23/02/2026

Study Indicates Good Acceptance of Insect-Based Wet Food by Dogs

Ingredients derived from insects are being explored as alternative sources of protein in pet nutrition. 
  In addition to their functional potential, these raw materials have attracted industry interest due to their versatility in both wet and dry formulations.
  A recent study evaluated the acceptance of wet dog food containing insect-based ingredients marketed under the PureeX and ProteinX brands, developed by Protix. 
  The results indicated that both the all-insect-based diet and the hybrid formulation—combining insects and chicken—were readily consumed by the participating animals.   How the study was conducted
The trial included 170 small and medium-sized dogs, all living in homes. According to the technical summary, these categories were selected because they are often considered more selective with regard to food.
  Two diets were evaluated. The first consisted exclusively of ingredients derived from the black soldier fly larva (Hermetia illucens), combining PureeX — described as a minimally processed ingredient — and ProteinX, an insect meal. 
  The second was a hybrid formulation that combined the same insect ingredients with fresh chicken.
  Each caregiver offered one of the diets for two consecutive days and then switched to the other formula for another two days. 
  During the testing period, participants were not informed about the composition of the products.
  At the end of each stage, those in charge evaluated the dogs' consumption. According to the report, both formulations were considered highly acceptable, with no statistically significant difference in intake between the 100% insect diet and the hybrid diet.   Behavioral assessment and sensory perception
In addition to the volume consumed, the study analyzed the dogs' behavior before, during, and after meals. 
  Among the responses associated with positive acceptance were wagging the tail before the food was offered, consuming the entire portion, and licking the lips after the meal. These behaviors were recorded in both diets.
  Those responsible also evaluated sensory attributes such as texture, aroma, and appearance. Both formulations received an average score of seven, on a scale of zero to ten, for these criteria.
  When asked for a recommendation, 82% said they would recommend a diet entirely based on insects, while 81% said they would recommend a hybrid formulation with chicken.
  According to the manufacturer, PureeX is indicated for use in moist foods and can also be included in dry extruded formulations, being available in fresh and frozen versions. ProteinX, on the other hand, is marketed as a protein ingredient in flour form.   Alternative protein on the rise
Insect proteins have been studied as alternatives to traditional sources, with the potential to contribute to formulations seeking ingredient diversification. 
  In addition to nutritional profile, manufacturers highlight functional and sustainability aspects as differentiating factors of this type of raw material.   FAQ about wet food with insect protein
Do dogs readily accept food containing insect protein?
According to the study, both the 100% insect formulation and the hybrid with chicken were readily consumed.
Was there a difference in consumption between the diets tested?
No. The report indicates that no significant difference in intake was observed.
  Can insect protein replace traditional proteins?
It is being studied as an alternative source, but the choice of diet should always be made in consultation with a veterinarian. Source: Cães & Gatos

13/02/2026

Tebrio boosts B Corp certification score to 96 points, up 11 from 2022

Salamanca, February 4, 2026- Tebrio, pioneering Spanish biotechnology company specializing in the comprehensive utilization of the Tenebrio molitor insect to produce sustainable natural ingredients, has achieved its B Corp recertification after successfully completing the rigorous social, environmental, and governance impact assessment conducted by the international organization B Lab.

With this recognition, Tebrio solidifies its position within a global community of 10,000 companies that meet high standards of social and environmental impact and share a common purpose: harnessing the power of business to drive positive change in the world. It has done so by exceeding its initial 2022 certification score by 11 points, reaching 96.1 points, more than 15 points above the 80 required for certification.

During this process, B Lab particularly recognized the company's responsible governance, commitment to the circular economy, ethical resource management, and contribution to social and economic development in rural areas. Since its first certification in 2022, Tebrio has continued to advance in integrating people-focused well-being policies, environmental efficiency, and transparency across its entire value chain.

Adriana Casillas, CEO and co-founder of Tebrio, emphasizes: "This recertification is much more than a certification: it is confirmation that we are building an industrial model committed to transparency, equity, and resilience. Being a B Corp means growing responsibly, grounding every advancement in a shared purpose: generating positive and lasting impact."   A Purpose-Driven Business Model   Since its founding, Tebrio has placed sustainability and responsible innovation at the core of its corporate strategy. Its production model is based on circular economy principles, transforming agricultural by-products into ingredients for applications in animal nutrition, regenerative agriculture, cosmetics, and green biotechnology.

This philosophy translates into a genuine commitment to rural areas and the transition to a fairer economy. The company promotes local talent development, fosters diversity within its workforce, and maintains business practices aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).   A recognition that drives continuous improvement   Renewing B Corp certification is not an endpoint, but a commitment to ongoing transformation. Tebrio will continue advancing its sustainability strategy through progressive carbon footprint reduction, exclusive use of renewable energy, promotion of skilled rural employment, equal opportunities, team well-being, and transparency via externally verified impact reports.

This long-term vision reaffirms Tebrio's ambition to be a global benchmark in sustainable bioeconomy, where innovation and purpose integrate into every decision. The Salamanca-based company is currently immersed in building :oFarm, its innovative 100,000 m² industrial plant dedicated to the full production of protein and organic fertilizers from the Tenebrio molitor insect. Source: Tebrio
About B Corp Companies B Corp companies form part of a global community of 10,000 businesses that meet high standards of social impact, environmental performance, transparency, and governance, as verified by B Lab.

