative analysis of mycotoxins in ingredients are high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (Elisa), lateral flow strips (LFD) and near-infrared spectroscopy technology (NIR). These methods allow detection at extremely low levels, ensuring compliance with food safety regulations. It is important to highlight that the choice of a methodology is crucial to have a reliable analysis. However, the real value of managing mycotoxins found in ingredients used in the manufacture of dog and cat foods lies in the ability to interpret the results, evaluate their criticality, and implement corrective plans. Technology is playing an increasingly important role in improving mycotoxin monitoring. Real-time detection systems and predictive analytics based on artificial intelligence are being explored to identify potential risk points in production and enable proactive response. Mycotoxin adsorbent additive's introduction in pet foods has proven to be an effective solution to mitigate the risks of mycotoxins, mainly in factories that do not have control analysis at reception and in monitoring, the silos where these ingredients are stored. For an adsorbent to be considered efficient, it must present some characteristics: it must destroy, inactivate, or eliminate the toxin; not produce toxic or carcinogenic residues in final products or in foods obtained from animals that consumed a detoxified diet; and maintain the nutritional value and acceptability of the product (FREITAS et al., 2012). The adsorbent or chelating agent is an inert material without any nutritional principle, which could adhere to the surface of the mycotoxins present, causing their elimination through the feces of dogs and cats, preventing the toxins from being absorbed by the body. (MOREIRA et al., 2018). Aluminosilicates (clays) are the basis for the development of adsorbent additives. In the 1980s, the ability of certain clays (bentonites, zeolites, and others) to bind to food mycotoxins in the digestive tract of animals, preventing their absorption, was discovered. Currently, we have the most varied types of adsorbents available on the market, products based on volcanic rocks associated with other more technological and broad-spectrum compounds that combine the use of inorganic, organic, and yeast adsorbents. In addition to additives that support the immune system, they restore liver functions and help maintain intestinal integrity. When choosing a mycotoxin adsorbent, it is important to check the mycotoxin adsorption efficiency, which considers the percentage of adsorption and desorption in the intestine. This evaluation includes the stability of the adsorbent-mycotoxin bond and its effectiveness in different pH ranges since the product is expected to act throughout the gastrointestinal tract (Binder, 2007). pH values ​​vary throughout the digestive tract, from acidic conditions to basic conditions. Therefore, the binding capacity of products can be influenced by changes in pH, creating the risk that mycotoxins are adsorbed in one part and released (desorbed) in another part of the digestive tract (Zavarize, 2021). Furthermore, it is necessary to evaluate whether the adsorbent has a broad spectrum, that is, if it is effective for as many mycotoxins as possible. Another extremely important point to consider is the need for the adsorbents to have low inclusion so that they take up minimal space in the food formula and contribute an insignificant amount of mineral matter to the final product. This is especially crucial in premium, super-premium, and especially cat foods, where the amount of mineral matter tends to be lower, compared to dog foods, due to the adjustments necessary to avoid the formation of uroliths. Furthermore, it is essential that the adsorbents do not affect the palatability of the product.   Source: All Pet Food Magazine

22/11/2023

NARA recognizes Pet Food Alliance coordinator

Martin is an associate professor in Meat Safety and Quality and a meat extension specialist at the Colorado State University's (CSU) Department of Animal Sciences. At CSU, Martin leads a research program focused on the safety and quality of meat and other meat-related products that aims to support industry partners. Additionally, she collaborates with meat and livestock industry members, and serves as the co-leader of Upskilling, a workforce and educational program at CSU's College of Agricultural Sciences that provides career pathways for those in the agri-food industry. In addition to her work at CSU, Martin also coordinates the PFA, a joint project facilitated through the university and FPRF. The alliance seeks to unite members of the rendering, pet food, laboratory and research, academia and technological industries in order to explore opportunities and create solutions to industry-wide challenges. According to NARA, Martin's ongoing commitment to the PFA, as well as her continued support of the FPRF and its initiatives, makes her a worthy recipient of the prestigious award. 'I am truly honored to receive the Fred Bisplinghoff Research Innovation Award from FPRF,' Martin said. 'I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the rendering industry through the Pet Food Alliance and thankful for the numerous industry partners who are willing to collaboratively develop solutions for industry-wide challenges.' Charles Starkey, Ph.D., vice president of scientific and regulatory affairs of NARA and director of research at FPRF, presented Martin with the award during NARA's 2023 Convention in Naples. By NARA

20/11/2023

Biorigin Celebrates 20 Years of Commitment to Quality, Excellence, Innovation and Sustainability

Biorigin has stood out over the years for its dedication to product excellence. The company has continually invested in research and development to provide innovative and customized solutions to meet the customers' specific needs and increase their production capacity. Biorigin's commitment to quality and excellence is reflected in its rigorous quality control and global certifications that ensure the consistency and safety of its ingredients. Innovation has been a fundamental pillar of Biorigin's journey over the last two decades. The company has constantly explored new solutions to create ingredients that improve food taste, quality, and the health of people and animals. Through continuous research and development, Biorigin has launched products that have notably benefitted the food industry. Furthermore, Biorigin's determination to promote the well-being of people and animals is demonstrated by its responsible business practices. Biorigin's primary raw material is sugarcane, produced by Zilor, which applies responsible agricultural practices and respect for the environment, ensuring full traceability of its products and reflecting its commitment to an ethical and sustainable supply chain.
Sustainability is an essential element of Biorigin's DNA. The company is committed to reducing its environmental impact and developing ingredients that contribute to the health and well-being of our planet, as shown by its constant pursuit of cleaner production practices, promotion of environmentally friendly packaging, and waste reduction. Biorigin's member of the Board, Maurício Da Barrosa, shared his excitement about this 20-year milestone: 'We are extremely proud of Biorigin's achievements over the past 20 years. Our journey has been defined by dedication to quality, excellence, innovation, commitment to the health and well-being of people and animals, and the tireless promotion of sustainability. We look forward to continuing our mission of creating a better world using biotechnology solutions.' As Biorigin celebrates two decades of innovation, quality, and commitment to sustainability, the company reaffirms its mission to be a trusted partner in the food industry. With a clear vision for the future, Biorigin remains committed to leading the way toward a healthier, more sustainable, and thriving world. For more information on Biorigin and its achievements, visit www.biorigin.net . About Biorigin: Biorigin is a biotechnology company that produces high-quality natural ingredients derived from the fermentation of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae for the human and animal food industries. Since its foundation in 2003, the company is committed to quality, excellence, innovation, and sustainability. Biorigin's mission is to promote the health and well-being of people and animals while fostering sustainable and responsible business practices. Headquartered in Lençóis Paulista, SP, Brazil, Biorigin operates globally and is acknowledged for its leadership in developing innovative biotechnological solutions. For more information, visit www.biorigin.net. Source: Biorigin By: All Pet Food 

02/11/2023

Innovation and Insight: The AAFCO Meeting's Impact on Pet Food Ingredients and Regulations

 Several terms and ingredient definitions changed, or were approved either tentatively or officially. Additionally, there was much discussion about low-copper and human grade claims. Read on to find out about how these changes might affect your business.  Below is a description of the terms and ingredient changes made by AAFCO.  Freeze Dried, also known as lyophilized or cryodessicated, is now a process term. Freeze drying involves a low-temperature dehydration process where the product is frozen, brought to a lower pressure, then has its water/moisture removed via sublimation. Shelf stability is achieved via reaching a critical moisture/water activity level.  The official definition of Black Soldier Fly Larvae Oil has been expanded to include its use in adult dog food.  Meat and Bone Meal definition was updated and the tentative definition includes the statement, 'It is a source of protein in animal diets.' The language that was removed from the definition includes, 'It shall contain a minimum of 4.0% Phosphorus and the Calcium level shall not be more than 2.2 times the actual Phosphorus level' and the maximum crude fiber guarantee is no longer required. Alpha-Lipoic Acid was added to table 101.1. The ingredient received FDA-CVM's No Questions Letter, allowing its use as a nutritive antioxidant in adult dog food. (T60.119) Dried Cricket received a tentative definition and a motion passed to accept the ingredient. This definition will be voted on by the membership at the Mid-Year meeting next January. Most states accept tentative definitions so this ingredient will be allowed to be used in adult dog food, but there are some states that won't accept the use of dried crickets until the definition becomes official. There was a fascinating presentation by Mill on Dried Recovered Household Food and the motion passed to accept this as a new tentative definition for use as a poultry feed ingredient (T40.113). Revamping Standards: Fresh Takes on Ingredients and Regulatory Practices Common Food Index recommendations were passed for immediate inclusion in the OP and ODI. It includes a list of ingredients that are considered common or usual and can be utilized in pet food. Some examples include: shiitake mushrooms, asparagus and cherries. The protocol for accepting GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) ingredients has been revised. Once the FDA No Questions letter notice is published, it may be presented to the IDC for inclusion in section 101 at the next scheduled IDC meeting. There will no longer be a need to wait for the FDA to post the redacted notice. A workgroup was established to determine the feasibility of exempting AAFCO Ingredient Definitions from the tentative status requirement. The new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) will include a public comment period which will allow anyone to review information earlier. There is concern that the public comment period will increase time rather than reduce time by the estimated 6 months. There will be an update at the October IDC meeting. The Statements for Uniform Interpretation and Policy (SUIP) are under review by a workgroup within the Model Bills and Regulations Committee. SUIP 7 Chews, Bones and Toys for Pets and Specialty Pets was recommended to be incorporated into PF3(b) of the Model Bill but did not pass at this meeting. The IDC is now tasked with creating definitions for ash, acid insoluble ash, air ashed, sulfated ash, and a new feed term for rawhide.   Pet Food Committee Hot Topics The primary discussion at the Pet Food Committee revolved around a low copper claim addition to PF10 Descriptive Terms. (d) Low Copper A dog food that bears on its label the claim 'low copper,' 'low in copper,' or words of similar designation shall: (1) Be substantiated as nutritionally adequate for one or more life stages in accordance with Regulation PF7; and (2) Contain a maximum of no more than 15 mg copper/kg DM and no more than 3.75 mg copper/1,000 kcal of metabolizable energy; and (3) Bear on its label in the Guaranteed Analysis in accordance with Regulation PF4 a guarantee for the maximum amount of copper in the dog food. There was significant discussion regarding this addition. Various perspectives were presented, including a suggestion to change 'low' to 'controlled' so as not to be confused with drug language or with prescription diets formulated with copper levels below the minimum required. The argument against this was it matches the current 'low calorie/low fat' claims currently permitted in PF10. Additionally, a discussion surrounding challenges in establishing mineral tolerances occurred because there isn't data to support the numbers established by the workgroup. It was argued the amounts are lacking scientific merit and if this does move forward, the products should only be available in veterinary channels. The workgroup was charged with re-reviewing the expert panel report and deciding on language at or before the next meeting in January 2024.  Human Grade claim substantiation can continue to be submitted to each individual state or brands can choose to participate in the Process Verified Program (PVP) through the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service. USDA has received several inquiries; however, no company has received approval. The main challenges include development of the Quality Management Systems (QMS) manual and the PVP requirements. It was mentioned that companies were not aware of the cost, which is $155 per hour, plus travel costs. If a company does choose to go this route, annual re-substantiation is required. The workgroup is seeking volunteers to join and offer more guidelines or educational information on the process.  by AAFCO

27/10/2023

Sustainability of Rendering

Instead of wasting half of the meat we farm and buy, Rendering reclaims these unwanted 'leftovers' and transforms them into ingredients for countless products, recycling 99% of this unwanted meat. By recycling animal leftovers, renderers create valuable ingredients from resources that would otherwise be thrown away, taking up enormous amounts of precious landfill space. Instead of wasting these animal parts through other disposal methods, renderers recycle the materials into 19 billion pounds of fat, oil and protein products. Rendering not only creates alternative, sustainable fuels to power trucks, trains, water vessels and other vehicles but also nutritiously feeds cattle, hogs, turkeys, chickens, household pets and other animals.  Renderers play an important role reducing food waste, sustainably recycling valuable agricultural resources and positively contributing to local, state and national and international  economies.
Rendering Leads to a Reduced Carbon Footprint
Rendering also protects the environment from the high greenhouse gas emissions of other disposal methods, reduces energy and water consumption, minimizes environmental impacts of animal agriculture and supports communities. The environmental sustainability of rendering avoids at least 90% of potential greenhouse gas emissions compared with industrial composting and sequesters 5 times the amount of greenhouse gas emissions as it emits. If all renderable product were sent to the landfill, all available space would be used in 4 years.
Economic Sustainability of Rendering
The rendering industry is financially stable, secure and sustainable with $10 billion in annual economic contribution.
Workers are highly-skilled and well compensated and employee retention rates are high, leading to more stability and greater contributions to local communities. Simple Fact: Rendering jobs cannot be exported due to the raw and perishable nature of the material our industry reclaims. Source: North American Renderers Association

26/10/2023

Purina creates carbon-reduced pet food range

The brand has reduced its environmental impact by making changes to its manufacturing, recipes, logistics and packaging, such as by using renewable electricity in the factories where the range is made and selecting ingredients with a lower carbon impact. Logistically, where the infrastructure exists, pet food products have been transported between countries using multimodal transport – a combination of road and rail systems – instead of purely road. Purina ONE DualNature features mono-material packaging, which can be recycled in stores in the UK, while the bags have been made with 40% recycled plastic. So far, the range has successfully reduced its carbon footprint by 15.7% compared to a 2019 baseline. The range contains natural ingredients with health benefits such as spirulina and cranberry and comes in a variety of meat and fish flavours. Adjustments to recipes have been made without compromising the nutritional value, quality and taste of Purina ONE DualNature, the company maintains. Purina Europe marketing director Fabio Degli Esposti said: 'At Purina, we're committed to producing healthy, nutritious pet food that you can trust. But that's not all. We believe the health of our environment is as important as providing high quality pet food products. 'Purina ONE DualNature is the first Purina product range that has announced a reduction of its carbon footprint, but it's just the beginning. Purina Europe is striving to contribute towards Nestlé's wider ambition of reducing its CO2 emissions by 50% by 2030. 'Our journey goes on and we'll be working to further reduce our greenhouse gas emissions over the coming time, so that pet owners can confidently choose products that contribute positively to both their pets and the environment.' The range is being launched in selected countries across Europe. The RRP in UK grocery stores is quoted as £6.60. By All Pet Food
 

23/10/2023

Tyson Foods Announces Partnership with Protix for More Sustainable Protein Production

 Oct. 17, 2023 – Tyson Foods, Inc. (NYSE: TSN), one of the world's largest food companies, has reached an agreement for a two-fold investment with Protix, the leading global insect ingredients company. The strategic investment will support the growth of the emerging insect ingredient industry and expand the use of insect ingredient solutions to create more efficient sustainable proteins and lipids for use in the global food system. The agreement combines Tyson Foods' global scale, experience and network with Protix's technology and market leadership to meet current market demand and scale production of insect ingredients. Through a direct equity investment, Tyson Foods will acquire a minority stake in Protix to help fund its global expansion. In addition, Tyson Foods and Protix have entered a joint venture for the operation and construction of an insect ingredient facility in the continental United States. Upon completion, it will be the first at-scale facility of its kind to upcycle food manufacturing byproducts into high-quality insect proteins and lipids which will primarily be used in the pet food, aquaculture, and livestock industries. 'Our partnership with Protix represents the latest strategic investment by Tyson Foods in groundbreaking solutions that drive added value to Tyson Foods' business,' said John R. Tyson, chief financial officer of Tyson Foods. 'The insect lifecycle provides the opportunity for full circularity within our value chain, strengthening our commitment to building a more sustainable food system for the future.' Kees Aarts, CEO of Protix, says: 'We are very excited to announce the next step in our international growth strategy. Tyson Foods' and Protix's strategic partnership advances our joint work towards creating high-quality, more sustainable protein using innovative technology and solutions. Moreover, we can immediately use their existing byproducts as feedstock for our insects. This agreement is a major milestone for Protix and significantly accelerates our ambition to grow through international partnerships.'    The to-be-built facility in the U.S. will house an enclosed system to support all aspects of insect protein production including the breeding, incubating, and hatching of insect larvae. In addition to ingredients for the aquaculture and pet food industries, processed larvae may also be used as ingredients within livestock and plant feed. Protix is a fully integrated insect ingredients company, producing and processing 14,000 metric tons LLE annually in its Netherlands facility which has been in operation since 2019. It serves major global companies in the pet food, aquaculture feed, livestock feed and organic fertilizer industries as the demand for insect ingredients continues to grow. Tyson Foods continues to develop solutions to create a food system that is more sustainable and equitable for future generations. To learn more about Tyson Foods' sustainability initiatives, visit tysonfoods.com/sustainability. Insect Ingredient Facility The planned insect ingredient facility will house an enclosed system to support all aspects of insect protein production, including the breeding, incubating and hatching of insect larvae. In addition to ingredients for the aquaculture and pet food industries, processed larvae will find use as ingredients within the livestock and plant feed segments. 'The insect life cycle provides the opportunity for full circularity within our value chain, strengthening our commitment to building a more sustainable food system for the future.'
  About Tyson Foods, Inc. Tyson Foods, Inc. (NYSE: TSN) is one of the world's largest food companies and a recognized leader in protein. Founded in 1935 by John W. Tyson and grown under four generations of family leadership, the Company has a broad portfolio of products and brands like Tyson®, Jimmy Dean®, Hillshire Farm®, Ball Park®, Wright®, Aidells®, ibp® and State Fair®. Tyson Foods innovates continually to make protein more sustainable and affordable to meet customers' needs worldwide and raise the world's expectations for how much good food can do. Headquartered in Springdale, Arkansas, the Company had approximately 142,000 team members on October 1, 2022. Through its Core Values, Tyson Foods strives to operate with integrity, create value for its shareholders, customers, communities and team members and serve as a steward of the animals, land and environment entrusted to it. Visit www.tysonfoods.com. About Protix Protix is the leading company in insect-based ingredients for healthy and sustainable pet food, aqua culture and livestock feed and organic fertilizer. The company is on a mission to create low-footprint ingredients that solve major issues in the current food system. Protix contributes to a circular food chain by using waste from the food industry as feed for the black soldier fly (BSF). In turn, the insects are processed into valuable nutrients such as proteins and lipids. Protix's customers use these proteins and lipids as high-quality ingredients for feed and food. Moreover, residual streams from the insects are used as organic fertilizer. This way, insects close the loop and bring the food system back in balance with nature. Based in the Netherlands, Protix operates the first-in-the-world industrial insect facility, opened in 2019. With breeding, rearing and processing under one roof, the company has complete control of the production chain and offers reliable, high-quality supply. As the frontrunner and industry leader, Protix has laid the basis for a broad range of applications in feed and food. The company is now expanding internationally to deliver its solutions on a much broader scale. Protix believes in the power of partnerships, and actively seeks collaboration with forward-thinking players to unleash the potential of insect ingredients for the world. www.protix.eu. Source: Protix by All Pet Food   

18/10/2023

Palatability: the importance of producing palatable food

By María Candelaria Carbajo

In a study done by professionals from Australian and New Zealander universities, research analysis and compilation were carried out to gather information about the importance of palatability and its drivers in certain pet foods.   The pet food industry and growth does not stop The pet food industry is an important sector of the rapidly growing pet care market. However, while the number of new and innovative products keeps growing, research and development to assess their performance follow traditional palatability methodology. These focus on analyzing the amount of food consumed by using one and two-bowl tests. Nowadays, we know that, although foods are primarily formulated to provide complete and balanced nutrition, palatability is a crucial factor in determining the success or failure of a product in the marketplace and its likelihood of repurchase.   Nutritional requirements of dogs and cats Cats and dogs are members of the carnivore order. While the name implies that both are specialized carnivores, each species originated from different branches: the domestic cat is part of the Felidae family, whereas the domestic dog is part of the Canidae family. Nutritional requirements, feeding behavior, and food selection choices vary considerably between the two species. Compared to their carnivorous wolf ancestors, today's domestic dogs can consume food of both animal and non-animal origin and are, therefore, classified as facultative carnivores. For their part, cats are one of the most recently domesticated mammal species. They are solitary hunters who often hunt prey much smaller than their body mass, requiring them to do it several times a day to meet their needs. They are classified as intermittent eaters who consume multiple small meals over a 24-hour period, and are generally much more picky, compared to dogs: they can detect small differences in the food composition offered to them. Unlike dogs, they are obligate carnivores in their methods of ingesting, digesting, and metabolizing meat-based diets, as without animal protein, cats can suffer from severe nutritional deficiencies.   How do they behave? Both cats and dogs tend to display neophilic behavior, defined as a tendency for new and unknown food, as opposed to neophobia, the avoidance of it. In some cases, already somewhat extreme, cats can show metaphilia, the demand to change a portion of food once it becomes familiar to their palates.   Preferences and palatability With the increasing number of pet foods available on the market, palatability has become the main criterion used to measure product performance. These foods' physical and chemical properties, linked to the promotion or suppression of eating behavior during the preabsorption period, are those that define, to a large extent, whether or not their owners will buy one food again or not, since they have a direct relationship with the perception of pleasure or taste during consumption.   Palatability tests The consumption test (how much food is consumed over time) is the most widely used technique to assess food palatability. It can be applied by seeking to analyze the palatability of a single product or by comparing more than one with another to determine group preferences. One-bowl test In this test, a single product is presented to a defined number of animals and repeated over several days to eliminate environmental influences. It is useful to reflect more accurately the different options provided at homes. Currently, the problem with this test is that it does not show a real preference for any specific food and, furthermore, it does not provide enough information to be able to certify an improvement in a product. Two-bowl test The two-bowl test is the other traditional method of palatability testing for research and involves presenting 2 foods simultaneously to an animal for a defined period, allowing the animal to choose and show its preference.   Behavior as a measure of palatability Pets can't speak about their preferences and tastes, so studies should focus on assessing their behavioral response to various foods to obtain an additional objective measure of palatability. Regarding this, in the case of cats, for example, in a study by Van den Bos, it was possible to identify certain physical responses that seemed to be related to liking or aversion to different foods, also known as taste reactivity tests. The taste for food was distinguished by licking and sniffing their feeder, licking their lips, and grooming their face. Food refusal was differentiated by licking and sniffing food and nose licking. Another defining aspect is the time cats spend sniffing food.   Biological aspects In addition to differences in feeding behavior and nutrient requirements, the main factors influencing cat and dog food preferences also vary. In dogs, preference for odor has been identified as the likely palatability driver in a study (Hall, 2017) in which dogs were presented with two bowls of 1 out of 4 chicken-flavored foods and, in 89 % of the tests, consumed more of the food they had initially selected. In another study carried out by Roberts in 2018, it was concluded that dogs could choose their preferred diet before trying it, and it is possible that the smell was a key factor in making this picking. In the case of cats, they use both smell and taste to detect and select food. Although not as highly developed as dogs, they use their smell sense to recognize both new and trusted scents. Food preference is often strongly influenced by their mothers' food choices and exposure to food during pregnancy via amniotic fluid, even in the first few years of life. This limited exposure to different foods in their first years can result in a preference for that taste, known as the primacy effect. However, it may not be seen in practice, as some cats show neophilia to various options. Additionally, when cats face two familiar and abundant types of food, they will eat a mix of both to obtain a wide variety of nutrients and maximize long-term nutritional benefits. Regarding food selection, several studies have proven that the most influential aspect of the decision is taste, smell, and color.   The future can't wait! Pet food palatability is a key aspect for both manufacturers and pet owners. Currently, traditional palatability testing methods are used to assess the acceptance and preference of balanced pet foods and snacks. However, there are gaps in our knowledge in this area, and more research is needed to determine the fundamental factors responsible for choosing one food over another. Modern techniques such as metabolomics can unlock this knowledge, but, we'll say it again: investment is needed for its successful development. Taking a collective approach that uses both traditional palatability testing methods and modern testing can be the fair and balanced way to determine the optimal level of ingredient inclusion, maximize palatability, recognize the nutrients responsible for driving preference, and more.   Source: All Pet Food Magazine

05/10/2023

Stalk About Nutritious: It’s Corn!

