Vegetable Origin

5 min de lectura

09/06/2026

From Alga to Bowl: Astaxanthin Supports Pet Health 

Owing to the ongoing anthropomorphism of pets, owners are taking a closer look at what they're feeding their beloved companions. Just as they themselves are opting for healthier and cleaner-label nutrition—and starting to consider the associated environmental...
Vegetable Origin Grain-Free Pet Food for Cats and Dogs  

4+ MIN

21/05/2026

Grain-Free Pet Food for Cats and Dogs  

WHAT ARE 'GRAIN-FREE' PET FOODS?
Pet foods that are sold as 'grain-free' typically do not contain grains. Grain-free foods typically contain ingredients such as pulses including beans, chickpeas, and lentils, and can also include tubers (e.g., po...
Vegetable Origin Functional Ingredients in Focus: Insights from Emerging Research

3+ MIN

27/10/2025

Functional Ingredients in Focus: Insights from Emerging Research
Vegetable Origin Tailored Fiber Solutions: How Functional Fibers Fit Your Process Needs

3+ MIN

12/08/2025

Tailored Fiber Solutions: How Functional Fibers Fit Your Process Needs
Vegetable Origin Keeping the Doctor Away With Algal Omega-3s Each Day

5+ MIN

06/08/2025

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

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Latest content from Vegetable Origin

Beyond Meat: Harnessing the Power of Phytonutrients for Optimal Health
Vegetable Origin

4+ MIN

31/03/2025

Beyond Meat: Harnessing the Power of Phytonutrients for Optimal Health

It's important to recognize that the term "non-essential" refers to the body's ability to synthesize these compounds or function without them. However, their inclusion in the diet may enhance quality of life and may make that little bit of difference in prevention! 
  In the realm of canine nutrition, the focus has traditionally been on essential nutrients—those compounds that dogs cannot synthesize and must obtain through their diet. However, a growing body of research suggests that non-essential nutrients, particularly phytonutrients found in plant-based ingredients, may offer significant health benefits for our canine companions. 
  The Silent Power of Plants 
Phytonutrients are bioactive compounds produced by plants to protect against environmental challenges like pests and ultraviolet radiation. In canine diets, these compounds are primarily sourced from fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Unlike essential nutrients, phytonutrients are not required to sustain life but may contribute to optimal health by supporting various physiological functions.  
  For example, in the wild, wolves don't just eat meat—they consume the entire prey, including the stomach contents filled with digested plant matter. This means that while your dog may be domesticated, its body still benefits from these plant-based nutrients. 
  What Do Phytonutrients Do? 
Phytonutrients act as nature's free health beneficiary, and often have very fancy names such as carotenoids, polyphenols, flavonoids and phytosterols. They each contribute unique benefits to body weight, metabolism, cardiovascular health, immunity, joint health, cognition, and skin health, with much still left to be discovered.  

