Ananda Portella Felix holds a doctorate in Animal Nutrition from the Federal University of Paraná (UFPR). She completed a postdoctoral internship at the University of Illinois and currently conducts research on the nutrition of companion animals, with a focus on the intestinal health of dogs and cats. Ananda is an associate professor in the Department of Animal Husbandry at UFPR and also serves as the coordinator of the Dog Nutrition Studies Laboratory.
**What is the current state of the animal nutrition market?**
The pet food industry is one of the most promising sectors, especially during the pandemic when many other markets struggled. People can cut back on some products or services, but not on their pets' food. Even if they opt for cheaper options, demand remains steady. Additionally, the number of companion animals has grown due to increased isolation, whether from the pandemic or living far from family. Pets are no longer just animals—they're part of the family, and that’s reflected in the market.
**What challenges does the market face, and how can they be overcome?**
One of the biggest challenges is the rising cost of raw materials, which have gone up by over 50% in some cases, leading to shortages. This is particularly difficult because product labels often specify certain ingredients, making it hard to substitute without compromising quality. Passing these costs fully to consumers is not always feasible. In Brazil, the tax burden is extremely high—about 51% of the price of pet food comes from taxes, compared to around 8% in other countries. This leads to the misconception that pet food is a luxury, but it's actually essential for animal well-being.
Competition is also intense, offering consumers more choices but making it harder for brands to stand out. However, this competition drives innovation and quality improvements.
**Why is innovation so important in such a competitive market?**
Innovation is key to staying relevant and growing. It starts with developing new ingredients and additives that improve nutritional value without raising prices. The pet food industry has pushed advancements in plant and animal protein sources, driven by the high standards required for pet nutrition.
**What myths about the pet food market should be debunked?**
There are many misconceptions. For example, people believe that genetically modified ingredients are harmful, or that synthetic preservatives cause cancer. Others think by-products are low-quality leftovers. But in reality, all ingredients must meet strict quality and safety standards. Education is crucial to changing these perceptions.
**What are the main conventional and alternative ingredients used in pet food?**
Common ingredients include extruded dry foods made from corn, rice, wheat, and soybean meal. Protein sources like poultry meal and fish oil are widely used, while plant-based options like soybean meal and corn gluten meal are also common.
**What factors determine ingredient quality?**
Safety is the top priority. Is the ingredient safe for pets? Does it offer nutritional value? How much does it cost per nutrient? And is it functional—can it improve health beyond basic nutrition?
**How can biotechnology help in creating better diets?**
Biotechnology plays a vital role in improving digestibility, creating alternative proteins, and even advancing cell-cultured meat. These innovations can lead to healthier, more sustainable pet foods.
**What about sustainability? Are ingredients more impactful than packaging?**
Yes. While sustainable packaging is important, the environmental impact of ingredients is far greater—over 90% of the footprint comes from formulation. Using co-products and optimizing nutrition can significantly reduce waste and environmental impact.
**What are the future trends in the pet food market?**
There's a growing preference for natural and non-GMO ingredients, as well as natural preservatives. Sustainability is no longer a trend—it's a necessity. Companies need to balance consumer demands with practical, eco-friendly solutions.
**How does clinical nutrition contribute to animal health?**
Functional nutrition is becoming more common in veterinary care. Specialized diets can prevent and manage diseases, especially in breeds prone to specific health issues.
**What is the most common health issue in dogs?**
Obesity is a major concern. Neutered pets often eat more than they need, leading to weight gain. There's a need for lower-calorie options and better education on portion control.
**What advice do you have for those interested in pet nutrition research?**
This field requires multidisciplinary skills—nutrition, science, communication, and market understanding. Success depends on balancing what's best for the animal with what the owner wants. Collaboration across disciplines is essential to create the best possible products.
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