As consumers increasingly strive for healthier eating habits, they are involving their pets in this journey towards better nutrition. The pet food industry is progressively reflecting trends found in human food, and pet owners are taking notice. Blue Buffalo Co. Ltd. has introduced a chicken and quinoa ancient grains recipe, while Nestle Purina’s Beneful has experimented with adding ingredients like blueberries, pumpkin, and spinach. Honest Kitchen Inc., which exclusively uses human-grade ingredients, has been offering a chicken and quinoa recipe since 2006, and has expanded its range to include beef and chickpeas, duck and sweet potato, and 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 recognize that the nutritional requirements of pets differ significantly from those of humans. Research indicates that breeds like labradoodles and schnauzers do not require the high-protein diets characteristic of their wild wolf relatives. Instead, they can thrive on a plant-based, low-protein diet, which could lend support to the popularity of quinoa and spinach recipes. Nevertheless, dogs can also meet their nutritional needs with traditional ingredients like soy or corn, proving that trendy options like quinoa are not the only solution. Ultimately, it is the pet owners who make the decisions about their dog’s food.
According to a Harris Poll conducted in 2016, 95% of U.S. pet owners consider their pets as part of the family, marking a notable increase from 2007. Pet owners are dedicated to providing their furry companions with the best food possible. While a higher price does not always equate to better quality, consumers are willing to spend more for what they perceive as superior products. Sales of premium pet food surged from $5.7 billion in 2001 to $14.5 billion in 2015.
While consumer packaged goods (CPG) sales are stagnating, the pet food sector is experiencing much more rapid growth. With the increasing similarities in ingredients and nutritional profiles, it is likely that more food manufacturers will consider entering the pet food market. Several large food corporations already have a significant foothold in this space. Pedigree, a budget-friendly brand from Mars, generated $1.6 billion in sales in 2016, while Nestle’s Purina holds a 23.5% share of the $30 billion pet food industry. Additionally, Mars has reinforced its commitment to pet care by acquiring VCA, an animal hospital chain, for $7.7 billion.
In the realm of pet nutrition, discussions surrounding calcium citrate vs calcium carbonate are also becoming relevant. Understanding the differences between these two forms of calcium is crucial for ensuring pets receive essential nutrients. As pet owners continue to seek out the best dietary options, the choice between calcium citrate vs calcium carbonate will likely feature prominently in their considerations. As the pet food market evolves, manufacturers may need to pay closer attention to the nutritional needs of pets, including aspects like calcium intake, whether from traditional sources or emerging superfoods like quinoa.