In Spain, 300 companies use the B Impact Assessment and collectively generate €12.34 billion in aggregated revenue, including food sector leaders like Danone and Hijos de Rivera, fashion brands such as ECOALF, Camper, and Patagonia, and banking institutions like Triodos Bank and imagin.

All share a common vision: redefining business success by measuring progress through their contribution to the well-being of people and the planet. Tebrio's B Corp certification also underscores its commitment to JEDI principles (Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion), fully integrated into its management model and organizational culture.


About Tebrio and o:Farm Tebrio is a biotechnology company headquartered in Salamanca, a global pioneer in the industrial breeding of Tenebrio molitor and the development of sustainable natural ingredients. Founded in 2014, its business model is grounded in the circular economy and innovation applied to sectors such as agriculture, food, and green biotechnology. Tebrio is currently advancing the construction of :oFarm, its industrial plant that will operate on 100% renewable energy from its own solar panels, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable biotechnological production. Press Contact José Ángel Sanz – Head of Communications joseangel.sanz@tebrio.com Phone: +34 601 900 144 contact@tebrio.com Phone: +34 923 048 049 http://www.tebrio.com

20/08/2025

Understanding Pet Food Labels

The law requires that the label contains certain key pieces of information including a list of ingredients (referred to on the label as 'Composition'), additives and a nutritional analysis (referred to as 'Analytical Constituents') along with feeding guidelines.


Where can I find out more information about a product?
Pet food companies have customer care lines to answer any questions about their products (contact details are on the back of the pack). Many also have full product information on company websites. For more general information on pet food ingredients, please visit: www.fediaf.org.   Feeding guidelines
Feeding guidelines are for the average pet and you also need to consider size, age and the level of activity when deciding how much to feed your pet. Start by feeding the suggested amount and keep an eye on your pet's weight and body condition.
 
The best way to check how things are going is to perform a body condition score on your pet. The Pet Size-O-Meter1 is a tool developed by the British Pet Food Manufacturers Association to help doing this and is available through their website: www.pfma.org.uk.
    Download the factsheet or click here for more factsheets


Source: FEDIAF 


References
1 Body Condition Score Charts such as this Pet Size-O-Meter (PSOM) typically range from 1-5 or 1-9 in their scoring system. This 5 point PSOM has been designed to be used by pet owners to supplement their routine veterinary checks.

08/08/2025

White Label vs. Private Label: What’s the Difference—and Where’s the Opportunity?

White labeling involves putting your brand's logo and messaging on an existing, typically generic, product—a formula that multiple retailers or brands can purchase and rebrand. It's a fast, low-cost solution, but it offers little in the way of true brand differentiation and innovation. Private labeling, by contrast, means the retailer or brand owns the unique formula created specifically for them (and sometimes even by them), with the ability to select ingredients, and control over formulation, claims, and design. Think of white labeling as renting a product versus private labeling as owning your own custom creation. In other words, renting an apartment versus building your dream home.  
  Private labeling can also commonly be referred to as 'store brand' or 'house brand.' However, this approach is not limited to retailers. Similarly, the same concept utilized by companies like Petco or Chewy can be useful to independent pet brands by allowing them to leverage customization and brand differences without the bottom-line burden of owning their own manufacturing facilities. This is also referred to as working with a co-manufacturer, or a third party that produces the product, but the brand or retailer retains ownership of the unique formulation, design, claims, and other aspects of the product. 
  In today's market, where consumers are seeking authenticity, transparency, and premium quality, private labeling has emerged as the more strategic and profitable choice.    Private Label Taking Over? 
The latest industry data confirms the shift to private labeling. According to NielsenIQ, premium pet food continued to show double-digit unit growth through mid-2024, even as broader pet food demand stabilized. Private label now accounts for approximately 17% of both dollar and unit share in the pet category, with store-brand offerings contributing nearly 3.5% of total dollar sales. This aligns with broader consumer trends across categories—data from the Private Label Manufacturers Association (PLMA) shows private label dollar sales grew 3.9% in 2024, outpacing national brands. In fact, across all sectors, private label now represents 19.5% of total dollar share, a 3% increase from the previous year. This growth is driven not by low-cost generics but by premium, wellness-focused store brands that meet modern consumer expectations for health, sustainability, and ingredient transparency, and the pet industry is uniquely positioned to benefit from this trend. In the U.S., pet spending reached $151.9 billion in 2024 and is projected to hit $157 billion in 2025, with pet parents increasingly treating their pets as members of the family. Interestingly, over 80% of consumers view private label quality as equal to or better than national brands. In the pet space, that opens the door for truly differentiated products, from gut health supplements and novel proteins to functional treats and sustainable packaging that resonate with today's wellness-driven pet parent.  
  Moreover, private label products offer substantial financial upside. On average, they yield 25% to 30% higher gross margins than national brands (or 'name brands') due to lower marketing and distribution costs and stronger customer retention. Some niche pet brands report even higher margins, especially when their products are aligned with emerging trends or serve an unmet need. 
This is exactly where BSM Partners delivers competitive advantages. As the largest full-service pet industry consulting firm in North America, our team of veterinary nutritionists, PhD food scientists and nutritionists, regulatory experts, and product developers helps brands build exclusive, science-backed formulations that go far beyond basic private labeling. From functional treats to next-generation supplements, we ensure that each product not only meets consumers' needs but also aligns with the latest science and market trends.  
  We also handle the regulatory side, navigating guidelines set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), substantiating claims, and ensuring products are both legally compliant and marketing-ready. Our innovation pipeline helps brands stay ahead of the curve, while our extensive network of trusted co-manufacturers allows for rapid scaling from prototype to launch. 
  While white labeling may offer a fast route to market, it may not secure long-term customer loyalty or meaningful differentiation. Private labeling, especially when grounded in innovation and scientific credibility, builds lasting brand equity. It empowers pet brands and retailers to deliver premium, exclusive products that reflect their values and meet rising consumer expectations for transparency, functionality, and quality. With the pet category showing no signs of slowing down and private-label sales and trust on the rise, now is the time to invest in a private-label strategy that sets a brand apart. 
  With BSM Partners as your innovation partner, your private label becomes a competitive advantage built on science, expertise, and strategic execution. 

