As consumers increasingly strive for healthier eating habits, they are involving their pets in this journey towards better nutrition. The pet food market is progressively reflecting the trends seen in human food, and pet owners are taking notice. For instance, Blue Buffalo Co. Ltd. offers a chicken and quinoa ancient grains recipe, while Nestlé Purina’s Beneful has introduced ingredients such as blueberries, pumpkin, and spinach. Honest Kitchen Inc., which prides itself on using only human-grade ingredients, has been selling a chicken and quinoa recipe since 2006 and has since expanded to include beef and chickpea, duck and sweet potato, as well as fish and coconut blends.
Consumers appreciate the health benefits associated with these superfoods and are eager to share them with their beloved pets. However, it is important to note that pets have different nutritional requirements compared to humans. Research indicates that breeds like labradoodles and schnauzers do not require the high-protein diets typical of their wild wolf ancestors. Instead, they can obtain their necessary nutrients from a plant-based, low-protein diet, which lends support to the popularity of quinoa-spinach recipes. Nevertheless, dogs can also meet their nutritional needs through less trendy sources like soy or corn, in addition to quinoa. Ultimately, it is the pet owners, not the pets, who make the food choices.
According to a Harris Poll conducted in 2016, 95% of U.S. pet owners consider their pets to be part of the family, marking a 7-point increase since 2007. As consumers show a strong affection for their pets, they strive to provide them with the best food possible. While a higher price tag does not necessarily equate to higher quality, pet owners are often willing to spend more for products they perceive as superior. Sales of premium pet food surged from $5.7 billion in 2001 to $14.5 billion in 2015.
While sales of consumer packaged goods (CPG) are stagnating, pet food sales are rising at a significantly faster pace. With the growing similarities in ingredients and nutritional profiles, more food manufacturers may soon contemplate entering the pet food market. Already, several major food manufacturers have established a strong foothold in this segment. For example, Pedigree, a budget-friendly brand from Mars, generated $1.6 billion in sales in 2016. Nestlé Purina commands 23.5% of the $30 billion pet food market.
Mars is further solidifying its commitment to the pet industry by expanding into pet care through the $7.7 billion acquisition of VCA, an animal hospital chain. As the demand for high-quality pet food continues to rise, it is essential to consider the nutritional aspects, including the inclusion of calcium citrate mg, which plays a vital role in maintaining pets’ health. With the evolving landscape of pet nutrition, the industry may soon witness a shift towards more innovative offerings that prioritize both quality and health benefits for pets.