Corn has an unearned reputation as being something that should be avoided for pets. Some pet foods specifically advertise that they have 'no corn' as if this is a badge of honor and many non-veterinary sources suggest that corn isn't digestible and 'goes straight through' a dog or cat or is a 'cheap filler'. Let's unpack some of these myths and set the record straight.   Can dogs and cats digest corn? While whole sweet corn kernels can make it intact through the intestines of both dogs and cats (and humans!) and be visible in the feces, especially if not thoroughly chewed, this doesn't mean that corn isn't a safe and nutritious food. Like all grains, the digestibility of corn is greatly increased by grinding and cooking – corn meal or ground corn are common pet food ingredients that have been shown to be highly digestible (the starch component is 90-99% digestible in studies).   One type of corn that should never be fed to dogs is corn that is still on the cob. Dogs fed corn on the cob, or who access cobs from the compost or trash, often swallow large portions of the cob which frequently cause gastrointestinal obstruction and require surgery to resolve.   Does corn cause allergies in dogs or cats? While grains and especially corn are often thought to be common allergens by pet owners, the scientific data does not support this perception. Overall, food allergies are uncommon in pets and the vast majority of pets with food allergies are allergic to animal proteins, not to plant proteins or grains. Corn is rarely confirmed to be the cause of allergies in dogs or cats; in most situations where a pet's family thinks that corn is the culprit, it turns out to be a different ingredient, typically an animal protein (or, more commonly, unrelated to food allergy).   Does corn cause inflammation? Corn is an excellent source of the essential fatty acid, linoleic acid. Linoleic acid is an omega-6 fatty acid and it is required to be provided by the diet in dogs, cats, and humans. However, it should be balanced with other types of fats like omega-3s – if a diet has high amounts of omega-6s with little or no omega-3s, that can encourage the production of more inflammatory compounds. Experienced pet food formulators know what combinations of ingredients to use to result in a diet with adequate amounts of essential fatty acids and a healthy omega-6 to omega-3 ratio. The higher omega-6s from corn may be offset by fish or fish oil, algal oil,  flaxseed or flaxseed oil, or even chia seeds. So, while corn as the only source of fatty acids in a pet food isn't ideal, most foods will have a number of other ingredients providing other types of fat to balance it all out.   Do dogs and cats get any nutrients from corn? Corn can be a good source of energy from both starch (carbohydrate) and from fat (as mentioned above). Whole ground corn also contains some corn bran, which is an insoluble fiber source which can contribute to good fecal quality. Corn is also a good source of several B vitamins, magnesium, and potassium. It's also an excellent source of carotenoids – compounds that are made by plants and suspected to have substantial health benefits – like lutein, zeaxanthin, and beta-carotene (a vitamin A precursor). We don't know how much of these compounds pets (or people) should get from their diet optimally, but they are thought to contribute to why increased consumption of fruits and vegetables is associated with improved health in most studies in people as well as some in dogs.   Does corn contain gluten? While the protein component of corn is called 'gluten', it is quite different from the protein found in wheat, rye, and related grains that is associated with gluten-intolerance. Gluten intolerance is pretty rare in pets and has been confirmed only in a few families of specific dog breeds. But, even if a pet came from a breed with known gluten-related issues (such as a border terrier or Irish setter), there should be no reason why the pet won't tolerate corn or corn gluten.   Is GMO corn harmful for pets? The majority of corn that is used for human and animal feeding in the US is genetically-modified (GMO) to be resistant to common herbicides. While discussions of the 'evils' of GMO foods are easy to find, actual data to support any health risks to pets or people who eat GMO corn are scarce. Genetically-modified organisms require extensive safety testing prior to FDA approval. GMO corn strains have been available for more than two decades, yet no adverse health effects have been proven. Based on current data, there are no reasons to avoid GMO corn in pet diets. The bottom line is that corn is a safe and healthy ingredient in pet food. Avoid giving your dog access to corn on the cob or empty cobs, but otherwise, don't be concerned to see corn meal, corn gluten, or ground whole corn in your pet food ingredient list. It's also okay to give your dog unflavored popcorn, cooked fresh corn that you've cut off the cob, or cooked frozen corn kernels as a treat – just don't freak out if you see some of the kernels in the feces when you're cleaning the yard!   Source: Clinical Nutrition Service

04/10/2023

Poultry by-products from refrigerators as potential ingredients for pet nutrition

In 2022, Brazil slaughtered 6.1 billion birds, which corresponds approximately to a volume of 12.89 million tons of carcasses produced in inspected establishments (IBGE, 2023). Of these, 4.7 million tons of inedible fresh by-products are transformed into approximately 693.3 MT of poultry offal meal (HVA), 506.1 Mton. of poultry fat, 593.6 MT of feather meal and 118.2 thousand tons of blood meal, a process known as rendering (ABRA, 2021). To transform these by-products into flour, these products are sent to specific processes. In the case of viscera, it must be processed the same day, or in a maximum of 24 hours, as regulated by the Normative Instruction 34/2008 of the Ministry of Agriculture. Thus, all the visceral content, not intended for human consumption, is transported from the slaughterhouse to the "fat plant" (the name given to the establishment responsible for recycling the material), also known as the "rendering plant." The offal rendering process undergoes heat treatment in digesters, which cook the material until much of the water present in the fresh offal evaporates, reaching the frying stage. The total processing time is approximately 60 to 90 minutes, with greater variations, depending on the characteristics of the material processed. After this cooking time, the dough is unloaded in a place to extract part of the oil from the dough by gravity, known as a percolator. After, the dough is pressed to remove excess oil, then milled, and the process is completed, giving instead of poultry offal meal. Figure 1: Production flow diagram of a "rendering plant."   In general, poultry offal meal is an excellent source of essential nutrients for non-ruminant animals, with 60 to 70% protein, considered a good quality protein because it has a good amino acid profile and digestibility, it is rich in minerals (calcium, phosphorus, potassium, iron) and contains an average of 10 to 14% fat, rich in omega-6 fatty acids. However, due to the quality of the visceral raw material and the forms of processing, there are currently some classifications for poultry offal meal on the market, which are: Standard viscera meal: a product resulting from the processing of poultry viscera that allows the inclusion of bone parts (heads and feet). Meal of viscera with high ash: the product obtained with the inclusion of mechanically separated meat residues (CSM). It has a lower cost compared to other types, however, by presenting a high percentage of mineral matter, it limits the inclusion in the formula. Low ash offal meal: a product composed solely of visceral material, where the inclusion of heads and legs is allowed, as long as it does not exceed the maximum level of mineral material allowed. It is highly sought after by the pet food industry due to its nutritional quality, and it has higher levels of inclusion in formulations. Hydrolyzed viscera meal: a product obtained by adding enzymes (proteases) during the processing of the raw material, together with a controlled and less aggressive thermal process. Thus, with the application of proteases during the process, lysis occurs, which means the "breakdown" of proteins, releasing bioactive peptides that can benefit animals (McCalla et al., 2008). In addition to having other bioactive and functional properties such as antioxidant and ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) inhibitory activity, it is also widely used in hypoallergenic food formulations. A study with hydrolyzed chicken protein in dogs with dermatitis problems showed a 63% reduction in secretions caused by allergy (Zhao et al., 1997). Cats fed the diet containing enzyme-hydrolyzed offal meal had lower serum angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) activity than those fed the conventional offal meal diet (Miltenburg et al., 2021). Another factor that can interfere with the protein quality of poultry viscera and which few processing plants analyze is the heat treatment that the visceral material receives. If process time and temperature are not controlled, the protein can undergo oxidation and complexation of the thermosensitive amino acids with other nutrients. This makes them less available or even unavailable to the animal. However, with the advancement of industrial technology, process control has been automated and is increasingly out of human control, which has contributed to reducing variations in the process, preventing each operator from determining their ideal process point. Therefore, if it is well processed, it is possible to improve the protein quality of poultry offal meals and increase the benefits that can be added, such as meal digestibility (table 1).   *In Vitro digestibility Table 1. Digestibility values ​​(%) of the flour depend on the processing   The temperature and processing time of poultry offal meal is high, and when foods are processed at high temperatures, a non-enzymatic browning and flavoring reaction occur, known as the Maillard reaction (Cramer et al., 2007; Venir et al., 2009), which makes possible the presence of Maillard reaction products in thermally processed flours. Therefore, it is important to identify and quantify which products and what are the effects of these products on animal health, whether harmful or beneficial.     Figure 2: Schematic representation of the Maillard reaction and formation of "flavor" melanoidins in foods. Source: Tamanna and Nahmood, 2015.   One product of the Maillard reaction that has attracted attention for its beneficial effects on human nutrition is melanoidins. Melanoidins are high molecular-weight polymeric macromolecules originating in the last stage of the Maillard reaction. They give flavor, and texture and are responsible for the brown color of thermally processed foods (de la Cruz et al., 2019, Pérez-Burillo et al. 2020),). In human nutrition, the prebiotic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory, and even anticancer effects of melanoidins from various heat-treated foods have already been studied, and because it presents this variety of benefits, this compound has been considered a potential functional ingredient, despite having few studies in animal nutrition and none found in the nutrition of dogs and cats. In a study (Aljahdali et al., 2020) which evaluated the impact of the consumption of barley malt melanoidins on the intestinal microbiota of mice, it was shown a decrease in pathogenic bacteria (Dorea, Oscillibacter, Alisitpes) and a predominance of beneficial bacteria (Lactobacillus, Parasutterella, Akkermansia, Bifidobacterium), suggesting a remarkable prebiotic potential of the melanoidins present in the ingredient. Another study (Serran et al., 2018) evaluated the presence of melanoidins in fish diets, which presented an increase in the postprandial antioxidant capacity of blood plasma. There is a large number of by-products that have more or less underutilized melanoidins, such as coffee residues, distilled cane bagasse, sugar cane molasses, brewery waste, and other ingredients, which are exposed to thermal processes such as poultry entrails meal. However, what remains is to quantify these melanoidins and study their effects on animal health, since what is known is that the products of the Maillard reaction have been attributed a decreased nutritional quality effect due to lower protein digestibility and particularly advanced glycation end products, which have been associated with health problems and diseases such as aging, diabetes, and atherosclerosis. Yet, melanoidins are high molecular weight polymers resistant to digestion, which reach the colon and are fermented by local bacteria. Due to this fiber-like effect, dietary melanoidins are associated with prebiotic properties (Morales et al., 2012; Tagliazucchi and Bellesia, 2015). Recently, in a pilot study at the State University of Maringá (UEM), laboratory analysis was carried out to verify the number of melanoidins in a residue from the HVA process, and a concentration of 113.68 mg/g was found in this melanoidins residue. The result aroused interest in learning about the effects of melanoidins from meal processing on pet nutrition. The first test was related to palatability and acceptability, for this a palatability test was carried out in cats using the two-recipient method, in which the diet containing melanoidins presented greater palatability, a result observed by the Intake Index, which is the proportion of consumption of food A concerning food B. In this test, the animals consumed 68% of the food (Figure 3) with more melanoidins in relation to the control food without melanoidins, where consumption was at a rate of 32%.     Figure 3: Palatability test of ingredients with melanoidins (CN = negative control).   Given the acceptance by the animals, the next stage of the study will be to produce poultry offal meals under controlled process conditions, changing only the process temperature to determine the effect on the formation of melanoidins (Figure 4), the preference for animals, and effects related to intestinal health. Figure 4: Stages of research with melanoidins in HVA.   With this study, it will be possible to characterize the effects of melanoidins in poultry offal meal on pet nutrition and include in their composition their percentage of melanoidins, which, in addition to being an accessible and good-quality ingredient for the pet food sector, it can increase the benefits of this ingredient, characterizing it as bioactive offal meal, when the level of melanoidins present is reported. Por: Msc. Josiane Aparecida Volpato Fuente: All Pet Food Magazine   Bibliographic references: Aljahdali, N., Gadonna-Widehem, P., Anton, P.M., Carbonero, F. Gut Microbiota Modulation by Dietary Barley Malt Melanoidins. Nutrients. V. 12. 2020. doi:10.3390/nu12010241 Bellagamba, F., Caprino, F., Mentasti, T., Vasconi, M., Moretti, V.M. The impact of amino acid processing/racemization and protein quality in processed animal proteins of poultry origin. Italian Journal of Animal Science. V. 14. 2015. Cramer, K.R., Greenwood, M.W., Moritz JS, et al. Protein quality of various raw and processed by-product meals commonly incorporated into companion animal diets. J Anim Sci. V.85, p.3285–3293. 2007. de la Cruz, S.T., Iriondo-DeHond, A., Herrera, T., Lopez-Tofiño, Y., Galvez-Robleño, C., Prodanov, M., Velazquez-Escobar, F., Abalo, R., del Castillo, M.D. An Assessment of the Bioactivity of Coffee Silverskin Melanoidins. Foods. Vol. 8. 2019. Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística (IBGE). 2023. Pesquisa Trimestral do Abate de Animais. Disponível em: https://biblioteca.ibge.gov.br/index.php/biblioteca-catalogo?view=detalhes&id=73087. Acessado em: março, 2023. McCalla, J., Waugh, T., Lohry, E. Protein Hydrolysates/Peptides in Animal Nutrition. In: Protein Hydrolysates in Biotechnology pp 179–190. Chapter 10. 2008. Miltenburg, T.Z., da Silva, M.U., Bosch, G., Vasconcellos, R.S. 2021. Effects of enzymatically hydrolysed poultry byproduct meal in extruded diets on serum angiotensin-converting enzyme activity and aldosterone in cats, Archives of Animal Nutrition, 75:1, 64-77, DOI: 10.1080/1745039X.2020.1849899 Morales, F. J., Somoza, V., & Fogliano, V. Physiological relevance of dietary melanoidins. Amino Acids. V.42, p.1097–1109. 2012. doi.org/10.1007/s00726-010- 0774-1. Organização das Nações Unidas para Agricultura e Alimentação (FAO). 2023. Gateway to poultry production and products. Disponível em: https://www.fao.org/poultry-production-products/production/en/. Acessado em: março, 2023. Pérez-Burillo, S., Rajakaruna, S., Pastoriza, S., Paliy, O., Angel Rufian-Henares, J. Bioactivity of food melanoidins is mediated by gut microbiota. Food Chemistry. V.316. 2020. Ribeiro, L.B.; Bankuti, F.I.; Silva, M. U.; Ribeiro, P. M.; Silva, J. M.; Sato, J.; Bortolo M.; Vasconcellos, R.S. Oxidative stability and nutritional quality of poultry by-product meal: An approach from the raw material to the finished product. Animal Feed Science and Technology, v.255. 2019. Serran, X., Hernándeza, A.J., Morales, G., et al. Effects of dietary melanoidins on digestive physiology, nutrient digestibility and plasmatic antioxidant capacity of the rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss. Aquaculture. V. 495, p. 153-160. 2018. Tagliazucchi, D.; Bellesia, A. The gastro-intestinal tract as the major site of biological action of dietary melanoidins. Amino Acids. V. 47, p. 1077-89. 2015. Tamanna, N.; Niaz, M. Food processing and Maillard reaction products: effect on human health and nutrition. International Journal of Food Science, v. 2015, p. 1-5, 2015. Venir, E., Pittia, P., Giavon, S., Maltini, E. Structure and water relations of melanoidins investigated by thermal, rheological, and microscopic analysis. Int J Food Prop 12:819–833. Volpato, J.A., Ribeiro, L.B., Torezan, B.G., da Silva, I.C., Martins, I.O. Francisco, J.C.P., Genova, J.L., de Oliveira, N.T.E., Carvalho, S.T., Carvalho, P.L.O., Vasconcellos, R.S. Determinant production factors to the in vitro organic matter digestibility and protein oxidation of poultry by-product meal. Polutry Science. V. 102. 2023. ZHAO, X. et al. Nutrient Requirements and Interactions and Degree of Protein Hydrolysis 1, 2. n. March, p. 2350–2356, 1997.

26/09/2023

Pet food experts harness the power of yucca

Let's explore the importance of the concept in pet foods, specifically highlighting the benefits of incorporating Yucca schidigera, a natural ingredient, and shedding light on farming practices that sustainably harvest this powerful plant.   Sustainability in pet foods Pet food production carries its own unique ecological footprint, from sourcing ingredients to packaging and transportation. Embracing sustainable practices in pet food manufacturing not only reduces environmental impact but ensures the long-term health and vitality of our pets. By opting for sustainably sourced ingredients and employing eco-friendly production methods, we can contribute to a greener future for our furry companions.   What is Yucca schidigera? Yucca schidigera, also known as Mojave yucca, is a plant native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico that has gained recognition for its numerous health benefits in pet food. The plant contains natural saponins, which possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Incorporating Yucca schidigera into pet food has been found to alleviate joint pain, promote healthy digestion, reduce fecal odor, and support overall well-being. It's important, though, to recognize that not all yucca products are the same. How yucca is farmed and harvested can vary. Sustainability starts at the source, and regenerative agricultural practices are needed to ensure that yucca production is both environmentally and socially responsible. Working with trusted suppliers assures pet food producers that their ingredients are from safe, reliable and sustainable sources. Companies such as Alltech understand the importance of regenerative agriculture. Alltech's state-of-the-art production facility in Serdán, Mexico — where Deo-Pet®, a yucca-based pet food ingredient, is produced — is leading the way.   A responsible harvest Alltech's yucca harvest management system enables us to ensure the long-term continuity of the species. The planting area, harvesting methods and cutting plans are determined following the regulations established by the Ministry of the Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT) of Mexico. Alltech Serdán, located about 120 miles southeast of Mexico City, supports and advises potential suppliers, mostly local families, as they learn to harvest the yucca responsibly. These suppliers only cut plants that are at least 15 years old, and they cut carefully to ensure rapid regrowth. Alltech also trains them to collect, store and remove the yucca in a way that avoids environmental damage to surrounding flora and fauna.   Reforestation and beyond According to the reforestation rules of SEMARNAT, for every yucca tree harvested, one yucca seedling must be planted. Alltech goes above this requirement: for every yucca tree harvested, three trees are planted by local farmers. Alltech supplies the seedlings and provides training and annual programs to review these reforestation efforts. In 2022, the Serdán facility planted 80,046 seedlings in its nursery and reforested 61,113 seedlings.     Alltech Serdán also uses Yucca waste to produce compost and improve yucca seedlings growing in the nursery, reducing the total waste taken to the landfill by a full 88% from 2019 to 2022. The facility as a whole uses compressed natural gas, which reduces its CO2 emissions by 17% annually. It's also home to Alltech's first global renewable energy project, a photovoltaic solar energy system that further reduces the plant's carbon footprint.   Commitment to the community At Alltech Serdán, our commitment to a better world goes well beyond responsible yucca production. We also plant seeds of hope and connection. Alltech Serdán has been certified by Empresa Socialmente Responsable (ESR) as a socially responsible company. This prestigious endorsement is given to businesses in Mexico that are committed to policies, programs, decision-making and actions that benefit the business and have a positive impact on people, the environment and the communities in which they operate. The ESR certification requires companies to meet expectations in five pillars: quality of life for employees, business ethics, community involvement, environmental awareness and corporate management. The Serdán production facility, which started with 15 employees, now has 200, making it the only significant employer in the town. It also generates employment for the 50–70 local families who supply yucca plants. Alltech Serdán participates in numerous social projects that benefit local children, including its support of a primary school, a special-needs school, the Casa Hogar orphanage, and several other local organizations.   Nourishing pets and protecting the planet Sustainability means taking positive action today for the success of tomorrow, and supporting companies and suppliers that prioritize responsible farming practices encourages the future adoption of sustainable approaches throughout the pet food industry. As we move forward, there's always room for innovation and improvement. New ideas in pet food production, like Alltech's incorporation of sustainably sourced Yucca schidigera, are a vital step toward a greener and healthier future for our pets, our communities and our planet.   By: Janella Hurst Source: Alltech  

25/09/2023

Creating a trusted and reputable brand in the pet food industry

Establishing your pet business and standing out in the market comes down to trust and loyalty, especially as the trend of pet humanization continues to take center stage.  Pet owners are seeking out brands that will ensure their pets long, healthy, and happy lives. Engaging with your customers in a meaningful and sincere way helps build trust, and it's essential to lead with science and education as a first step in creating long-term value.    How do you address the growing concern among pet owners regarding the quality and safety of pet food products? The pet food industry has faced increased scrutiny over the years. It's important for ingredient companies like QRILL Pet to share their approach to transparency, quality control, and safety in their pet food range. This will gain the trust of brands, manufacturers, and pet owners alike. Now, this isn't just a 'nice to have' business strategy, it's a must. You can't only talk about what you are doing, you also need to follow up your brand story with tangible actions.   What key elements are essential in building a trusted and reputable brand? Always lead with science, and remember to communicate the documented health benefits and science of your product in a comprehensive way. Pet parents are more educated these days and want to know what is on the inside of their pet food and treats. Work to continuously improve the quality of your product. Remember that sustainability for all reputable brands is business critical. Be genuine in your marketing and show that the health benefits your product brings differentiate it from the rest.   Can you describe a successful branding campaign or initiative that significantly enhanced a brand's reputation? In 2016, we tested our first Omega-3 Index tool on pets. The Omega-3 Index is considered a 'gold standard' for measuring omega-3 status in the human body by showing how much EPA and DHA are found in the blood cells. The Omega-3 Index method shows not only acute omega-3 intake (like plasma measurement does, for example) but also long-term omega-3 intake, which is related to real omega-3 health benefits. As a comprehensive and valuable tool for humans, we decided to use the same testing method on pets, therefore in 2016, we did our very first Omega-3 Index study on dogs. "The Omega-3 Index method helped us set the standard for the pet food industry."  The results were astonishing, and we realized how krill can work in a dog's body. With this tool, we were able to help set the standard for the pet food industry by using an innovative method to demonstrate the importance of backing up a product's quality with measurable factors.   In today's digital world, how do you handle online reputation management and respond to potential brand reputation threats? We pay attention to what is around us and also to what's trending, making it a point to be ahead of the curve. We know that it is crucial to always be up-front, honest, and transparent. There is no extra room for speculation, especially in our business. All the information a customer or consumer wants to know is easy to find, therefore transparency is vital. It is essential to have people with special knowledge (such as our communications department) to help navigate and lead the narrative. It's important to have honest and meaningful discussions in order to be taken seriously.   What role does customer experience play in shaping a brand's reputation, and how do you prioritize it in your branding efforts? We learn a lot from our customers and their real-world experiences as it relates to our products. And we take those learnings seriously. As a leading ingredient for pet health, we are continually looking for ways to use krill in different applications and to innovate in a way like no other company is. It's all about adapting to our customers to give them what they want.   How do you measure the success of branding initiatives in terms of building trust and reputation? It's all about lifetime value. We know that we are successful with our initiatives when we have created long-term relationships with our customers. We value their recommendations and insights, and together we are leading a category with huge potential and possibilities.   How do you leverage customer feedback and testimonials to strengthen your brand's reputation in today's market? It's essential that we listen to our customers and that we offer products and services that fit into their portfolios. One example is finding solutions for our customer's needs. We have customers who are interested in oils as supplements for their portfolios, so we did our best to connect them with factories that could facilitate this service for them. Another example is creating content marketing strategies. We have taken the lead in helping some of our customers develop content and visuals that will help take their businesses to the next level.   Source: Qrill Pet

20/09/2023

Did you know about all the control stages commercial food should go through to guarantee the quality that reaches the pet's plate?

By Candela Bonaura

There is a large offer, and veterinarians should have tools to be able to discern between the different nutritional proposals, not only about the pet's needs according to species, age, size, and particular situation or physiological state but in the knowledge of the manufacturing company and interpretation of the quality offered. On the one hand, we must consider the table of centesimal composition as well as the specific protein contribution, fat and metabolizable energy. However, it should always be linked directly to the list of ingredients to determine not only quantity but quality. This list should have its ingredients in descending order, so those foods that contain animal protein in the highest order are superior to those that do not. On the other hand, there are more ways to add value to food and improve diets with nutraceutical ingredients and upgrade the proposal according to specific needs, such as oral, joint, and urinary care, among others. Likewise, manufacturing companies must or should go through multiple controls, from raw materials selection to final product preparation. The goal should not only guarantee the contribution of the necessary nutrients but also their safety. Some of these controls are physical, chemical, sensory, and microbiological, and they are carried out at different stages of the process. In addition, there are standards and entities that regulate the production process and may differ by country. For instance, EU regulations detail which safe ingredients and additives can be used in pet food manufacturing. The ingredients can be of animal or vegetable origin. Many of the animal-derived ingredients used in pet foods come from parts of them not consumed by humans for cultural or habitual reasons. Today the importance of caring for finite resources in many parts of the world is a fact, and sustainability has also taken an important place in this area. Plant-based ingredients are often common in both human and pet nutrition (corn, rice, wheat, oats, etc.). Others are specific to pet food. Pet food manufacturers include intake instructions on the food label, including storage and handling requirements. Guardians should evaluate the container for information on the expiration date and batch of the product. A responsible pet food manufacturer will take safety and quality very seriously and have their own defined processes and standards that help ensure the safety and quality of their ingredients and products. These should start with trusted suppliers and go all the way to feeding the cat or dog and are likely to include: Reliable suppliers selection Defined specifications for raw materials, periodic inspections, and tests They may require a certificate of analysis from the supplier. Nutritional profile, color, texture, digestibility and palatability, and technical parameters such as moisture content. Routine product testing. Visual inspection of the grinding process Measurement of quantities of raw materials Controlled temperatures and cooking times Regular sampling and testing of final products Registration of ingredients through batch records, final product pallets, and their destinations to ensure traceability Microbial testing routine Regular verification of packaging integrity Metal detection or contamination with foreign objects Verification of nutritional adequacy through analysis of raw materials or final products or feeding studies using nutritional guidelines A responsible manufacturer may choose to implement voluntary third-party audits and certifications through a third-party accreditation institute.   Stages that lead the raw material to be the food consumed by pets   Source: All Pet Food Magazine

18/09/2023

Pet Fair Asia 2023 Reflections

Pet Fair Asia is considered the benchmark exhibition for pet supply companies in Asia-Pacific. The event gives significant importance to Asian markets and presents a wide coverage of supply chain and sourcing needs. In this blog, Charlie Xie, Technical Service Manager for AFB China, reports on various market trends and products while at the event Compared with traditional baked kibble, some manufacturers have redesigned the shape and introduced multiple colors. It is relatively novel among many baked kibble brands. Some brands and manufacturers have also designed chips for pets, similar to potato chips eaten by people. The main component of chips for pets is meat. The chips are very crispy, meeting the cat's texture preference. Dogs also like to eat these chips. One company was displaying freeze-dried dietary fiber meat, which increases the intake of dietary fiber in cats, helping to promote intestinal peristalsis, prevent intestinal hairballs, reduce constipation, and reduce fecal odor. Multi-colored Kibble Looking at customized meals for pets, the daily nutritional needs are customized according to the physical condition of each pet. The corresponding nutritional plan is formulated according to age, weight, gender, and other information. The daily diet could include kibble, freeze-dried, wet pet food, snacks, etc. The diet will also be customized according to customer requirements, such as plans to help fur appear healthier and more beautiful, increase intestinal health, improve oral health, and support weight loss A new concept around wet food packaging is the mini can of cat food. Cats are often fed many times a day, leading to relatively small food intake at each meal. When using a can, there may be a surplus, resulting in leftover food that is not fresh. Therefore, a brand has designed a smaller package where each mini can is 35g. This can be consumed in full every time, and part of the package is transparent so you can see the contents. Another packaging product was the Tetra Pak Packaging Wet Pet Food. Using sealed filling Tetra Recart packaging technology, low-carbon paper, environmentally friendly, recyclable materials, to promote sustainable development. This packaging uses Tetra Pak's first 9-layer packaging technology, and the shelf life can reach 24 months without adding any preservatives 35g wet cat can food and Tetra Pak Packaging for wet food Other products that were displayed were around special needs, such as a pill used to wrap medicine. Often, pets refuse to take medicine due to poor palatability. In order to solve this problem, the brand has designed a medicine-feeding product, which wraps tablets so pets successfully take medicine. This pill has very good palatability, which can cover up the bad taste. Some brands make pet nutritional supplements into the shape of coffee capsules, mixed with water, and fed to pets for pet nutrition supplements. Pills used to wrap medicine.  Attending these types of shows is valuable to market research. At AFB, our palatants are specially designed to make pet foods, treats and supplements taste better. Seeing new products in person helps us support our customers using new technology. Please reach out to Charlie Xie at [email protected] if you want to learn more about AFB palatants and our services and solutions in China. We Make Pet Food Taste Great.TM by AFB International Source: All Pet Food 