 
This table provides a comprehensive overview of various phytonutrients and their impact on canine health.  
Source: Tanprasertsuk, J., Aldrich, G., & Shmalberg, J. (2022). Roles of plant-based ingredients and phytonutrients in canine nutrition and health. Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition, 106(2), 586–613. 
  Carotenoids 
Carotenoids, such as β-carotene, lutein, and lycopene, found in vegetables like spinach, carrots, and pumpkin, play a significant role in immune function, skin health, and antioxidant protection. Research shows β-carotene enhances immune response in dogs, while lutein supports vision and cognitive function. Lycopene, found in tomatoes, has shown promise in reducing cancer cell proliferation. 
  Polyphenols 
Polyphenols, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, are present in fruits like blueberries, cranberries, and cherries. These compounds have been linked to improved cardiovascular health, reduced oxidative stress post-exercise, and enhanced gut microbiota composition. Green tea polyphenols, for instance, have demonstrated benefits for insulin sensitivity and weight management in dogs (as long as it's decaffeinated). 
  Phytosterols 
Phytosterols, primarily found in oils like wheat germ, flaxseed, and oat oil, contribute to cholesterol regulation and cardiovascular health. Studies suggest that beans rich in phytosterols may help reduce cholesterol levels and triglycerides in dogs. Overall, these plant-based nutrients provide essential health benefits beyond basic macronutrients. Including a variety of vegetables, fruits, and functional foods in a dog's diet can enhance longevity, immune function, and overall well-being. 
  Potential Health Benefits 
There are several areas where phytonutrients may positively impact canine health: 
  Immune Support: Certain phytonutrients possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, potentially bolstering the immune system and aiding in disease prevention. 
  Gastrointestinal Health: Dietary fibers and specific phytonutrients can promote a healthy gut microbiome, enhancing digestion and nutrient absorption. 
  Cognitive Function: Antioxidant-rich phytonutrients may help mitigate oxidative stress, potentially preserving cognitive function as dogs age. 
  Cardiovascular Health: Some plant compounds have been linked to improved heart health, possibly by supporting healthy blood lipid levels and vascular function. 
  Don't Ignore Your Vegetables 
Dog's bodies are designed to utilize a variety of nutrients, including those from plant sources. In fact, research suggests adding vegetables to a dog's diet can reduce the risk of cancer and may improve overall longevity. An epidemiological study by Raghavan et al. (2005) published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association found Scottish Terriers that consumed yellow-orange and green-leafy vegetables at least three times a week had a significantly lower risk of developing bladder cancer.  
  While essential nutrients are critical for basic survival, non-essential nutrients like phytonutrients can play a pivotal role in promoting overall well-being. Incorporating a diverse array of plant-based ingredients into canine diets not only ensures a broad spectrum of phytonutrient intake but also aligns with holistic approaches to health maintenance. 
  Non-essential nutrition needs further research to establish more definitive guidelines regarding the types and amounts of phytonutrients beneficial to dog health and longevity. This may be just as important and the original research conducted to define minimum nutrient requirements. While preliminary findings are promising, more controlled studies are necessary to fully understand the mechanisms through which these compounds exert their effects and to identify optimal dietary sources and dosages. 
  A Balanced Approach to Canine Nutrition 
Incorporating plant-based ingredients rich in phytonutrients into canine diets represents a proactive approach to health that goes beyond meeting basic nutritional requirements. As research continues to unveil the multifaceted benefits of these compounds, pet owners and nutritionists are encouraged to consider the potential advantages of a diet that embraces the full spectrum of nutrients—both essential and non-essential—to support the vitality and longevity of our canine companions.    By Dr. Blaire Aldridge, MS, PhD, PAS Source: BSM Partners
MiAlgae Plans to Expand Abroad with Pet Food in its Sights
Vegetable Origin

2+ MIN

24/03/2025

MiAlgae Plans to Expand Abroad with Pet Food in its Sights

MiAlgae, a company looking to update the omega-3 additive manufacturing industry, is considering expanding to the US and Australia after it builds a new facility in Scotland this summer.
  The Edinburgh-based company is slated to open a new plant in Scotland's Central Belt. Company officials say the new facility will more than quadruple its production capacity as it prepares to scale its tech.
  MiAlgae is part of Mars Petcare's Next Generation Pet Food Program, a partnership that aims to drive sustainability in pet startups. MiAlgae was also a finalist for the 2024 Earthshot Prize, an environmental impact award given out by the UK-based non-profit of the same name.
  Omega-3 fatty acids are commonly added to pet foods, as they support brain and coat health. The products are often derived from fish oil, but with an eye toward sustainability, MiAlgae hopes to change that.
  What's the Plan?
It's unclear when the product will be commercially available, but Jo Partridge, MiAlgae's Operations Director, says the company's omega-3 products are undergoing tests by pet food makers.
  GlobalPETS learned that MiAlgae is already in talks with pet food manufacturers. 'Whilst we're not yet at the stage of announcing specific contracts, we're confident about the role our product will play in the pet food market,' says Partridge.
  She also states that MiAlgae wants to become a global partner for companies using omega-3s, with particular interest in the US and Australia.
  'Both regions offer access to byproduct streams from local industries and strong potential markets for sustainable pet food solutions,' Partridge says.
  'By positioning production near feedstock sources, we aim to further reduce the carbon footprint of our process while maximizing efficiency. We already have existing feedstock partners in these areas, which strengthens the feasibility of expansion.'
  Cutting out the 'Middle Fish'
Currently, a large amount of omega-3s produced come from farmed or wild-caught fish. MiAlgae markets itself as a sustainable solution to demand for the nutrient by instead collecting omega-3s directly from algae.
  It uses industry byproducts to feed its algae, which produce the necessary acids. 'Fish do not produce Omega-3s themselves; they acquire them by consuming algae,' the company's website explains. 'MiAlgae's innovative model bypasses the 'middle fish'' to reduce dependence on wild fishing.   Source: GlobalPets
Plant-Based Proteins for Pets
Vegetable Origin

