Oregon State University releases report on canine gut health

Gut microbes found in wild wolves may be the key to alleviating a debilitating gastrointestinal condition common to domestic dogs, according to a study led by researchers at Oregon State University-Cascades.

In a paper published in Applied Microbiology, the authors report a novel strain of Paenibacillus bacteria with characteristics of a probiotican organism that conveys a health benefit to the host.

In this case, the benefit would be to head off canine inflammatory bowel disease, a chronic illness characterised by vomiting, reduced appetite, wight loss, flatulence, a rumbling stomach and/ or abdominal discomfort, said Bruce Seal of OSU-Cascades’ biology program.

“At present there is no known cure for this ongoing dysbiosis of the gastrointestinal tract, and there are limited options for treatment,” Seal said. “Underlying causes of the condition include an animal’s genetics, environmental factors, the immunological state of the GI tract and, maybe most importantly, an altered gut microbiome.”

The research, a collaboration between scientists at OSU-Cascades and Oregon State’s Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine, is an important step toward a dietary supplement or food additive capable of steering the composition of a dog’s gut microbiome back toward that of the wolf, with which it has common ancestry.

In this study, gastrointestinal material was collected from a dead wolf one day after it died from injuries sustained from being struck by a car. The scientists isolated 20 different gut bacteria that preliminary genetic analyses indicate have probiotic qualities, and for this paper they performed whole genome sequencing on a novel paenibacillus strain. The bacterium encodes enzymes that can digest complex carbohydrates such as starches, Seal said. It also has gene systems expressing antimicrobials.

Seal added that the researchers plan to perform whole genome sequencing on four or five other bacterial species among the 20 isolates.

Seal and OSU-Cascades colleagues Pat Ball, Evan Forsyth and Kristina Smith co-led the study along with former colleague Heather Broughton. The team also included OSU-Cascades students Jennifer McCabe, Jessika Bryant, C Cristoph Klews, MiCayla Johnson, Ariel Atchley, Thomas Cousins, Analiska Dominguez, Marie Gabriel, Katie Middleton and Natasha Bowles. Several students were supported by the OSU Undergraduate Research, Scholarship and the Arts program and the OSU-Cascades Layman Fellowship program.

Mark Ackermann and Robert Bildfell also contributed to the research while with the Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine’s Oregon Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory in Corvallis. Bildfell has retired, and Ackermann is now the director of the USDA Agricultural Research Service’s National Animal Disease Center in Ames, Iowa.

Petfood market revenue to cross US$168.3 billion by 2029

The pet food market was valued at US$97 billion in 2019. The market is projected to be worth US$168.3 billion by 2029, at a CAGR of 6 percent, according to the analysis.

The pet food market has witnessed significant growth and transformation in recent years, reflecting the increasing importance of pets in people’s lives. This industry encompasses a wide range of products, including dry kibble, canned food, treats and specialised diets. It caters to various pet species and health requirements.

Pet owners today are conscious about the nutritional needs of their animals, driving the demand for premium and organic pet food options. The market is also influenced by trends such as the humanisation of pets, with owners seeking pet foods with natural ingredients, and specific health benefits.

E-commerce has revolutionised the way pet food is distributed and purchased, providing convenience and a vast array of options for consumers. Sustainability and eco-friendly packaging have become crucial concerns for pet food manufacturers and consumers, leading to the development of eco-conscious products.

The pet food market’s growth is not limited to developed countries. Emerging markets are experiencing a surge in pet ownership, boosting the demand for quality pet food products. As a result, the industry continues to innovate, offering diverse choices and ensuring the well-being of pets worldwide.

Key takeaways from the market study

In terms of animal type, the cats and dogs segment accounted for a combined share of around 80 percent of the global market in 2019.

The organic nature segment of the pet food market is likely to reach a value of US$23.5 billion by 2029.

The market in North America is poised to develop at a CAGR of 6.2 percent until 2029.

The market in Asia Pacific is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 5.9 percent until 2029.

The United States held a market share of 40 percent of North America in 2019.

Global pet food market – key drivers and trends

Pet owners are increasingly willing to invest in highquality, premium pet food products. Health-conscious pet owners seek nutritious options, leading to the rise of specialised diets, natural ingredients, and functional additives catering to specific health needs.

There is a growing interest in alternative protein sources for pet food, such as plant-based, insect-based, or lab-grown proteins.

Pets are increasingly seen as family members, leading to an increasing focus on pet wellness. This trend has led to the demand for gourmet and artisanal pet food, and functional treats.

Regional landscape of the pet food market

North America boasts a high rate of pet ownership, with dogs and cats being the most popular pets. This widespread pet ownership creates a substantial demand for pet food products, driving market growth. North America has rigorous regulations and quality standards for pet food products. Pet food manufacturers must adhere to these standards, ensuring the safety and quality of the products available in the market. This regulatory environment builds trust among consumers, encouraging them to invest in commercial pet food options.

Urbanisation and increasing disposable incomes have led to a rise in pet ownership as economies in the Asia Pacific region continue to grow. As many people move to urban areas and adopt pets, the demand for convenient and high-quality pet food products has surged.

There has been a shift in pet feeding habits with the influence of Western culture. Pet owners in Asia Pacific countries are increasingly adopting commercial pet food products, moving away from traditional homemade diets. This shift has led to a growing market for various types of pet food.