As consumers increasingly prioritize healthier eating habits, they’re involving their pets in their journey towards better nutrition. The pet food industry is reflecting trends seen in human cuisine, and pet owners are responding by purchasing these products. Blue Buffalo Co. offers a chicken and quinoa recipe featuring ancient grains, while Nestlé Purina’s Beneful has experimented with adding ingredients like blueberries, pumpkin, and spinach. Honest Kitchen Inc., known for using only human-grade ingredients, has been selling a chicken and quinoa recipe since 2006 and has expanded its offerings to include blends of beef and chickpeas, duck and sweet potato, as well as fish and coconut.
Consumers appreciate the health benefits these superfoods provide and wish to share them with their furry companions. However, it’s important to note that pets have different nutritional needs compared to humans. Research indicates that breeds like labradoodles and schnauzers do not require a high-protein diet like their wild ancestors. Instead, they can obtain essential nutrients from a plant-based, low-protein diet, which could suggest a favorable outlook for quinoa-spinach recipes. Nevertheless, dogs can also meet their nutritional requirements through traditional ingredients like soy or corn, in addition to trendy options like quinoa. Despite these choices, it’s the pet owners who ultimately decide what goes into their dog’s bowl.
According to Harris Poll, in 2016, 95% of U.S. pet owners considered their pets as part of the family—a 7-point increase from 2007. Pet owners are eager to provide the best food possible for their beloved animals. While a higher price tag doesn’t always guarantee superior quality, many are willing to spend more for a perceived better product. 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 lagging, pet food sales are growing at a much faster pace. With the increasing similarities in ingredients and nutritional profiles, food manufacturers may soon consider entering the pet food market. Some major food companies already have a significant presence in this sector. For instance, Pedigree, Mars’ budget-friendly brand, was the top-selling dog food, generating $1.6 billion in 2016. Nestlé’s Purina claims 23.5% of the $30 billion pet food market. Mars has further solidified its commitment to the pet industry by acquiring VCA, an animal hospital chain, for $7.7 billion.
In light of these trends, many pet owners are also eager to ensure their pets receive essential nutrients, including the best calcium citrate with vitamin D, to support their health. As the market evolves, the demand for high-quality pet food that meets both human health standards and the unique nutritional needs of pets will likely continue to rise. The integration of superfoods like quinoa and spinach, along with the best calcium citrate with vitamin D, will play a crucial role in shaping the future of pet nutrition.