About the Author
Dr. Katy Miller works as the Director of Veterinary Services at BSM Partners. She earned her veterinary degree at Ross University and completed her clinical year at Louisiana State University. She previously served for 11 years as the Director of Dog and Cat Health and Nutrition for Mud Bay where she earned multiple certifications and specialized in pet food nutrition, prior to which she practiced general and emergency medicine for seven years. She is also a competitive three-day eventer, licensed falconer, and claims only two (Golden and Mini Doxie) of their nine dogs.


By Dr. Katy Miller
Source: BSM Partners

11/03/2026

Strategies for Sustainability in the Pet Food Market  

What Makes A Sustainable Pet Food Product?  
When discussing sustainability, we consider a range of environmental, social and economic issues. The goal is to meet the needs of the present without limiting the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. While there is no all-encompassing definition of a sustainable ingredient or practice, we can use the above table to guide our decisions.   Sustainable Ingredient Sourcing
Sustainability starts in the pet food bag. It is becoming more prevalent to source pet food ingredients using sustainable methods to ensure there is minimal negative impact on ecological, environmental or human wellbeing. 

Sustainable Sourcing & Agronomy
Pet food manufacturers can partner with suppliers using sustainable sourcing practices. 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 of our specialty crops. Kemin's rosemary and spearmint crops are grown to meet the world's most stringent operational standards. These crops are integrated into the production of Kemin's natural antioxidants.

Sustainable Proteins
Using alternative proteins can reduce the dependency on traditional proteins used in human food supply. Options for sustainably-sourced proteins include certain varieties of fish, nuts and seeds, which also provide beneficial omega-3 fatty acids for pets. Using invasive species as a protein source also benefits the environment from which they're removed. Many pet food manufacturers are also exploring insect proteins, which offer a source of protein for pets that's not in competition with human food supply.

Rendered Products
Another commonly unrecognized source of sustainable proteins are rendered products. Rendering creates valuable fats and proteins filled with vitamins and minerals for pets. Rendering is recycling; as this process makes use of 56 billion pounds1 of raw materials in the U.S. and Canada every year that would otherwise be sent to landfills.
  Sustainable Packaging
Much of what we consume comes packaged, and most plastic packaging can take 10 to 1,000 years to decompose. But new, innovative solutions can be used to save space in landfills. Some sustainable packaging solutions in the pet food industry include:
  Recycled cardboard, paper or plastic Innovative biodegradable options such as bioplastics Reusable containers for bulk transport
  The trend of small, individually-packaged pet food portions is not as sustainable as including multiple portions in one package. Pet food manufacturers can optimize portion sizes by using antioxidants and food safety ingredients to help maintain the shelf life of larger packages of pet food.
Third-Party Certifications
The pet food industry is constantly impacted by new trends and shifting consumer perceptions. Because of this, consumers are wary of 'greenwashing' efforts by companies to appear sustainable without proof of verified or certified practices. There is a variety of third-party certifications that pet food manufacturers can use to certify how their products are produced, including:
  Certifications for ingredients: Sustainable seafood (MSC – certified – Marine Stewardship Council) Sustainably Grown (SCS Global) RSPO or RTRS (Roundtable for Sustainable Palm Oil & Roundtable for Responsible Soy) Non-GMO USDA Organic  
Certifications within production & operations: Supply chain certifications that evaluate traceability, ingredient integrity and ethical and transparent sourcing Animal Welfare Certified Renewable energy and net-zero emissions Sustainable and recyclable packaging Certified vegan      Sustainability at Kemin
Sustainability is a key area of focus at Kemin, as reflected in our vision statement. Along with sustainable agronomy practices, Kemin has sustainability initiatives for energy, waste, conservation, and biodiversity. Learn more about sustainability at Kemin here.   Key Takeaways   Sustainability is now a mainstream expectation among pet owners
Pet owners are increasingly choosing sustainably produced and packaged products, making sustainability a core market driver rather than a niche trend. 
  Sustainable ingredient sourcing is central to reducing environmental impact
Pet food manufacturers are shifting toward sustainably grown, plant‑based, alternative, and upcycled protein sources—such as rosemary, spearmint, insect proteins, and rendered products—to lessen resource strain and promote environmental health. 
  Vertically integrated and certified supply chains support stronger sustainability outcomes
Kemin highlights its vertically integrated model as a way to ensure responsible agronomy, regenerative practices, and traceable ingredients throughout the supply chain. Source: Kemin Nutrisurance

