Debbie Phillips-DonaldsonDebbie Phillips-Donaldson is editor-in-chief of Petfood Industry magazine and Petfood Forum.From the AuthorAdventures in Pet FoodPeople: The foundation and future of pet food industry successThe pet food industry is fortunate to have a deep roster of experienced veterans with a wealth of expertise and knowledge, but is it well positioned for the future?Adventures in Pet FoodUnpredictable consumer behavior? Turn to innovationIn a climate of constantly evolving consumer demands, many pet food companies are prioritizing innovation and new product development in 2026.Adventures in Pet FoodGlobal consumer mindsets at 2026 start: Where does pet food fit?Economic volatility has become a semi-permanent condition that consumers have adapted to, affecting their spending and how they think about product purchases.Something to Chew onHow health and wellness are transforming premium pet foodIn pet food, health has become a cornerstone of premiumization as more pet owners seek products for their pets with functional and health-related claims.Adventures in Pet FoodWill pet food M&A activity pick up in 2026?Pet food and pet industry M&A has declined over the last three years, though categories like cat food and pet treats remain attractive to investors.Adventures in Pet FoodFactors, and facts, behind pet humanizationA new study of pet owners in Lithuania shows the “pets as family members” ethos extends far and wide, and that social factors matter more than other demographics.Adventures in Pet FoodPet food innovation going in wrong direction for this economy?New pet food product launch activity is down, not surprisingly during economic uncertainty — but this may be the exact right time to focus on innovation.Something to Chew onNew model for cat nutrition research: Cat owner involvementAs cats continue to rise in popularity, and more cat food products are developed for them, research can help fill gaps. Enter an initiative involving cat owners.Adventures in Pet FoodAlternative pet food sales growth: Market savior?If it weren’t for high growth in fresh, dehydrated, freeze-dried, air-dried and similar diets, pet food sales in developed markets like the U.S. would show no increases.Adventures in Pet FoodPet food prices over time: History doesn’t repeat, it buildsData on U.S. pet food spending and pricing (both producer and retail) show steady increases over decades to the current, challenging level for pet owners and producers.Adventures in Pet Food2026 trends: Consumers look to resilience, value, nostalgiaHuman food trends for 2026 are focusing on economic uncertainty and consumer anxiety. Does this approach apply to pet food, and to what extent?Adventures in Pet FoodTop 5 pet food claims, human food trends: Health is the linkHealth is a common theme tying together leading pet food claims and top human food and beverage trends for 2026, according to consumer surveys.Page 1 of 83Next Page
