23/04/2026

What ‘Fresh’ Really Means in Pet Food Manufacturing  

The term appears frequently in the media, on packaging, and in consumer conversations; however, "fresh" is not currently defined by AAFCO or the FDA. Because of this, products marketed as fresh can vary significantly in formulation, processing methods, packaging technologies, storage requirements, and shelf life. For pet parents and professionals alike, this can make it difficult to compare products. 
  Fresh pet food is often marketed as 'less processed,' 'gently cooked,' or 'minimally processed.' However, as with other pet food formats, processing still plays a critical role for several reasons:
  Food safety: Applying validated controls such as thermal treatments or other pathogen-reduction measures to minimize microbial risks for both pets and the people handling their food 
  Nutritional reliability: Helping ensure nutrients are digestible and bioavailable through steps such as grinding, cooking, and by neutralizing antinutrients 
  Palatability: Influencing texture, aroma, and flavor characteristics that encourage consistent consumption 
  Consumer convenience: Allowing products to be packaged, portioned, stored, and served in ways that make feeding more practical for pet owners    What Is Meant By 'Fresh' Pet Food? 
While definitions vary by company, fresh pet food is often characterized by:  
  High moisture content  Cold-chain distribution, including refrigerated or frozen storage depending on the brand's delivery model  Shorter shelf life compared to canned or dry foods due to less intensive processing and fewer shelf-stabilizing technologies 
  Fresh pet food may be sold as rolls, trays, pouches, or bulk refrigerated products, and may be formulated for complete-and-balanced nutrition or supplemental feeding. Because the term is not formally defined, two products labeled 'fresh' may be manufactured very differently. This makes it especially important to understand the underlying manufacturing processes rather than relying solely on label language. 
  To meaningfully evaluate any pet food format, it is essential to understand how it is made. This provides critical context on food safety, nutrition, and overall product quality. Let's look at a few 'fresh' processes currently utilized in pet food manufacturing.    Sous-Vide Pet Food Manufacturing: Step-by-Step 
    Fresh and/or frozen ingredients are ground or cut in pieces and combined with other ingredients, such as oils, vitamins, minerals, etc., into a mixer.  Product is filled directly into pouches to the desired weight, then vacuum- and heat-sealed.  Sealed pouches are placed in a temperature-controlled water bath and cooked for a validated time to kill harmful pathogens.  If necessary, products are blast-frozen in final packaging.   Finished product is stored either refrigerated or frozen.  
  Figure 1. Sous-Vide Pet Food Manufacturing Process (Source: BSM Partners)    Kettle-Cooked Pet Food Manufacturing: Step-by-Step 
    Fresh and/or frozen ingredients are ground or cut to pieces and combined with other ingredients, such as oils, vitamins, minerals, etc., into a mixer.  The product is loaded into a large kettle to undergo cooking.  Cooked product is filled directly into pouches according to desired weight, then vacuum- and heat-sealed.  If necessary, products are blast-frozen in final packaging.  The finished product is stored either refrigerated or frozen. 
  Figure 2. Kettle-Cooked Pet Food Manufacturing Process (Source: BSM Partners)    Steamed Pet Food Manufacturing: Step-by-Step 
    Fresh and/or frozen ingredients are ground or cut to pieces and combined with other ingredients, such as oils, vitamins, minerals, etc., into a mixer.  The product is cooked inside the mixer by steam injection.  Cooked product is filled directly into pouches according to target weight, then vacuum- and heat-sealed.  If necessary, products are blast-frozen in final packaging.  The finished product is stored either refrigerated or frozen. 
  Figure 3. Steamed Pet Food Manufacturing Process (Source: BSM Partners)   As illustrated in Figures 1–3, products marketed as 'fresh' or 'gently cooked' do still undergo thermal cooking steps during manufacturing to ensure safety. Because the term is not formally defined by regulators, it can apply to products made through a variety of processing approaches.   
  Fresh pet food is one of many product formats that can deliver complete-and-balanced nutrition when formulated and manufactured by experts. Kibble, canned, freeze-dried, and fresh foods all rely on science-driven formulation, ingredient selection, and process control to meet the needs of pets and their owners. By understanding the process of how pet food is made, pet parents can make more informed decisions about what type of product will fulfill both their own preferences and their pet's needs.  
  BSM Partners works across all pet food formats, including raw, frozen, 'fresh', and shelf-stable products. Our cross-functional expertise allows us to support companies at every stage of pet food development, from ingredient sourcing and supplier verification to food safety programs, process validation, and consumer education.  
  Whether evaluating pathogen reduction strategies, strengthening preventive controls, or refining how processing and safety are communicated to pet parents, our team helps ensure approaches are scientifically sound, compliant, and aligned with brand goals.  Source: BSM Partners

