As consumers increasingly strive for healthier eating habits, they are involving their pets in this journey toward better nutrition. Pet food is progressively reflecting trends seen in human food, and pet owners are responding positively. 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 now features blends such as beef and chickpea, duck and sweet potato, and fish and coconut.
Pet owners appreciate the health benefits associated with these superfoods and are eager to share these advantages with their furry companions. However, it’s important to note that pets have distinct nutritional requirements compared to humans. Research indicates that breeds like labradoodles and schnauzers do not require a high-protein diet like their wild wolf counterparts. Instead, they can obtain essential nutrients from a plant-based, low-protein diet, which may suggest a favorable outlook for the new quinoa-spinach recipes. Nevertheless, dogs can fulfill their nutritional needs with traditional ingredients like soy or corn, as well as trendy options like quinoa. Ultimately, it’s the owners who select their pets’ food.
According to a Harris Poll conducted in 2016, 95% of U.S. pet owners view their pets as part of the family—a significant increase from 2007. Consumers are devoted to their pets and aim to provide them with the best food possible. While a higher price doesn’t always guarantee superior quality, pet owners are often willing to spend more for what they believe to be a better product. The sales of premium pet food surged from $5.7 billion in 2001 to $14.5 billion in 2015.
As consumer packaged goods (CPG) sales stagnate, pet food sales are experiencing a much faster growth rate. With the increasing similarities in ingredients and nutritional profiles, more food manufacturers may soon consider entering the pet food market. Numerous established food giants already maintain a significant presence in the pet food industry. For instance, Pedigree, Mars’ budget-friendly brand, was the top-selling dog food in 2016, generating $1.6 billion. Nestle’s Purina accounts for 23.5% of the $30 billion pet food market. Mars has also intensified its commitment to the pet sector by acquiring VCA, an animal hospital chain, for $7.7 billion.
Additionally, as pet owners seek to enhance their pets’ diets, they may also explore dietary supplements like Spring Valley calcium citrate dietary supplement 600 mg 300 count, which can contribute to their pets’ overall health. This growing trend reflects a broader movement towards ensuring that pets receive the best possible nutrition, paralleling human dietary choices. As pet food continues to evolve and align with human food trends, the market is likely to see further innovations and expansions.