Page 59 - FoodFocusThailand No.223 October 2024

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Humanization of Pets Fuels

Demand for Natural Colors

in Pet Food

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly boosted pet ownership worldwide, as many sought comfort and
companionship during isolation. This surge in pet ownership has driven the global pet food market to new
heights, with a valuation of USD 131 billion in 2023 . Projected to grow at a compound annual growth
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rate (CAGR) of 5.6% from 2023 to 2028, the industry is experiencing a profound shift towards natural and
organic products. As pets increasingly become cherished family members, pet owners, now often referred
to as ‘pet parents’, are demanding higher-quality, natural ingredients in pet food, including natural colors.

The Rise of Pet Humanization are the main worldwide references for what can be labelled
The concept of pet humanization has rapidly evolved, with as ‘natural’. These definitions typically consider factors like
pets now seen not just as animals but as integral family the source and processing of raw materials, the use of
members. Pet parents are committed to providing their ‘fur additives, and GMO status. While there is convergence on the
babies’ with the same level of care and nutrition they would idea that natural products are minimally processed, there are
offer their children. This shift in perception has heightened the differences in how raw materials and additives should be
demand for pet food that mirrors human food in quality, evaluated.
appearance, and nutritional value. We offer a wide range of US and European pet food-
compliant products for dry, extruded, wet, and treat products.
Why Natural Colors Matter Our colors are sourced from nature and made from ingredients
Colors not only enhance the visual appeal of pet food but like orange and black carrots, sweet potatoes, annatto, apples,
also help mimic the appearance of human food, allowing pet and carmine. These natural colors not only meet regulatory
owners to share meaningful eating experiences with their pets. standards but also align with the growing consumer demand
Celebrating special occasions like birthdays, Halloween, or for natural pet food products.
Valentine’s Day with visually appealing, naturally colored pet As the trend of pet humanization continues to grow, the
treats strengthens the bond between pets and their owners. demand for natural colors in pet food is set to rise. Pet parents
Contrary to the misconception that pets cannot perceive increasingly seek to offer their cherished companions the
color, dogs and cats do see colors, albeit in a limited spectrum. highest quality care and nutrition, fueling a preference for
Pet owners are drawn to food that looks appetizing and natural ingredients that align with their commitment to their
flavorful, believing that visually appealing food is also healthier pets’ well-being.
and tastier for their pets. “Natural colors can brighten and Thailand has emerged as a leading hub for pet food
enhance pet food, making it look fresher, more vibrant, and manufacturing, ranking among the top five exporters of dog
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meatier to pet owners, while also compensating for any color and cat food worldwide from 2021 to 2023, according to the
loss due to processing or storage conditions. Thailand Pet Food Association. With its world-class
manufacturing facilities and expertise, the country continues
Navigating the definition of ‘Natural’ to attract numerous brands seeking OEM partnerships, fueling
The term ‘natural’ in pet food has been the subject of year-on-year growth in the pet food industry.
regulatory scrutiny for years. In markets like the USA and
Europe, definitions provided by organizations such as the
Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) and
the European pet food industry trade association (FEDIAF) More Information Service Info C007

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