13/09/2023

Cellulose and lignocellulose, providing fiber to dog food

By María Candelaria Carbajo

Fiber is an alternative to combat obesity and help these pets reduce their daily food intake and, consequently, have an impact on their weight. But it is not the only cause in which fibers are used, such as, for example, cellulose fiber or lignocellulose.   Fiber in dog food? Fiber is a complex carbohydrate resistant to dogs' digestive enzymes. Several sources of fiber are commonly used in pet foods, including beet pulp, bran, tomato pulp, buckwheat, and powdered cellulose. In simple words, fiber moderates how quickly food moves through the digestive system, which helps regulate intestinal activity. Dogs do not have a physiological need for fiber. A natural canine diet contains little to any fiber. However, it can be beneficial for today's dogs, including improving gut health, strengthening the immune system, weight management, diabetes, and anal gland disorders.   Cellulose, a usable but controversial fiber Cellulose is a fiber found in the cell wall of plants. It is found in the bark of trees and plant leaves. It is an insoluble fiber, which means it either cannot be dissolved in water or absorb it. Today there are different positions on cellulose fiber since certain professionals affirm that, although it is a fiber that increases food volume, it does not have any nutrients, so it must simply be added to the formula and not a main ingredient. Those who defend powdered cellulose in dog food cite ease of use, necessary fiber content, and cost-effectiveness as some of its main advantages.   An alternative: lignocellulose Lignocellulose is an alternative that, according to some recent studies, could be a vegetable fiber with great potential for our industry. It is the main component of the cell wall of plants and is a source of XOS (Xylo-oligosaccharides) compounds, which stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria for the intestinal flora and serves as a type of dietary fiber.   Studies and research Scientists from the University of Veterinary Medicine in Hanover, Germany, and Mansoura University in Egypt conducted a study in which 8 Beagle dogs were given 1 of 4 foods for 14 days. These foods were the same except for the fiber they contained: powdered cellulose, granulated cellulose, lignocellulose, and a control food without additions. It could be shown that all 3 fiber types led to lower caloric intake by the dogs, compared to the control diet. At the same time, no cellulose decreased or affected palatability. And while fecal quality was not affected by fiber sources, the feces of dogs consuming fiber foods were wetter, compared to those on the control food. Thanks to this study, the professionals were able to affirm that lignocellulose can be used as an alternative to cellulose as a fiber source in wet dog food. Since lignocellulose reduces gross energy digestibility as cellulose, it can also be used in feed for overweight dogs.   Conclusion Choosing the best ingredients for each pet food formula is not easy, considering all the factors that need to be considered: consumer desires, nutritional value, costs, production, availability, and regulations. In the case of cellulose and lignocellulose fiber, as mentioned above, the latest studies have shown that the incorporation of a specific source of this type can improve the health and well-being of companion animals. Research carried out for industry experts as well as for pet owners is critical to moving toward an increasingly science-based, safer, and consumer-focused food industry.   Source: All Pet Food Magazine

11/09/2023

Pet Treats Continue on an Upward Trajectory

With his mid-1800s introduction of the first dog biscuit, Mr. James Spratt probably suspected he was onto something big. But there's no way he could have known he was lighting the fuse on a $60 billion market for pet food and treats. During 2022, pet treats (including rawhide chews) represented about one-fifth of those dollars, closing in on $12 billion, and treats remain a leading pet market category. Like many types of pet products, treats were at the right place at the right time during the pandemic, which helped to boost sales by 20 percent in 2020 and 18 percent in 2021, and the annual percentage gains remain in the low double digits thanks in part to inflation-related price hikes.  As of May 2023, nearly three-quarters (73 percent) of dog and cat owners used treats to bond and spend quality time with their pets, and nearly half (49 percent) were treating their dog/cat more frequently as a result of spending more time at home. The enduring success of pet treats is, of course, more than a function of luck. As much as any pet product, treats dovetail pet health and pampering, and from that first biscuit, the market has been segmented every which way. The products are, in other words, anything but one size fits all, closely aligning with key trends in human foods and pet food overall. Grain free, natural/organic, functional ingredient, novel protein and human grade are among the most sought-after types, with more indulgent items also in demand along with dental chews and treats that meet both functional and pet pampering/entertainment needs.  Topping the chart as of May 2023 was U.S. sourced, with 49 percent of the dog owners and 40 percent of the cat owners who had purchased treats in the previous 12 months opting for made in USA, with no artificial ingredients/preservatives, organic, grain free, natural, and limited ingredient also high on the list. The COVID-19 effect has not been all good news for pet treats, which have been facing the same post-pandemic headwinds as most consumer categories in the form of record- high inflation. A potentially longer-term and not altogether positive impact is the acceleration in online shopping, which was already going strong. Frequently strategically placed on endcaps or near the checkout, treats are often a spur-of-the-moment purchase more likely to happen instore.  Over three-quarters (76 percent) of dog/cat owners buy pet food and treats on the same shopping trip instead of separately, and more than two-fifths (42 percent) view pet treats as an impulse purchase. In an omnichannel world where sales continue to shift onto the internet, it's on e-tailers and marketers to cross-promote treats to online shoppers in the market for pet food. As of 2022, e-commerce represented approximately 34 percent of dog and cat treat sales, but by 2027 that share is expected to rise to nearly 40 percent Helping to pick up some of the slack is the slew of online-based subscription box programs that have popped up in the past several years. BarkBox, one of the earliest and now the largest, delivers on a monthly basis a range of products to pet owners including at least one treat sample.  Subscription boxes present an ideal opportunity for marketers to introduce products to pet owners on a "try it, like it, buy it again" basis, as well as to help offset the negative impact of missed in-store purchases. With the success of BarkBox and similar programs, treat-specific subscription programs have popped up, allowing pets and pet owners to try out a different selection of treats on a steady basis. Harkening to the potential, even pet specialty retailers have gotten on board, with Petco teaming up with PupBox and Chewy offering Goody Box. At the same time, the business continues to shift in the direction of functional treats, which are increasingly doing double duty as, and competing with, pet supplements. In addition to catering to health-focused pet owners, functional treats appeal to value-conscious pet owners swayed by the idea of getting "two in one" value in treats that address specific conditions.  Functional treats serve as an integral part of many pet owners' pet health and wellness routines; as of May 2023, a large majority (70 percent) were willing to spend more for treats that addressed specific health concerns. Another flourishing segment is cat treats, as more marketers expand their offerings to embrace this "second-class pet," which is currently outpacing dogs in population growth. Looking ahead, pet owners' commitment to pet health and pampering will remain key market drivers, and treats will continue to benefit from being a frequent pet market entry point and crossover opportunity from other categories such as pet food, pet supplements, pet toys, etc. Taken together, these trends portend a healthy outlook, with U.S. retail sales projected to near $18 billion in 2027, reflecting a compound annual growth rate north of 9 percent and billions more dollars' worth of Mr. Spratt's stroke of genius. by David Lummis. Senior pet market analyst for the Packaged Facts brand within The Freedonia Group, a division of MarketResearch.com.

06/09/2023

How is a feed formula designed?

By Armando Enriquez de la Fuente Blanquet

The main problem when formulating foods is to satisfy the nutrient requirements. Then, we talk about formulating a balanced food. There are several methods used to balance rations, from the simplest to the most complex and technical ones. Among them, we can find trial and error, simultaneous equations, Pearson's square, and linear programming. For balancing rations, ingredients are combined to meet the protein, fat, fiber, amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals that pets require for health and well-being. Within the formula of the balanced pet food (the recipe), two ingredients require special attention in their precision. I am talking about the vitamin premix and the mineral premix, which are generally separate formulas, as they are made up of more than one nutrient inside. The amounts of vitamins and trace minerals required are few, and they are in the order of micrograms or a few milligrams per day. That is why it has been decided to add them through a premix. Vitamins and trace minerals are essential substances for life. If we supply less than their daily requirement, we will certainly see how the subject develops severe deficiency symptoms that lead to manifestations of deficiency or syndromes. Regularly, the pet food formula contains 1 or 2 of these ingredients: a premix of vitamins and minerals when it is one, or a premix of vitamins and premix of minerals when it is two. Now we analyze the design of the premix formulation that will be included in the complete pet food.   The steps in a premix formulation are   Defining the premix The first step will be to know which species it aims for: dog, cat, or something else. Then it has to be decided which pet's life stage is: age, size, weight, activity level, race, physical problems, and the like. Our "claim," or value proposition, which can go into the premix. What kind of pet food are we going to manufacture? This can be dry, humid, or semi-humid, in very general terms. Gathering the data of the process parameters, as well as temperatures, humidity, pressures, and times, among others. Knowing the rest of the ingredients of the complete formula of the balanced food: corn, meals of animal origin, oilseed pastes, additives, etc. Having a well-defined shelf life which we must guarantee, be it one or two years.   Ingredient selection Speaking of vitamins, their forms must be selected according to the production process the food will undergo: microspheres, spray-dried, coated crystals, adsorption, etc. Regarding trace minerals, we must consider that the inorganic source will affect the vitamins more than the organic or hydroxy sources. Also, we should keep in mind that trace minerals vary in molecular structure as well as in performance in animals. It must also be considered that the premix can be the means to add other ingredients that require precision, such as omegas, some vegetables, mycotoxin binders, and natural or synthetic antioxidants, among others. The vehicle is an important player in the design because it will give it density and properties for correct mixing. They can be vegetables, minerals, or both.   Estimating the super-addition, mainly in vitamins Any portion of food must meet the nutritional requirements indicated by international guides such as AFFCO, FEDIAF, or NRC. Therefore, the final product must contain this recommended minimum level at the end of its shelf life. I always suggest starting with a safety margin, that is, above the minimum level suggested by nutritional guidelines. This way, even if the dog or cat eats a little less, or has a higher consumption than the average, that daily dose would ensure that symptoms of vitamin deficiency will not occur. The food manufacturing process involves temperature, humidity, pressure, oxygen, and more. If one or more of these elements affect the vitamins, an over-addition is necessary to compensate for the loss due to processing, so we can reach the desired level. Once the food leaves the production line, it will travel to the market, where it will be available for the pet parent to purchase. In addition, it can also remain on the shelf for some time, and we must also consider a loss due to storage.   Premix test The design of the premix on paper is one and, in reality, things may be different. That is why it is important to produce a sample and carry out a mixture, content, and physical analysis. If the premix complies with what was designed, food manufacturing should be run and, once again, carry out a content analysis – now of the pet food–. We should not forget the shelf life analysis.   Final part When the premix complies with the design, and we know the product physically, we need our plant personnel to be trained on the importance of this ingredient and the care that must be given to it. Once we have finished the premix, let's take it to production!   Pet food formulation must be adequate and precise, particularly with two micronutrients that must have our attention during the formulation: vitamins and trace minerals. The design of the vitamin and mineral premix is ​​as relevant as the design of the food itself, and their development process should be as meticulous as possible.   By: Armando Enríquez de la Fuente Blanquet Source: All Pet Food Magazine

04/09/2023

Popular pet food claims in 2023

Digestive health is also becoming a highly sought-after pet food attribute across age groups, with 47% of pet owners ages 18 to 54 claiming interest in these products, as well as 43% of pet owners age 55 and older. Pet owners are also interested in treats that address specific health issues, according to Mintel, with 36% of pet owners ages 18 to 54 claiming interest in this category, compared to 34% of those ages 55 and up. A  wider gap between generational interest is seen for pet food products that are sustainably sourced, with 28% of pet owners ages 18 to 34 interested in this category, compared to 27% of pet owners ages 35 to 54, and 19% of those age 55 and older. Additionally, the rise of functional meal toppers is attracting interest from younger pet owners, with 25% of those ages 18 to 34 curious about these products, compared to 18% of pet owners ages 35 to 54, and 15% of those age 55 and up. According to Mintel and Kantar Profiles, pet owners between the ages of 18 and 54 (19%) are more likely to show interest in pet foods formulated with plant-based proteins than their older counterparts (10% of those age 55 and older). Regardless of perceived interest, pet food and treats with functional claims are taking the industry by storm, with 21% of new cat and dog treat launches in 2022 claiming oral benefits and tartar prevention. Additionally, 7% of new launches touted joint, bone and muscle support, and those claiming digestive benefits and skin and coat benefits both made up 6% of launches in 2022. Global Pet Food Market Trends in the Next Two Years Pet owners are focusing on healthful food – particularly natural options – for their pets. The future of pet food will be influenced by consumers who are keen to offer their pets fresh food, or even homemade options. Mintel anticipates that there will be pet food innovation for animals suffering from increasingly common issues such as obesity who will benefit from personalised diets and technological measures. Companies in the global pet food market must reassure pet owners of the benefits of sustainable pet food beyond planet-friendly credentials. Global Pet Food Market Trends in Five Years and Beyond Pets are taking a more prominent role in consumers' lives. As such, pet owners will focus more on their pet's behaviour. The global pet food market can help improve pets' mental performance through innovative foods that are personalised to match the needs of each pet. Pet owners are increasingly seeking better food options and mealtimes for their pets. Mintel expects pet food innovation with microwaveable packs for in-home use in addition to fine dining options that will hold appeal for discerning pet owners seeking an out-of-home experience. Consumer concerns around water usage are not restricted to human food. Companies will need to share how they are reducing water in their formulations through alternative ingredients or use of freeze-dried options. By Mintel All Pet Food 

01/09/2023

Market Trends and Highlights from SUPERZOO 2023

Dry pet food is being differentiated with broth or raw coatings and various inclusions such as jerky, baked or air dried ingredients to make the classic feeding occasion different for dogs and cats.  Functional ingredients continue to dominate coming out of the pandemic with calming claims, new dental designs for mechanical cleaning action, and combinations of historical health focused needs like urinary tract health and gut health in a single item.  Wet food continues to add health benefits to elevate above just a culinary experience with additions like prebiotic fiber in wet food, moisture rich for hydration claims, low phosphorous for kidney health, and probiotic inclusion in bone broth.  Several established brands with strong equity extended into different feeding occasions or species looking to use that equity to grow.   Specific examples are leading snacks brands into complete and balanced kibble and cat focused brands into dog offerings.  CBD offerings were available but not near as many as several years ago.  Sustainability can be seen in packaging and ingredient sourcing claims but is much less prevalent in NA than EU new items showcases.  Insect, which was really prominent at ZOOMARK in Italy, made its way into some diet offerings for NA. UV attractants in litter and flavored bubbles for dogs were interesting items that are signs of the category moving from its focus on supply chain assurance and back to bringing out novel offerings. We are looking forward to seeing the new market trends next year! by AFB International 

30/08/2023

Torula yeast for a more palatable, digestible, and nutritious cat food

Yeast in pet food Sustainability in the pet food industry is an ongoing debate that often focuses on the ingredients used in it. Today, protein sources are under scrutiny, especially for their effects on ecosystems and societies, since the resources and conditions needed to develop them can be harmful to various ecosystems. Currently, the best-known type of yeast is nutritional yeast, used to add protein to various foods, although it is also a flavoring agent. There are many different strains of inactivated yeast, and each has a different flavor. One deactivated yeast is Torula yeast, but others used in the market are active, such as beer or bakery yeast.   Torula yeast Torula yeast (Candida utilis) is a type of inactivated yeast and is one of approximately 1,500 types of tiny, single-celled fungi. Torula edible yeast grows on wood alcohols and is used when deactivated and dried for flavoring and nutrition. The truth is that, generally, being low on the food chain reduces the environmental impact of a protein source, and mushrooms live near the bottom of it. Raising mushrooms as new pet food ingredients as one that would otherwise go to waste, reduces the environmental impact of animal nutrition. This yeast feeds on the woody biomass left over from the manufacture of wood products, and because wood waste is plentiful, renewable, and does not compete with human food crops, considerable sources of protein can be extracted. Indeed, it's possible to affirm it has favorable properties for extrusion as well as benefits for the animal's digestive system. Torula yeast is free of allergens and heavy metals.   Torula yeast in pet food For pet food, Torula yeast may have an advantage over other novel proteins. It is an AAFCO-approved ingredient with a history of safe use. In 2019, feeding trials tested it in dog food and found the fungal protein source works on par with chicken meal, and a more recent study found evidence that torula yeast can also serve for producing cat food. A study at the University of Kansas looked at the use of yeast in pet food. Torula yeast, as well as brewer's and whey yeast, have been categorized as nutritional yeasts when fed as inactive microbial biomass, primarily for their nutritional value. Among the most traditionally used in livestock nutrition, Torula yeast is the most favored in terms of its flexibility of carbon sources and growth capacity. It can metabolize xylose and its oligomers, allowing growth on low-value cellulosic waste materials. Thus, it enables large quantities of microbial protein to be produced from a sustainable and cost-effective growth medium. In addition, producing yeast from cellulosic material has a lower carbon footprint compared to soybean, pea protein, and chicken meal, the elements on which the study's comparisons are based. All four cat foods, with these ingredients, were prepared using single screw extruders under similar processing conditions. The study found that Torula yeast is highly digestible by cats and even increased their preference for food containing it while aiding processing and kibble formation. Furthermore, under similar processing conditions, this yeast resulted in a more extended product, particularly in the radial direction, which caused the lowest density and hardness. The study determined that Torula yeast can be safely included in feline diets, with levels limited for fecal quality considerations. In palatability tests, cats chose more food with Torula yeast than those with chicken meal. However, there was no difference from the other ingredients. On the other hand, the crude protein of Torula yeast digestibility was similar to the other three formulations, with an average of 89.97%. Yet, fats digestibility was lower for this (92.52%) than for the other protein sources.   Conclusion Yeast-based ingredients are playing an increasing role in the premiumization of pet food as a source of improved health and wellness for pets in hundreds of pet food markets worldwide. Yeast is no longer only used to improve palatability, but interest is now growing in the value and impact it might have in increasing immunity levels and improving gut health. In this sense, Torula yeast seems a great alternative to incorporate into formulas, although, and while even there is very recent research, experts in the field recommend further investigation to evaluate postbiotic analysis, the mechanisms of the functionality of raw materials, and the implications of protein ingredients on urinary health in cats.   Source: All Pet Food Magazine

15/08/2023

Tapping Into China's Pet Food Market: Opportunities For Success

As she has so much experience in the pet food industry, we asked her to share some valuable insights into the current state and future prospects of the Chinese pet food market. China's pet food market has seen significant growth over the past few years, driven by the rising number of pet owners who prioritize the health and well-being of their furry companions.  The market continues to evolve, which means there are ample opportunities for pet food companies to tap into this growing demand and establish a strong presence.  A psychological portrait of a Chinese pet owner The majority of pet owners in China are young, with limited experience in pet care. That's why they rely heavily on online platforms for pet-related information and advice from veterinarians. Pet health is a top priority for these owners, as they know that a well-balanced and nutritious diet is vital for their pet's overall well-being. Pet food manufacturers that supply high-quality raw materials, accompanied by clear functional claims and authoritative verification reports, are most likely to stand out in this growing market. One crucial factor to consider is the growing population of senior pets in China. In most cases, this is a new and unfamiliar situation for many pet owners, as this is the first time they are going through such moments. Therefore, brands entering the market should focus on addressing crucial factors like pet emotional health, cognition, and specific issues related to aging. By addressing these needs, brands can establish a strong position and build trust among pet owners. Advice for Western brands entering the Chinese market For Western brands looking to work with Chinese pet food manufacturers, understanding the cultural nuances, the needs of pets, and the preferences of Chinese consumers is essential. A Chinese end-user, especially one who prefers to buy premium food and treats, wants to see a European touch on the product.  It's important to mention this on the package, point of sales, and in their marketing campaign. This will undoubtedly build trust, help increase product recognition, and will make the product more liked among buyers. The future of the Chinese pet food market As said, the Chinese pet food market is experiencing rapid growth, along with various complexities and opportunities. The pet food industry in China offers an abundance of products with diverse claims and formulations, addressing the needs of pet owners of different ages, from various cities. Online transactions play a significant role in this market too, opening up new avenues for exploration and expansion.  Cats are expected to dominate the pet population growth in China, particularly among young women who are conscious of their pets' health and nutrition. Streamlining product claims and using professional design elements will help pet owners save time in choosing pet food. At the same time, this will also allow them to spend more quality time with their pets and enrich their overall pet-owning experience.  Aker BioMarine's collaboration with Chinese pet food brands Aker BioMarine, the biotechnology company behind the QRILL Pet products, has been committed to having a local presence in China since 2011, recognizing it as the world's largest market for marine ingredients. In recent years, Aker BioMarine has been collaborating with leading pet food producers in China, establishing krill as a premium pet food ingredient in the country.     These partnerships focus on customizing raw materials, sharing best practices, and promoting the development of pet health food through scientific research, technology, and consumer insights. In conclusion Understanding the preferences and expectations of Chinese consumers, as well as the evolving pet ownership trends will be critical for success in these coming years. By collaborating with local partners and offering high-quality, innovative pet food products, brands can tap into the growing love and concern for pets in China.Focusing on health, nutrition, and sustainability, the future of the Chinese pet food market is bright for both manufacturers and pet owners. by Suha Zhou - Sales Director QRILL Pet China

11/08/2023

Functionality beyond nutrition

Fibers as natural and renewable plant-based materials are ecological products at their best. Because of their multifunctional properties and compatibility with nearly all other substances, fibers provide solutions for many everyday products. The selection of the right raw material and the mechanical manufacturing process is of paramount importance, as this allows the particle size and structure to be tailored, and the properties of the fibers depend, to a large extent, on these parameters. Through a finely tuned interaction of suitable milling technology and fractionation, optimized products can be manufactured.   ADVANCED MILLING TECHNOLOGY An impact mill acts on a fiber material with high shear forces. This results in strong fibrillation of the material, resulting predominantly in long, thin fibers (picture 1). In turn, these are characterized by a high binding capacity for liquids, be they water, oil, or others. In contrast, a cutting mill mainly shortens the fiber length but is not able to split fiber bundles into individual fibers very well. Therefore, this grinding system mainly produces shorter particles with a less pronounced fiber structure (Picture 2). These particles are less effective but have a better flow, dosing, and mixing ability.   Picture 1: Long Fiber   Picture 2: Short Fiber   Other so-called 'rotor-stator systems,' which allow a very small grinding gap, are predestined for fine powder production. Although these powders do not have high functionality, they can be used in higher concentrations and can be easily and homogeneously incorporated into a wide variety of formulations. They also have good sensory properties.   APPLIED KNOWLEDGE Having the possibility to understand how a structure or matrix of the fiber after a dedicated processing upgrade looks like is an innovative competitive advantage. Structural differences of various fibers can help to indicate certain functional properties, which are sometimes known in the industry but more often not known or not deep enough explored. This is the moment where scientific transparency meets technical application, researching the functional benefit of a new potential product in a real application like in main meals or snacks. For that, JRS has set up a pilot facility in 2017 where exactly this kind of internal research is happening. Only after enough internal trials and critical analysis, the products are manufactured on a larger scale to run first trials with dedicated customers. By doing that, it is possible to develop real innovative product concepts, which are new to the market before they become standard across the pet food world. Globally, there are thousands of innovation pipelines and marketing concepts creating a high demand for new innovative solutions. Having the right knowledge and products in place is key to being a constant part of new product developments and strategic partnerships. However, even in daily production, there are challenges where fiber can help to have a more efficient production. Some of them have the capability to generate a network, helping to keep the shape of a product intact or keeping a gravy clear during sterilization. Others can avoid syneresis in raw meat food or alternatively in all meat sausages, ensuring water excess can be held over shelf life. There are many more examples of what fiber can deliver beyond the nutritional benefit for pets.  Fibers designed by nature in combination with research & development plus technical application knowledge are the future road for many new ideas around the globe beyond nutrition.   By: JRS Source: All Pet Food Magazine

09/08/2023

Challenges for the canine and feline nutritionist and pet food formulator for the upcoming years

By Ludmila Barbi T. Bomcompagni

Proper nutrition: The main challenge when formulating and developing products for the pet food market is ensuring proper pet nutrition. Each species has specific nutritional requirements, and products must be formulated to fulfill them. In addition, we have to consider factors such as age, size, breed, and individual health conditions. Formulating nutritionists must ensure that products are balanced and meet all necessary nutritional requirements. Knowing the ingredients in depth: Finding and using quality ingredients is another challenge facing pet food developers. It is important to ensure that the ingredients used are safe, healthy, and meet regulatory standards. Knowing the nutritional composition of each raw material, the digestibility of the ingredients for each species, and thinking about the interactions between nutrients during the digestive process of animals should also be questioned by the formulating nutritionist. Not only do the points mentioned above matter, but the choice of ingredients must also be very well thought out since it must comply with the minimum cost proposed for the formula, the availability of purchase considering the seasonality of each raw material, and the possible fluctuations in the availability in the market. In addition, some tutors are increasingly concerned with the origin of the ingredients, so their choice must also be guided by the product market positioning of the product that the nutritionist is formulating. Finding reliable suppliers and establishing long-term partnerships is essential to ensure the consistency and quality of the ingredients used in pet foods. Understanding additives, their functions, and purposes: The industry of additives for animal nutrition is constantly evolving thanks to the development of new products and technologies. A pet food formulator must keep up with these updates and advances in the field of additives to optimize pet food formulations and deliver high-quality products. Some additives are used as preservatives to extend the shelf life of pet foods. A pet food formulator must understand how these additives work, as well as the proper dosages to ensure food safety and good shelf life. Palatability: Pet food can be nutritionally balanced, but if it is not appetizing and acceptable to pets, it will be rejected by guardians and the animals themselves. Palatability is a major challenge when formulating new products. Pets have individual preferences, and their tastes may vary. Companies and their development teams must invest in extensive research and testing to ensure that their products are tasty and attractive to animals, while also meeting nutritional needs. Processing considerations: Pet food processing is an additional technical challenge. It is necessary to ensure that food is manufactured consistently, maintaining the integrity of ingredients and preserving essential nutrients. The pet food formulator must know the extrusion processes and their pre- and post-processing, as so many parameters can affect product quality, such as grinding, time/temperature inside the extrusion barrel, shear, friction, density, dried, and covered. Extrusion is one of the types of processing that the formulator must master, but the dynamics of product diversification for this market require that these professionals learn about new forms of processing, such as autoclaving, dehydration, freeze-drying, and other innovations that may arise. Innovation and market trends: The pet food market is constantly evolving, driven by trends and consumer demands. Product developers must be aware of the latest trends and innovations in the industry, which includes the development of specialized products for specific needs, such as food for pets with food allergies, diets for weight loss, and organic and natural foods, among others. Keeping up with these trends and innovations requires continuous market research and flexibility to adapt to changes. The pet food market presents significant challenges for formulators and product developers. Proper nutrition, choice of quality ingredients, palatability, processing considerations, and innovation is critical to success in today's marketplace. With so many challenges, a pet food formulator must be a multi-faceted professional. The association and collaboration between the pet food nutritionist, researchers, and alliances between public and private institutions are important for the training of these professionals. They also promote science and technology for this market and to overcome these challenges, develop healthy and attractive food for pets, ensuring the health, and longevity of pets and owners' satisfaction. By: Ludmila Barbi T. Bomcompagni and Erika Stasieniuk Source: All Pet Food Magazine

