Research Notes: Page 11

Insect-based Cat and Dog Food

U.S. pet owners open to insect protein, but knowledge lags

A new Kansas State University study shows U.S. dog owners are receptive to insect-based proteins — but lack knowledge about their health benefits, presenting a key opportunity for pet food brands.

Shopper selecting cat food from display in pet store

Purina opens 2026 research grant applications on human-animal bond

Universities, NGOs and research institutions can apply for up to $40,000 in funding by August 15, 2025, to study the effects of human-animal interactions.

The Human-Animal Bond Studies (HAB) program supports innovative scientific research to deepen the understanding of the unique connections between humans and their pets.

Pet Food Market

Health over habit: How U.S. pet owners are reshaping the pet food market

As budget-conscious consumers redefine value in the pet aisle, health and wellness benefits — not just prices – are driving purchasing decisions, says Packaged Facts’ Shannon Landry.

Playful Australian Shepherd puppy leaping through grassy meadow

Pet Food Ingredients

Study: Microbial protein shows strong pet palatability

In taste tests, cats and small dogs preferred MicroHarvest’s MPX protein over control diets, demonstrating potential for microbial protein in pet food formulations.

Crumpled white medical gloves with textured surface

Toxic heavy metals found in pet foods imported into China

Chinese researchers identified chromium, arsenic and mercury in U.S., European and Asian dog and cat foods.

Four cats in rock band leather jackets with fierce expressions

Pet Food Ingredients

Upcycled carrot gummies and sauces for dogs are palatable, healthy

Carrot-based gummies and sauces are both palatable and nutritious, while upcycling misfit roots to reduce agricultural waste.

Playful dog holding fresh carrot in watercolor painting with soft colors

Survey reveals gaps in pet obesity awareness, owner-vet communication

New data from the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention highlights low body condition score awareness and mixed communication around pet obesity.

overweight-cat-drinking-coffee

Pet Food Ingredients

Report: Rendered ingredients support $51.7B pet food industry

New research highlights the nutritional, safety, and sustainability benefits of rendered ingredients, which made up over 4 million tons of U.S. pet food in 2024.

Freshpet advances research on pet-human health connection

Company will partner with the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) to learn more about the human-animal relationship.

Research has shown a connection between the health of pet parents and the health of their pets.

New research shows owners unaware of soil’s role in pet food

New findings from Mars reveal gaps in understanding of ingredient sourcing and soil health’s role in pet food production.

A mucky pup sculpture, named Ellie, popped-up outside the “SOIL: The World at Our Feet” exhibition at Somerset House sponsored by Mars, Inc., demonstrating the role healthy soil plays in growing high quality ingredients.

Pet Food Processing

Study: HPP preserves nutrients, extends shelf life

Research from JBT Marel finds high-pressure processing maintains antioxidants and flavor while improving food safety.

The JBT Marel study concluded that high-pressure processing did not affect the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory bioactive compounds during different HPP treatment conditions.

The Farmer's Dog adds $10 million investment for vet research

The investment is designed to advance pet nutrition and support veterinarians as essential partners in pet health.

The new investment will build on the company’s existing veterinary research including significant studies on the impact of food on dog hydration, relative supersaturation, and several ongoing projects.

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