Pet food inflation grew in January and February 2022, though not as high as inflation for human food and other consumer goods, or for the overall US economy.

Some pet owners seem willing to pay more for sustainable pet food packaging, but challenges to create it and educate consumers about recycling remain.

As part of the global economy, pet food can’t avoid crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain disruptions and, now, the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Pet owners spent more on dog and cat food and treats in 2020 versus 2018, according to the APPA National Pet Owners Survey, and more owners bought online.

Consumers are increasingly influenced by sustainability claims, and pet food brands can make those by using meat byproducts, both traditional and newer ones.

A growing number of pet owners say they are open to buying pet foods with previously demonized ingredients like soy, and new research helps make the case.

AFIA data show increases in pet food exports that, though small, occurred despite ongoing supply chain and transportation disruptions worldwide.

FDA’s DCM and pet food investigation seems dormant, though others are still doing research, while U.S. pet food may face risk from African swine fever.

How does inflation in the pet food sector compare to the overall inflation rate, which has been raging in the U.S. and other countries during the pandemic?

The sustainability trend in human food may overlook the role of nutrition and health, requiring consumer education that could apply to pet food, too.