07/08/2023

Low Glycaemic Properties of Isomaltulose Confirmed in Dogs

The study results demonstrate that isomaltulose is a suitable low glycaemic ingredient for use in dog food, triggering a lower blood glucose rise after consumption. This property makes it a particularly interesting solution with the potential to support metabolic health and weight management. Numbers of overweight and obese dogs have steadily increased over the last few decades and exceed 50% in Western countries.  Excessive weight is linked to metabolic and skeletal associated disorders and impacts the quality of life of both dog and owner. This is reflected in pet owners' interest in tackling such issues: More than 8 in 10 pet owners worldwide agree that on-pack communication about helping to control their pet's weight naturally (87%), or having a lower impact on blood sugar levels (85%), very much or somewhat affects their purchase intention of a pet food product.   Here, nutrient choice has an important role to play, especially in regards to which carbohydrate is used in a dog's food. Firstly, because overweight or obese pets are at risk of developing impaired glucose tolerance and insulin resistance. Secondly, low glycaemic diets have been shown to support weight loss and improve metabolic health in both humans and dogs . Therefore, finding suitable low glycaemic ingredients for dog food is key.   In total, three studies were carried out by the teams from universities in Utrecht and Wageningen. The first, an in-vitro study of small intestinal tissue samples from three dogs, evaluated the small intestinal hydrolysis of isomaltulose compared to sucrose, maltose, maltodextrin, lactose and ɑ-trehalose. The aim was to confirm if dogs have the ability to digest isomaltulose, as well as compare it with other carbohydrate sources. The findings showed that it can be digested by canine intestinal enzymes, with a lower enzyme activity compared to high glycaemic carbohydrates, indicating a slower rate of hydrolysis. The second and third studies compared the effects of isomaltulose, sucrose and maltodextrin in an in-vivo set-up. One of the studies assessed the glycaemic effects of the three carbohydrates in nine dogs and using a 3x3 Latin-square design . After an overnight fast, the blood glycaemia and insulinaemia were measured 0-180 minutes after the administration of a single dose of either isomaltulose, sucrose or maltodextrin. The results showed that isomaltulose significantly lowered blood glucose and insulin responses in the dogs, compared to maltodextrin or sucrose. The goal of the final study was to assess the glycaemic properties of isomaltulose in dogs, after continuous intake. This was based on the assumption that the abilities to digest isomaltulose might evolve through adaptation, so that its impact on blood glucose levels would get closer to the other carbohydrates. In this study, 18 dogs received a 50:50 mix of isomaltulose and sucrose (1g per kg bodyweight) daily for two weeks. They were then split into three equal groups which each received a single dose of either isomaltulose, sucrose or maltodextrin after an overnight fast. Following this, the dogs' blood glucose and insulin responses were measured. Even after continuous intake over two weeks, the low glycaemic and insulinaemic properties of isomaltulose were confirmed. Commenting on the findings, Dr Maygane Ronsmans, Product Manager Animal Nutrition at BENEO says: 'This research is of great importance as it offers the first comprehensive characterisation of isomaltulose with respect to its digestibility and metabolic effects in dogs. The low glycaemic properties of isomaltulose already shown in other species, including humans, pigs and rodents, have now been confirmed in dogs. The combined results of this study suggest that isomaltulose would be a suitable energy source in dog food, which contributes to a more stable blood glucose response, and may improve the dog's metabolic profile and overall health.' Isomaltulose is a disaccharide which occurs naturally in honey. It is composed of glucose and fructose, characterised by a stronger glycosidic bond than that of usual sugar. Isomaltulose is a direct source of energy that generates a more balanced blood glucose response, distinguishing it from high glycaemic energy sources, such as heat treated cereals and conventional sugars (e.g., dextrose). BENEO derives isomaltulose from sugar beet at its production plant for functional carbohydrates in Offstein, Germany.  by BENEO-Animal Nutrition For further information on BENEO and its ingredients, please visit: www.beneo.com

03/08/2023

NARA -Animal Nutrition

Because North American renderers process at optimum temperatures over a prescribed length of time and they use strict quality control measures, animal protein meals are consistently high quality, uniform, stable, affordable, and nutritionally dense. The materials renderers provide allow for more sustainable pet food sourcing while producing high-quality meals for animals. Rendering practices are vital for sustainable and well-balanced pet food nutrition.   Ingredients in Pet Food Pet food uses a wide range of ingredients that renderers can process from waste products. As a result, when excess materials from meats are removed during processing, they can go toward pet food nutrition. There are several critical nutrients that pets need to stay healthy, such as proteins, minerals, vitamins, and carbohydrates, and animal nutrition research demonstrates that rendering can have a vital role in meeting this need. Key ingredients that come from rendering include: Meat and bone meal. Animal proteins. Animal fats. These substances can serve as crucial nutrients for pets' health and daily dietary needs. The ingredients may include human-grade food and other materials deemed safe for animal consumption. Dogs and cats of different breeds and sizes have various nutritional needs and may eat wet and canned foods, kibble, dry food, treats, and other options. Based on animal nutrition facts, individual pet food manufacturing companies follow different formulas to meet dietary requirements for animals.     Applications Renderers can use a wide range of strategies to address critical requirements for animal protein meals. By repurposing meat, fat, and other processing remnants, the industry can provide resources to feed pets and aquaculture and meet healthy dietary benchmarks while reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills.   Pet Food Pet food and products are a multi-billion dollar industry, and the market is growing. Rendered protein meals such as meat and bone meal, poultry co-product (also called by-product) meal, and fish meal are almost universally used in pet foods. They provide high-quality protein with a good balance of amino acids essential to pet health. There are several key advantages to using rendering practices to source pet food, including: Safety: Renderers meet high-quality food processing standards to prepare materials for animal consumption, helping ensure the final products are safe and beneficial for pets' health. Sustainability: By using materials that would otherwise be considered waste from standard meat preparation, renderers help save production costs and protect the environment. Nutrition: The proteins and fats obtained through the rendering process are highly advantageous for pets' day-to-day health and meet dietary nutrition benchmarks. View exciting results from a first-of-its-kind joint pet food study with the Pet Food Institute and AFIA detailing how the pet food production process feeds the agriculture economy and reduces food waste. This insightful research analyzes the wide-ranging benefits of rendering and pet nutrient production. It also demonstrates how the practice contributes to long-term sustainability efforts in this industry.   Learn More With NARA At the North American Renderers' Association (NARA), we're committed to supporting renderers and meat processors in sustainable waste product recycling. We represent the industry with advocacy and trusted resources that help educate and grow this critical field. For more information on our services and how to become a member of our organization, contact us today.   Source: North American Renderers Association

26/07/2023

Pet Treats Sales Fueled by Inflation in 2022, Packaged Facts Reports

Growth in the pet treats market has slowed since the large pandemic-era increases in 2020 and 2021, with much of the growth in 2022 fueled by inflation-related price increases rather than by growth in unit sales, according to Packaged Facts.  Online sales makes up the largest portion of pet treat sales at 34 percent. By type of pet, dog treats represent the majority of sales, at 78 percent, although cat treats sales are increasing at a faster pace. By product type, indulgent treats make up the largest share of the market, at 36 percent, followed by rawhides/long-lasting chews, functional treats and dental treats. Prolonged inflationary conditions have cooled the pet treats market somewhat, with Packaged Facts survey data showing that 57 percent of pet owners are concerned about rising prices in the pet treats category. Many pet owners are reducing their spending on discretionary items, making multi-functional treats, such as dental treats and those that offer health and wellness benefits, more attractive, Packaged Facts officials reported. Two of the top trends driving growth in the pet treat market include humanization and an increased focus on using pet treats as part of pets' health and wellness regimen, officials said. Behind both of these trends, however, is the pet owner sentiment that pets are part of the family. For many pet owners, pet treats are an opportunity to solidify the pet-owner bond.  'Not only do pet owners use treats to encourage good behavior (for training purposes, for example), they use them to express feelings of affection; 'treat time' has become a way for pet owners to show their pets just how much they mean to them,' said Shannon Landry Brown, brand manager for Packaged Facts pet market research.  Despite the challenging economic conditions, Packaged Facts projects the pet treat market to continue to grow over the next five years, with key opportunities including value-positioned treats, treats for cats, and treats featuring alternative proteins.   by Packaged Facts  

24/07/2023

Kemin Nutrisurance unveils new wet pet food pilot lab

During the ribbon cutting celebration on July 20, Kemin employees, customers and local guests were invited to tour the new pilot lab, which will be able to mimic the production of wet pet food in a smaller-scale plant environment. Chris Nelson, Ph.D., president and chief executive officer, Kimberly Nelson, president of Kemin Nutrisurance, and Jason Shelton, Ph.D., vice president of research and development at Kemin Nutrisurance, addressed attendees and shared the mission of the new business unit and pilot lab facility. 'There is enormous potential still left in wet pet food — to understand a lot about the chemistry and how to improve this overall product,' Chris Nelson explained. 'This facility allows us to test those new ideas for our customers.' The state-of-the-art facility offers Kemin Nutrisurance the opportunity to work with current and existing customers to create, test and validate pet food and treats to help better predict large-scale results. The pilot lab offers a dedicated space to develop wet pet food, as well as test dry kibble coatings. It features more production capacity and testing capabilities than most R&D labs, but its smaller scale plant environment provides more flexibility to produce smaller batches and adjust formulations during the process. The opening of the pilot lab served as a platform to introduce customers to Kemin's advancement in its R&D offerings under the new Research and Explorations Services umbrella. 'This is really a celebration of our formalization and the elevation of our service in R&D,' Kimberly Nelson said during the ribbon cutting. 'Services as a platform has been critical to our success for years, but bringing research and exploration as an element to it formerly is the next step in our commitment to our customers.' 'With Research and Exploration Services, we are able to elevate our own R&D efforts, building on Kemin's legacy of market-leading solutions and helping customers test, create and validate pet food products with unmatched accuracy and efficiency,' Shelton added. 'Now, with our expanded customer-service offerings, Kemin Nutrisurance delivers the industry's most comprehensive approach to R&D.' Kemin Nutrisurance's Research and Explorations Services will expand beyond the United States with pilot labs and innovation centers in Brazil, Italy and China. Source: Kemin Industries  

19/07/2023

The use of additives in the pet food market

By Ludmila Barbi T. Bomcompagni

The use of additives in pet food is already well established in Brazil and follows the standards and regulations of MAPA, ANVISA, FDA - Food and Drug Administration -USDA. All additives used in pet food must be included in the list of raw materials, ingredients, and additives authorized for use in animal feed, also called feed-grade products. But not all the additives described in the legislation are intended exclusively for animal feed, the additives present in pet food are generally the same, or very similar, to those used for food for human consumption (food-grade). Therefore, it is common to find suppliers that manufacture/market these food-grade additives, for human nutrition, and are, therefore, capable of being used in animal nutrition. The growth of the pet food market promotes the use and development of new additives considering that some of them, mainly those in the sensory, nutritional, and zootechnical fields, can improve the quality and palatability of the food to be supplied to the pet. And also, they become a differential in the formulation of products and in the creation of an argument that can be decisive in the purchase choice by the consumer. This need for innovation and leadership in the midst of so much competition leads many pet food industries to invest in additives inclusion in their formulations. Premium and Super Premium category foods for dogs usually have a wide variety of zootechnical additives in their composition, among which we usually see chondroitin sulfate, glucosamine sulfate, hexametaphosphate, zeolite, bentonite, cassava extract, prebiotics, and probiotics, among others. And, in cat diets, insoluble and moderately fermented sources of fiber, such as cellulose or beet pulp, are additives consistently found in higher-end hairball control products, for example. It is interesting to see companies that care about the quality of their products to stay in the market and grow within it. Innovation is necessary for all aspects of the pet food production chain, starting with new ingredients and additives development. From our point of view, this is a factor with very positive points, since it generates research and improvement of pet products, and, consequently, promotes the health and greater longevity of dogs and cats. Even so, we see some negative points in additives use if they are only related to the market interests. The cost of using additives, and the lack of information on the ideal levels of use in the different types of products available in the pet market, make each industry assume the amount that it is interested in its formulation. Many companies are including them in their formulas in trace amounts, but still declare the benefits of the additives on their labels as a product differential, guaranteeing a benefit that is unlikely to be achieved. We believe that the pet market in Brazil is still poorly regulated in terms of minimum and maximum inclusion of additives in dog and cat food and that more research, debate, and discussion are needed on the subject.   By: Ludmila Barbi and Erika Stasieniuk Source: All Pet Food Magazine

11/07/2023

Nutritional needs of cats and dogs

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

07/07/2023

FENAGRA 2023 Reflections

This year, more than 7,000 people attended the event with goals to find new suppliers, learn about innovative products and solutions, and discuss new trends in the industry. FENAGRA promoted its Technical Congresses that discussed important issues for the sector, which had the participation of more than 1,800 professionals. The result was 2 days of tradeshow, 3 days of Congresses and 145 exhibitors Marcelo Beraldo, LATAM Director at AFB remarked about the event: 'FENAGRA 2023 has taken an unprecedented proportion in terms of size, quality of visitors and presence of important companies. It was the first post-pandemic event, which enabled a lighter and happier energy. The distancing was replaced by the desire to talk and enjoy the typical Latin warmth of this event. We had excellent contact with our customers and suppliers too.' For Leeann Bo, AFB Global Product Manager, this was her first visit to Brazil and to FENAGRA:'I was impressed by the quantity and variety of information about pet food ingredients. It was a large event with companies bringing many employees from various functions and sectors, leading to valuable conversations and connections'. Carolina Junqueira, responsible for the R&D Department of AFB Brazil, attended the 3 days of congress and said: 'Always a very good time to see friends and learn a lot from professionals, not only from Brazil but also from other countries. Every year is a rich experience!' The day before its opening, AFB participated in a pre-event organized by the company Alltech. It was a day for informative lectures and great networking opportunities in the same complex in which FENAGRA is held. The lecture 'Conditions that affect the palatability of pet food' was presented by Cesar Garrasino, Technical Manager of AFB LATAM. The lecture delved into the various factors that influence the palatability of pet food, an interesting topic for the audience, which was composed mostly of professionals responsible for formulation in pet food companies. Our booth, the information we provided there, the good service and reception of the AFB team once again made a difference in FENAGRA 2023. Our place is guaranteed at FENAGRA 2024, which will be held in an even larger event space that will now be in the capital of the state São Paulo. We value the time spent with our dear customers, suppliers and AFB colleagues from other locations. See you next year! by AFB International Source: All Pet Food   

30/06/2023

Achieving Multiple Benefits with Functional Fiber Ingredients - A Holistic Approach to Pet Food Innovation

Turning to Functional Fiber for Added Fortification   Texture and uniformity of pet foods are key quality attributes that are important to appeal both pet owners and their furry friends. Given the variable nature of pet food ingredients and the complexity of the manufacturing process, creating the right consistency can be a challenge for the manufacturer. From a functional standpoint a novel type of fiber based on long cellulose particles is gaining enormous traction in various types of 'grain free' recipes with higher meat inclusion. In extruded and baked applications the long and fibrillated fibers help to improve binding of ingredients and to add a particular firm texture in the final product. Thereby only small amounts of the fiber also prove to shorten drying time. Long cellulose fibers tend to keep the surface of the extruded product open and support moisture evaporation. In wet pet foods the long and thin cellulose particle enhances texture in meat chunks and reduces syneresis because of the high water retention and emulsion capabilities of the fiber. During retorting the fiber network helps to maintain the shape of the chunk and prevents unpleasant cook-out effects into the gravy. Additional cost saving effects can be achieved through the replacement of more expensive binder sources when reformulating lower-cost pet foods with cellulose fiber.   On-Trend Pet Food Segments with Fiber-Based Solutions In recent years there has been rapid growth with smaller pet food segments like raw/frozen foods and meal toppers. These product categories allow pet parents to put their own touch on mealtimes. However, unlike more traditional formats like dry and wet foods, the category of pre-prepared complete raw foods is still more a niche segment because handling and preparation time of frozen foods does not provide the same level of convenience as opening a bag or a tin. In frozen foods, for example, the issue of syneresis is still very common. This means if pet owners are defrosting such foods prior to feeding, the molded products start loosing their shape and most of the liquids like water and blood start to leak out which does not look attractive to the pet owner. To overcome such issues, cellulose gels that are designed for human food applications such as ice cream or beverages, are used today also in fresh and frozen foods. Existing frozen food lines were redesigned with these easy dispersible cellulose gels to offer more convenience for pet owners. Cellulose gels are typically made by the process of copolymerization with Microcrystalline cellulose and other gums to create unique properties that are usually not found in conventional fiber gums. The fiber exhibits strong gel thickening behavior while having a good suspension ability, but also functions as emulsifier, fat and water binder. Beyond fresh and frozen pet foods, the segment of toppings, gravies and mix-ins is another emerging product category where manufacturers and pet owners can benefit from the strong stabilizing system of a fiber gel. Special vet-broth formulas, for example, are today supplemented with fiber gels to create a strong viscous emulsion when the powdered blend is mixed with water to support pets that need additional hydration. The unique film forming properties of the fiber gel are also helping to preserve freshness of dry foods once the meal topper is served as a supplement by the pet owner. Because of the fat-like characteristics, cellulose gels are creating a more creamy texture of the final product that can increase appetite appeal for picky eaters.   Fiber Innovation for more Differentiation on Shelf Cat and dog food products are more sophisticated than ever and reflect many of the trends that are seen in food products for humans. Foods that come in different flavors, textures and shapes, claim to help maintain active lifestyles, and address specific health needs by the use of unique, marketable and functional ingredients. The downside of many nutritional and sometimes very costly ingredients is that they may potentially improve the quality of life for pets, but they are not visible to grab the attention of impulse buyers that are willing to spoil their pets with special treats and foods. So developing innovative marketing concepts with appealing ingredients is still a major challenge for the pet food industry. Microbeads made from natural and biodegradable cellulose fiber ingredients are a new concept creating an exciting innovation platform for the pet food industry from which to launch more complete solutions in dental foods. Although initially developed as cleansing and polishing ingredients in all type of personal care products for humans, the fiber pearls are today used in pet food formulations that target the oral care claim. The cellulose microbeads are compressed by an intense mechanical process to create round shaped pearls with a size of up to 1mm. These co-processed fiber pearls resist impact by heat and moisture and survive even harsh manufacturing processes such extrusion, tableting or retorting. This guarantees good visibility in the final product. Due to this unique characteristic the pet food industry is using these ingredients as abrasive agents for enhanced dental foods and to make oral care products looking more appealing to the consumers.   Getting Greener with Natural Fiber Ingredients As pet owners increasingly look for clean label, sustainable and natural products finding the right fiber ingredient is more important than ever. More recently, plant-derived co-products of the human food chain became a ripe source of innovation for fiber ingredients. Fibers made of local sourced apples, for example, are becoming a preferred choice in a variety of pet foods and treats because of its unique composition of insoluble and soluble fibers, as well as pectin. Apple fiber is typically made of upcycled pomace procured from juicing companies. From a functional standpoint, the pectin content helps bind moisture and oil in pet foods and treats to enhance processability, moistness and final texture. In semimoist foods it may even replace chemical emulsifiers and moisture-binding agents. On top of it, this type of fiber delivers nutritional benefits due to prebiotic effects and provides also a positive sustainability story for brands. Latest developments in the field of fiber ingredients provide plenty of new opportunities for innovation. As pet food product developers brainstorm the next big chewy dog treat or nutritionally complete cat food, they may want to consider some of the suggestions that offer ways to differentiate products and break into untapped areas in the pet food industry.   By: Peter Graff - Head of Business Unit Petfood & Aquafeed - JRS Animal Nutrition Source: All Pet Food Magazine    

28/06/2023

ADM opens most innovative probiotics and postbiotics plant in Valencia

The American human and pet nutrition company ADM has opened its most innovative production plant in Valencia. With an investment of over 30 million dollars, the factory will be the first in the world capable of producing probiotics and postbiotics at the same facility. In addition, the new factory represents a five-fold increase in the company's production capacity. The aim of the new plant is to meet the growing worldwide demand for probiotics and postbiotics, as part of ADM's expansion strategy in the health and wellness sector. It will thus contribute to the multinational firm's target of boosting revenue in this division from 500 million dollars at the close of 2022 to over 2 billion in the next ten years. University R&D laboratory The factory is located close to the company's R&D centre at the University of Valencia Science Park, facilities where scientists carry out activities such as next-generation genome sequencing and early-stage testing of new bacterial strains. The commissioning of the Valencian factory will enable the company to produce 50 metric tonnes per year. From there it will supply the probiotic and postbiotic markets in the United States, Asia-Pacific and Europe. The company intends to triple its customer base over the next five years. Science-based research Health and wellness division president Mark Lotsch said that his business area is 'one of the three enduring trends powering ADM's growth strategy: consumers are increasingly aware of the role their gut microbiome can play in their everyday lives, and they're seeking nutrition solutions that are backed up by science-based research'. The company alluded to a Euromonitor market research study that estimates that the probiotic supplements retail market could surge to 10.4 billion dollars by 2027, compared to its turnover of 8.3 billion in 2022. Lotsch added that this growth is being driven by the rising demand for science-based probiotic formulas that are used in dietary supplements, as well as dairy products, food and healthy snacks and beverages, and in addition to pet and animal well-being products. ADM, one of the world's leaders in science-backed nutrition solutions, has opened a new production facility in Valencia, Spain to help meet rising global demand for probiotics, post-biotics and other products that support health and well-being The production facility represents an investment in excess of 30 mio dollars and a more than five-fold increase in ADM's production capacity, increasing it to 50 metric tons per year. The facility will allow ADM to supply growing markets for probiotics and postbiotics in the US, Asia-Pacific and Europe, states the company.  ADM expects its customer base will more than triple over the next five years as more people recognise the links between the gut microbiome and many aspects of health, and look for products tailored to their specific needs. The facility, the world's first to produce both probiotics and postbiotics at the same site according to ADM, will help the company fulfil its expansion strategy in the health and well-being sector. ADM is on its way to realising its ambition of increasing health and wellness revenue from over 500 million dollars in 2022 to 2 bn dollars within 10 years. The site will produce ADM's probiotic BPL1 and the heat-treated BPL1 postbiotic, as well as other ADM proprietary strains, supplying a broad range of customers. It will also be able to support further growth in ADM's UK-leading Bio-Kult brand of products. The new facility is located close to ADM's pioneering research and development centre in the University of Valencia Scientific Park, where ADM scientists undertake activity including next-generation genome sequencing and early-stage testing of new bacterial strains. By ADM 
 

26/06/2023

BRF Pet bets on the natural Super Premium Category

The plant located in Ivoti, Rio Grande Sul, concentrates the production of the brand's feed, which bets on the natural super premium concept. In addition to it, other of the 20 lines in the portfolio are also manufactured on site. The flag's differential, which is the use of fresh ingredients, is present in the choice of suppliers, in the transport of the finished product. This differential strictly follows a market trend. Multispecies families boost natural market Previously seen as a trend for the future, natural pet food has already become a current demand. In the North American market, for example, 37% of pet parents already opt for natural feed. In addition, the humanization of pets has interfered, including the choice of ingredients for th eproduction of pet food BRF Pet in numbers Biofresh's journey begins before the arrival of BRF Pet. The brand belonged to HercoSul, which was acquired by the native food company in 2021. Another step in the expansion was the purchase, at the same time, of Mogiana, which is part of the current portfolio. As a whole, the conglomerate counts with 1,300 employees, 48 of whom have been working with the company for two decades or more, and 30% of the total staff are  women. With regard to production structures, the company hcounts with five industrial plants, four in Brazil and one in Paraguay. There is even potential for expansion. 'This is a consequence of market demand. We occupy the leadership in the segment. but we are always looking for opportunities to continue growing', says Denis Nakashima, head of marketing at BRF Pet .     If there is a desire to lead the feed segment in the future, in an extract from it, this objective has already been achieved. With its brands in the super premium natural segment, Biofresh and Guabi Natural, BRF is already at the top of the market. Among the two dozen brands produced, there are some that are exclusive to the foreign market. The company exports to more than 20 countries, including markets such as Russia, Nigeria and Oman. But the Latin American market is the main target, where it operates in 11 countries. Biofresh serves 3,600 pets. In the second half of 2022, the brand showed an increase in real revenue of 26%, compared to the same period of 2021. With the aim of being closer to each of these pets, BRF Pet has its own fleet of 44 vehicles and the help of more than 60 distributors. On the factory  Once at the manufacturing plant, the products don't even leave the truck before being tested by the company's laboratory. Based on the analyses, which can take hours depending on the content and quantity purchased, the company establishes its first barrier.
Sometimes, entire loads are even returned. 'We already signed return notes that indicated that the cargo would be destined for human consumption', reports Irina Munaro, technology and innovation consultant and responsible for the plant, highlighting the rigor imposed on the analyses. The machines are present throughout the entire production process – from the grinding of meat to the packaging. Fresh ingredients stay refrigerated until minutes before use. When filling, a technology used by BRF Pet to ensure greater durability for the products is the injection of nitrogen gas. This gas is responsible for reducing the action of oxygen, which prevents the pet food's oxidation process of pet food. Duly packaged and ready for being distributed, before the product enters the truck and hits the road, there is still one last step left. The conditions of the vehicle are studied and also the possible presence of pests, which would make transportation unfeasible. Currently, BRF Pet is already experiencing a moment of modernization of its fleet, having recently started its first route served by electric vehicles. The next innovation in the radar concerns partner distributors: it´s a test that will make it possible to recognize that other loads were loaded in that compartment and, with this information, avoiding any risk of cross contamination. By  Panorama PetVet

14/06/2023

What Nutrients are Essential for My Pet?

