News & Newsletters: Page 779

Expanding pet industry gives entrepreneurs a chance for success

The American Pet Products Association estimates that consumers are spending more than US$50 billion on petfood and supplies, a 5% increase over the previous year. At a time when other industries are shrinking or at a standstill, the growing pet industry gives entrepreneurs the opportunity to start their own business selling popular pet products like organic petfood and treats.

Importer, consumer costs expected to increase with new FDA fees

In August, the US Food and Drug Administration announced plans to implement “re-examination” fees under the recently enacted Food Safety Modernization Act from importers who fail to comply with requirements materially related to food safety. Set to go into effect on October 1, the new fee structure will create additional costs and fees for both importers and consumers, according to Benjamin England, CEO of FDAImports.com and a former FDA employee.

Castor & Pollux partners with nonprofit Austin Pets Alive!

Castor & Pollux Natural PetWorks announced a partnership with Austin Pets Alive!, a nonprofit organization that implements no-kill programs in Austin, Texas, USA.As part of the partnership, Castor & Pollux will provide 1,000 pounds of petfood monthly to the shelter and will create a coupon program that gives a percentage of coupon-attributed sales to APA.

UK pet company launches dog weight loss product

A dog weight loss product recently launched in the UK aims to help solve the rising problem of pet obesity. Pooch & Mutt developed the Slimmin' Tonic to be added to petfoods, either by sprinkling it on top or by mixing it with water to make a "gravy."

Contaminated petfood may sicken pets, humans, veterinarian warns

In the last few years, an increasing number of petfoods and pet treats have been recalled due to Salmonella contamination concerns, showing it is not just human food that is subject to food poisoning. In a New York Times article, a veterinarian at the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that petfood contaminated with Salmonella can sicken not only pets that consume it but also humans that handle the petfood.

Thailand petfood company reports 2011 second quarter profits

Thailand-based Charoen Pokphand Foods reported a net profit of 4.869 billion baht (US$162.4 million) for the second quarter 2011, up 40% from the previous quarter. For the second quarter 2011, CPF reported sales revenue of 53.23 billion baht (US$1.78 billion), an increase of 11% over the same period in 2010.

Royal Canin's Russian petfood subsidiary announces 2010 profit increase

JSC Roskan, the Russian subsidiary of Mars' petfood brand Royal Canin, increased its net profit by 33% in 2010. JSC Roskan's net profit in 2010 was 290.9 million rubles (US$10 million), an increase from 2009's net profit of 218.6 million rubles (US$7.5 million), according to Spark-Interfax.

Pet Product News readers vote top petfood products

Pet Product News International conducted its first Retailers’ Top Pick Awards contest, in which the magazine's pet retailing readers voted on 14 pet product categories, including best cat, dog and bird food products. Top winners in the edible cat products category include: Bonus Bites Treats by Bravo; Signature Series for cats by Evanger’s Dog & Cat Food Co.; and Cosmic Catnip brand Catnip Bubbles by OurPet's.

Vet answers common petfood questions from consumers

With so many petfood choices on store shelves, consumers may be confused about what type of petfood to purchase for their dog or cat. In a USA Today article, Denise Elliott, a veterinarian who is also certified by the American College of Veterinary Nutrition, answers some of the most common questions she hears about choosing a petfood.

Merrick recalls Doggie Wishbone treats due to Salmonella

Merrick Pet Care is recalling 248 cases of its Doggie Wishbone pet treats because of potential Salmonella contamination. The affected treats are marked as follows: ITEM # 29050, UPC code 2280829050, Lot 11031 and a "Best By" date of January 30, 2012.

Swedish petfood, pet supply chain expands in 2011

Swedish petfood and supply chain Arken Zoo is expanding by opening 15 new shops in Sweden and Norway during 2011. Two stores are already in operation in Norway, and another three are signed up. Lars Bergkvist, CEO of Arken Zoo, predicts there will be at least 10 stores in Norway by the end of the year.

AFIA announces petfood regulatory training course

In October, the American Feed Industry Association will hold a regulatory training short course for petfood industry professionals in Arlington, Virginia, USA. The course will take place October 11-12, serving as training on how to work as a regulatory professional in the petfood industry.

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