02/03/2026

Sustainability Trends In The Pet Industry

For advocates, keeping a finger on the pulse of the industry that feeds and supplies companion animals is essential. The inaugural State of Sustainability in the Pet Industry report, produced by the Pet Sustainability Coalition, combines data from several sources to provide an overview of the trends, challenges, and opportunities around sustainability in the pet industry. Ultimately, it argues that environmental responsibility has shifted from a niche marketing trend to a structural necessity.
  The report's primary data comes from the Pet Sustainability Coalition's first-ever benchmark assessment, a self-reported survey of their 200+ members worldwide regarding sustainable business practices. This is supplemented by pet consumer data acquired from research partners Nextin and BBMG, as well as publicly available industry data tracking global trends in sustainability, consumer behavior, and market innovation.
  It's important to note that much of the internal data comes from companies that have already joined a sustainability coalition, potentially skewing results toward more environmentally conscious businesses.   Consumers Want Transparency
A major takeaway for advocates is the shift in consumer expectations. The report finds that 84% of companion animal guardians hold companies responsible for addressing climate change. Furthermore, guardians are much more likely to act on these values than non-guardians: 62% bought an environmentally friendly product in the past month, compared to only 46% of non-guardians.
  However, blind trust is fading. Consumers, particularly younger generations like Gen Z and Millennials, are becoming skeptical of vague 'green' claims. They're looking for verifiable proof of responsible sourcing and recyclable packaging rather than unsubstantiated marketing. While affordability remains a primary barrier to purchasing sustainable goods, sustainability is often the deciding factor when price expectations are met.   The Business Case
According to the report, companies are increasingly recognizing that sustainability drives business resilience. Climate change poses material financial risks. In the pet food sector, for instance, extreme weather contributes to price volatility when sourcing meat and fish, suggesting that diversifying into alternative proteins could help address this vulnerability. Consequently, 54% of CEOs now link sustainability directly to business performance, up from 34% in 2018.   Regulatory Pressure
Perhaps the strongest driver of change is the tightening regulatory landscape. The report highlights a shift from voluntary guidelines to mandatory legal requirements. For example, the European Union's Green Claims Directive requires companies to verify environmental claims with third-party evidence to combat greenwashing, while in California, Senate Bills 253 and 261 mandate disclosure of greenhouse gas emissions and climate-related financial risks for large companies doing business in the state. Laws like these are forcing companies to move beyond simple marketing to rigorous data collection and reporting.   Innovation In Proteins And Packaging
The report identifies protein sourcing as the most significant environmental impact in the pet food sector. It presents a nuanced view of the trade-offs involved in different protein choices. For instance, while human-grade diets use minimal processing and appeal to consumers who value ingredient transparency, they can have higher energy requirements for refrigeration and cold-chain distribution. Given these concerns, novel proteins such as fermentation-derived and plant-based options are highlighted as critical tools for supporting the industry's long-term sustainability goals.
  Packaging is another major focus, with industry trends moving toward 'circularity.' This involves designing packaging that's recyclable or reusable, driven in part by Extended Producer Responsibility laws which shift waste management costs from consumers to producers.   Advocating For Progress, Not Promises
The report concludes that the pet industry is currently in an early-to-mid stage of sustainability maturity. While there's progress, significant gaps remain, particularly in measuring value chain emissions — those occurring in the supply chain where the biggest impacts, like ingredient sourcing, lie.
  For advocates, the report offers several actionable insights:
  Push for alternative proteins: The pet industry is beginning to acknowledge that novel proteins, including plant-based and fermentation-derived, are necessary for climate resilience. Advocates can leverage this business case to promote non-animal protein sources.
  Demand verification: With the rise of anti-greenwashing laws, advocates can hold companies accountable by demanding third-party verification for any environmental claims.
  Support systemic changes: Advocates can support legislative efforts like Extended Producer Responsibility laws and climate disclosure mandates, which force transparency and penalize wasteful practices.
  By understanding that the industry views sustainability as a tool for risk mitigation and profit, advocates can better frame their campaigns to accelerate the transition toward a more ethical and environmentally sound food and supply system for companion animals. Summary By: Meghann Cant | Original Study By: Pet Sustainability Coalition. (2026). 
Source: faunalytics

Reference
Pet Sustainability Coalition. (2026). State of sustainability in the pet industry – 2025 edition. https://psc.petsustainability.org/state-of-the-industry

19/03/2026

Dana Technology: Flexibility and Efficiency for the Pet Food Market

Dana Technology, renowned for innovative processing systems, develops solutions to address these demands. Its approach not only expands installed capacity but also designs versatile production lines adaptable to different formats using the same equipment, optimizing resources and ensuring high profitability.
The Main Challenges for Modern Plants
The production of different types of food traditionally requires independent production lines: one dedicated to wet food and another to snacks and semi-wet products. Although this model is traditional, it presents evident limitations: it occupies significant space, increases operational costs, and requires more personnel. In most cases, a high-capacity line operates below its potential, resulting in inefficiencies that affect profitability.

Based on the premise 'instead of getting more equipment, integrate the processes,' Dana offers technology that allows the same line to operate interchangeably with wet chunks or semi-wet products, adjusting time and steam baking levels as required. As a result, manufacturers can respond to different demands without costly plant expansions.

