Debbie Phillips-Donaldson, editor-in-chief of Petfood Industry, shares her insights and opinions on all things pet food, addressing market trends as well as news and developments in pet nutrition, food safety and other hot topics for the industry.
Recent research shows consumer purchasing habits have changed due to the pandemic, now driven by financial constraints, value or seeking certain claims.
Increased owner-pet interaction during the pandemic, plus ongoing product development and more convenience, is helping wet pet food sales continue to grow.
Many consumers consider sustainability in the foods they eat important, and with pets part of the family, it stands to reason this applies to pet food, too.
More plant-based dog foods are hitting the market while consumer interest in plants for human food and pet food grows, yet the category needs more R&D.
Though the overall feed industry for all species increased only 1%, dry pet food say healthy growth, at least partially driven by the COVID-19 pandemic.