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

09/06/2023

How important is choline for cats

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

06/06/2023

‘Peas of Mind’: Pulse Ingredients in Dog Food Not Linked to Heart Problems, Says New U of G Research

It's a reassuring finding for dog owners worried about grain-free diets, which have surged in popularity and now make up almost half of the dog food market in Canada.  The diets have been under scrutiny after 'pulses' – the collective term used for peas, lentils and beans – became associated with a serious heart condition in dogs called dilated cardiomyopathy, or DCM.  This latest U of G research, which appears this month in The Journal of Nutrition, found that dogs fed diets containing up to 45 per cent whole pulse ingredients and no grains over 20 weeks showed no indications of heart issues.  As well, the dogs' body composition altered less than 0.1 per cent from baseline no matter which diet they were on, suggesting they also maintained lean body mass.    'This study is the longest, controlled feeding study to date to assess cardiometabolic health in healthy adult dogs fed pulse-inclusive diets,' said lead author Dr. Kate Shoveller, a professor in the Department of Animal Biosciences in the Ontario Agricultural College and Champion Petfoods Chair in Canine and Feline Nutrition, Physiology and Metabolism.  Dr. Adronie Verbrugghe, clinical studies professor and Royal Canin Veterinary Diets Endowed Chair in Canine and Feline Clinical Nutrition at the Ontario Veterinary College (OVC), added: 'This research is important to help veterinarians make evidence-based diet recommendations for their patients. Some dogs might be healthy, but others could have specific health conditions for which protein sources and content are targeted.'  Pulses a dependable protein alternative in pet food Pulses are an attractive protein source in pet foods and need to be included in plant-based dog food formulations to provide sufficient dietary protein. Yet there have been concerns pulses may be limited in key amino acids for the body to make taurine, needed for proper heart.  Poor bioavailability of key amino acids has also been linked to inadequate protein absorption and muscle wasting in dogs.  To investigate the potential effects of pulse ingredients on cardiac function of healthy dogs, the researchers recruited 28 Siberian huskies for a randomized, controlled trial. Huskies are not genetically at risk of DCM, meaning any changes to their heart health would reflect diet, not genetics.   Each dog was assigned to a diet containing either zero, 15, 30 or 45 per cent whole pulse ingredients, specifically green and yellow peas, pinto beans, chickpeas and lentils. All diets included chicken as the animal protein source and were formulated with the same protein and fat levels.   All pulse ingredient concentrations reflected current formulas in commercial dog foods, said lead author Pawanpreet Singh, a U of G PhD student in animal biosciences.  'We wanted to keep all aspects of the diets the same except the amount of pulse ingredients so that any changes we saw in the dogs' cardiac function could be attributed to the differing amounts of pulses and not nutrient intake,' said Singh No changes to dogs' body composition or heart function Champion Petfoods funded the study and all experimental diets were processed in its facilities. The company did not influence the findings or conclusions of the study.   Echocardiograms were performed by veterinary cardiologist Dr. Shari Raheb, a professor in OVC's Department of Clinical Studies, to detect heart changes. Singh routinely collected blood samples to assess cardiac biomarkers or amino acid changes.   Verbrugghe and registered veterinary technician Shoshana Verton-Shaw performed scans to assess body composition at the beginning and end of the study, and all dogs were weighed every week.  'We took the highest precautions to monitor the health of these dogs. We made sure to conduct monthly health checks and evaluate their heart blood markers to make sure there were no signs of cardiac stress,' said Singh. 'We found that regardless of the amount of pulses consumed, none of the dogs showed changes to indicate the development of DCM or body composition changes.'  Shoveller said previous clinical studies were not able to pinpoint whether pulse ingredients played a role in DCM in dogs not genetically predisposed.  'Our data suggest the inclusion of pulse ingredients in dog food is not a causative factor and emphasizes the importance of understanding the nutrient composition of each ingredient and ensuring that foods exceed minimum nutrient requirements,' she said.  'Ultimately, pulses are a dependable protein alternative in the food industry and this study emphasizes their safety even when incorporated at high concentrations.'  Contact:  Dr. Kate Shoveller 
[email protected]  All Pet Food
 

09/05/2023

DSM Establishes Tonganoxie, Kansas, Pet Food Premix Plant

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

24/04/2023

New study: Krill effectively increases Omega-3 Index in pets

In a new study conducted by the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and Aker BioMarine, scientists evaluated the performance of three different omega-3 sources in canine feeds. Of the three ingredients tested, the krill-based ingredient, QRILL™ Pet PL Nutri Plus (QRILL Pet's flagship krill meal product), was most effective in raising the dogs' Omega-3 Index. This study builds on a previous feeding trial conducted in 2020 by Aker BioMarine, which showed that of the dogs fed either QRILL Pet PL Nutri Plus (8%) or fish oil, the QRILL Pet group exhibited the greatest improvements to their Omega-3 Index after six weeks. In this new trial, the researchers aimed to build a greater understanding of how krill meal, at a lower inclusion level, would perform in comparison to two other omega-3 sources, namely fish and flaxseed. All three providing similar amounts of omega-3 to the study diets. 'The hypothesis we tested was whether krill, at a lower inclusion level of just 3% on a dry matter (DM) basis, would be as or more effective in raising the dogs' omega-3 levels than other ingredients when omega-3 content was similar. We believe that both the delivery molecule of omega-3 as well as the type of omega-3 in a diet matters. To understand this, we did a side-by-side comparison of EPA/DHA from krill with two other omega-3 sources (EPA/DHA from fish and alpha-linolenic acid from flaxseed) which both are commonly found in pet food today,' says scientist Hanna Lindqvist from Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences.  4-week 3 -arm trial tests 3 different omega-3 ingredients in the dog feed Before launching the experiment, the omega-3 levels of the 45 participating Alaskan Huskies sled dogs were measured to establish a baseline. Researchers found that the Omega-3 Index for the dogs was at a low starting point (at 1.3% on average), a state that is not uncommon in pets, they report.      Over the next four weeks, the dogs received one of the three test feeds. The omega-3 ingredients were included in the raw food provided to the dogs twice daily. The trial was run during a low-training period for the dogs, meaning their dietary needs at the time were on par with the average active dog.  Key findings: Which omega-3 ingredient was most effective? Krill meal, in the form of QRILL Pet PL Nutri Plus, was most effective in raising the Omega-3 Index in the dogs – bringing it to an average of 2.4%. Fish meal was the second most effective source of omega-3, raising the Omega-3 Index to an average of 1.9%. Flaxseed (alpha-linolenic acid) had no significant effect on the dogs' Omega-3 Index.      'What we learned from this trial was that not every omega-3 source performs equally, and that both the delivery molecule of the omega-3`s as well as type of omega-3 makes a difference.  The phospholipid omega-3 in krill appears to be more effective than triglyceride omega-3 from fish or alpha-linolenic acid from flaxseed. There is an opportunity for commercial feeds to benefit from a more effective ingredient, and we found that even in lower doses, krill meal is still the most effective in terms of raising the Omega-3 Index in pets,' says Hanna Lindqvist.  About QRILL Pet QRILL Pet is a product of Aker BioMarine, a leading biotech innovator and Antarctic krill-harvesting company for consumer health and animal nutrition. The QRILL Pet product line consists of 3 products: PL NUTRI Plus (our flagship krill meal product) PL OMEGA Plus oil, and ASTA OMEGA Plus oil. When developing our functional marine ingredients for pets, we kept our focus on the needs of pets and pet food formulators. Aimed at keeping pets healthy, QRILL™ Pet is not only a superior omega-3 source but also contains a powerful antioxidant called astaxanthin, natural choline, and palatable marine proteins.  The unique distinction of krill omega-3s is that they are mainly bound to phospholipids. This superior marine ingredient is beneficial for cats, dogs, and even horses at every life stage.  By Qrill Pet Source: All pet Food 
 

18/04/2023

A study analyzes the role of palatability in the pet nutrition industry

The pet food industry is an important sector of the growing pet care market. The industry's growth to date can be attributed to a number of trends that have resulted in a significant increase in the number of new and innovative products available to pet parents. Although pet foods are primarily formulated to provide a complete and balanced nutrition, palatability has been identified as a key factor to determining the success or failure of a product in the marketplace and the chances of repurchase. Therefore, a group of researchers from Massey University carried out a scientific review in which they analyze the methods used to assess the palatability of pet foods, along with a discussion of the palatability drivers . They also study the feeding behavior and nutritional requirements of both dogs and cats, the different pet food formats available, and the ingredients commonly included in pet foods. 'The research on pet food palatability focuses on the amount of food consumed using one-bowl and two-bowl tests, but the differences observed, particularly at the key ingredient level, is poorly understood,' they explain. According to the experts palatability is defined as the physical and chemical properties of the diet, which are linked to the promotion or suppression of eating behavior during the preabsorptive period. 'Instead of being associated with a desire or need, palatability is linked to the perception of pleasure or taste during consumption. In other words, the  palatable food is that considered easily accepted by an animal', researches highligted According to them  palatability in pet food, especially for cats, remains of great importance to both manufacturers and owners. Currently, traditional palatability testing methods are used to assess the acceptance and preference of complete and balanced pet foods and treats. However, until very recently, few studies have used these traditional methods to assess the palatability of individual dietary components, mainly meat and its derivatives, which are important to the carnivorous cat. 'Cats are known to show differences in the palatability of selected by-products; however, there are gaps of our knowledge in this area and more work is required to determine the main factors responsible for these differences'. For the authors, modern techniques such as metabolomics can unlock this knowledge, but pet food research is still underdeveloped. "In the future, a collective approach using traditional palatability testing methods and modern analytical tests may help determine not only the optimal level of ingredient inclusion to maximize palatability, but also the nutrients responsible for driving preference," they conclude. THE PET NUTRITION INDUSTRY AND ITS COMMITMENT TO PALATABILITY As highlighted in the study, the pet food industry takes palatability into account when developing its products. This is the case of the Canadian company Champion Petfoods, manufacturer of the Orijen and Acana brands, distributed in Spain by Masale. Thus, at Champion Petfoods they regularly carry out palatability tests on their diets, comparing them with their competitors in the same category in order to assess  the degree of acceptance by the animals. For instance, in one of the tests, they compared an Acana product to a diet from another brand, and more than half of the dogs were attracted by the known diet due to its scent, and 90% of the time dogs ate its diet first. In another test, Acana diet showed a 9:1 consumption ratio against its alternative. This means for every bowl of food from other brand, 9 bowls of Acana were consumed by the dogs. After performing a statistical analysis of the results collected from the palatability tests, they can conclude their diets outperform other alternatives. "We believe that our high-quality ingredients and high meat content make us leaders," they defend. By Francisco Ramón López

10/04/2023

Byproducts in pet Food - Do they add Extra Nutrients

What is a byproduct  Byproducts in pet food are what is left over when a product is produced. For example, in the United States, most consumers only eat the skeletal muscles of the animal. Therefore, organs including the liver, stomach, kidneys, bones, and blood are considered to be byproducts. These body parts are packed with taurine, which is critical for cats. This is why byproducts in pet food are so important, as the skeletal muscle actually contains minimal taurine levels. Amino acids are constituents of proteins, which act as the building blocks within the body of an animal. When a cat is deprived of taurine, they are more likely to experience heart failure as a result of cardiomyopathy or blindness due to retinal degeneration. The organ meats are also packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, which we don't receive from skeletal muscle. While they might not be consumed frequently in the United States, in other countries, these byproducts are consumed regularly. A great example of this is within Scotland, where haggis, the country's national dish, is created from a sheep's stomach. This is then filled with a sheep's lungs, liver, and heart and then is topped up with spices, onions, and oatmeal Byproducts in Pet Food Examples A common ingredient that's found in pet food is brewer's yeast, which is a result of the beer production process. It is packed with B vitamins, amino acids, and minerals. Another example is vitamin E, which comes as a byproduct of soybean production. Also, other useful byproducts include molasses, wheat germ, whey, and tomato pomace. Human meals do also contain byproducts, which you might already eat. These include gelatine, which is part of the meat production process. Byproducts in pet food offer many great benefits for cats, dogs, and their owners. While you should always keep an eye on what your pet is eating and drinking, never take away anything which offers them a rich source of nutrients each day. Written by bygora

06/04/2023

Diversified Diets

Pet owners are incorporating more freeze-dried, air-dried and gently cooked options into their dogs' diets, thanks in part to the perception that these foods feature high-quality ingredients that offer multiple health benefits. Freeze-dried, air-dried and gently cooked diets were once viewed as meal toppers for dogs to enjoy as an occasional treat. However, today's pet owners are choosing to use these products regularly as an enhancement to their dogs' daily meals, said Molly Keveney, spokesperson for Champion Petfoods, the Edmonton, Alberta, Canada-based manufacturer of the Acana and Orijen brands. "Deterring flavor fatigue or mitigating potential dietary sensitivities are some of the reasons consumers continue to diversify their pet's food," she said. "Rotating dry food recipes alone is not cutting it, so pet lovers are looking for new ways to create crave-able meals that are more enticing and exciting for pets." Freeze-dried foods are great options for pet owners who want the benefit of frozen raw nutrition, Keveney noted. The freeze-drying process maintains the nutritional value of fresh ingredients by locking in flavor and nutrients, creating biologically appropriate nutrition for dogs and offering peace of mind for owners that want to amplify their pet's everyday meals, she added. "Our freeze-dried diets are made with 90 percent quality animal ingredients and are available in a variety of recipes," Keveney said. "Acana Freeze-Dried Food comes in two different sizes, patties or morsels, and features a savory bone broth for an added boost of flavor and protein." FOCUSED ON NUTRITION The humanization of pet food has been driving the market for alternative food formats such as freeze-dried, air-dried and gently cooked the past few years, according to industry insiders. "The alternative food category is one of the fastest growing in the pet space," said Dan Markenson, head of retail at Dr. Marty Pets, a Los Angeles-based pet food manufacturer that recently introduced a 48-ounce bag for all its recipes. "Pet parents are looking for ways to nutritionally build up their pet's food bowl by feeding whole foods and adding superfoods and extra nutrients where they can. A focus on whole real food that is bioavailable to the pet is what pet parents are looking for." Jason Ast, co-owner of Just Dog People, a pet store in Garner, N.C., has seen similar trends. "These food types are a great way to begin feeding dogs a more biologically appropriate diet," Ast said. "Freeze-dried foods have been popular at Just Dog People for several years now, and many people use these options as toppers and training treats." Innovation in this category has a broader focus on specific, health-targeted ingredients, especially those aimed at digestive health or joint health, according to insiders. Pet owners are looking to build a diet for their pets that drives optimum health and wellness, said Kelly Walters, brand leader of pet foods at Redbarn Pet Products, a pet food and treats manufacturer in Long Beach, Calif. "Consumers looking for better ingredients led to a premiumization of the category," Walters said. "They are also looking for ingredients to be less processed, which is driving the growth in the alternative categories. Air-dried, freeze-dried and gently cooked are all processed in ways that better maintain nutrients in the raw ingredients, as compared to a typical dog food kibble." Redbarn Pet Products released several trial-size options for its air-dried lines in December 2022 and will launch largesize options soon. "The trial sample sizes were driven by consumers who are looking for an opportunity to try out the product prior to making a more significant investment," Walters said. "Many pet parents have been interested in checking out the category, but prices have kept them from diving in. Once people try the product, they are hooked and are ready to make a commitment to feeding more regularly, whether as a full feed, topper or training incentive." Tyler Maneth, vice president of marketing at Ziwi USA, an Overland Park, Kan.-based pet food and treat manufacturer, said consumers are also looking for diets that offer variety, including textures, price points and ingredients "As pet parents continue to educate [themselves] and desire to provide their pets with better nutrition, manufacturers push to provide foods that meet and exceed their expectations for optimal health," Maneth said. "This also coincides with the quality of the ingredients and sourcing, with a strong focal point on ethical and sustainable practices being integral to the products." Ziwi recently made improvements to its air-dried line, which included increasing organ meat inclusions. Amy Snell, national sales manager for Northwest Naturals, a manufacturer in Portland, Ore., said the freeze-dried category has grown in popularity because it is so versatile. "Pet parents can use freeze-dried recipes as a complete and balanced treat," Snell said. "These diet options are great for training and as a topper due to the meat smell and palatability, and are perfect for traveling." With the awareness and growth of frozen raw, freezedried foods have become a great option for those who are uncomfortable handling raw. Pets still get the same nutritional benefits from diets in this category, but without the pet owner having to handle wet raw meat, insiders report. "Consumer awareness has increased, and pet parents want more wholesome and rewarding choices for their pets," said Christie Dilling, assistant manager and clinical pet nutritionist for We Lov Pets, which has four locations in Ohio. "They now know what is important in a dog's diet but still need convenience due to busy lifestyles. This makes air-dried, freeze-dried and gently cooked foods an extremely appealing choice." More shoppers understand the benefits of providing a more nutrient-dense diet for their pets, and air-dried and freeze-dried options help pet owners to do that in a more economical way than feeding a completely raw or homecooked diet, said Heather Blum, co-owner of Petagogy, which has three stores in Pittsburgh. "For many customers, these diets represent an entirely new way to feed their pets," Blum said. "Introducing them slowly as a way to boost an existing kibble diet has been an accessible way for many pet owners. Air-dried and freeze-dried diets especially can be used as toppers and are great for pets that are growing tired of basic kibble and need a boost to their bowls." CONSUMER EDUCATION Many retailers do a good job educating consumers about the best nutrition for their dogs, Keveney said. "It is a brand's responsibility to arm retailers with the information and resources needed to encourage more diverse feeding practices," Keveney said. "The nutritional benefits, production process and overall convenience factors are important qualities for retailers to highlight to help increase awareness around this pet food category." Retailers should inform customers about different manufacturing processes that are used to maintain more of the nutrients in the raw ingredients, and help them understand the benefits, Walters noted. "Shopping this alternative feeding space can be daunting for pet owners, between the different options and the higher price points," Walters said. "Retailers should continue to focus on the ingredients in the foods that manufacturers bring to them and splitting apart the marketing messages from the food those messages represent." Ziwi has an online training module available to its retail partners and their associates to help educate customers about its brand and products, Maneth said. "Taking advantage of the resources and training made available by brands is an absolute must," Maneth said. "Within the store, having a dedicated space for this category is extremely helpful so a store associate can easily walk and educate customers through the different options." More pet owners are discovering the power of raw foods for their pets. "Communication in the aisle is a great way to let pet parents understand the value of raw," Markenson said. "The scale of this category is at the point where pet stores can have alternative feeding sections that are differentiated from the kibble section and offer educational information on the power of raw food. In-store demos and sampling programs can help educate as well as demonstrate the palatability of many of these recipes." When retailers explain the biological nutritional needs of dogs, consumers are more inclined to try these diets."Once pet parents understand how convenient these diets can be, they can't wait to buy more," Dilling said. "For most of our customers feeding completely in these categories of food is just too expensive. When we explain that there are huge benefits for even using it as supplemental feeding, many pet parents are much more open to the idea of adding these nutritionally packed diets." Availability and acceptance helped these foods expand, and people are willing to try alternatives to kibble, Ast said. "The more you talk to your customers, the more you'll find that they are looking for alternatives to their dog's current diet," Ast said. "It is surprising how many people are receptive to feeding a non-kibble diet." Snell said starting with small steps can be valuable. "In the freeze-dried category, a little raw is better than no raw," Snell said. "Recommend the customer start with a treat or a topper. Starting small is a great way for pet parents to add nutrition to their dogs' current diets." BY ALEXIS MATTSON THIS ARTICLE IS BROUGHT TO YOU IN PART BY CHAMPION PETFOODS  

04/04/2023

U of I study gives a thumbs up to carefully formulated vegan diets for dogs

New University of Illinois research shows at least two human-grade, lightly cooked vegan diets provide adequate nutrition for dogs. 'The trends of vegan foods and human grade foods are increasing for dogs. Because people are feeding these diets to their pets, it's important they be tested like all other foods to make sure they're safe and 'complete and balanced,'' says study co-author Kelly Swanson, professor in the Department of Animal Sciences, part of the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences at U of I. Swanson's team tested two human-grade vegan formulas (with and without a grain ingredient) from Bramble against a leading brand chicken-based kibble diet. They fed the diets to beagles for three weeks and sampled the dogs' blood chemistry, fecal quality, and microbiome, the collection of microbes present in the poop. Their results are published in the Journal of Animal Science. The team also analyzed the foods themselves – the vegan diets were veterinary nutritionist-formulated mixtures of whole foods like lentils, garbanzo beans, sweet potatoes, butternut squash, apples, blueberries, peas, and carrots – and confirmed both vegan diets and the chicken-based diet met standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) for 'complete and balanced' nutrition. 'One thing to remember is that animals don't have ingredient requirements, they have nutrient requirements. As long as they're consuming the essential nutrients in the correct amounts and ratios, dogs can be vegan, vegetarian, or meat-eaters,' Swanson says. 'Knowledge of ingredient composition and nutrient needs are critical, however. Anyone can slap together a vegan meal for their dog, but without careful formulation, you might have something that's really imbalanced.' In earlier studies, Swanson's group showed human-grade, fresh dog foods to be highly digestible, resulting in dramatically less stool. That wasn't exactly the case for the vegan diets in the current study. All diets were highly digestible, but the vegan diets didn't generate any more or less stool than the chicken diet.   'It's not a surprise, really. With these ingredients, there's more fiber and oligosaccharides, which could be good for dogs that need to stay regular,' Swanson notes. The research team was surprised to find certain blood metabolites – chemicals in the blood that can indicate health status – differed between the vegan diets and the chicken-based diet. Notably, blood triglycerides and cholesterol, measures of circulating fats, were significantly lower in dogs fed the vegan diets. Swanson says that could benefit obese pets and help maintain a healthy weight. When they analyzed the fecal microbiome and the chemicals produced by those microbes, the team noted more positive changes. 'There were some interesting and beneficial changes in the microbial community that I think reflect the blend of fibers that were present in the vegan diets. The fecal metabolites phenol and indole, both of which contribute to fecal odor, were dramatically decreased in those diets too. It's still going to smell, but probably less,' Swanson says. 'Overall, it looked like there were some beneficial shifts from a gut health perspective in dogs fed the vegan diets.' Swanson says he'd like to do head-to-head comparisons between human-grade diets with and without meat and dairy products, but for the first study showing how fresh vegan diets perform in dogs, the results are promising. 'No one had tested digestibility of these diets in dogs before this. We showed that these vegan diets resulted in desirable fecal characteristics, high nutrient digestibilities, and positive changes to certain blood and fecal metabolites,' he says. 'For people who are interested in feeding their pets a vegan diet that aligns with their personal values, the diets we tested are a good choice.' Swanson reiterates the diets were formulated by veterinary nutritionists, and that homemade vegan dog foods may not provide complete and balanced nutrition for dogs. The article, 'Apparent total tract macronutrient digestibility of mildly-cooked human-grade vegan dog foods and their effects on the blood metabolites and fecal characteristics, microbiota, and metabolites of adult dogs consuming them,' is published in the Journal of Animal Science [DOI: 10.1093/jas/skad093]. Additional authors, also from the Department of Animal Sciences and the Division of Nutritional Sciences in the College of ACES, include Leah Roberts and Patricia Oba. Bramble, Inc. funded the study. by Kelly Swanson

13/03/2023

Seaweed for dogs

If you've ever taken your dog to the beach, you may have caught them trying to munch on the seaweed that's made its way to land. Dog food with seaweed is a nutritious snack that can boost your dog's overall wellness due to its iodine concentration. The safest way to take advantage of the benefits of seaweed for dogs is to use a powdered supplement or processed seaweed without seasoning. Adding a sprinkling of powdered seaweed for dogs can help them take advantage of its nutrient and mineral-based composition, including iodine Is seaweed safe for dogs? Seaweed is safe for dogs – so long as it's not wild seaweed. The issue with wild seaweed is that it shrinks due to heat exposure, meaning it will absorb water when it enters your dog's digestive system and expand, which could lead to blockages. Wild seaweed is also risky for your dog as it can contain pollutants that you could make your dog unwell. Processed seaweed is safe for dogs in small quantities. The best choice of seaweed dog food is a powder supplement or a small amount of processed seaweed free of seasoning or pollutants. Seaweed powder for dogs can make it easier for your dog to consume this nutrient-rich supplement or snack. You should always consult your vet before starting your dog on any new form of food. You'll also want to consider the quantity of dog food with seaweed that you're feeding your pet. Due to its iodine content, you want to avoid your dog overconsuming seaweed in any form. Seaweed for dog benefits If you've stumbled onto this article, you're probably wondering, 'is seaweed good for dogs?'. The answer is that seaweed snacks for dogs can be the perfect way to ensure your pet is getting their daily nutrients. Dogs eat seaweed for its nutrient-rich properties as it contains iron, iodine, magnesium, protein, and omega-3s. Your pet dog needs these nutrients just as much as you do. The sea may seem like an unusual place to look for a nutrient-rich snack, but our oceans contain more seaweed – at least 10,000 different types – than herbs that you'll find on land. With thousands of different types of seaweed, everything from their taste to colour and nutritional value can be different. Every variant of seaweed has its own nutrient makeup – but each contains the mineral Iodine – the major selling point of any seaweed supplements for dogs. It's an essential mineral for your dog's long-term health as it boosts energy levels, prevents thyroid issues, helps to calm nerves, and supports your dog's immune system. When your dog is deficient in iodine, it can lead to restlessness, unexplained weight gain, and heart and lung problems. Iodine isn't a mineral typically included in dog food, but the rise in hypothyroidism in dogs has led to an interest in dog food with seaweed for its iodine content. Kombu seaweed is the variant with the highest iodine content, although any form of seaweed without additional seasoning or pollutants is suitable for your dog. It's also rich in calcium, copper, and vitamins A, B, C, and E. The most popular seaweed for dogs is true kelp – also known as laminaria. This brown alga is made up of 25% protein with over 60 types of vitamins and minerals, along with more than 20 amino acids. Iodine isn't the only reason you should start using seaweed dog food.  When dogs eat seaweed, it can help promote the overall health of their skin and fur to prevent fur loss or skin irritation. Most seaweed for dogs is also an ideal source of vitamin B12, a necessary nutrient for maintaining your dog's nervous system and promoting their brain health. Incorporating seaweed snacks for dogs into your pet's diet can help improve their gut health and tackle constipation. Seaweed supplement for dogs With seaweed becoming a popular supplement and snack of choice for humans, it's no surprise that seaweed supplements for dogs are rising in popularity. Seaweed for dogs' benefits focus around its mineral and vitamin composition – but you want to be mindful of what type of seaweed you're giving your dog. Seaweed dog food is only suitable when it is not produced with additional seasoning. Adding a seaweed supplement for dogs into your pet's food is the best way to give them the benefits of seaweed. You can use seaweed powder for dogs to sprinkle into their food to boost their overall health. When you start using dog food with seaweed or seaweed powder for dogs, it's best to monitor your pet's reaction. Look out for any change in their behaviour, overall health, and energy levels. If your dog has pre-existing thyroid issues, it's best to consult your vet closely about how much seaweed you should incorporate into their diet. The easiest and safest way for your dog to consume seaweed is through supplements or by grounding seaweed into their food. You'll want to ensure that the seaweed supplement that you use is suitable for your dog's size and breed by Bygora 
 

06/03/2023

KND Labs & ReaGenics Announce Partnership to Expand Food Line & Nutraceutical

As a producer of many ingredient forms including powdered isolates, distillate oil, and liquid or powder water-soluble solutions, KND Labs currently serves many industries and is an ingredient partner to many of the world's largest product brands.  'As a proven partner across many industries from food and beverage to nutraceuticals, pet, and cosmetics, KND Labs is thrilled to expand our supply chain and product offerings through this partnership with ReaGenics,' said Nich Wilson, KND Labs president. 'This capability directly supports the company's growth goals and allows us to target, extract and commercialize revolutionary ingredients within the KND Labs platform we are known for.' ReaGenics is a Nes Tziona, Israel-based plant molecular harvesting company that provides technology to support the growth of living plant stem cells economically and at scale, without having to depend upon nature's elements. Through its proven technology and process, the company is able to access molecular materials that are of interest in various industries including food and beverage, herbal medicine, and other applications.  With processing plants in the Denver area, KND Labs will utilize the ReaGenics partnership to move into new areas of expertise in the coming years, while offering ReaGenics access to its established production facilities and customer distribution network. 'Our world urgently needs a way to keep up with the growing demands of medicines, food supply chains, and the problem of so many of the world's plant species on their way to extinction,' said ReaGenics CEO Dr. Michael Kagan. 'We believe ReaGenics will be part of the solution to ensure these global needs and challenges are met. This partnership with KND is an important first step.' The partnership will benefit both companies' growth efforts in the nutraceutical, food, and pet industries, with KND Labs focusing on making new products available. 'Many customers are looking to KND Labs for our industry expertise and scaling capabilities as they aim to diversify their ingredient supply chains,' said Dave 'Swany' Swanwick, KND Labs director of sales. "This partnership with ReaGenics enables us to offer a greater variety of ingredients, at scale, to our direct partners as well as for network marketing sellers of hemp plant-derived products, and it will allow us to further grow our footprint as the premier provider of high-demand nutraceutical ingredients. We are very excited to be improving supply chain access and commercializing rare ingredients worldwide.' Source : Pet Business

24/02/2023

Growing Demand for Prebiotics in Pet Food

For some time now, animal digestive health has been tracking the popularity seen in human nutrition. In fact, even before the pandemic had made pet owners more health conscious, a study showed that 76% of cat and dog owners believed that actively looking after their pet's digestive health was essential for their overall health.  Following its global research in 2021, BENEO was able to identify ten key drivers that cat and dog owners perceived were vital to making pet foods seem healthier.  Ten key drivers to healthier pet food perceptions Almost 90% of cat and dog owners said that using natural ingredients was their number one way for pet food to seem healthier to them, closely followed by using less or no preservatives and additives. Reducing fat and adding fibre were seen as strong influencers by over 80% of pet owners, and of similar importance was having recognisable ingredients on the label, that were also not genetically modified. Three quarters also wanted to know where the ingredients had been sourced from and they wanted to see a short ingredients list on pack. Interestingly, plant-based ingredients and the addition of prebiotics also made products seem healthier to over 70% of cat and dog owners.  Digestive health becomes mainstream With added fibre and prebiotics two of the key drivers to make a pet food seem healthier to pet owners, it is no surprise that digestive health has well and truly moved into the mainstream. In fact, 83% of dog and 84% of cat owners consider digestive health as extremely or very important. Today around 1 in 4 global new pet food products promotes a digestive health claim or prebiotic benefit on package.  The link between a pet's digestive health and their overall health has been made by pet owners, however, not all fibres are the same. At present, a wide range of fibres can be used in dog foods. These include insoluble fibre sources such as cellulose or blends of insoluble and soluble fibres, which include sugar beet pulp and wheat bran, as well as fully soluble fibre sources such as inulin-type fructans. Based on the fibre type, they behave differently in a pet's digestive system, significantly influencing their potential digestive health benefits. Why is prebiotic fibre important? Dietary fibre is the indigestible part of plant material and can be soluble, insoluble or a mix of the two. Insoluble fibres can create bulking and a longer feeling of fulness, while also supporting bowel function. Soluble fibres include fermentable fibres (such as those found in sugar beet pulp) and prebiotic fibres. While both are dissolved and fermented in the colon, only prebiotic fibre sources like inulin-type fructans specifically feed healthy gut bacteria when they reach the colon. Prebiotics are 'a substrate that is selectively utilized by host microorganisms conferring a health benefit'.  Both the criteria for feeding beneficial bacteria and conferring a health benefit need to be fulfilled for an ingredient to be defined as a prebiotic. In comparison to other fermentable fibres, chicory root fibres - namely chicory inulin and oligofructose - are natural prebiotics for many animals like cats and dogs and they support a healthy microbiota along with other health benefits.  Products masquerading as prebiotic With almost 80% of respondents stating that 'prebiotic' on-pack communication affects their interest in buying a certain food for their pets,  this has led to some suppliers making unfounded 'prebiotic' claims for their products. In the pet food industry at present, there are a profusion of products that are being promoted as prebiotic but in fact aren't (such as fermentable fibres-containing ingredients, or even resistant starches). However, the only established prebiotics that have been scientifically proven to selectively encourage the growth of good bacteria and deliver related health benefits in humans - with corresponding evidence in pets as well - are inulin-type fructans, including BENEO's natural chicory root fibres Orafti® Inulin and Oligofructose.      When the chicory root fibres reach the colon, they are selectively fermented by the good microbiota residing in the pets' intestine, such as bifidobacteria, and selectively stimulate their growth and proliferation. Additionally, their fermentation by selected microbiota results in the production of Short-Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs), namely acetate, propionate, and butyrate. These fatty acids decrease the lumen pH in the gut and enhance its structure. They also strengthen the gut mucosa's barrier against pathogenic bacteria, as butyrate is the primary source of energy for the intestinal cells.  Scientifically proven prebiotic effect BENEO's Orafti® Inulin and Oligofructose have been studied extensively for over two decades both in human and animal nutrition, and the scientific foundation for their prebiotic effect is strong. In human nutrition, a recent systematic review with meta-analyses that applied the Cochrane methodology (considered the strongest methodology in the hierarchy of scientific evidence) and was based on intervention studies, confirmed the prebiotic effect of inulin-type fructans sourced from the chicory root.  In dogs and cats, studies have shown that the selective fermentation of chicory root fibres Orafti® Inulin and Oligofructose by specific beneficial bacteria leads to an increase in SCFA production, and  is linked with nutritional benefits for pets, that go beyond the gut. For instance, as part of their prebiotic effect and effect on digestive health, chicory root fibres support calcium and mineral absorption in dogs. ,  Further research has shown that chicory root fibres can support blood sugar management in dogs , as well as weight management in both, dogs and cats.  Absorption of minerals and bone health The absorption of minerals is essential to an animal's growth and bone strength. From their selective fermentation which produces SCFA, inulin-type fructans reduce the luminal pH and nurture the intestinal mucosa with butyrate, thereby allowing for additional calcium absorption in the lower gut (the colon). Studies with oligofructose have demonstrated increased mineral uptake in dogs, and among others calcium, therefore supporting bone health.    Supporting weight and blood sugar management Being overweight or obese are common in companion animals, and according to a 2019 report from the UK's Pet Food Manufacturers' Association, 51% of dogs and 44% of cats in the UK are classified as such.  As well as supporting a pet's intestinal health, chicory root fibres also show positive effects related to weight management in pets and blood sugar management in dogs. First studies show that including Orafti® Inulin and Oligofructose in a pet's diet can curb their appetite, improve satiety and hence decrease voluntary food intake. In doing so, chicory root fibres help to maintain the healthy condition of a pet's body. Additionally, since inulin-type fructans are non-digestible carbohydrates and dietary fibre, they do not trigger a rise in postprandial blood glucose or insulin concentrations. Hence, they support blood sugar management in dogs. What's more, studies in dogs have shown that feeding them with chicory prebiotics can allow for a lower blood sugar response after a meal ,  and this benefit can extend to a subsequent meal taken hours later, even if that meal doesn't include chicory root fibres; which is called the second meal effect.  Support of renal health in cats Cats are sensitive to kidney disorders as they age, and one indicator of a problem can be elevated levels of blood urea nitrogen. Typically, in healthy animals the liver produces urea to clean up the nitrogen from the blood, which then travels to the kidneys through the bloodstream, where it is then filtered and excreted in the urine. In ageing cats, this renal metabolism might become less effective and nutritional solutions, amongst other things, could be supportive. Inulin-type fructans such as Orafti® Inulin and Oligofructose have been shown to induce a shift in nitrogen metabolism, through increased nitrogen excretion via the feces ,  and decreased clearance in the urine, therefore representing a potentially valuable nutritional support for renal function.  With owners concerned about ingredients labels and their pet's long-term health, chicory inulin-type fructans are well placed for both cat and dog food product development that delivers natural support to a pet's intestinal health. BENEO's Orafti® Inulin and Oligofructose are produced from non-GMO chicory roots, which are locally sourced from farmers close to the production sites. Processed in two state-of-the-art plants in Belgium and Chile, both of which have food and feed certification, these functional dietary fibres meet the highest safety and quality standards. They are acknowledged as feed materials in the EU  and some of them by the AAFCO in the US.  Orafti® Inulin and Oligofructose can be qualified as natural ingredients and used in both dry and wet pet foods, or in snacks. BENEO offers a customisable range of chicory prebiotics that is suitable for a wide range of life stages and animals.  Natural, recognisable, and health-promoting ingredients are key drivers to pet food purchasing. With more and more owners making label-based choices, BENEO's chicory root fibre ingredients are valuable assets that help manufacturers deliver quality pet food products with a range of health benefits, and whose natural credentials appeal to pet parents. For further information on BENEO and its ingredients, please visit: www.beneo.com and www.beneo.com/news or follow BENEO on Twitter: @_BENEO or LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/beneo  BENEO-Animal Nutrition offers a broad range of natural ingredients with nutritional benefits. The product range is comprised of vegetable proteins, digestible carbohydrates, prebiotic chicory root fibres and specialty rice ingredients. BENEO-Animal Nutrition extends BENEO´s unique expertise in human food to the world of pet food, livestock feed and aqua feed. BENEO, a division of the Südzucker Group, employs more than 1000 people and has production units in Belgium, Chile, Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands
  Source:  BENEO source references for this article are available on request  

17/02/2023

Plasma: A whole Body Health Ingredient

Pets face stress during all life stages including mild and common illnesses, injuries, surgeries, and normal aging. A common thread of any stressor is inflammation. Inflammation can result when the immune system is activated. Inflammation is a normal physical response, usually to injury or illness. It's the body's way of protecting itself by dilating blood vessels and allowing increased blood flow and accumulation of cells to the affected area. The variety of immune cells can lead to addressing the damage and help return to a normal status. It's a crucial response that helps us and our pets – but it can sometimes get out of hand. Two types of inflammation occur in both humans and pets, acute and chronic. Acute inflammation occurs as a near-immediate response to a specific injury or tissue damage. For instance, when a bone is broken, there's swelling, redness, and heat as your body tries to prevent infection and jumpstart the healing process to help repair damaged tissues. Acute inflammation is a normal process that helps address the injury or tissue damage. Chronic inflammation is longer term and may affect the entire body leading to chronic disease or health issues. Chronic inflammation may result in tissue damage to the body's cells, oxidative stress, and can increase the risk for illnesses. Some reported links between chronic inflammation and malnutrition suggest specific dietary problems and imbalances can spark issues. When choosing foods, treats and supplements, special attention should be given to functional ingredients that promote health and well-being, including those that have a beneficial effect on managing inflammation, including plasma derived proteins. In numerous, studies across multiple species, research has shown adding plasma to diets has numerous long-term health and developmental benefits. WHAT IS PLASMA Plasma is a natural ingredient backed by decades of research demonstrating a proven whole-body effect, modulating inflammation at the source. Consumed orally, the functional proteins in plasma don't interfere with the body's natural immune response to inflammation; instead, they help the immune system to respond more quickly and efficiently.     WHAT COMPONENTS MAKE PLASMA EFFECTIVE? Plasma contains a complex mixture of functional proteins including:     INFLAMMATION OCCURS AT ALL LIFE STAGES YOUTH Puppies and kittens use a lot of energy during their initial days growing and exploring their new surroundings. They need a diet full of calories and specific nutrients that help build healthy muscles and bones, eyesight, their gastrointestinal tract, and mental cognition. Being curious creatures, they go through many life stressors – eating things they shouldn't, getting vaccinations, adjusting to a new environment and life without littermates or mom. These stressors take a toll on young pets and cause their bodies to respond to the stressors instead of using vital energy and nutrients to grow. ADULT Adult pets need a quality diet that suits their lifestyle, filled with quality proteins, calories, and nutrients to help maintain proper weight and energy levels and preserve good health. Like when they were younger, adult pets go through many stressful events that cause inflammation. Vet visits, separation anxiety, or unfamiliar surroundings – even thunderstorms cause stress. Some of our pets, particularly dogs, have jobs such as herding cattle, competing in events and hunting, all of which can elevate stress levels. SENIOR Senior pets have usually been with their owners for many years and have been loyal and loving companions. Unfortunately, like us, life's stressors and inflammation brought on by advancing age causes pets to slow down. We see inflammation impacting a pet's range of mobility, reduced cognitive function, loss of muscle mass and strength, decreased appetite, and frequently, compromised intestinal health, digestion, and nutrient absorption. PLASMA SUPPORTS PETS THROUGH ALL LIFE STAGES Development of the young animal requires good nutritional support while minimizing the effects of inflammation and stress. Plasma provides proteins and amino acids while modulating intestinal inflammation to maintain intestinal barrier function for development and nutrient uptake. This allows our young pets the opportunity to grow and develop properly. Plasma in adult pet diets helps them overcome negative impacts many stressors can have on their bodies. Plasma in an adult pet diet provides nutrients and support of the total immune system. This allows the adult pet to potentially experience less of the effect of stressors from the different inflammatory events and be more active. Aging pets tend to experience inflammation at higher levels than at other life stages. In an aging pet, stressors may lead to many negative consequences, such as reduced mobility, cognitive function, strength, and compromised intestinal health. Plasma modulates inflammation both in the intestinal tract and systemically in the body, preventing cognition loss and reducing intestinal inflammation. Consumed by aging animals, plasma can support and improve overall wellbeing in later life stages. Offering pets foods, treats and supplements containing plasma can help add to lifelong well-being. Whether helping a juvenile pet develop strong bones and muscles, keeping adult pets in optimal health, or helping ease the overall negative impacts inflammation has on senior pets, plasma offers whole body health benefits for every life stage. Finding holistic methods to support normal immune and inflammatory responses is important to keeping pets healthy and enjoying a long life. Inflammation is more than sore joints. When stress or chronic inflammation occurs, the whole body is affected down to the various tissue levels.     IMPACT OF INFLAMMATION CONTRIBUTE TO A CASCADING OF EVENTS IN OTHER TISSUES. Inflammatory cells are part of the immune system or immune response. As pets age, inflammation can occur and lead to recruitment of inflammatory cells responding to stress or other stimuli. The inflammatory cells produce messengers of the immune system such as pro or anti-inflammatory cytokines that can lead to a cascade of events in other tissues as listed below. INFLAMMATION REDUCES ABSORPTION AND INTESTINAL INTEGRITY LEADING TO MALNUTRITION, SOMETIMES RESULTING IN DIARRHEA OR LOOSE STOOLS. Inflammation of the intestinal tract can reduce absorption of nutrients, intestinal integrity (permeability), or barrier function, gut microbiota, and impact metabolism. Preventing the inflammation can reduce malnutrition and increase absorption of essential nutrients for overall well-being. INFLAMMATION INCREASES LIVER ACUTE PHASE PROTEIN SYNTHESIS. When stimulated by cytokines, the liver produces acute phase proteins and triglycerides. To produce the acute phase proteins, the liver takes up amino acids which are the building blocks for production of these proteins. INFLAMMATION ACCELERATES MUSCLE DEGRADATION RESULTING IN REDUCED MUSCLE MASS. Inflammation accelerates muscle degradation. releasing amino acids for the liver production of acute phase proteins and reduces the uptake of amino acids and protein synthesis, resulting in muscle degradation. This may affect older pets by having reduced muscle mass. INCREASED IMMUNE RESPONSE STIMULATES NEURODEGENERATION CASCADE. Many of the metabolic effects noted in the body are affected by these cytokines impacting the brain. Inflammation results in the febrile response, reduced feed intake, lethargy, and anorexia mediated via the brain. Inflammation can impact cognitive decline by having an increase immune response which stimulates neurodegeneration cascade. Thus, anti-inflammatory or antioxidant interventions may prevent cognitive decline associated with aging. CHRONIC INFLAMMATION CAN LEAD TO INSULIN RESISTANCE AND OBESITY. Chronic inflammation is associated with insulin resistance and obesity. The adipose tissue increases lipolysis (breakdown of fat), reduced triglyceride clearance due to decreased lipoprotein lipase activity and produces adipocytokines that can affect insulin resistance and obesity. INFLAMMATION SPEEDS BONE LOSS AND IMPACTS SOFT TISSUE LEADING TO DECREASED MOBILITY. Inflammation results in an imbalance of bone resorption and bone formation leading to more bone loss. Inflammation can also impact the joints resulting in swelling, arthritis, pain, stiffness which can all impact mobility. by APC Source: All Pet Food 
 

15/02/2023

ADM president: Feed additives market – 2023 and beyond

According Roig, there are 4 main dynamics will affect the 2023 additives market. Global politics 'One factor is global politics,' he explains. 'We have increased tension between large countries, mainly US-China tensions and the upheaval with Ukraine and Russia. This has caused a second factor to emerge, disruption of global value chains and a corresponding increased focus on food security.' Food security Roig notes that the entire global feed industry is re-evaluating which feed product categories are critical to food security and which products should be produced in-country. He notes that as it stands right now, most global production of vitamins and amino acids and fermentation-based feed ingredients are primarily produced in China. Energy security & prices Energy security has also come to the forefront due to rising global political upheaval. Because of this, says Roig, the cost of making feed additives and getting them to market will continue to be high going into 2023. Europe is experiencing natural gas and electricity shortages, and high electricity and energy prices are also now the norm in North America. High fuel costs are also making global transport of ingredients and finished products by sea and land more expensive. 'This is challenging for the industry in terms of margins and pricing,' says Roig. Plant-based protein food A fourth factor is the growth of plant-based protein food products over the last few years, mostly in North America. 'There are many lessons being learned about how to make plant protein foods efficiently, and if cost points come down and if it is scaled up as some expect it to scale, we may see plant protein replacing animal protein at scale in developing countries,' Roig explains. 'There may be a bridge effect in this, a leap-frogging like what happened with phone technology, skipping over landlines and going right to cell phones. Also, the cost curve for making cultured meat is coming down and this may also displace livestock production.' 2022 summary When asked the major issues for the global feed industry in 2022, Roig says that supply has not been too problematic. However, there has been a lowering of demand due to a mix of cost pressures and inflation for consumers. That is, people are eating less meat. Demand for feed ingredients has also been lowered by the decreased production of pigs and poultry due to African swine fever and avian influenza outbreaks in various parts of the world over the last few years. However, Roig says aquaculture has been growing and that will continue to occur. There have been supply chain disruptions for some specific ingredients, but Roig notes that some categories like amino acids have benefited from these disruptions. That is, because of tensions with China, amino acid firms based in other countries have stepped in to fill market needs. Looking forward to 2023 – 4 major levers 'When I look at 2023 and beyond, I think the industry will have to keep a close watch on 4 major levers,' says Roig. Industry structure 'One is whether the industry structure and competitive environment is sustainable. We have seen much consolidation in Europe and China and other parts of the developed world in the compound feed industry (commercial feed) but in the ingredients and pre-mix sector as well. How these industries will scale themselves in this tough environment remains to be seen.' Conversion efficiency The industry must also keep watch on the importance of conversion efficiency. Roig explains that a great deal of progress has been made with increased feed efficiency in developed countries but there is also a lot of opportunity there for further progress. 'If you can get it higher in poultry and aquaculture, the more animal protein will become viable compared to plant-based protein and/or cultured meat,' he says. Consumer demands The feed and livestock industries must also stay aware of the consumer desire for health and wellness – including a desire for less or no antibiotics in livestock production, especially those used for disease prevention and higher production efficiencies. More care must be taken to address livestock health, says Roig, and reduce early-stage mortality. Therefore, Roig foresees health and welfare product categories will see stronger demand – both those that prevent disease like mycotoxin binders and probiotics, particularly in early-stage production, and botanical products that improve digestion, reduce inflammation and increase feed uptake. One example from ADM is their AquaTrax product, based on published peer-reviewed research on Pichia guilliermondii, a novel yeast with demonstrated positive effects on shrimp immune function. Among other findings, multiple in vivo challenge tests involving various pathogens show approximately 80% higher survival rates in shrimp fed P. guilliermondii compared to the control. Sustainability 'Sustainability is also an issue the industry must leverage,' notes Roig. 'People want the least climate impact and water use possible in meat, milk and egg production. Mechanisms to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions in the whole life cycle of the animal are needed. The use of seaweed additives in the diet of ruminants to virtually eliminate methane has been a huge step forward. About a fifth of the world's carbon emissions are from agriculture and most of that is from ruminants. It will continue to be important for livestock farming to prove that it is reducing emissions.' On the ingredient availability side, Roig says shipping rates have calmed down, and production of amino acids and vitamins has resulted outside of China. 'So availability concerns for ingredients are not high,' says Roig. 'The costs are still high but they are on an improvement trend.' Long term outlook Roig predicts that over the next 5 or 10 years, growth rates in the industry will not be what has been expected. 'Consolidation is part of company strategic thinking now, and the realisation that we are in a lower demand environment, as mentioned, will make the industry look at animal health, sustainability and higher conversion efficiency,' he says. There will be growth in animal-based protein (layers and broilers) in Africa, if it is not displaced by plant-based protein, and Roig also expects growth in poultry production in Mexico. 'The other market that will perhaps grow the most is aquaculture and swine in Asia,' he says. 'Those in Asian countries are not willing to move away from animal protein anytime soon. Fish and poultry are the most efficient feed converters, so that's where the growth will be, and they also offer good value proposition for sustainability and animal health.' Environmental impact figures According to a 2013 FAO study, animal agriculture accounts for 7-8 gigatonnes of CO2-eq emissions, or about 15% of the total 50 billion gigatons emitted globally. Global estimates of emissions by species* Source: All About Feed 

10/02/2023

Get Your Pet Food Palatable

The pet feed market shows high growth levels worldwide and, together with the trends that guide this market, such as humanization and segmentation of products, the development and launching of innovative products is essential for companies to stand out on the market. Biorigin understands this need and, for 15 years, it has been offering natural solutions to meet the market demands and increase the added value of its clients' products. Thinking about delivering more palatability to pet food, Biorigin brings to the market PalaUp, a new line of yeast-based products developed to enhance the taste of food naturally and add specific flavor notes, such as meat and chicken. For tasty foods, choose Biorigin! Learn more about the benefits of Biorigin's products to improve the health and well-being of pets. Improve the overall taste of pet food products in a natural way! Pet owners are becoming increasingly interested in more sustainable and natural claims, but for pets, the taste is everything. Combine both demands with PalaUp yeast extracts and deliver tasty and healthy products to the market. PalaUp add specific taste notes to your pet food: • Chicken
• Beef PalaUp - Coming soon…But you will know 1st! by Biorigin     

30/01/2023

The Pet Food Aisle is Going Natural

This is a bold move, but one that doesn't come as too much of a surprise to those following the industry closely. While total food sales at retail are growing at a modest 2%, according to Nielsen research, total Pet consumables are faring quite a bit better at +5%. The driving force behind growth in pet food and treats is premiumization as pet 'parents', enabled by online information sources, seek to buy what is best for their pet's health. Consumers are trading up to premium offerings. So while the volume of pet food in traditional retail is actually down, in large part because smaller breeds are growing in popularity, category dollars continue to show solid growth. The path to growth in pet appears to be specifically tied to health and wellness. Specifically, consumer desire to avoid 'bad' ingredients is driving growth more than functionality. Both grain-free and now potato-free pet food varieties are increasing share. Wet dog food is growing at more than twice the overall category rate because of a health perception – more protein. But more than any other claim, natural pet foods are appealing to today's pet consumer. Natural color alone is one of the main drivers of growth for dog food. While at Sensient we don't share the view that synthetic color is really less healthful for pets (and neither do pet food regulations), the consumer always has the final say. By de-listing pet brands that don't switch from synthetic to natural, Petco is likely to trigger a wave of conversions to natural colors. And the company indicated a willingness to work closely with brands and natural food color manufacturers in their announcement. 'We're inviting pet food companies to join us on this journey, even working hand-in-hand with some to pursue potential ingredient changes to meet our new ingredient standards' said Nick Kovat, a Chief Merchandising Officer with the company. A few years ago, our innovation team began to develop natural color solutions that could address some of the specific challenges facing pet food and treat manufacturers. Fortunately, there are good solutions available today and more are in development. I would highly recommend checking out some of Gale Myers' previous blog entries as a starting point. Some of the most relevant posts include a review of 'natural Red 40' options and strategies to replace caramel. While I might be a little biased, I firmly believe we have some of the leading natural color technologies available for the pet industry today. Our SupraRed™ heat stable red vegetable juice, for example, is a major advancement in color stability for pet products that go through extrusion or heat processing. This includes most pet foods as well as natural pet treats. Meeting the evolving demands of today's pet consumer means producing nutritious food that also looks like it meets the needs of our furry friends.  by Matt Bartoe  

26/01/2023

APC joins the All Pet Food family

ABOUT APC Our story began in 1981 when APC scientists discovered the powerful role plasma derived functional proteins play in helping support and maintain normal immune function in animals. With a commitment to research and a passion to improve the lives of animals, APC has since grown to become the global leader in the manufacture and sales of blood-derived functional plasma proteins and red blood cell products. Our ingredients are used in animal feed diets and other industries to add value through the unique properties that positively impact billions of animals – and plants – each year. Today APC employs 500+ people in 8 countries with 17 manufacturing facilities worldwide. Our passion to watch animals and plants thrive is at the core of our corporate mission. MODE OF ACTION Inflammation and an overactive immune response to stressors takes a toll on animals. People too – think about how difficult it is to go about your daily routine when you aren't feeling well. The same thing happens with pigs, poultry, companion animals – and even fish! Finding ways to help support a normal immune and inflammatory response isimportant to keeping animals healthy and productive. APC has spent years researching the mode  of action of plasma –basically how plasma works. The mode of action of plasma is actually very simple. Plasma is comprised of a complex mixture of functional proteins (we call them FPs for short) that include transferrin, lysozymes, growth factors, cytokines, immunoglobulins and many other components that have a profound, positive impact on animals. Consumed orally, the FPs don't interfere with the body's natural immune response to inflammation, but instead they help the immune system to respond more quickly and efficiently. This helps animals to use their energy for productive functions instead of using it to fight the stressor. FPs help to minimize the effects of stressors and get animals back to normal quickly, effectively and consistently. APC's plasma FPs are formulated with other ingredients nutritionally important to animals to target a specific problem and the appropriate response. Through research and working with our customers, APC fine-tunes the appropriate level of FPs in the diet to help solve the problems caused by common stressors. The result is a fast, visual response in the animal, allowing them to thrive. WORLD PRESENCE     With APC you will find high quality products anywhere in the world. Visit APC SHOWCASE in All Pet Food Source: All Pet Food

23/01/2023

ZOANUGGETS PLUS: Callizo Aromas´new solution for the production of stuffed kibbles for pets.

ZOANUGGETS PLUS is a product made from a fat base with a balance of ingredients that allows it to remain fluid, soft and tasty after the extrusion and drying processes. It comes in Bag in box presentation for 1,000 Kg, and is ready to be injected into the extrusion line. You won't have to deal with in-plant mixing, clumps, or color addition issues; ZOANUGGETS PLUS comes ready from the factory to minimize process times, minimize operator dead time and optimize energy in stuffed Nuggets' manufacturing process. Pets enjoy the experience of different textures in the same stuffed kibble, so it can even be used to make treats with creamy fillings. Through our technical team, CALLIZO AROMAS will come along with you from the very beginning in the implementation of the stuffed material and the fine-tuning of the Nuggets line. Our goal is helping you to produce a winning Nugget with the features you want to get. By: Callizo Aromas Source: All Pet Food

19/01/2023

AstaReal targets pet food market with new collaboration

AstaReal, the global pioneer in astaxanthin production and related research, announces a new strategic partnership with IQI Trusted Pet Food Ingredients, a supplier of premium inclusions. Its recently launched science-based pet food formula NOVASTA EB15 will be available more easily on the European market for the enhancement of animal health. The partnership will combine and maximise the strengths of both companies. AstaReal will provide its health-promoting astaxanthin product NOVASTA EB15, while IQI Trusted Pet Food Ingredients will act as a growth engine for European sales. IQI is based in the Netherlands with a European storage location and sales offices in other countries, and thus can easily deliver to pet food manufacturers all over Europe. 'We are very happy to work with IQI Trusted Pet Food Ingredients, as their team has a large amount of market and customer information, and strategic insight, which enables us to respond quickly to potential customers in this industry,' said Peter Ahlm, Marketing & Sales Manager at AstaReal AB. 'The pet food industry is a huge growth hub for us.' Before expanding into the European market together, AstaReal and IQI previously worked on a successful collaboration in the US. NOVASTA EB15 is AstaReal's latest offering for feed and pet food. Its health-enhancing effects are derived from natural astaxanthin – one of nature's most powerful antioxidants obtained from microalgae Haematococcus pluvialis. Multiple scientific studies show its various benefits for animals, where it improves, for example, endurance and attentiveness, and supports eye health and immune response. In NOVASTA EB15, astaxanthin is encapsulated to maintain its antioxidant power, particularly in challenging formulations. by AstaReal

11/01/2023

Plant-based proteins for more sustainable pet food

According to the latest data, the number of dogs and cats in the world is around 471 and 370 million respectively, however, this population is constantly increasing, especially due to Covid-19 when many people decided to adopt a pet for company. This has resulted in a huge increase of pet food production, with annual worldwide sales currently at 102.6 bn USD. This in turn, also has consequential impacts on the planet. Environmental impact What is the global environmental impact of the pet food industry? To produce dry food for our dogs and cats, around 41-48 million hectares of land (an area twice the size of the UK) is used annually. This is linked to 56–151 million tons of CO2 emissions annually, which represents 1,1% − 2,9% of global agricultural emissions. The main cause of this problem is due to the high amount of meat included in pet food. To produce meat, land is needed for both livestock breeding and for the crops to produce their feed. Moreover, a consistent component of commercial pet food are animal by-products (ABPs). To be in line with the latest human trends, the usage of ABPs will most likely be reduced in the coming years. The decrease of ABPs in pet food would be also important for sustainability reasons. In fact, contrary to the common belief that ABPs are zero-impact ingredients, their use provides a financial return to livestock industry that incentives increased animal production, with negative consequences on the environment. Therefore, to reduce the impacts of ABPs, meat industry can find some alternative and maybe more sustainable uses of them, such as in fertiliser and as biofuel, creating a new balance in the market. Switching to plant-based products Data shows the need to minimise the use of animal proteins and the need to replace these products with more efficient plant-based products which are sustainably grown and harvested. This is not only better for the planet, but also for our pets. According to the review research of Mueller et al. (2016), the most common food allergens causing negative cutaneous reactions in dogs (see figure 1) are beef (34%), dairy products (17%), chicken (15%), lamb (14,5%) and wheat (13%). A similar situation (also figure 1) can be found in cats, where the main food allergens were reported to be beef (18%), fish (17%), chicken (5%), wheat and dairy products (4%) and lamb (3%). To conclude, partly replacing meat and fish products with plant-based ingredients will most likely also help to reduce food-derived allergic reactions in pets. Organic and vegan Taking this all into account, it is not a surprise that we are seeing a huge increase of pet food trends such as; natural, organic, sustainable, vegetarian and vegan. In fact, recent market research (see figure 2) shows that the global organic petfood market value is expected to grow from 4,9 billion USD in 2020 to 9,1 billion USD in 2028. The global vegan pet food market value is expected to grow from 9,6 billion USD in 2020 to 15,6 billion USD by 2028. In the future we also expect more human food trends to influence the pet food market. For example, one currently emerging human trend that could potentially become popular for pets is the flexitarian (or flexible vegetarian) diet. This means reducing, without eliminating, the consumption of meat and animal protein in favour of plant-based proteins. All these trends are starting to increase the demand for alternative, non-animal protein ingredients in pet food. Innovative plant-based proteins Due to the popularity of plant-based ingredients, the percentage of plant-based proteins in pet food formulations has increased. The most used products are traditional ingredients such as; corn gluten meal, vital wheat gluten and soy protein, as well as other options like rice, pea, potato and sunflower. More recently, innovative ingredients like single cell protein and Lemna protein, have started to make an appearance in pet food formulations. Various solutions Since there are several plant-based ingredients currently available on the market, it is important to choose the right product for each application. Below are listed some possible plant-based solutions with their recommended usage in pet food formulations. Rice protein Rice protein is a great ingredient for both wet and dry pet food which is particularly beneficial for hypoallergenic diets and in formulations for puppies and kittens. It is highly digestible, has a balanced amino acids profile and is a source of energy. Pea protein When it comes to grain free, gluten free and hypoallergenic diets, a perfect solution is pea protein. Thanks to its high digestibility and palatability, pea can be used in all kinds of formulations. It also acts a stabilizer, improving the consistency of pet food. Another great solution for hypoallergenic and grain/gluten free diets, is potato protein, characterized by a highly digestible and balanced amino acid profile. Sunflower protein Last but not least, another sustainable and natural protein source is sunflower protein. This protein source can be used in both dry and wet pet food, also acting as a colouring agent. It can be a great solution for grain/gluten free and hypoallergenic diets, it is highly digestible and has a neutral taste that does not create palatability issues. Single cell proteins and Lemna protein In addition to sustainable ingredients, more innovative products have started to appear in the pet food ingredient market, such as single cell proteins or Lemna protein. Single cell proteins are the dried microbial cell or total protein extracted from pure microbial cell culture (algae, bacteria, filamentous fungi, yeast). Due to its origin, it can be successfully used in all kinds of pet food diets, i.e. hypoallergenic, grain free, natural, etc. Water lentils or Lemna protein is highly digestible and palatable, with a high level of antioxidants and minerals, like calcium and phosphorous. Thanks to its omega 3 content, it is also a good solution to improve immunity and skin and coat conditions. Yeast-based protein Yeast products can also be used as sustainable alternative protein sources for animal products. Beside the more traditional brewer's yeast, pet food diets can also be supplemented with other yeast-based products like yeast extract, hydrolysed yeast or autolysed yeast. The benefits of these products are mainly related to the high palatability and digestibility, plus their good content of MOS, β-glucans and nucleotides for a better immunity. As a leading global life science ingredients distributor, Barentz Animal Nutrition can supply all the above-mentioned plant-based proteins and help pet food manufacturers find the right products for their formulations. By barenz  Source: PetFood Pro  For more information visit https://www.barentz.com/animal-nutrition/pet-food/    

06/01/2023

AFB website – User experience improved!

A primary purpose of AFB's website is to share important information about pet food and palatants with pet professionals. To improve the visitor experience, AFB's digital website platform has recently been enhanced to be more user-friendly, especially when looking for specific information. Visitors can find various technical downloads on palatability-related topics. The papers are designed to be informative for all visitors, including those who are new to the industry as well as those with more experience.       AFB's regularly updated blog reports include technical white papers, global tradeshow presentation announcements, and AFB corporate news.  And now you can access both our technical downloads and read our blogs on our main website by doing a keyword search. We invite you to check out all the pages on the AFB website – there is more content and numerous improvements not mentioned here for visitors to enjoy. If you have questions or suggestions for digital content, please email AFB at [email protected]. ABOUT AFB INTERNATIONAL by AFB International  Source: All Pet Food

02/01/2023

Dramatic changes to pet food labels proposed by AAFCO

 Well, there is good news on this front! The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) published their proposed changes to pet food labels recently and the public comment period ended on October 31st. These new changes have been in the works since before 2018 and, if approved, would be added to the AAFCO model regulations, which are published yearly. These changes even after approval wouldn't be implemented immediately – manufacturers would likely have several years to get in full compliance. However, as they have been in the works for so long, it's likely that many manufacturers are anticipating the changes and so, if approved, we could start seeing new labels come out relatively soon after the final guidelines are published (which could be as soon as 2023 or 2024). With the caveat that these are just proposed changes, here are some of the highlights: 1- The Guaranteed Analysis will be replaced with a white box called 'Pet Nutrition Facts' that is designed to look like the 'Nutrition Facts' box on human foods. This box will include the calories per cup or can or other common unit, how many calories come from protein, fat, and carbohydrate, and the amounts of protein, fat, fiber, and moisture plus any additional nutrients that the manufacturer wants to highlight.  There will be variations for different size packages, but the example below would be similar to what would be seen on most dry food packages.While I'm all for additional information and a more standardized format, the proposal to provide nutrient concentrations based on cups or cans or other volume units is really frustrating as comparing the amounts of nutrients between 1 cup of two different dry foods, or between 1 cup of dry food and a can of wet food will be useless if the foods provide different amounts of calories in that same volume unit! In previous posts, we've explained why the best way to compare nutrients between foods is on a calorie or energy basis, and these new labels are an opportunity to 'do it right' that AAFCO seems to be ignoring. AAFCO mockup from 2018. Since then, the 'intended use' line has been removed, but the rest is similar in the latest proposal 2- More clarity on nutritional adequacy. We're discussed 'AAFCO statements' or 'nutritional adequacy statements' before – they are the one item on a pet food label that lets you know whether the food contains all essential nutrients for a particular life stage of a pet. Instead of playing hide and seek with the statement on a large bag full of marketing or in micro print on a small can, it has been proposed that manufacturers will include specific icons on the front of the package to make it clear from a glance whether a product is complete and balanced and for what life stages it is appropriate. If a diet isn't nutritionally complete, such as a treat or a food topper or mixer, this will also be clearly stated. This is a very welcome change as there are a number of diets currently on the market that are not nutritionally balanced, but are labeled in a way that can mislead consumers into thinking that they are balanced. 3- Fiber concentrations on the new label will reflect total dietary fiber, like on human foods, rather than crude fiber. This really excites nutrition nerds like me because crude fiber measurements include less than half of the fiber in some foods, so it is a poor choice to use to compare foods and nutritionists have been complaining about crude fiber for years! Total dietary fiber is a much more accurate measurement of the fiber in a diet. 4- Changes in rules for large breed puppy diets that have undergone feeding trials. Currently, diets that are labeled as being appropriate for large breed puppies (over 70 lb adult weight as defined previously by AAFCO) can either be 'formulated to meet' the AAFCO nutrient profiles for large breed puppies, which put an additional limitation on the calcium concentration compared to diets for smaller puppies, or they can complete a feeding trial. However, that feeding trial is not currently required to be in large breed puppies nor is the calcium required to be limited as in diets that are 'formulated to meet' for large breeds. The new proposed regulations will close that loophole by giving manufacturers the choice of doing a feeding trial in large breed puppies, or doing a feeding trial in smaller puppies but meeting the calcium guidelines in the AAFCO nutrient profiles for large breed growth. While I'd prefer a requirement to use large breed puppies in feeding trials for large breed puppy diets, this change will be an improvement from the current regulations. 5- Instructions for safe handling. Packages will now require the safe handling instructions to be included, which could be in the form of standardized icons for how to store the food, such as to keep frozen or refrigerated, keep in a cool, dry place, etc. Proposed safe handling instruction icons, AAFCO 2022 While these proposed changes aren't perfect, they address a number of the issues that my colleagues and I have had with the current labels for many years. The biggest remaining issue is the current plan to have the Pet Nutrition Facts boxes report nutrients based on volume measurements rather than calories. I know that many colleagues submitted complaints about this specific proposal, so fingers crossed that AAFCO will reconsider this plan.  We'll keep you posted! by Cailin R. Heinze, VMD, MS, DACVIM (Nutrition)  

27/12/2022

Hydrolyzed functional proteins - Improving health inside out

We take a holistic approach to pet health, developing functional ingredients that span all major health areas, intending to improve pets' overall well-being. We seek to inspire and unlock new opportunities for our customers through our high-quality, science-backed ingredients for pet food products.   Hydrolyzed functional proteins to improve health Palbio® 62 SP is a raw material for animal feed based on highly digestible and palatable hydrolyzed porcine intestinal mucosal proteins that promote feed intake and contribute to intestinal health maintenance in pets and companion animals.   Enzyneer® Enzymatic Hydrolysis Technology It is a safe source of high-quality proteins and functional peptides, obtained with a unique industrial process (EnzyneerB Enzymatic Hydrolysis Technology). This process gives rise to a product composed of L-a-amino acids and bioactive peptides, which positively impact animals' intestinal health. Palbio® 62 SP is a hypoallergenic ingredient, fully digestible, and highly palatable due to its composition of aromatic amino acids and peptides. It contributes to intestinal health maintenance and contains bioactive peptides with different biological functions that provide nutritional well-being to pets.   A sustainable, natural origin product Palbio® 62 SP is a sustainable product of natural origin, as its entire production process, which focuses on creating a circular economy. The raw material is a co-product of the pharmaceutical industry, and in its value creation process, a great amount of water is recovered, recycled, and reused in energy and other auxiliary materials, avoiding waste generation, harmful to the environment.   As shown in tables 1 and 2, Palbio® 62 SP is a high-quality protein that positively affects feed intake and intestinal health in monogastric animals.   Table 1. Incidence of Palbio® 62 SP in dry food intake   Table2. Incidence of Palbio® 62 SP in wet food intake   In addition, other benefits have been shown in their general well-being and intestinal health:   High palatability Compared to diets containing other animal and vegetable protein sources, feed intake improves. Improves feed intake compared to diets containing other sources of animal and vegetable protein. Hypoallergenic Thanks to its low molecular weight of 600 daltons, it is considered non-allergenic. Functional activity Palbio® 62 SP promotes intestinal cell selective proliferation, as well as the selective expression of genes in intestinal cells related to digestive health. Digestive health Genes related to barrier function, nutrient transport, digestive enzymes, digestive hormones, antioxidant enzymes, and immune response benefit from Palbio® 62 SP. Palbio® 62 SP is suitable for all species, improving intestinal health and animal welfare.   Source: Iberian Feed

22/12/2022

Application of Spirulina as an ingredient for dog and cat food

They are a source of amino acids (approximately 65% ​​of crude protein), minerals, vitamins, gamma-linolenic (GLA), eicosapentaenoic (EPA), and docosahexaenoic (DHA) fatty acids. They also present approximately 15% of biliproteins (C-phycocyanin, allophycocyanin, and phycoerythrin) (TAKEUCHI et al., 2002), with a powerful antioxidant action demonstrated in in vitro studies and in some animal species. Due to its chemical composition, immunomodulatory effects have been attributed to this ingredient in humans and animals. Compared to other substances used as antioxidants in animal feed, the alcoholic extract of Spirulina inhibited lipid peroxidation more significantly (65% inhibition) than alpha-tocopherol (35%), BHA (45%), and β-carotene (48%). The antioxidant activity of Spirulina has been attributed to the synergism of the antioxidants present since extraction with hexane, petroleum ether, ethanol, and water show antioxidant activity, demonstrating the presence of compounds of a different chemical nature in Spirulina composition. An important aspect is the more powerful activity of the aqueous extract of this algae, even after polyphenol removal, which suggests the presence of water-soluble compounds with an important antioxidant action (CHOPRA & BISHNOI, 2008). Phycocyanin is extracted from Spirulina Platensis and can act in the retention of free radicals and iron chelator and protect the activity of antioxidant enzymes (MIRANDA et al., 1998). Oxidation and inflammation play a key role in many diseases, including degenerative diseases. The formation of free radicals is related to the immune system weakening and aging. In vivo, Spirulina can reduce markers of brain oxidative damage and reverse age-related increases in proinflammatory cytokines (GEMMA et al., 2002), substances necessary for the inflammatory response. Antioxidants consumed as part of the diet are essential to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Antioxidants have been investigated for their ability to influence the immune system, especially in the inhibition of tumor genesis in laboratory animals, in the modulation of the inflammatory response, in the regulation of the production of certain cytokines in vivo and in vitro, and in the phagocytic activity of macrophages (BORCHERS et al., 2009). Spirulina also has some glycolipids (O-β-D-galactosyl-(1-10)-20,30-di-O-acyl-D-glycerol), which have immunological characteristics similar to microorganisms' cell wall components of microorganisms, functioning as Toll Ligands, which, in turn, stimulate especially TLR-2 and TLR-4 receptors. Therefore, these foods are recognized as "foreign elements' to the body and stimulate the immune response. (HAYASH et al., 1994; BORCHERS et al., 2009). Small daily amounts of Spirulina may have various health benefits for dogs and cats. Several studies in the nutritional and immunological areas mentioned below have identified Spirulina inclusion in pet food offers many benefits in promoting animal health. One of the main Spirulina benefits is its role in immune reinforcement. It works by helping and improving the intestinal microflora and this, in turn, helps improve immune and intestinal health (REYNOLDS & SATYARAJ, 2014). LABRES (2012) demonstrated that Spirulina usage up to the 3% level in diets is safe in dog food formulas. In the inclusion of 1%, there was seen a reduction in the production of interleukin 10 (IL-10) by the mononuclear cells of dogs fed with Spirulina, which seems to be related to the better oxidative status of the animals, verified also by lower serum concentrations of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS). A healthy digestible system allows a better nutrient usage, especially of Spirulina itself, stimulating the immune system and increasing the body's ability to generate new blood cells, as well as suppressing harmful bacteria from the gastrointestinal tract such as Escherichia coli (MANCHESTER et al., 2013). Studies show that Spirulina has an immunostimulatory effect by increasing resistance to infections through antibody stimulation. In cats, an increase in the macrophages' phagocytic activity was found in the presence of Spirulina, which means greater effectiveness in germ elimination (QURESHI & ALI, 1996). Dogs fed with Spirulina-supplemented diets had higher vaccine (rabies) responses and higher fecal IgA levels, compared to dogs that did not receive Spirulina in their diets (REYNOLDS & SATYARAJ, 2014). Therefore, animal immunity and resistance to diseases are increased, and Spirulina use can reduce the need for antibiotics and other drugs. Spirulina application is still timid in the pet food industry, yet we see some supplements and specific foods that contain this ingredient as a functional one. There is still little information on the application of this ingredient in the process of preparing extruded or cooked diets at high temperatures. Some experts suggest embedding it in an oil bath after the extrusion process. However, further studies are needed to assess the feasibility of using Spirulina in industrialized products for dogs and cats.   By: Liliane Palhares, Ludmila Barbi and Erika Stasieniuk

16/12/2022

Aker BioMarine enters into partnership with leading Chinese pet food brand

As one of the largest pet food manufacturers in China, Fullpet is poised for market success and together with QRILL Pet, will continue to explore areas of science research, technology and consumer insight. The partnership will heavily focus on the customization of raw materials, sharing best in class practices from both parties to jointly promote the development of pet health food. The agreement signing took place during the 5th annual China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai earlier this month. This is the second signing since the 4th CIIE event in which Aker BioMarine and Fullpet Co. first entered into a partnership. Currently, Fullpet utilizes QRILL Pet to produce tailor made pet staple foods, which not only effectively improves the nutritional value and functional performance of pet food, but also wins the recognition and support of consumers in China. QRILL Pet, Positioned for Growth in China China is the world's largest market for marine ingredients and it is an important strategic growth area for Aker BioMarine. One of the key factors for Aker BioMarine's development of the Chinese market is having a local team that consists of well-experienced professionals within the pet food industry present in the region. 'China is an extremely fast developing pet food market and we are already making strides with Fullpet Co.,' says Matts Johansen, CEO, Aker BioMarine. 'At Aker BioMarine, we are much more than an ingredient supplier. We are a collaborative partner who brings valuable insights, introduces new market opportunities, and guides our customers for growth and product expansion across all aspects of the supply chain, even down to marketing. By strengthening this strategic partnership and heavily focusing on research, sustainability, technology and consumer insights, we can ensure success in the Chinese market and together we will continue to upgrade pet health food in China.' "In the past year, we formed an incredible partnership with Aker BioMarine, recognizing not only the quality of their ingredients, but the quality attitude of their team members,' says Ms. Zheng Zhen, the deputy general manager of Fullpet Co. 'This level of excellence coincides with the outlook and expectations of Fullpet. Aker BioMarine has complete control of their supply chain and full competency when it comes to product development and promotion. We look forward to continuing our work with Aker BioMarine to improve the health of pets in the field of exploration.'  About Fullpet Co. Fullpet Co. was founded in 2005, the main business is the research and development, production and sales of pet food. Known as "Foxconn of pet food industry", Fullpet Co. is one of the largest pet food manufacturers in China. Fullpet Co. is a national high-tech enterprise in Shanghai. At the same time, Fullpet Co. was recognized as the Enterprise Technology Center of Songjiang District in Shanghai and the pilot enterprise of patent work in Songjiang District, and was approved by the Shanghai Academician Expert Workstation Guidance Office to establish the first expert workstation in the field of pet food research in Shanghai. By Aker Biomarine Source: All Pet Food
 

02/12/2022

The Power of Krill for Dogs & Cats

Though they are teensy ocean creatures, krill are packed with vital nutrition that can help our land-dwelling cats and dogs live a long, vibrant life. No matter the age, size, or breed of your pet, krill can provide them with crucial nutrients that nourish and fuel the entire body. And that means more time and energy for all their favorite things — from curtain-climbing to frisbee fetch. There's a reason krill should be on your radar — and in your pet's bowl. Actually, a LOT of reasons. So let's dive in… The Power of A Single Ingredient Krill is packed to the brim with nutrition — and yet, it's just one ingredient. One ingredient means no preservatives, no artificial additives, and no fortifying. It's just plain krill — high-quality nutrition straight from the ocean. All the good stuff and none of the bad. So what exactly is all that good stuff? What makes krill so vital for our cats and dogs? 1. Omega 3  Krill is full of omega-3 fatty acids. We're talking good fat. Omega 3s promote a healthy inflammatory response throughout your pet's entire body and benefit everything from the heart to the immune system. Cats and dogs can't produce omega 3 on their own, so they absolutely need to be eating omega-rich foods. Not only that, but it has to be the right kind of omega 3s — with DHA and EPA fatty acids. This form is readily available for the carnivore's body to use — a.k.a. exactly what ferocious Mr. Fluffums needs. And that's exactly the kind you will find in krill.  Plant-based sources of omega 3, on the other hand, contain ALA, which isn't as bioavailable to your pet — and therefore not as beneficial. So be on the lookout for meat based sources of omega 3, which contain that vital DHA and EPA. Omega 3 with EPA and DHA Krill (of course) Grass-fed beef Trout Salmon Anchovies Mackerel Sardines Omega 3 with ALA Flaxseeds Hemp Chia seeds Walnuts Soy One last thing: adding omega 3 to the bowl is especially vital for kibble-fed pets. Kibble usually provides a lot of omega 6 and hardly any omega 3 — and it's all about a balanced ratio with these two omegas. Too much omega 6 and not enough omega 3 can lead to inflammation and health problems. So don't hold back when you add omega 3 to the bowl! 2. Phospholipids Phospholipids deliver the omega 3 right to where your pet's body needs it most and help the body absorb a greater amount. This makes krill a super efficient and high-quality source of omega 3s. Nutrients aren't useful unless the body can actually use them, and phospholipids make it possible for the body to maximize the omega 3s and really reap the benefits. 3. Choline Krill also contains choline, an essential nutrient shown to promote brain, heart, and liver health. Not bad. Not bad at all 4. Astaxanthin Astaxanthin is known as 'nature's most powerful antioxidant.' It's hundreds of times more powerful than other antioxidants, which means its free-radical scavenging ability is unparalleled.  Antioxidants neutralize free-radicals in the body, which prevents oxidative stress (cell damage) and premature aging. Filling the bowl with antioxidant-rich foods gives your pet the tools their body needs to stay healthy and strong — especially as they age. And here's a hot tip for kitty parents — cats especially need meat sources of antioxidants (like astaxanthin!) because cats aren't meant to have loads of leafy greens. Dogs can thrive with a combination of plant-based and meat-based antioxidants (yes, you should give your dog spinach!), but cats are obligate carnivores, which means meat is the name of the game pretty much 24/7. This makes krill absolutely crucial to a kitty's diet — it's a meat protein and nature's most potent antioxidant all in one. And that's win/win. The Power of Sustainable Choices There's another piece to consider when you decide to fill your pet's bowl with krill: we want healthy pets, but we also want a healthy planet — which means paying attention to our marine ecosystems and making sustainable choices. Always look for manufacturers that source from fisheries that are committed to sustainability and minimizing our environmental impact (look for the Marine Stewardship Council label). In our Simple Food Project recipes, we only use wild-caught krill. Our MSC-certified supplier is one of the most sustainable fisheries worldwide, with a deep commitment to conservation. They created a revolutionary technology called Eco-harvesting, which utilizes a hose to collect krill and bring it on board. This ensures that no other marine wildlife is harmed in the process. This kind of technology and conscientiousness allows us to care for our pets and our planet simultaneously. As you peruse your krill options, you may come across chews and oils, but our recommendation is ground krill — which is the entire krill. Ground krill is by far the most sustainable option. In order to produce oils and chews, manufacturers extract oil from the krill — and then throw away what remains. This is especially true for how humans use krill (since humans typically don't want to eat a whole krill). If the rest of the krill isn't used for anything, this practice is wasteful.  That's where ground krill comes in. Ground krill uses the entire krill — including the parts that would otherwise be discarded after oil extraction. So when you choose ground krill, you're also choosing an option that complements the human industry, provides your pet with maximum nutrition and honors the krill and marine ecosystem. The Power of Krill Preventive care is incredibly powerful, and adding krill to the bowl is one of the best things you can do for your pet's long-term health. Krill provides the body with vital nutrition during every phase of life — from developing puppy brains to aging seniors. Krill can: Boost the immune system Encourage a healthy inflammatory response Defend against free radical cell damage Promote healthy aging Support growth and development Foster heart health Balance the Omega 6 : Omega 3 ratio Elevate a kibble diet Support overall health and wellbeing That's why Dr. Bessent added ground krill into every one of our Simple Food Project Recipes. And if your pet needs a little extra, it's as easy as adding ground krill like Pure Krill to the bowl. Just be ready for your pet to go crazy for that fishy flavor. Regardless of how you feed krill, you'll be taking a concrete step toward a healthier pet. The krill will nourish the entire body, allowing your favorite four-legger to start reaping the health benefits. by Krill Pet 
 

29/11/2022

New by-products for the pet food industry

By María Candelaria Carbajo

Within the by-products category, we can find animal-grade ingredients that, if not used for the pet and animal food industry, would go to waste. In this sense, by-product meat use allows each piece, which would be waste, to be used efficiently, as long as it contributes positively to livestock and pet feeding. However, some by-products may not come from the meat industry but they are also a possible waste that, if the right way to use them is found, can improve the cyclicality chain of connected industries.   Non-meat by-products under review Soybeans, corn, and peanuts While cat and dog owners want brands to reduce resource use and environmental impact, they also reject all by-products as not being considered human-grade. If we talk about non-meat by-products, we find protein from oilseeds and cereals from soybeans, corn, and peanuts. These have traditionally been used in pet foods as sustainable, inexpensive, protein-rich ingredients. However, the ongoing demonization of soy and corn-based ingredients hampers their use in pet food and snack formulations. In this sense, as an industry, we must work to keep on demonstrating the quality of protein and nutrient composition so that, little by little, they become accepted ingredients in pet food and treats.   Evidence Diverse investigations and studies have tested the digestibility of amino acids in by-products in soybean flakes, peanut flour, soybean flour, and corn gluten flour. Pet food ingredients have been shown to contain a generally essential amino acid profile. Some of the conclusions are: Only peanut flour showed a low lysine index. Soybean and corn gluten flour had the highest amino acid digestibility. Compared to the values ​​recommended by the American Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), the most limiting amino acid for adult dogs was lysine in peanut and corn gluten flour. For soybean flakes and flour, methionine was the limiting amino acid. For adult cats, the main limiting amino acid was lysine in peanut and corn gluten flour, while threonine limited soybean flakes. Finally, soybean flour did not present any limiting amino acids for cats. In general, these high-protein, high-fiber, low-fat composition ingredients are said to be easy to incorporate into pet food formulations. In addition, its varied amino acid compositions offer the opportunity to combine them to create complementary proteins that meet the nutritional requirements of dogs and cats.   Meat by-products Water buffalo Today, most water buffalos live in Asia, where they have been domesticated. These animals provide milk, meat, leather, and labor. And, just like with cattle in the rest of the world, farming them results in by-products that humans can't or won't eat. Water buffalo by-products, such as horns, lungs, and udders, can serve as novel ingredients for dog treats and chews, achieving a social benefit while reducing environmental impact. Kangaroo Kangaroo seems like a new ingredient for the industry, but the truth is that dogs have eaten marsupial meat and co-products for thousands of years. But if we are talking about kangaroos properly, few have had the opportunity. Nowadays, some brands are testing the use of kangaroo, such as viscera, heart, lungs, and liver, as well as some parts not preferred by humans, such as tail bones. Silkworm pupae In Taiwan, an agricultural research station developed a means of using silkworms in cat food. Tests are being done on silkworm pupae after harvesting the cocoons for silk production. The cats that fed on canned food based on this insect presented less odor in their defecations and shiner fur. The director of the research station noted that silkworm pupae contain natural antimicrobial chemicals, proteins, fats, carbohydrates, chitin, and omega-3 fatty acids. At a later instance, the technology developed at the research station was transferred to a biotech company to test mass production. Tuna bone The Thai company Thai Union Group PCL introduced a new product made from the by-product of tuna bones to the pet food market. This by-product would bring great benefits to bone health when consumed as a supplement in capsules or tablets or added to different types of food as an additive.   By-products hold great potential The pet food industry represents a strong, growing, and robust global economy. However, as the market continues growing and expanding, it will create more waste and increase its negative impact on the ecosystem unless we, as an industry, do something about it. As the large sector that we are, both locally and internationally, we have the responsibility to seek alternatives to improve industry cyclicality, as well as to educate decision makers with kindness and scientific information when it comes to buying pet food products.   Source: All Pet Food

22/11/2022

How can we innovate in the pet food industry?

By Armando Enriquez de la Fuente Blanquet

According to the Dictionary of the Royal Spanish Academy (RAE, for its acronym in Spanish), the word innovation refers to the creation or modification of a product and its introduction to the market. Nowadays, there are a lot of pet food brands striving to attract consumers to buy their 'innovative' foods. Looking at this effort to attract pet owners' attention, we find products with characteristics such as: grain-free, breed-specific, healthy properties, original diets, exotic ingredients, fresh ingredients, and the like. To develop an innovative product, it is necessary to define the category and the coverage, know the latest market launches (graph 1) and investigate the consumer. Graph 1. Main global health claims by region (% of launches) (last 12 months, ending 3Q2021)   If we see the graph to analyze the declarations shown in the products launched to the market in a year, we observe that two categories stand out: clean labeling, a trend of human consumption, and the health issue, which is worth mentioning the importance of protein content, as well as its source. When we investigate the consumer, we should ask ourselves: what is the pet parent looking for in the purchase? Market releases largely answer this question, but my answer would be: pet performance! Pet performance should be seen by their parents with a naked eye, which means: the pet enjoys the food (palatability), looks healthy (hair and feces quality), understands the commands of their parents (improved cognition), is always alert to interact (energetically), and last but not least, their see the pet happy! In many cases, innovation is strongly linked to creativity, discovery, and invention. Therefore, a creative process is necessary to make changes that involve introducing something new. Pet food innovation can range from modern packaging, either to maintain a nutritional value or improve sustainability, which can contain: high-quality ingredients (human-grade), superior shapes and textures (state-of-the-art manufacturing processes), connection with the pet owner (breed, age, health benefits, simple and clear information), meet a pet need (nursing homes, active dogs), special ingredients (protein source, probiotics, prebiotics, organic minerals), and the like. One way to innovate is by optimizing nutrients to provide an extra nutritional value beyond the basics. We should remember that pet performance is achieved when they have nutritional precision, which is achievable with the use not only of correct nutrient levels but with high-quality raw material sources selection. This makes food more digestible, more bioavailable, safer, and, above all, guarantees that the nutrient reaches the pet's mouth in the precise amount. Saying "vitamins and minerals" requires us to take care of micronutrient sources to ensure that a portion of food contributes to what a pet needs. There are commercial presentations of vitamins in crystals, spray-drying, microspheres, cross-linked or armored, and each of the above has different stability and bioavailability. Making a good choice will allow us to guarantee that statement. On the other hand, there are also different trace minerals sources. They range from inorganic minerals (sulfates or oxides, which have a high reactive power due to their high solubility, and therefore, are capable of binding or degrading other nutrients in the diet) to organic minerals or hydroxy-minerals sources that are more bioavailable, less reactive and that favor food consumption. In the quest to provide better pet health, science-based ingredients must be used to guarantee the performance that the pet parent is looking for. For example, when talking about strengthening the defenses of the dog or cat, one way is to support the immune system through the correct contribution or combination of biological antioxidants to the dog or cat's body, such as vitamin E, vitamin C, carotenoids, polyphenols, etc. Another way to stimulate the immune system is through polysaccharides consumption, such as beta-glucans that will help activate macrophage receptors. When we affirm skin health, we are offering external health, which is a sign of integral health indirectly, since any pet owner will observe it with a naked eye, not only for the love of their pet but because they will show a healthy coat (shiny and strong hair). In this case, there are different tools or strategies to achieve optimal skin and coat quality, as well as the use of adequate vitamin H (biotin) levels beyond nutritional needs, the inclusion of highly bioavailable sources of trace minerals such as zinc, copper, or manganese, or working with adequate levels and reliable sources of DHA-omega-3, whether of animal (fish) or plant (seaweed) origin. One statement well associated with pets' integral health is nutritional value focused on joint health. In this category, some ingredients have a certain chondroprotective function and, in addition, can offer an anti-inflammatory benefit to the joints, such as glucosamine, chondroitin, type I and type II collagen, DHA-omega-3 or egg hyperimmune proteins. To conclude, we can say that innovation is making great use of creativity, which means that we do not need a new process or ingredient, but what we already have correctly, efficiently, and always with the evidence that it will work for the pets benefit, and most of all, fulfilling the declaration that the pet parent is looking for.   Fuente: Armando Luis Enriquez

31/10/2022

Kemin introduces new palatant line for wet cat food formulas

DES MOINES, IOWA — Kemin Nutrisurance, the pet food and rendering segment of Kemin Industries, recently announced a new line of palatants for use in wet cat food: PALIVATE™. With increased consumer awareness of pet health, many have switched their pets to more appetizing meals, like wet formats, which are often considered to be highly palatable. According to data shared by Kemin and reported by Euromonitor, cat owners choose wet formulas almost as often as dry ones, with wet cat food comprising 44% of the global volume of cat food. Although wet cat food is believed to be highly palatable, many consumers and pet food processors have struggled to get a cat to consume wet food, according to Kemin. Kemin's new PALIVATE palatants are designed to increase palatability of wet formulas while minimizing negative effects to a formula's overall integrity. The PALIVATE line can withstand retort processing and can be used for formats with low inclusions, including loaves and chunks in gravy. According to testing conducted by Kemin, the addition of PALIVATE in chunks in gravy formats increased a cat's overall intake of the food. The dry palatants also significantly outperformed a competitive palatant when used in chicken- and salmon-based loaf formulas, according to the company. By Nicole Kerwin - Pet Food Processing 

25/10/2022

Kimberly Nelson named president of Kemin Nutrisurance

Kemin Industries has named Kimberly Nelson, a third-generation member of Kemin's founding family, as president of Kemin Nutrisurance, the company's pet food and rendering technologies business unit. Kemin, a family-owned-and-operated company, was founded by Nelson's grandparents, R.W. and Mary Nelson, 61 years ago. Nelson has been with Kemin for seven years, most recently serving as General Manager – North America for Kemin Nutrisurance. During her tenure, the global business unit saw double-digit sales growth despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and its stress on the supply chain. 'I'm thrilled to lead Kemin Nutrisurance and immensely proud to continue the important work my family has built over the last six decades,' said Nelson. 'As a pet owner myself, I'm especially excited to be part of this business unit, and I am eager to continue our success and expand upon it to further cement our position as an industry leader.' Prior to joining Kemin Nutrisurance, Nelson served as President of Kemin Textile Auxiliaries, operating under the brand Garmon Chemicals, which provides total chemical solutions for the denim and apparel industry. Nelson helped lead the acquisition of Garmon Chemicals in early 2018 and served as Business Development Manager, then General Manager – India, for Kemin Textile Auxiliaries. 'I am very pleased to promote Kimberly Nelson to President of Kemin Nutrisurance, as she has demonstrated the people-focused leadership and business savvy needed to guide our pet food and rendering business,' said David Raveyre, Worldwide Group President, Kemin Industries. 'Kimberly has an excellent track record of driving innovation and has demonstrated her ability to effectively direct a global business unit. With the results she's already delivered, I'm confident she will continue the impressive legacy of the Nelson family and Kemin.' Nelson spent five years in marketing in Hong Kong before joining Kemin in 2017. She received her bachelor's degree from Northwestern University and her master's degree from Savannah College of Art and Design. Nelson will begin her new role in October 2022, and Alberto Muñoz, currently Marketing Director for Kemin Nutrisurance, will fill her previous position as General Manager – North America for the business unit. By Kemin Industries All Pet Food    

24/10/2022

Marcelo Beraldo Costa – Appointed as LATAM Director

When I started 17 years ago, I never would have imagined the growth of AFB in Latin America, let alone the pet food market growth this region has experienced. My journey with AFB has included the growth and expansion of facilities in Argentina, Brazil, and Mexico. So, in August of this year when I was approached to be the LATAM Director, it was with gratitude, joy, and reflection that I accepted this role. The political and economic issues of our region make the landscape even more challenging, but the access to raw materials helps balance things. At the end of the day, pet food is an exciting place to be right now. We continue to see changes in what pet parents want in their pets' food. Today, there is more focus on health and wellness, and it is our responsibility to ensure that pets enjoy the taste of their meals, but we also respect the trends our customers want to claim on their diets. Therefore, our innovation must focus on two things at the same time: meeting the palatability needs of our customers and honoring their brand philosophy. As the pet food market grows and changes, AFB must constantly innovate to meet the needs of pet food companies. For AFB, having centralized leadership for the Latin American region is of great importance. This is how the advances of this region will be enhanced, through coordinated actions. That means actions with the same direction and intensity. A global mindset helps us experience regional growth because we can adjust to changing industry and economic challenges. In a recent magazine interview, I talked about some of the latest pet food industry challenges around supply assurance. 'Between global supply chain problems and material shortages, pet food procurement and technical teams have been a very exciting experience. All these challenges make our industry stronger and improve our resilience, but we believe it's also caused a temporary dip in pet food innovation. Fortunately, our industry is coming out of it now, stronger than ever and excited to get back to the business of pet food innovation.' Speaking of local actions, I cannot forget to mention the successful return of in-person tradeshows in the region. In May, we had FENAGRA in Brazil, where we had the opportunity to present 'Palatability in Pet Food'. In June we exhibited at Foro de Mascotas in Mexico, where we met with many of our customers and industry professionals. Finally, in September, we exhibited at CIPAL in Argentina, where we also had a presentation on the topic of measuring food enjoyment in cats beyond consumption. All these events create great business opportunities, closer ties with our customers and an understanding of market challenges. It is with enthusiasm and optimism that I visualize our challenges to further expand AFB in Latin America and as a consequence, expand AFB globally. Feel free to reach out to discuss how AFB collaborates with our customers to develop tailored pet food palatants to meet specific needs. You can reach me at [email protected]. By: Marcelo Beraldo da Costa Source: All Pet Food

20/10/2022

What are nutraceuticals, and what is their use in pet food?

By María Candelaria Carbajo

What are nutraceuticals?   The term emerged in the late 80s resulting from the contraction and union of "nutrition" and "pharmaceutical". Nutraceuticals are bioactive compounds that occur naturally or by chemical or biological synthesis. The objective of its use is to improve nutrition and, consequently, health. They can be used for both humans and animals. As we already know, the healthcare trend is booming, so it is not surprising the increase in the demand for this component. Thus, an important aspect of pet humanization is that people are paying greater attention to safety and nutritional needs; and as this comes at a higher cost, the rise in the global middle-class population (along with higher income available) helps the industry to develop along this path. Currently, the owners want to give their 4-legged children the most pleasant and long life possible. Apart from going to the veterinarians, when necessary, they look for other ways to prevent disease or nutritional problems. Thanks to advances in the pet food industry, there is scientific evidence for the beneficial effects of many nutraceutical compounds.   Types of nutraceuticals Although there is no official regulation about the types of nutraceuticals, they are often classified as: • Dietary supplements: They contain nutrients derived from food and usually come in liquid, capsules, or powder form. They are regulated by the FDA, although differently from drugs. • Functional Foods: Fortified, enriched, or improved dietary components that may reduce the risk of chronic disease and provide an additional health benefit. • Medicinal foods: used to treat a specific disease or condition (diagnosed by a doctor and administered under his supervision).   General benefits attributed to the use of nutraceuticals • Creation of specialized formulas • Improved palatability • Improved nutritional quality • Improved nutrient digestibility and bioavailability • Increased antioxidant defenses • Improves cell proliferation, gene expression, and protection of mitochondrial integrity • Prevention of chronic diseases • Delayed aging • Increased life expectancy • Reduction of probability of contracting diabetes and renal or gastrointestinal disorders   Most popular nutraceuticals Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) Coming from fish oils such as salmon and anchovy, for example, they are the most used and on which the most studies have been carried out. They are used to enhance essential nutritional functions and for their beneficial effects on the immune system response. In addition, it is said that they slow down the aging process. Vitamin cocktails The dietary supplement with various antioxidant vitamins (C, E, L-carnitine, lipoic acid, glutathione, etc.) is considered beneficial in periods of stress for the animal such as pregnancy, lactation, exercise, aging, and obesity, among others.   The problem of nutraceuticals? Their loophole It appears that nutraceuticals have more than one health benefit for animals; however, there is a universal problem: there is still no legal definition for them. This results in manufacturers not having specific legal indications on their use. Thus, they also do not have to prove their benefits or where they get them. The truth is that not enough information is yet known to confirm that these compounds provide the attributed benefits, so it is impossible to define doses and mechanisms to achieve a particular result. Nowadays, the dosage nutraceuticals usage is an uncertain and empirical process. In cases of plant extracts such as: Vaccinium Myrtillus (European blueberry), Curcuma longa (turmeric), Echinacea Angustifolia (echinacea), or Silybum marianum (milk thistle), the difficulty is twofold; they not only represent a challenge for the correct dosage but also for its standardization. The same goes for propolis: a resinous mixture that bees collect from various botanical sources. Its composition has more than 300 identified active components, and despite being a promising nutraceutical due to benefits associated with its components such as immunomodulators, antioxidants, and antimicrobials, more research is needed on its effect on dogs and cats.   In conclusion We know that, in 2019, North America was the segment that presented the most participation in the use of nutraceuticals for their pets. The increasing number of one-person families, the rising cost of veterinary medicine, and the late aging of the pet population are some of the principal causes that push owners to seek natural and organic preventive alternatives. Consumers' preference for this type of product undoubtedly leads us to rethink the strategies and mechanisms we use in the pet food manufacturing process and what role nutraceuticals play in each of them. However, consumer pressure has meant that today (and we proudly say it!), the most important thing in the pet food industry is to improve formulas. Now, we offer diets based on conscientious, scientific nutrition. That is a battle that we have all won through hard work, research, and dedication. What do you think of these components? We invite you to share your opinion in the comments.   By: All Pet Food

14/10/2022

ADM celebrates 120th anniversary

ADM, formally known as Archer-Daniels-Midland Company and one of the world's largest human and animal nutrition companies with 41,000 employees in around 200 countries, celebrated its 120th anniversary. ADM was incorporated on Sept. 30, 1902, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, as a regional linseed oil business. Today, ADM – with 41,000 employees serving customers in nearly 200 countries – is an indispensable global agricultural supply chain manager and processor, a premier human and animal nutrition company, a trailblazer in groundbreaking solutions to support healthier living, a cutting-edge innovator in replacing petroleum-based products, and a leader in sustainability. 'Over the past 120 years, our company has evolved from a regional startup into an irreplaceable leader providing needed nutrition to billions around the globe. We've transformed at many moments along the way, but unlocking the power of nature to enrich lives has always been at the heart of everything we do,' said Juan Luciano, Chairman and CEO. 'Every day, our 41,000 colleagues demonstrate our purpose and our values, not only by feeding the world, but by building a stronger, better future, whether through innovations in sustainability, or our commitment to the communities where we work and live. I'm proud of the work they've done and the journey we've taken together, and I'm excited about our bright future.' To celebrate the milestone, ADM conducted a Fight Hunger Challenge to bring employees together around the world to raise money for hunger relief. As a result, ADM Cares has donated 1.2 million meals in partnership with the World Food Program, Feeding America and Food Banks Canada. by ADM

11/10/2022

Enzymes in pet food: uses, benefits, and challenges

By María Candelaria Carbajo

A report by Verified Market Research estimates that the value of the global market for enzymes was 1,300 million dollars in 2020 and will reach 2,410 million dollars in 2028, with a growth of 8%.   The pathway of enzymes in animal feed Enzymes were first used in feed more than a decade ago. At that time, its acceptance was limited to phytase applications to reduce phosphorus excretion. Today, the increased understanding of enzyme usage in feed comes with the market demand for high-quality protein for pets. Likewise, the increase in the animal and human populations, which share many raw materials, highlights the need to produce more in less time. Then, producers must maximize production times to meet increased protein requirements, including maximizing feed utilization. The growing demand for better quality pet food products, and the increased awareness of animal care and health, are driving the development of the feed enzymes market in the coming years.   Types of enzymes used Commercially available enzymes can derive from plants, animals, and microorganisms. One of the applied methods to increase nutrient absorption is to increase feed digestibility, and enzymes are one of the widely used feed additives for this purpose. Those that currently stand out as additives are: 1. Proteases: These are preferred in young animals to increase the rate of digestion and absorption of plant proteins. 2. Carbohydrates: This allows animals to benefit more from energy by breaking down carbohydrates in grains used as feedstocks (such as barley, oats, and corn). 3. Lipases: They carry out the hydrolysis of fats. 4. Phytases: Increase the availability of vegetable phosphorus.   Benefits of enzymes in animal feed The functions of enzyme additives in the feed market are essential to increase the digestibility of nutrients in animals. In fact, it's even more important in cases in which the nutrients cannot be digested for different reasons. This implies, first of all, a better capacity of the animal to benefit from what they consume. Some specific benefits are: ● Intestinal viscosity reduction is due to a greater polysaccharides' decomposition from the cell wall of cereals. ● Higher values of digestibility and metabolic energy of food. ● Greater absorption of nutrients. ● Higher live weight gain with lower feed intake. ● Better phosphorus digestibility and lower level of it in the feces. In addition, enzymes are especially important for elderly pets or those with chronic conditions, such as exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, or chronic pancreatitis. Likewise, it is necessary to clarify that, since enzymes improve the digestibility of plant-based feed ingredients, they offer economic benefits for animal production. Enzymes have enabled animal feed producers to improve their feed conversion rates, the uniformity of their herds, and the efficiency of their feed mills. As a result, savings in feed costs and livestock overhead as a positive impact on pet food costs are achieved.   Main challenges of using enzymes Financing for R&D One of the main challenges today in increasing the use of enzymes is/ are? High investments in R&D are needed to advance with the research and development of enzymes for use in high-quality feed at competitive prices worldwide. For example, laboratories require greater infrastructure strength to use molecular techniques, such as metagenomics and genomics. The right dose Enzymes should be added in carefully measured amounts to formulas, considering the type of animal each feed is prepared for. It is also important to have a clear idea of the potency of the enzyme and what is the appropriate dilution for each one. The metering and mixing system for enzyme and carrier must be highly accurate and regularly calibrated, to ensure food safety. Heat resistance Enzymes added to the feed prior to pelleting must be heat stable or capable of losing some potency without losing their overall effect. Most enzymes will start breaking down when exposed to temperatures above 150º C, which is a problem because high temperatures are required to kill bacteria. To solve this, the enzyme needs protection from the heating process, applied in amounts where the heat does not completely destroy it, applied after the heat process, or a heat-stable enzyme used. Granulation resistance Feed batches require optimum levels of moisture and density to retain their shape. If dry enzymes added to the mix reduce the moisture content beyond a certain level, product loss and waste can result. This problem could be solved with careful tests, gentler treatment of the granules, or through the use of enzyme applications for animal feed, after the granulation process, for example. By way of conclusion, we can affirm that research on the different methods of enzyme production assures their benefits and epigenetic effects, for example, on the formation and development of the intestine and the interaction with the microbiota and intestinal health, as well as their direct or indirect action on the immune system. As the research of these components moves along, we will be able to implement them more and more and revolutionize the animal nutrition industry.   Source: All Pet Food

06/10/2022

Are there alternatives to titanium dioxide?

By María Candelaria Carbajo

Since then, the search to find a natural substitute for titanium dioxide has become very relevant, both in laboratories, companies and even at industry fairs and events. But what, so far, are the alternatives to titanium dioxide as a pet food bleach? The company Mintel carried out a study that found that the launches of new products with titanium dioxide began to decrease as early as 2019, even in the candy and snack market sector, the main users of this ingredient. This began with the suspicion that, sooner rather than later, this ingredient would be banned or at least discouraged in Europe (and it was). Titanium dioxide is used, in most cases, as a whitening and opacifying agent to achieve uniform materials that allow colors to be added or altered. Mixing different proteins, grains, and vegetables in pet food base formulations often creates an unpleasant and uneven color, resulting in color inconsistencies in the final product. The bleaching agent is used for merely aesthetic reasons, where the products are intended to be more uniform, more attractive, and, therefore, more inviting to consumption. The truth is that, nowadays, color (and everything visual, really) is an important differentiator when making a purchase decision: color, in the case of food, is usually associated with concepts such as fresh, healthy, wholesome, poor quality, as is the case with green for vegetables, red and brown for protein, or orange for squash and sweet potatoes. For example, a 2019 study by Sensient found that brightly colored food is up to 5 times more likely to be chosen than dull brown food. However, and despite the benefits it may provide to the superficiality of the aesthetic, the EFSA concluded that the recurrent genotoxicity problems after the ingestion of titanium dioxide particles, determined in the latest studies, are important enough to restrict its use in pet food. And, although through oral intake, the absorption of titanium dioxide particles is low, they accumulate in the body. Thus, even though the evidence of toxic effects is not yet conclusive, we can't say that titanium dioxide Titanium is a safe component, free of side effects for animal consumption.   Alternatives to titanium dioxide When we think of colors associated with pet food, orange, red, terracotta, and bright yellows come to mind... But none of them could exist without "the other color", the white resulting from the use of carbon dioxide titanium. This ingredient is not limited only to the pet food industry but has been used in toothpaste formulas, sauces that must have a dairy appearance, or canned food.   What are the options for titanium dioxide today? Starch-based options The starch-based options with the biggest presence are rice or corn; they can be used as opaque agents in certain cases, such as soups and sauces to achieve a "creamy" look or to create opaque confections. Those who have tried it affirm that the effect is not the same as that achieved with titanium dioxide, but it is similar. Rice starch Another alternative is rice starch. Its pros: it is cheap and achieves a similar effect. Cons: It can retain more moisture and thicken, making it useless for working in large quantities. Those who produce and promote it claim that it is especially suitable for smooth, white, and shiny finishes (because of its small particles). Small grain native cereal starch Native wheat starch is another option to deal with the new regulations. It is an alternative that achieves the same effects as titanium dioxide, while it's a natural and renewable raw material. This type of starch is dispersible, fluid, with a neutral flavor, and digestible. Each starch granule is less than 10 μm, so it includes ten-more-time particles than conventional corn or wheat starch in the same volume. Calcium carbonate Calcium carbonate is a natural, bright white, microcrystalline mineral. In addition to its whitening properties, it provides calcium and strengthens the bone system. However, in specific cases, calcium carbonate can affect the consistency and texture of the final product. Also, its use with pHs below around 3.0 is not advised. Another drawback is that its particle size is much larger than titanium dioxide, and its chemical structure makes it less effective at reflecting light. Although not the same as titanium dioxide, it is a successful choice for uses as a white coating on candies and a clouding agent in sauces and soups. Calcium carbonate is allowed as a food colorant in the EU, US, Australia, and New Zealand.   Conclusion While the ban on titanium dioxide only relates to Europe, for now, all markets need to start researching and looking for alternatives to a product that is discouraged due to potentially significant side effects. Thus, if we add to this the growing demand from customers and consumers to have more natural ingredients in their pet food, the popularity of new ingredients such as rice starch, for example, will only grow. Other suppliers are already encouraged to combine starches with minerals to optimize the functionality of this component. According to Commission Regulation (EU), 2022/63, foods and beverages containing titanium dioxide can be marketed until August 7, 2022, and can remain on the market until their expiration date. After August 7, the additive will no longer be allowed in EU food manufacturing or imports to the European market. Considering the market news, there is no doubt that, in Latin America, we must start moving towards a pet food industry free of titanium dioxide and look for alternatives that are just as profitable and effective, but safer and more natural.   Source: All Pet Food