One of the most significant advancements introduced by this approach is the replacement of batch processing, which is characterized by manual conveying and lower efficiency in continuous flow operations. Products move from composition to baking and, depending on the objective, to drying or packaging. This structure not only accelerates production time but also enhances consistency and reduces management risks.
FlexLine™, the Flagship System
The Wet-Semi Moist FlexLine™ stands out among Dana's solutions. It is designed to alternate between wet and semi-wet products within the same equipment. The system incorporates a steam tunnel that ensures precise thermal processing and controlled drying through temperature zones and airflow regulation. This flexibility eliminates the need for double lines, optimizing investment and plant space.

Semi-wet food does not require autoclaved sterilization as wet products do, representing significant operational savings for manufacturers.

Combining two processes in a single line represents more than reduced investment costs: it streamlines management, improves human resource allocation, and ensures a better response to consumers who demand variety, quality, and transparency.
Conclusion: Toward a Smarter Pet Food Future
The future of pet food processing lies not in having more equipment but in creating smarter solutions adaptable to each company's needs. With developments such as FlexLine™, Dana Technology reaffirms its commitment to innovation and provides manufacturers with tools that combine flexibility, efficiency, and quality within the same system.

Know more about Dana's solutions at https://dana-technology.dk/ By DANA Technology
Source: All Pet Food

29/01/2026

US Patent is a Huge Victory for Vagn

In recent years, Dana Technology from Funen has specialized in equipment for the production of wet food for dogs and cats. Most recently, the company has secured a US patent for a new machine that makes better use of mechanically separated meat.
  - It is a major victory for us to obtain a patent for our new technology in the US. The patent protects the very way in which we manufacture the product. This is important when you make equipment that can be sold in many countries, says CEO Vagn Hansen. 
  The company's new machine pumps the raw material between two heated plates, while a rotating wheel kneads the mass until it acquires a firm, meat-like structure. The pieces are then cut for use in wet food pouches and cans for pets such as dogs and cats.
  - Bags, rather than cans, for example, are particularly popular because they contain just enough for the whole day. This drives a large market in Europe, the Far East, South America, and the US, says Vagn Hansen.
  Dana Technology's technology means that the company's customers can make better use of the raw material.
  - Customers want to upgrade their raw materials in order to achieve a higher price for the finished product. They can do that with our machine. It's basically the same meat, but now it has a texture that is easier to sell. If they can get just 10 percent more for the meat they use, then it's interesting. It's an upgrade in quality, and that's why they choose our solution, says Vagn Hansen.   European patent moves slowly
According to Vagn Hansen, the pet food segment is growing by approximately 10 percent annually globally, and he intends to pursue the patent in the United States and other countries.
  "If we see anyone advertising something similar in the country covered by the patent, we can take legal action against them. This also applies to Chinese companies. We haven't applied for a patent in China ourselves, because legal proceedings there are almost impossible. But we can keep them out of other markets," says Vagn Hansen.
  The European patent is also in the process of being developed, but progress is slower.
  - Authorities in Europe are not nearly as quick as those in the US. I have experienced it taking three years longer before, he says.
  He is not aware of any machine patents that cost less than half a million kroner.
  - On top of that, there is maintenance, so you have to be very sure that you have something that can be sold. But once you are on the market, it is often too late, because then the idea is known, and you may not be able to get a patent. But we didn't know that the machine would be used so widely, and this shows that the potential is often greater than you think when you first start out, says Vagn Hansen.
  Source: DI BUSINESS 

