The focus on pet health, nutrition and sustainability has never been more in vogue than right now. The pandemic has caused what many in the industry are calling a ‘pet boom’ as consumers seek more health care products and virtual check-ups for their companions. According to a recent Bloomberg article, total pet care clinic visits increased by 5% in the first quarter of 2021 and wellness visits rose 16%, well above pre-pandemic levels1. The younger adult generation, under the age of 40, are also spending more on their pets with up to 75% of them believing their companion is an integral part of the family1.
As we look back on National Pet Month in the UK, which ran from April 1st – May 3rd, and National Pet Week (May 2nd – 8th) in the US, it’s clear why health, nutrition and sustainably focused foods are top priority for consumers. Being a responsible owner is about knowing that nutrition and exercise matter to avoid pet obesity-related conditions, as well making sure they are vaccinated against potential diseases by regularly visiting a vet. But where can pet food brands begin to tap into this booming health and wellness market for pets? Here’s three ways Biomega can help.
The Health Focus
At Biomega, we only want the best for pets. We work with pet food brands around the world to ensure every pet receives the highest nutritional quality product through our Salmigo® range. That means we are as passionate about pets as consumers are, enabling them to live longer, healthier and fuller lives. In 2020, we revealed how our 100% pure hydrolysed salmon peptides, Salmigo® Protect L60, can substitute glycerine in semi-moist pet treats. For pet food brands that want to add improved palatability and increased protein value to their premium range, combined with excellent beneficial gains such as increased muscle recovery and energy generation, Salmigo Protect L60 is a natural fit.
Meeting Nutritional Needs
Pet owners are increasingly turning to plant-based, vegetarian and pescatarian diets. According to new research from VetChef, two out of five (38%) pet dogs in the UK could soon follow a mostly plant-based diet2. For brands looking to join this upcoming trend, they must make sure they are meeting the nutritional needs of animals by balancing the correct amounts of protein, vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids in their products. At Biomega, we help meet these customer demands with products like our Salmon Oil, which is wonderfully rich in omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids and the natural antioxidant astaxanthin, to help enrich pet nutrition on a meat-free diet.
A Sustainable Process
Pet food brands that are looking for a sustainable production process can rest assured that Biomega works with approved suppliers certified under the IFFO RS Global Standard for Responsible Supply of marine ingredients. Our patented and continuous enzymatic hydrolysis process transfers fresh and pure salmon parts in a natural and gentle way into premium food-grade ingredients. This means when our biorefinery hydrolyses the proteins, we can gently separate the oil, proteins and sediments to make total use of rest streams with zero waste. By using a continuous process, we can reduce our overall impact on the environment, while providing consistent quality and yield.
At Biomega, we want to ensure people, pets and the planet are looked after. It is why we are Friend of the Sea and Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certified. So, when it comes to sourcing high quality products for your premium pet food products, there’s no need to look any further than Biomega.
For more information on how our products can be integrated into your pet food portfolio, contact our sales team today by emailing contact@biomegagroup.com.
References:
1. Bloomberg, Pandemic Pet Boom boosts results for animal health companies, May 2021
2. Pet Gazette, ‘Millennials driving plant-based diets for dogs’, 2021