20/01/2025

Technological Advancements Improving the Quality of Pet Food

By Josiane Volpato

Although no specific laws characterize industrialized food (Standard, Premium, Super-premium, Special Premium, High-premium, etc.), the quality, research, and applied technologies in their manufacturing and evaluation are crucial to ensure their positioning in the market.   This article investigates the steps applied in the research process and the development of food in which science and technology are combined with the extrusion process using NIR evaluation and digestibility tests.   Extrusion process   The extrusion process has existed for centuries; Joseph Bramah developed the first report in literature in 1797 (England). It was not until 1900 that extrusion began to be used for food manufacturing by the Frenchman Alexandre P. Pigozzi and, in 1954, by the Ralston Purina Company to manufacture dog and cat food.   Extrusion is a thermal process that makes the material (powders) go through a die with holes to shape a specific kibble (ball, bones, heart, among others). It is a HTST process (High Temperature-Short Time), the most widely used method for manufacturing pet food, as dry diets are still the most sold.   Even being an old process, it always grows along with technology, aiming to meet the needs of the pet food industry and ensure excellence in its production and high-quality pet food. Besides being considered one of the most efficient, the technology offered by extrusion is also very economical for manufacturing dog and cat food, especially in terms of quality and food security compared to other processes.   Many extruders in the market aim to satisfy the most diverse process for dog and cat food. Single-screw extruders are the most affordable and used in manufacturing, especially for standard quality in which many formulations are extruded. However, double-screw extruders offer better quality and more options for shaping. Moreover, they can use more ingredients in the formulation, which is advantageous when industries want to diversify their products with Premium and Super-premium food.   Research has demonstrated that controlling its thermal or mechanical energy offers considerable benefits in feeding, for example, managing the effect on starch gelatinization by allowing it to reach the large intestine (colon) and act as prebiotics for dogs and cats. Jackson et al. (2020) discovered that identical formulated food processed in extrusion conditions of high and low shearing results in tough starch to dietary digestion, which produces potentially beneficial changes in the gut microbiome by altering starch digestion. Another benefit related to food, Alvarenga et al. (2021) altered the mechanical energy in the extrusion process and found that kibbles produced in low and middle shearing were denser (varying between 296 and 338 g/L) and less expanded than those in high shearing.   The pet food industry is constantly seeking innovation. With the high demand for new food, including fresh meat, such as Super-premium, fruits and vegetables, or insect proteins, extruders with advanced technology offer an improvement in the use of thermal energy and a reduction in mechanical energy, enhancing the nutritional quality and satisfying nutritional requirements and realities of each factory.   NIRS food evaluation   Near Infrared Spectroscopy is a technology widely used in factories to predict the bromatological condition of ingredients in pet food formulation. This technique has gained popularity in recent years with new advances in execution due to the rapidity and agility of results. Since then, this analytic technology has provided factories with rapid analysis of specifications such as the percentage of proteins, fats, ashes, moisture, and pH, among others.   With almost immediate results, it assists quality control in making decisions by accepting or rejecting the receipt of raw materials. Pet food factories also use NIRS to update the formulation program database and ensure that the composition matches the end product specifications, the labels, and the specifications of each product in its portfolio.   Technological advances make equipment calibration easier and faster for many food and animal ingredient analyses. In addition to macronutrients such as proteins and fats, it is also possible to carry out analysis with near-infrared spectroscopy, e.g., detecting if the sample is contaminated by mycotoxins or biogenic amines or calibrating it to detect adulterations and ensure product approval.   Research in other species (Montoro et al., 2023) examined chemical compounds in feces and the coefficients of apparent digestibility of the total tract. Hervera et al. (2012) evaluated the possibility of the NIRS to estimate the energy content in commercial dog and cat food. These studies strengthen the potential to help the analysis, ensuring food quality.   Therefore, nutrient composition and digestibility are essential to the qualitative evaluation of pet food since they provide results about the nutrient availability in that diet with a significant impact on animal health.   With this goal and ethical guidelines in animal experimentation, that seek to reduce the use of animals in research, many studies evaluate pet food digestibility through the in vitro method, which aims to reproduce apparent digestibility in dry extruded food for dogs and cats. Hervera et al. (2007) studied a two-step multienzyme incubation approach adapted to dogs' digestion characteristics. It consists of two consecutive incubations: the first for 2 hours with pepsin A to acidic pH and the second for 4 hours with pancreatin. After that, the material is filtered, dried, incinerated, and then the digestibility value of the dry and organic matter of the feed is calculated.   Using experimental animals to evaluate the nutritional value of food and raw materials for pets requires time, financial investment, and animal management. That is why industries can use the in vitro technique, a reliable methodology to estimate product digestibility with high reproducibility and repeatability. It also examines and probes new hypotheses in nutritional research in dogs and cats.   Figure 1: In vitro digestibility technique – Source: compiled by author   By: Josiane Volpato and Ingrid Caroline da Silva   Source: All Pet Food Magazine   References Camp Montoro, J., Solà-Oriol, D., Muns, R., Gasa, J., Llanes, N., Garcia Manzanilla, E., 2023. Predicting Chemical Composition and Apparent Total Tract Digestibility on Freeze-Dried Not Ground Faeces Using Near-Infrared Spectroscopy in Pigs. Animals 13, 2090. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13132090 Corsato Alvarenga, I., Keller, L.C., Waldy, C., Aldrich, C.G., 2021. Extrusion Processing Modifications of a Dog Kibble at Large Scale Alter Levels of Starch Available to Animal Enzymatic Digestion. Foods 10, 2526. https://doi.org/10.3390/foods10112526 Hervera, M., Baucells, M.D., Blanch, F., Castrillo, C., 2007. Prediction of digestible energy content of extruded dog food by in vitro analyses. J. Anim. Physiol. Anim. Nutr. 91, 205–209. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1439-0396.2007.00693.x Hervera, M., Castrillo, C., Albanell, E., Baucells, M.D., 2012. Use of near-infrared spectroscopy to predict energy content of commercial dog food. J. Anim. Sci. 90, 4401–4407. https://doi.org/10.2527/jas.2012-5106 Jackson, M.I., Waldy, C., Jewell, D.E., 2020. Dietary resistant starch preserved through mild extrusion of grain alters fecal microbiome metabolism of dietary macronutrients while increasing immunoglobulin A in the cat. PloS One 15, e0241037. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0241037