12/03/2026

Crowded Labels, Compromised Doses: A Look at Pet Supplement Design

As these products become more common in veterinary conversations, retail aisles, and pet households, a reasonable question is bound to arise: How can so many active ingredients realistically fit into one small supplement chew and still work? Thanks to real-world limits of formulation and dosing, the answer might make you think twice the next time you're supplement shopping. 
  A soft supplement chew may look simple, but it is actually a carefully engineered product with finite space. Before any active ingredients are added, the chew must already contain a base matrix: ingredients that provide structure, moisture control, palatability, shelf stability, and manufacturability. These typically include proteins or starches, fats, binders, humectants, natural flavors, and processing aids. These components are what makethe chew hold together, stay fresh on the shelf, and appeal to pets' tastes. However, these ingredients typically takes up 60% to 75% of the chew. Only after this base is built does a formulator have room to add active ingredients, and that remaining space (25% to 40%) is often much smaller than most labels imply. 
  This is where the distinction between the number of ingredients and how those ingredients are dosed becomes critical. Many supplement labels highlight all the many functional ingredients that are included, but they don't always communicate how much of each ingredient is present in a way that's meaningful to pet owners.  
  From a nutritional and physiological standpoint, dose matters far more than the length of an ingredient list. For an active ingredient to have a meaningful effect, it must be included at a biologically relevant level, physically fit into the chew, remain stable over the product's shelf life, and avoid interfering with the absorption or function of other ingredients. When a product attempts to include too many actives in a small chew, something almost always has to give, and that compromise shows up in dosing. 
  This is how supplements can end up looking impressive on the label while delivering active ingredients in amounts that may be too low to produce the desired benefit. The ingredients are technically present, but they could be included at symbolic levels instead of functional ones. This isn't always intentional or deceptive as one might think at first glance. It is often the result of trying to satisfy market demand for 'everything in one chew' or being competitive with other products in the market while working within the physical limits of the product form itself. 
  There is a natural assumption that more ingredients automatically means more support. In reality, the most effective supplements are usually built around transparency and restraint. They focus on a specific physiological goal, rely on a small number of well-studied active ingredients, and include those ingredients at levels supported by evidence rather than trends or buzzwords. Trying to support joints, digestion, skin, mood, immunity, and cognition all at once often leads to compromise rather than synergy. A supplement designed to do one job well will almost always outperform a crowded product that attempts to do everything at once.  
  Now, don't get me wrong—there are some formulations that can successfully include multiple active ingredients when they are designed thoughtfully. This typically involves choosing ingredients that are effective at relatively low inclusion rates and combining actives with complementary mechanisms, rather than overlapping. In some cases, it also means designing the chew size and feeding directions to support appropriate dosing, such as allowing multiple chews per day for larger dogs. This is why two supplements with similar-looking ingredient lists can perform very differently in real-world use. It's not the label that is different; it's the philosophy behind the formulation. 
  For veterinarians, retailers, and pet parents alike, this shifts the conversation in a meaningful way. Instead of focusing on all the amazing ingredients a supplement contains, more useful questions might include what the product's primary goal is, whether the key ingredients are included at meaningful doses, and whether the chew size and feeding directions support those doses. Supplements are most effective when they complement a complete-and-balanced diet and appropriate medical care, not when they attempt to replace them. 
  A small supplement chew can absolutely deliver meaningful health support, but only when the formulation respects biology, physics, and evidence. In the pet supplement space, restraint is often a sign of expertise. Fewer ingredients, thoughtfully chosen and properly dosed, always outperform a long list squeezed into too little space with ineffective dosing.  
  For brands, retailers, and pet parents who want to move beyond crowded labels and toward supplements that actually work, formulation philosophy matters. Working with BSM Partners and choosing BSM-formulated or BSM-veterinary-formulated supplements means navigating these real-world constraints with intention, prioritizing evidence-based dosing, functional synergy, and product forms that support meaningful inclusion levels. When every gram counts, expert formulation is what ensures that what you want in a supplement is also what pets can truly benefit from.  Source: BSM Partners

10/03/2026

Sensitive Nutrients Connection for Precision Nutrition

The impact of digitalization on the micronutrient nutritional profile of pet food is a significant and often overlooked subject, even when technology is not considered. By precisely controlling extrusion parameters (temperature, moisture, precision and baking time), the quality of sensitive nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, is maintained, avoiding degradation from heat or excessive humidity. Controlling the process allows manufacturers to verify the density, moisture, size, and shape of kibbles, which impact digestibility, texture, nutrient absorption, and palatability. When we refer to specific diets (high digestibility, weight control, and digestive health), these factors are essential. Traceability and digital registration facilitate not only nutritional auditing and formula controls but also regulatory compliance and micronutrient management per batch, which is especially important in the presence of transparency, quality, animal health, or special diets. With historical data and analytical support, manufacturers can upgrade their recipes to achieve efficiency in nutrition and costs. For example, optimizing ingredient mixes, protein sources, additives, vitamins, and minerals to achieve better nutritional balance without compromising economy or scalability.
  Moreover, vitamins and trace minerals, such as zinc, iron, copper, manganese, selenium, and iodine, among others, are essential for energy metabolism, immune health, bone and muscle development, and skin and coat integrity as they regulate cellular oxidation, reproduction, and growth.
  Micronutrients, instead, face technological challenges in food manufacturing:
  Heat, moisture, and oxygen sensitivity: Heat, moisture, and oxygen sensitivity: Vitamins are highly thermolabile, and they break down during extrusion and drying. It is fundamental to use products with microencapsulation technologies to protect them against high temperatures and reduce oxidation and chemical interactions with minerals.
  Chemical interactions: If trace minerals (e.g., iron and copper) are not properly protected, they oxidize or inactivate vitamins. Chelated or organic minerals not only offer better bioavailability and stability of trace elements in the thermal process but also reduce negative interactions with nutrients.
  Dosage difficulties in small quantities: Premixes are applied to microdosing, so with a minimal deviation, the nutritional value of the batch is compromised. Nowadays, we refer to intelligent mixing in which control software manages optimal times, mixing speed, additional period, and final homogeneity to ensure the uniform distribution of vitamins and minerals.
  Distribution problems in mixing: To ensure the same nutrient proportion in kibbles, homogeneity must be high. Premix manufacturers produce precise, homogeneous mixes that minimize dosage mistakes, ensure uniformity between batches, and facilitate registration and nutritional auditing.
  These challenges are boosting a strong demand for advanced formulation technologies, intelligent automation, and digital monitoring systems. The precise incorporation of vitamins and trace elements no longer depends on understanding nutrition. Today, they require automated processes, intelligent sensors, digital control, and predictive maintenance. Pet food plants become an atmosphere where innovation in ingredients combines with technological transformation to guarantee safer, stable, nutritious, and reliable products.
  Conclusion
  Digitalization in pet food facilities is not a future trend; it is a reality that shows concrete achievements. Technologies for automation, sensors, digital control, AI, and data analysis are already transforming the way pet food is produced, enhancing efficiency, quality, consistency, traceability, sustainability, and flexibility. By MVZ Armando Enriquez de la Fuente Blanquet
Source: All Pet Food Magazine

