According to a recent article posted by PetFood Industry News Pet Owners are starting to pay closer attention to the Sustainability of their products, increasing their awareness to the role their pets play in the world. They highlight the following in the article; Read on to learn how Freeze Drying can combat those issues.
Consumer surveys worldwide reveal varying levels of awareness and dedication to sustainability among pet owners, along with their willingness to pay more:
- Pet owners, like many consumers, are increasingly prioritizing sustainability in their purchases.
- A recent global consumer survey by Euromonitor International showed that 65% of pet owners expressed concerns about climate change and were more inclined to engage in "green" activities compared to non-pet owners.
- In emerging markets, a higher percentage of pet owners are focusing on environmental impact, with 80% in India, 74% in China and the UAE, and 72% in Brazil.
- The survey highlighted differences between pet owners and non-pet owners in sustainable practices, such as reducing plastic use, recycling, opting for sustainable packaging, buying sustainably produced items, and cutting back on meat consumption.
- Packaging preferences for sustainability include recyclable, biodegradable, refillable/reusable, paper, recycled content, compostable, and bio-based/plant-based materials.
- A survey conducted among pet owners in Canada, France, the U.K., and the U.S. by Yummypets and Pets International magazine revealed that a significant portion actively seek sustainable pet food packaging.
- While sustainability is deemed important by many pet owners, there is skepticism towards pet food companies' sustainability claims, with varying levels of trust across countries.
- Despite the importance placed on sustainability, only a small percentage of pet owners are willing to pay extra for environmentally friendly pet food, reflecting the impact of product pricing on purchasing decisions.
How does the process of freeze-drying contribute to addressing the sustainability concerns of pet owners?
Freeze-drying results in a final product that boasts improved stability and reduced moisture content, thereby lowering the risk of bacterial proliferation. This leads to a natural, healthier product with an extended shelf life that does not necessitate refrigeration. Additionally, freeze-drying aids in creating a lighter product, reducing packaging weight and simplifying transportation while eliminating the need for cold chain logistics. This method not only curtails food wastage caused by spoilage but also diminishes the overall carbon footprint associated with pet food manufacturing and distribution. By obviating the necessity for refrigeration and cold chain logistics, energy consumption is notably reduced, fostering a more environmentally conscious approach. Furthermore, the lightweight and compact nature of freeze-dried pet food enables more products to be transported in a single shipment, further lessening transportation emissions.
Moreover, freeze-drying plays a crucial role in maintaining the nutritional quality of ingredients, ensuring pets receive essential nutrients in their purest form. This process preserves flavors and nutrients without relying on artificial preservatives, rendering it a healthier choice for pets and a more sustainable option for environmentally aware pet owners. Opting for freeze-dried pet foods signifies a commitment to practices that prioritize environmental stewardship and the well-being of beloved animal companions.
Parker Freeze Dry aims to share the information and knowledge of how freeze drying being added to the petfood industry can not only enhance your product but helps aim for a sustainable future.
To meet with a Parker Freeze Dry Rep and discover how to add freeze drying to your petfood production request a consultation here.
If you are interested in trying it out and seeing how your product holds up to freeze drying, request a test run here:
