Applications - Pet Food
We offer a wide range of ingredients for pet food. Gelatine increases protein content, is low calorie and has excellent binding texture capabilities. We supply fish, chicken, bovine, porcine gelatines and collagen to be used in your pet food products.
We are also able to blend and grind to create bespoke ingredients that match your NPD requirements. So If there’s a particular bloom or blend of ingredients you require then we are able to offer this outside of our standard product range. We understand the importance of good quality ingredients when it comes to our furry friends, that’s why we can educate you on the best ingredients for your manufacturing process and what will work to meet consumer demands.
Gelatine alternatives in pet food
Whilst gelatine in pet food has its benefits – such as soothing the digestive system and supporting bone and joint wellbeing – many pet owners are looking for a more natural ingredient list and therefore the rise of using hydrocolloids is on the up. For wet pet food, the use of hydrocolloid blends will help create the right texture of meat emulsion. Hydrocolloids, supplied by Healan, can be added to wet pet food to improve its functional properties, such as thickening, gelling, emulsifying, stabilisation, viscosity, and coating. Hydrocolloid blends require a lower dosage and are easier to use during the production process, allowing time and cost savings.
Popular hydrocolloids used in pet foods
The most used hydrocolloids in pet foods and treats/chews are:
- Guar Gum
- Xanthan Gum
- Carrageenan (although see our recent blog for updates on this)
- Agar
- Pectin
Pea Protein is also gaining traction as a high protein ingredient. It’s a protein concentrate extracted from peas that provides iron and many of the essential amino acids, that are both important for healthy muscles and a healthy immune system.
Chosing the right ingredients for your pet food products
Selecting the right ingredients for pet food is crucial for several reasons:
Nutritional Adequacy: Just like humans, pets require a balanced and complete diet to maintain their health and wellbeing. The right ingredients provide the necessary nutrients such as proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals in appropriate proportions. Poor ingredient selection can lead to deficiencies or excesses that could harm your pet’s health.
Specific Dietary Needs: Different pets have different dietary requirements based on factors such as age, breed, size, activity level, and any health conditions they might have. Choosing ingredients that cater to these specific needs ensures your pet gets the right nutrients to support growth, energy levels, and overall health.
Allergies and Sensitivities: Some pets can develop allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients. Selecting the right ingredients involves avoiding allergens that could trigger adverse reactions in your pet. Common allergens include grains like wheat and common proteins like beef or chicken.
Digestive Health: High-quality ingredients that are easily digestible can promote better gastrointestinal health in pets. Poorly digestible or inappropriate ingredients can lead to digestive issues like upset stomach, diarrhea, or constipation.
Weight Management: The right ingredients play a crucial role in weight management for pets. Obesity is a common issue among pets, and ingredient selection can impact the calorie content and overall nutritional profile of the food, helping to maintain a healthy weight.
Long-term Health: A diet made up of high-quality ingredients can contribute to your pet’s long-term health and longevity. It can help prevent or delay the onset of chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems.
Coat and Skin Health: Ingredients rich in essential fatty acids, like omega-3 and omega-6, can improve the health of your pet’s coat and skin. These nutrients contribute to a shiny coat and reduce the likelihood of skin issues.
Dental Health: Certain ingredients in pet food, like kibble with appropriate textures, can help promote dental health by reducing plaque and tartar buildup as pets chew.
Ethical and Environmental Considerations: Some pet owners prefer ingredients that align with their ethical or environmental beliefs. Choosing sustainably sourced ingredients and avoiding controversial additives might be important for some pet owners.
Taste and Enjoyment: Pets are more likely to enjoy and eat food that’s made from high-quality ingredients that provide good taste and flavor. This ensures that they receive the necessary nutrition without having to coax them into eating.
Selecting the right ingredients for pet food is essential for providing optimal nutrition, maintaining health, and ensuring the overall well-being of your furry companion.
What we can offer:
- Advice to meet your specific product and process requirements
- Bulk pack options
- Low MOQs
- Stock held in the UK
Contact us for samples and further information.