By Armando Enriquez de la Fuente Blanquet

17/03/2026

Dog and Cat Food Processing: Our Daily Challenge

Pet foods are currently classified into three categories: complete, complementary, and specific, whether dry or wet. Within each category, companies develop sub-segments to meet the needs of different animal profiles, such as senior pets, athletic animals, and obese pets, among others. The search for alternative diets, functional ingredients, and more sustainable solutions has shown steady growth. This movement has driven intensive research to ensure that products deliver not only adequate nutrition but also additional health benefits, improved quality of life, and a reduced environmental footprint.
  To achieve all of this, the industry no longer relies solely on robust equipment or generic formulations for dogs and cats. More than ever, manufacturers must be connected in real time to every stage of the process, with each department involved in the production of pet food. Machines, sensors, software, and people, therefore, need to operate in an integrated manner so that production continuously adapts to the process and improves over time. By combining automation, data, and technical expertise, an automated plant transforms production into a dynamic, intelligent system capable of continuous evolution.
Daily Manufactured Innovation   The achieved precision at each stage of the process—extrusion, drying, and coating— is a practical example of how this approach is carried out. An automated system enables:
  Precise, automated dosing of micro-ingredients, especially in complementary foods that require a high level of accuracy. Automated control and inclusion of fresh meat, meals, and oils. High-tech laboratories that analyze all raw materials upon reception. Aligned NIR systems with just-in-time results, enabling immediate adjustments when required. Minimization of variations that affect digestibility and palatability. Fully digital traceability, from raw material intake to finished product. Automation of Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) helps identify bottlenecks and opportunities for improvement.
  In extrusion, one of the most critical steps in kibble manufacturing, the process is significantly optimized through automation:
  Temperature and pressure control in each extruder zone. Screw speed control. Steam and water addition as required. Greater baking consistency, which improves digestibility, texture, and kibble durability. More homogeneous kibble density and expansion, with improved starch gelatinization and reduced waste. Automatic recording of process parameters, ensuring traceability and batch-to-batch standardization.
  The drying stage is crucial for removing moisture and controlling water activity, both of which directly contribute to microbiological safety. Moisture also affects palatability: dogs tend to prefer slightly higher-moisture foods, while cats generally accept drier products. For this reason, the integration of sensors and intelligent software in dryers is critical to prevent under- or overprocessing and to ensure that each batch reaches the exact target moisture content. This level of precision ensures stability, safety, and palatability aligned with the specific requirements of each species.
  Another key step is coating, a particularly delicate stage in the manufacturing of dry pet food. Today, the market offers more advanced coating systems, such as vacuum batch processing equipment, which allows highly precise ingredient application. This level of control directly impacts palatability, oxidative stability, and final product acceptance, ensuring superior sensory performance and overall food quality.
  Automation enables much more robust and accessible traceability. With integrated systems, each batch can be tracked from raw material to finished product, ensuring:
  Rapid identification of non-conformities. More efficient responses in case of product recalls. Greater transparency for consumers. Complete, auditable history of every stage of the process.
  This traceability is especially critical in the production of complementary and therapeutic foods, where any nutritional deviations may compromise product efficacy. Through digitalized controls, the industry ensures precision, consistency, and total batch safety for pet consumption.   The Importance of Labeling   Labelling is another equally essential step to ensuring that all mandatory information is present and accurate, in compliance with the legislation of each country.
  At this stage, it is crucial to involve representatives from all areas of the production chain—including Regulatory Affairs, Quality Control, Research and Development, Packaging, and Marketing. This integration ensures that labeling and packaging are developed safely and efficiently, without rework, while remaining compatible with filling lines and attractive to the end consumer. Technology also plays an increasingly important role in this process. Many companies now utilize specialized software that automatically checks label descriptions against each version. It compares information, detects inconsistencies, and significantly reduces the risk of human error. With automation, greater document security, faster review processes, and higher reliability in final label approval are obtained.
  Another topic gaining increasing relevance in the pet food industry—and one that directly impacts the entire production chain—is sustainability. Far from being just a trend, sustainability has become a strategic pillar guiding decisions from raw material selection to packaging development and industrial process design. Implementing sustainability in the pet food industry is a complex challenge, as it requires balancing production efficiency, costs, and regulatory requirements while also meeting consumer expectations that are increasingly influenced by environmental awareness. The supply chain is complex: it depends on both animal- and plant-based ingredients, requires large volumes of water and energy, and relies on high-barrier packaging that is often difficult to recycle.
  Nevertheless, the sector has made consistent progress. An increasing number of companies are incorporating innovative raw materials, so-called super proteins, including insect meals, which offer a reduced environmental footprint and excellent nutritional value. At the same time, there is a growing internal movement to reduce water and energy consumption, reuse resources, monitor and mitigate CO₂ emissions, and develop 100% recyclable mono-material packaging, facilitating reintegration into the production cycle and reducing environmental impact.
  An even more strategic step is the adoption of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), a tool that quantifies the environmental impact of a product from the origin of its ingredients to its destination. Companies that already apply LCA stand out for making data-based decisions, identifying critical points, and directing their efforts more effectively—whether in raw material selection, process efficiency, or packaging sustainability. LCA is considered one of the key trends shaping the future of the industry and a competitive advantage for organizations genuinely committed to reducing environmental impact across all stages of the value chain.
  By combining innovation, responsibility, and a long-term vision, the pet food industry demonstrates that sustainability is not merely rhetoric, but an irreversible path and a tangible opportunity to create better products, more efficient processes, and a more balanced future for the planet and coming generations. This underscores that the challenge of producing pet food goes far beyond formulation or ingredient selection; it involves a complex chain that depends on technology, integration, rigorous control, and continuous innovation.
  By Josiane Volpato and Juliana Soares Brazorotto
Source: All Pet Food Magazine

By Josiane Volpato

25/02/2026

ANDRITZ: Technology to Feed the Future

In recent years, pet food manufacturing has undergone a significant shift. The industry is no longer driven by volume but by innovation. In this context, ANDRITZ Feed & Biofuel consolidated itself as a key technological partner.