26/11/2024

High-level nutrition: The revolution in pet health

In this context, science and technology have played a fundamental role in developing pet food that not only meets basic nutritional needs, but also promotes long-term health. The evolution of pet food processing and formulation technologies has enabled the creation of increasingly personalized diets for pets, meeting the specific demands of different breeds, ages, and health conditions. Through specialized proteins, probiotics, and functional ingredients, Kemin ensures that its products provide enhanced nutrition and immune support, which not only contributes to the animal's current health but also helps prevent potential issues in the years to come.   One of Kemin's goals is to bring innovations and drive the market to constantly evolve. Our Research & Development team focuses on creating practical and effective solutions for the pet food industry. We offer a wide range of products that, carefully formulated, contribute to the success and quality of the food. Each solution is developed to add value, ensuring that our partners are always a step ahead in an increasingly competitive market.   Thus, technological innovation becomes the main driver behind the continuous development of our solutions and services. It is not just about offering high-quality items; Kemin is constantly refining processes to ensure that our clients receive the most advanced products. This commitment to delivery and customer satisfaction is made possible through the services we provide: the Kemin Application Service (KAS), for example, is designed to integrate the latest technologies, enabling efficient implementation. Our specialists in pet food and rendering are constantly monitoring and updating application methods to ensure precise execution, guaranteeing maximum performance. Each strategy and plan are meticulously crafted to meet the specific needs of each client, making it possible to offer the highest quality equipment and service.   Additionally, our Customer Laboratory Services (CLS) are constantly evolving, incorporating advancements that ensure faster and more accurate analyses. This allows clients to obtain reliable and personalized results, essential for safe and informed decision-making. With the expertise of the Technical Service Managers (TSMs), we ensure that cutting-edge technical knowledge is always available to assist with any challenge, offering support that goes beyond the conventional.   Kemin's Research and Exploratory Services (RES) marks a significant advancement in our ability to innovate. Utilizing the latest research tools and techniques, we are exploring new frontiers and developing solutions that anticipate market needs. This proactive approach allows us not only to keep up with trends but to lead the way, ensuring we are always ahead in delivering products and services that exceed expectations.   The future of pet food is directly tied to the ability to innovate and adapt to new scientific discoveries and emerging technologies. With its customer-centric approach, Kemin is ready to lead this path, offering solutions that promote pet health and well-being in a sustainable and efficient manner. In doing so, Kemin not only strengthens its commitment to excellence but also reaffirms its role as an indispensable partner for all those seeking the best in animal nutrition.   By: Kemin Nutrisurance   Source: All Pet Food Magazine

