Pets bring us so much joy, and in response, brand owners and pet parents want to ensure that that they are as happy and healthy as possible. The key to great pet health starts with good nutrition; lots of love, care, attention, and of course, the inclusion of nutritional treats and snacks during training, exercise and when rewarding good behaviour!
For pet food manufacturers, opportunities in formulating products that optimise animal health and wellbeing will continue to grow but rest on the development of products that are not only nutritionally balanced, but also offer great nutrient bioavailability and palatability. Finding this sweet spot is only possible by working with trusted ingredient suppliers and sourcing sustainable, nutrient-rich raw materials to satisfy premium dietary requirements.
The boom in animal ownership seen during the COVID-19 pandemic, resulted in unprecedented growth in pet food sales, and significantly, pet owners are now spending more to ensure their pets’ wellbeing and nutrition. It is estimated that market share for snacks and treats, valued at $33.16bn in 2021, will continue to expand at an annual CAGR of 11.7% from 2022 to 2030.1
Higher rates of pet ownership are not the only reason for record value increases in the premium price segment either. It seems that despite the current economic challenges, pet owners are not trading down on premium foods and snacks. The truth is that the future for top-class products has never looked this good!2
Formulating better snacks
The key characteristics of a great pet snack or treat rests on achieving a perfect balance of critical nutrients, coupled with digestibility, absorption and palatability. It goes without saying that all products should be free of toxins or raw materials that could bring harm to a pet.3
Until recently, semi-moist treats and snacks were made with plant-sourced glycerine as a binding agent and humectant. But, with the move towards premium ingredients, the use of glycerine in wet foods and snacks is under scrutiny. Its inclusion in puppy food products has raised some red flags as it can overwhelm the catabolic capacity of puppies and cats.
Although the FDA and EFSA have declared the use of vegetable-derived, refined glycerine safe when used as a sweetener, it is limited in its nutritional value – opening up avenues for the development of natural alternatives with a healthier and sustainable positioning.4 This is particularly important in the face of rising pet obesity rates and the requirement for functional wellness, including weight management, during the formulation of pet snacks and treats.
Salmigo® Protect L60
When it comes to glycerine substitutes, our high-quality salmon peptides can transform how pet snacks and treats are manufactured. The Salmigo® range of products are sourced from natural and sustainable salmon rest streams and gently processed with continuous enzymatic hydrolysis to ensure the optimum uptake of key nutrients.
A recent study, conducted on behalf of biomega® by Passion4Food AS, the independent petfood research facility in Norway, indicates that Salmigo® Protect L60 is an excellent alternative and substitute for glycerine in semi-moist pet treats. It offers a strong protein kick, which can contribute to overall pet health and wellbeing.
Salmigo® Protect L60 comprises a mixture of peptides, amino acids and other valuable nutrients. According to EFSA5 claims, vitamin B12 can contribute to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
In addition, the study6 also showed that it is possible to reduce starch, remove glycerine and increase the level of high-quality carbohydrates and proteins to deliver a desired effect that contributes to a great bite and chew. And, when used in combination with 100% natural pea starch and Salmigo® Protect L60, glycerine could be replaced in its entirety.
We are excited about the possibilities offered by Salmigo® Protect L60 as a unique and sustainable source of highly digestible protein for snacks and treats for the pet food market. Contact our sales team for more information and to request a sample today!
References:
1 Pet Snacks And Treats Market Size & Share Report, 2030 (grandviewresearch.com)
2 Global dog food market expecting strong growth | PetfoodIndustry.com
3 Ingredients in Pet Food | UK Pet Food
4 Glycerin in dog food | All About Dog Food
5 Redefining pet health in 2023 – Biomega (biomegagroup.com)