This transformation is evident as pet humanization has increased consumer demands—who once purchased 'dog food', now seek functional products with digestive or hypoallergenic benefits, or made from alternative proteins. In sales, packaging highlights claims, such as Omega-3, antioxidants, insect protein, and premium formulas free of artificial additives. Behind the well-being narrative lies a deep change in production processes.

'Today's consumers seek the same things for their pets as they do for themselves: well-being, variety, and sustainability,' note representatives from ANDRITZ Chile. 'This requires plants to be more flexible, to innovate more efficiently, and to incorporate technologies that enable a rapid response to market trends.' 

The team summarizes a silent revolution: pet food as a technological product. A robust extruder or efficient dryer is no longer enough. Today, manufacturers require more complete lines capable of ensuring traceability, energy control, nutritional precision, and above all, consistency.
Integral Solutions and Precision Technology
In the pet food industry, every detail matters. Grinding, mixing, baking, and coating processes not only shape textures and flavors but also define digestibility and nutritional value. ANDRITZ provides both stand-alone equipment and turnkey solutions for the entire process—from raw material reception to final bagging.

The equipment is as diverse as the products it helps create: the Multimill Hammer Mill for precise and homogeneous grinding; Optimix mixers provide uniformity in formulation; the Combi-Zone Dryer for stable textures and extended shelf life. Finally, EX Series extruders combine low operational costs with flexibility to produce everything from dry kibbles to functional snacks.

'We aim to be a comprehensive supplier to ensure total compatibility between the equipment. Customers don't need to worry about adjusting interfaces or performance—everything is designed to work in harmony,' ANDRITZ's experts explain.

The result is a cleaner, efficient, and more reliable output: a plant where each phase connects seamlessly to the next, without leaks or inconsistencies, creating a technological ecosystem where energy, quality, and productivity align with the design.

'Each machine is thought to operate with minimal energy consumption and maximum reliability. Sustainability is not optional: it is part of the design.'

ANDRITZ's innovation is also represented in process intelligent control. The FLEXTEX system allows operators to monitor and adjust specific mechanical energy (SME) in real time during extrusion, without downtimes or modifications. This enables adjustments to density, texture, or product expansion with millimetric precision while the plant is still operating.

'SME control is key to final product quality. FLEXTEX offers a precise and dynamic tool to innovate without compromising process stability.'

Thanks to these technologies, manufacturers can develop specific products for each segment—from small-breed kibbles and energetic snacks for sporting dogs to digestive formulas for senior cats.
Innovation and Sustainability as Growing Drivers
In a sustainability-driven era, social concerns are also reflected in pet food. Pet owners demand traceability, natural ingredients, and clean processes—what once was a value-added feature is now essential.

Emerging trends aim to alternative proteins, such as insects or pulses, functional snacks with digestive or oral health properties, and highly digestible vegetable formulas. In all these options, processing technology plays a decisive role.

'Producing more is not the challenge: producing better is. Plants must adapt quickly to new recipes and raw materials without losing efficiency or quality,' ANDRITZ's team states.

ANDRITZ technology bridges the gap between a formulator's creativity and industrial reality. It transforms ideas—such as new oral-care treats or plant-based kibbles—into scalable, safe, and consistent products.

Moreover, the company has a global support network and strong local service. In Latin America, the team works closely with manufacturers, providing predictive maintenance, original spare parts, and continuous training.

'Client proximity is in our DNA. We work hand in hand with manufacturers to ensure each plant maintains optimal performance over time.'

ANDRITZ's commitment to sustainability extends beyond energy savings. Plants integrate automation, remote monitoring, and digital traceability systems to control each parameter and reduce raw material waste.

'In the future, plants will be more intelligent, efficient, and sustainable. Our mission is to prepare every client for that technological leap (with no attributable change),' Oliva assures.
Global Experience, Local Support
With more than 180 years of industrial experience and presence in major global markets, ANDRITZ Feed & Biofuel combines precision engineering, global support, and local expertise to lead pet food manufacturers to a new productive era.

ANDRITZ offers more than machinery—it brings knowledge, experience, and continuous support. The company becomes part of the design and operation of each plant, adapting every solution to market needs and product goals.

The pet food industry is facing one of its most dynamic moments. Driven by increasingly demanding and informed consumers, it follows a model in which technology and sustainability are inseparable. On this path, ANDRITZ is more than a supplier—this partner understands that behind every kibble, snack, or innovative formula, there is science, commitment, and vision.

'At ANDRITZ, we do more than build equipment; we help build a more efficient and sustainable industry, ready to feed the future.'

ANDRITZ – Innovation, sustainability, and industrial precision for a new era in pet food manufacturing. By ANDRITZ
Source: All Pet Food Magazine