12/11/2024

Biotechnology in the pet food industry

By María Candelaria Carbajo

It is a multidisciplinary field that, through living organisms, biological systems, and processes, develops products and technologies that benefit different ecosystems of society, people, and animals. Its main goal is obtaining additives and simulating the natural process of protein synthesis at the cellular level to produce specific protein molecules, as well as to improve the conservation of forage and silos. But its fields of application are very varied, so let's discover some of the most used ones:   Specific industries   Poultry farming In its function related to protein, it is related to this industry with enzyme use, since using the appropriate ones make it possible to use cheaper raw materials, improving production costs. As an example, we can mention what happens with barley, with high contents of ß-glucans, which birds cannot digest because they lack the appropriate enzymes, and, when solubilized in the intestinal environment, they produce a high degree of viscosity, which hinders nutrient absorption, reducing diet digestibility. This results in dirty eggs, muscle injuries, and more.   Pig farming In this case, enzymes are used to complete the enzymatic system of these animals, immature until they are 8-10 weeks old, which means that they cannot completely digest certain nutrients and substances. Enzymes also help with bacterial growth.   Ingredients   Probiotics and prebiotics These are microorganisms, live or dead, extracts or a combination of some of them, used to promote or improve animal intestinal health and immune system. Prebiotics, for their part, are compounds that promote the growth of these beneficial microorganisms.   Acidifiers Acidifiers are rather a type of biotechnology that allows the modification of biological systems' behavior.   Alternative proteins One of the most dynamic areas of biotechnology applied to pet food is alternative protein development. Traditionally, animal proteins such as chicken, beef, and fish have been the basis of pet food formulation, but nowadays, topics such as sustainability and animal welfare impact the perception of these animals, and consumers have started demanding other alternatives. In this sense, biotechnology allows the creation of alternative proteins, such as those obtained from insects, plants, cell cultures, and laboratory-grown meat.   Personalized microbiomes The microbiome is made up of various microorganisms that live in the digestive tract. It has gained pretty much scientific relevance in animal health in recent years. Biotechnology has enabled significant advances in understanding how microbiomes influence digestion, nutrient absorption, and pets' immune systems, for example.   Personalized food There have already been cases in which manufacturers have used DNA analysis and microbiological studies to develop a food formulation for a specific pet. This allows the creation of food formulas that not only meet general nutritional needs but also address particular health problems of animals with delicate health or highly specific conditions.   Improved Omega-3 Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for pet health, but are traditionally obtained from sources such as fish, which come from the aquaculture industry. Thanks to biotechnology, genetically modified crops are being developed, such as canola, that produce high levels of this fatty acid, which positions it as a more sustainable source to complete formulations.   Sustainability and environmental impact One of the most significant challenges for the pet food industry today is its environmental impact. Biotechnology presents itself as an innovative solution that can, among other items, facilitate carbon footprint reduction and minimize production waste.   Production waste An emerging approach is the use of organic waste to produce pet food ingredients. Through biotechnological processes such as fermentation, waste from the food industry can be transformed into proteins, lipids, or carbohydrates. These can be used in new pet food formulas, which contribute to reducing waste and having a more sustainable production chain.   Biodegradable and even edible packaging Biotechnology is also being applied to developing materials for biodegradable or even edible packaging, managing to address one of the main problems associated with sustainability and the production of non-renewable or recyclable waste.   Innovations in food safety   Genetic optimization Biotechnology is playing a crucial role in improving the ingredients used in pet foods. Today, through genetic modification, it is possible to develop crops with improved nutritional profiles, achieving greater resistance to diseases and a lower need for pesticides or fertilizers.   Biosensors for pathogen detection We are seeing the development of technologies based on biosensors to detect the presence of pathogens such as Salmonella or E. coli used in real-time during food manufacturing, this will allow faster detection and immediate response to conditions, thereby reducing the risk of disease outbreaks in the target population.   Improved natural preservatives Biotechnology has also allowed the development of natural preservatives, used to prolong food shelf life, avoiding the use of chemical additives. These derivatives of plants and other natural organisms are effective in preventing the growth of mold and bacteria, which improves and prolongs final product conservation.   Conclusion   Advances in biotechnology are transforming the pet food industry. This discipline offers innovative solutions to improve pet health, promote sustainability, and ensure food safety. As it continues to evolve, it will keep creating a path to optimize the industry's proposals for pets and, therefore, we will continue to grow together as a market that seeks to offer increasingly safer, efficient, specific, and sustainable solutions.   Source: All Pet Food Magazine

05/09/2024

INNOCON implements an analytic process in oily matrices for pets

Implementing an analytic process to identify and determine volatile compounds as secondary indicators of fats and lipid oxidation through solid-phase microextraction and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry is an important sign of the company's commitment to quality and innovations in the pet food industry.   Focusing on fresh and quality food, as well as animal welfare, not only improves the product offering in the market but also establishes new standards in the industry. Having the ability to identify and quantify lipid oxidation compounds, such as hexanal, 2,4-decadienal, and 2-heptenal, among others, at trace levels is crucial because these compounds influence consumer organoleptic perception.   It is encouraging that companies like Innocon are leaders in the Biobío Region and contribute to scientific development and the local economy. Roberto Valenzuela, head of the R&D of Chemical and Instrumental Area, and his team are an example of how applied research impacts directly and positively on the pet food industry and, as a result, on society.   By: SETOP   Source: All Pet Food Magazine