Give pets the nutrition they deserve with algae-based omega-3s, a rich, natural source of DHA with zero impact on the ocean.
Brand Insights from Corbion
The pet food industry is making major strides in innovation, with bulk bags of dry and flavorless kibble no longer the norm. Owners see their pets in a new light and prioritize better health and new formats for daily meals and treats.
Global Pet Expo 2024 showcased the industry’s recent innovations, from ice cream and candies to freeze-dried foods, in order to grab the attention of pet parents. But there’s one element that trumps all else when it comes to pet food: better nutrition.
Today, nutrition has reverse implications to brand loyalty. Owners who are more nutrition-focused are exploring different options and are no longer brand loyal when it comes to their pets’ food. This sentiment is reflected in the market, with about one-third of pet food product launches coming from new companies or brands within the pet space between 2019 and 2023, according to Mintel.
Whether launching a new brand, exploring new product formats, or expanding an existing line, how can pet food companies and manufacturers ensure they are answering consumer demand for better nutrition without sacrificing palatability or price?
Meet algae-based omega-3s. Microalgae offers a novel way to produce nutritious pet food more affordably, all while reducing pressure on precious marine resources. According to a recent study conducted by YummyPets on behalf of Corbion, 70% of pet parents across Europe and North America pointed to omega-3 as the number one ingredient when asked ‘Which ingredients would you like to find in your pet food?
With traditional sources like fish oil no longer able to meet the growing demand for omega-3s, microalgae offers pet companies a sustainable and stable source of the super ingredient.
But not just any alternative omega-3 ingredient will do. Pet food companies should prioritize ingredients with DHA, as pets do not need to convert the nutrient before using it. ALA, on the other hand, requires conversion to DHA and is not very efficient, with the majority of unconverted ALA simply used or stored as energy or fat. Supplying DHA via pet food is much more effective, efficient and economical than converting DHA from ALA.
Omega-3 DHA provides pets with the nutrition they need throughout all life stages, supporting:
- Brain Health: DHA is a key component in the brain and plays an important role in neurological development and cognitive function in puppies, kittens and seniors
- Heart Health: Omega-3s have anti-inflammatory and anti-arrhythmic effects and can reduce the risk of heart diseases and maintain a healthy heart
- Kidney Health: EPA and DHA supplementation can slow down the progression of kidney disease and supports overall wellbeing of renal function
- Skin and Coat Health: Omega-3s reduce inflammation in dry skin and allergies, promotes hair follicle health, can decrease the amount of shed and supports shinier coats for pets
- Eye Health: DHA is an important component of retina, supporting normal vision and overall eye health
- Joint Health: EPA and DHA have strong anti-inflammatory properties to reduce inflammation in the joints for aging pets and pets with arthritis
Corbion is addressing the demand for sustainable omega-3 DHA through AlgaPrimeâ„¢ DHA P3. Produced in closed fermentation tanks and powered by renewable energy, sugar cane is converted into sustainable algae-based omega-3s. This alternative ingredient enables pet food manufacturers to overcome the challenges of including omega-3 DHA, as AlgaPrimeâ„¢ DHA P3 offers the highest levels of DHA on the market.
AlgaPrime™ DHA P3 is available in biomass powder form, making it easier for manufacturers working with higher DHA inclusions to increase nutritional value and advance the sustainability of pets’ diets. Its versatile format is suitable for dry, wet, and injection-mold applications, supporting innovation for new and established pet food companies alike.
With AlgaPrimeâ„¢ DHA P3, adding omega-3 DHA into pets' diets is easier than ever:
- Cut the middle fish: Go straight to the natural source and enjoy all the health benefits of algae-based omega-3 DHA
- Better for the planet: Zero impact on the ocean and a positive impact on your carbon footprint
- Easy-to-use: Highly concentrated biomass powder means it's suitable for multiple applications
Learn more about how your product can benefit from sustainable, nutritious algae-based omega-3 DHA at Corbion Algae ingredients – sustainable solutions for pet food.