4+ MIN

17/07/2024

Plant-Based Proteins for Pets

Historically, the primary plant proteins utilized in pet food applications included soy, corn, and wheat proteins; however, pea, potato, and rice proteins have emerged in recent years as other viable plant-based options.2   Protein is of utmost importance when considering adequate nutrition for pets. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) establishes minimum protein guidelines for pets in the United States. According to AAFCO, the minimum protein requirement for adult dogs is 18% and 22.5% for puppies, to support growth and reproduction.3 The minimum protein requirement for adult cats is 26% and 30% for kittens, to support growth and reproduction.3Interestingly, as consumers' interest in the utilization of plant protein sources in pet food increases, there are currently no regulatory standards or evidence-based data to determine the percentage of protein that should come from plant versus animal sources, or if it even matters.   Dietary protein is necessary to provide essential amino acids and build protein reserves in the body.4 Some plant proteins are commonly used in pet food applications for their complementary amino acid profile when paired with other proteins and grain sources.5,6 In general, plant-based ingredients are thought to have less variable nutrient composition when compared with animal-based ingredients.6,7   It is well established that dogs and cats who consume complete and balanced plant-based diets maintain overall health compared to animal protein-based diets.8,9 In addition, studies have observed that plant-based pet diets can have comparable nutrient digestibility as animal-based pet diets with similar nutrient profiles.6,10,11 This is true for both dogs and cats. A recent study by Golder et al.12 noted that cats can potentially digest plant proteins more fully and efficiently than dogs.12 However, these research studies are still limited, and the long-term effects are not as well studied. With that, pets that do not have a food aversion to animal-based proteins can still consume these diets and can maintain a supply of essential amino acids.   As consumer interests shift toward plant-based diets, new plant proteins will continue to be identified and utilized in pet food applications. These may include testing these new ingredients for safety evaluation before entering the pet food market, long-term data collection on the impact of health on pets, and sustainability.   Source: BSM Partners   References Loeb, J. 2020. The trouble with vegan cats and dogs. Vet Rec. 186(7):197. Domínguez-Oliva, A, Mota-Rojas, D, Semendric, I., Whittaker, AL. (2023). The impact of vegan diets on indicators of health in dogs and cats: A systematic review. Vet. Sci. 10(1):52. DOI:10.3390/vetsci10010052. 2024. Official Publication; Association of American Feed Control Officials: Champaign, IL, USA. Laflamme, DP. 2008. Pet food safety: Dietary protein. Topics Companion. Anim. Med. 23(3):154-157. Hill, D. 2004. Alternative proteins in companion animal nutrition. In Pet Food Association of Canada Fall Conference. Bednar GE, Murray SM, Patil AR, et al. 2000. Selected animal and plant protein sources affect nutrient digestibility and fecal characteristics of ileally cannulated dogs.Arch. Anim. Nutr. 53:127–140. DOI: 10.1080/17450390009381942. Vanelli, K, de Oliveira, ACF, Sotomaior, CS, Weber, SH, Costa, LB. 2021. Soybean meal and poultry offal meal effects on digestibility of adult dogs diets: Systematic review. PloSone. 16(5):e0249321. DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0249321 Linde, A, Lahiff, M, Krantz, A, Sharp, N, Ng, TT, Melgarejo, T. 2023. Domestic dogs maintain positive clinical, nutritional, and hematological health outcomes when fed a commercial plant-based diet for a year. bioRxiv, 2023-02. Clapper, GM, Grieshop, CM, Merchen, NR, Russett, JC, Brent, JL, Fahey, GC. 2001. Ileal and total tract nutrient digestibilities and fecal characteristics of dogs as affected by soybean protein inclusion in dry, extruded diets. J. Anim. Sci. 79(6):1523-1532. Liversidge, BD, Dodd, SA, Adolphe, JL, Gomez, DE, Blois, SL, Verbrugghe, A. 2023. Extruded diet macronutrient digestibility: Plant-based (vegan) vs. animal-based diets in client-owned healthy adult dogs and the impact of guardian compliance during in-home trials. Frontiers Anim. Sci. 4:1288165. Bednar, GE, Patil, AR, Murray, SM, Grieshop, CM, Merchen, NR, Fahey, GC. 2001. Starch and fiber fractions in selected food and feed ingredients affect their small intestinal digestibility and fermentability and their large bowel fermentability in vitro in a canine mode. J. Nutr. 131(2):276-286. Golder, C, Weemhoff, JL, Jewell, DE. 2020. Cats have increased protein digestibility as compared to dogs and improve their ability to absorb protein as dietary protein intake shifts from animal to plant sources. Anim. 10(3):541. DOI:10.3390/ani10030541. About the Author: Ada-Miette Thomas received both bachelor's and master's degrees in food science with an emphasis on nutrition. Ada-Miette conducted research with a focus on human nutrition and studied the effects of carbohydrate sources on markers of Metabolic Syndrome in adults.
‘Compelling’ case for vegan pet diets, study’s authors say
Vegetable Origin

3+ MIN

06/05/2024

‘Compelling’ case for vegan pet diets, study’s authors say

A new study of dogs that 'thrive' on a vegan diet, including some with recorded health improvements, is a step towards more sustainable pet feeding plans, its authors say. A leading academic advocate of the approach has claimed the case for it is 'compelling' following publication of the latest paper in the PLoS One journal. Meanwhile, the BVA has indicated that the findings of a long-awaited review of its diet policy could be published this summer.   Longest study   The latest paper from researchers based in California is thought to be the longest study of its kind into the effects of vegan diets on dogs. A total of 15 participating dogs were fed a commercially available plant-based diet containing pea protein for a year, having been served meat-based alternatives for at least the same length of time before that. The researchers said that approach enabled the dogs to act as their own controls during the study period. The analysis found 12 of them had maintained a normal body condition score during the research period, while three that were either overweight or obese when they enrolled reduced theirs.   Heart health   Vitamin D levels were normalised during the study period, after seven of the dogs initially presented with insufficient levels, while increased presence of L-taurine and L-carnitine was also recorded. The study further indicated that the use of pea protein as a main ingredient may have improved heart health in some participants, despite recent concerns of a potential link to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) cases. The authors said the paper offered evidence-based research of the merits of plant-based nutrition for dogs and was an 'important stepping stone' towards more sustainable feeding plans that they see as necessary on climate grounds. Lead researcher Annika Linde said: 'Evolutionary adaptations have resulted in a digestive system that enables dogs to maintain health on nutritionally complete omnivorous diets, including those free of animal ingredients.'   New evidence   She added: 'Our study offers new evidence on outcomes in clinically healthy dogs who thrive without consumption of animal-derived ingredients. Notably, foods produced independent of factory farming are also more sustainable and ethical.' The paper's findings have also been welcomed by University of Winchester professor Andrew Knight, who has been at the heart of recent calls for a rethink of wider professional thinking on the issue. He said: 'With 13 studies now demonstrating good health outcomes achieved by nutritionally sound vegan pet diets, and several others demonstrating major environmental benefits, a compelling case now exists for environmentally friendly vegan pet diets.'   Stance   Amid increasing interest in, and controversy surrounding, the deployment of non-traditional pet diets, the BVA set up a Companion Animal Feeding Working Group to review its stance on the issue last year. The body had previously declined to endorse either a vegetarian or vegan diet for pets, arguing that their usage increased the risk of pet owners failing to provide an appropriate balance of nutrients. But, although the group's work is still said to be ongoing, a BVA spokesperson told Vet Times they 'should have something to share' following the next meeting of the association's council in July. Asked whether that meant a final document was likely to be released around that time, she confirmed that was the case although publication after the following council meeting in September was also a possibility.   Source: VetTimes.
Fiber Innovations - Time to shine
Vegetable Origin

3+ MIN

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
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