Pet Food: Future Trends, and Potential Outlook
Pets may not seem like a new phenomenon, but the evolution of pet food is undoubtedly a force to reckon with in the market. Here is the potential shift we expect to influence the pet food industry this year and beyond.
Search for New Protein Sources
With the growing demand for protein in pets, the traditional supplements of fish, and meat are facing replacements as nutrition options. The animal by-products are facing rejection with pet owners looking for healthier supplements. Consequently, pet food manufacturers are working on plant-based sources such as kales, greens, chard, and duckweed.
Strict Labeling and Oversight
With reports of Salmonella fears leading to the recall of pet food brands, there is every need pet parent to seek healthy and safer alternatives. Ultimately this has grown the demand for better product labeling on pet food. Usually, the dog food customers are only trying to know the nutrients their pets are receiving and with the growth of the dog food market.
Targeted Foods
Pets just like humans do also face food-related health problems such as illnesses, allergies and other specialized care circumstances. The situation has put plenty of pet owners on a proactive approach to countering the health problems through functional health foods. Soundproof of the trend is the rise in dog food formulas which support a variety of body functions in pets such as bone growth, digestion, hypoallergenic functions and joint health.
Emphasis on Pet Food Ingredient Sources
Another popular pet food trend comes with the rise of environmentally conscious models that consumers seek. As a potential driver in the dog food market, the need for sustainable sources of ingredients has led manufacturers to find alternative methods for their products. Such a factor has led pet food customers to seek for healthier, naturally-based and environmentally-friendly foods that meet their demands.
Home Delivery Options
With the Millennial generation possibly every item is available for purchase and delivery through e-commerce sites. Recent endeavors have gone beyond the human factor to include delivery of pet food to the respective owner’s front door.
A New Direction
Recent years have shown the growth of understanding the pet food industry and it is evident from the elimination of using raw food for pets. Still, it remains prudent that each trend brings a positive outlook not just for the pet food brands and demand but also healthier living for the pets.
SOURCES: Food Check Systems, NIH, PetCo, Pet Food Industry
COPYRIGHT: Local Value
