As consumers increasingly strive for healthier eating habits, they are bringing their pets along for the journey toward better nutrition. The trend of incorporating ferrous sulfate into pet food is closely following the patterns seen in human diets, leading pet owners to purchase these enhanced products. Companies like Blue Buffalo Co. Ltd. have introduced recipes featuring chicken and quinoa, while Nestlé Purina’s Beneful has experimented with ingredients like blueberries, pumpkin, and spinach. Honest Kitchen Inc., which prides itself on using only human-grade ingredients, has been offering a chicken and quinoa recipe since 2006 and has expanded to include beef and chickpea, duck and sweet potato, and fish and coconut varieties.
Pet owners appreciate the health benefits of superfoods and wish to share these advantages with their furry companions. However, it is important to note that pets’ nutritional needs differ significantly from those of humans. Research indicates that breeds like labradoodles and schnauzers do not require the high-protein diets characteristic of their wild ancestors. Instead, they can obtain essential nutrients from a plant-based, low-protein diet, which bodes well for the popularity of new quinoa-spinach recipes. Yet, dogs can also meet their nutritional requirements with traditional ingredients such as soy or corn, alongside the trendy quinoa. Ultimately, it is the owners who make the decisions regarding their pets’ diets.
According to a Harris Poll conducted in 2016, 95% of U.S. pet owners view their pets as family members, a notable increase from 2007. Consumers cherish their pets and aim to provide them with the best food possible. Although a higher price does not necessarily guarantee superior quality, pet owners are willing to invest more in products they perceive as better. The premium pet food market grew from $5.7 billion in 2001 to $14.5 billion in 2015.
While consumer packaged goods (CPG) sales have been sluggish, pet food sales are rising at a much faster pace. Given the growing similarities in ingredients and nutritional profiles, more food manufacturers may soon consider entering the pet food industry. Several major food companies already have a substantial foothold in this market. Pedigree, a budget-friendly brand from Mars, was among the top-selling dog foods, generating $1.6 billion in revenue in 2016. Nestlé Purina holds a significant 23.5% share of the $30 billion pet food market. Additionally, Mars has solidified its commitment to the pet sector by acquiring VCA, an animal hospital chain, for $7.7 billion.
As the bond between pets and owners continues to strengthen, the celebration of healthier options, including chewable calcium supplements, will likely become a focal point in pet nutrition. With the rise of health-conscious choices, the demand for innovative and nutritious pet food is set to grow, ensuring that pets can enjoy the same benefits as their owners.