Uncover the secret behind your pet’s favourite crunchy treats: leavening agents. Learn how they transform textures and enhance nutrition.
Advanced pet food drying and cooling solutions
Bühler Group introduces advanced drying and cooling systems for pet food, focusing on sustainability, enhanced efficiency, and consistent product quality.
18 INDUSTRY TRENDS
Pet food industry’s sustainable transformation
The global pet food industry evolves with consumer demands for health-focused, natural, and sustainable products, propelling significant growth and innovation.
PACKAGING AND LABELLING
Pet packaging trends redefined
The pet food industry embraces sustainability and innovation, with packaging, labelling, and machinery trends enhancing efficiency and consumer trust.
Paws and reflect
Welcome to Pet Food Hub, the pawsome inaugural digital magazine brought to you by Food Review! We are thrilled to take you on this exciting journey where we connect food manufacturers and pet food producers, fostering partnerships that inspire innovation and set the bar higher for pet nutrition, machinery, labelling, and packaging solutions. Our mission is simple yet impactful: by uniting these industries, we aim to create superior pet food products through shared knowledge, advanced technology, and a little sprinkle of creativity. In this edition, we unpack the science behind pet nutrition with some fascinating features lined up: Ever wondered what makes pet biscuits delightfully crisp and airy? Bragan Ingredients spills the secrets to these irresistible textures on page 8.
Then, Savannah Fine
Chemicals dives into South Africa’s pet food market trends, focusing on the future of pet nutrition and sustainability. Head on over to pages 18 to keep your finger on the pulse of innovation. We also tackle the hot topic of sustainable packaging and labelling in the pet food industry. From biodegradable pouches to mono-material canisters and refillable containers, we explore the driving forces behind sustainability and the growing demand for resealable, convenient designs that cater to pet owners of today.
Bühler’s advanced drying and cooling systems take centre stage on page 12. The stainless steel Solis dryer ensures a food-safe drying process while maintaining quality and efficiency—it’s a game-changer you don’t want
Out & About in the pet world
to miss!
We’ve saved the cherry on top for last. Flick to the final pages to discover the latest and trendiest tech and gadgets making waves in 2025. Think GPS trackers that keep your furry friend safe or eco-friendly, ultra-comfy pet beds your pets will adore. This issue is more than just pages; it’s a celebration of innovation, insights, and a shared commitment to making the pet food industry better, smarter, and kinder to the planet. So, paws for a moment, grab your coffee (or a bowl of kibble for your sidekick), and enjoy this pageturner packed with tales of transformation and creativity. Here’s to keeping our tails wagging and our readers engaged!
Kelebogile (Lebo) Nondzaba
What: Global Pet Expo 2025
Where: Orlando, Florida
When: March 26-28, 2025
Website: www.globalpetexpo.org/
What: Petfood Forum 2025
Where: Kansas City, Missouri, USA
When: April 28-30, 2025
Website: www.petfoodforumevents.com/
What: Zoomark International 2025
Where: BolognaFiere, Italy
When: May 5-7, 2025
Website: www.zoomark.it/en/home/2804.html
What: Pet Fair Asia
Where: Shanghai, China
When: August 20-24, 2025
Website: www.en.petfairasia.com/
Pet food science unveiled
Uncover the secret behind your pet’s favourite crunchy treats: leavening agents. Learn how they transform textures and enhance nutrition.
LEAVENING AGENTS IN PET FOOD
When it comes to pet food, we often focus on proteins, vitamins, and flavours, but have you ever wondered what makes pet biscuits delightfully crisp or those treats so light and airy? The answer lies in leavening agents - the unsung heroes that give baked pet treats their irresistible texture. Just like in human baking, these ingredients help the dough rise, ensuring the perfect crunch for our furry friends.
For pet food manufacturers, the right leavening agents can make all the difference. They improve texture, enhance digestibility, and contribute to a pet’s overall health. Among the most commonly used are sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), calcium carbonate, monocalcium phosphate, and ammonium bicarbonate - each bringing its own unique benefits.
SODIUM BICARBONATE –
THE CLASSIC
LEAVENER
Sodium bicarbonate, more commonly known as baking soda, is a staple in both human and pet food production. When combined with acidic ingredients, it releases carbon dioxide, creating tiny air pockets that give biscuits a light and crispy texture. This aeration process makes treats easier to chew and digest, especially for smaller or older pets.
Beyond texture, baking soda plays a role in balancing pH levels in pet food formulations, preventing excessive acidity while improving the overall stability of the product. It’s a tried-and-tested ingredient that ensures a consistent rise in baked pet treats, making them just the right amount of crunchy.
CALCIUM CARBONATE –
THE DUAL-PURPOSE
INGREDIENT
“Leavening agents give pet treats their irresistible texture and crunch.”
Calcium carbonate is a true multitasker. While it functions as a leavening agent, it may also serve as an essential source of calcium for strong bones and teeth. When exposed to heat and moisture, it releases carbon dioxide, helping create an airy, structured texture in pet biscuits. But the benefits go beyond just crunchiness. Calcium carbonate may also be used to regulate stomach acidity, which can improve digestion
and reduce issues like acid reflux in pets. By incorporating this ingredient, manufacturers not only enhance texture but also provide valuable nutritional benefits.
MONOCALCIUM PHOSPHATE – THE PRECISION LEAVENER
Monocalcium phosphate (MCP) is a key ingredient in controlled leavening, often paired with baking soda to create a perfectly calibrated rise in pet treats. This ensures consistency in texture, so each treat is just as light and crunchy as the last. But MCP isn’t just about aeration - it’s also a rich source of phosphorus, an essential mineral for energy metabolism and bone health. By including MCP in pet food, manufacturers ensure pets get both the perfect texture and an important nutritional boost.
AMMONIUM BICARBONATE – THE SECRET TO ULTIMATE CRUNCH
For those extra-crunchy pet biscuits, ammonium bicarbonate is often the key ingredient. Also known as baker’s ammonia,
this powerful leavening agent completely decomposes during baking, releasing gases that create a light, porous texture. Unlike baking soda, it leaves behind no residue, making it ideal for low-moisture, dry pet treats.
Ammonium bicarbonate is particularly useful in creating pet biscuits that stay crisp over time, extending shelf life without affecting flavour. It’s a go-to ingredient for pet treats that need a satisfying crunch without any unwanted aftertaste.
BAKING SCIENCE MEETS PET NUTRITION
Leavening agents may not be the first thing that comes to mind when picking out pet food, but they play a vital role in creating treats that are not only enjoyable but also nutritious. Whether it’s the classic lift of baking soda, the mineral boost from calcium carbonate, the controlled aeration of monocalcium phosphate, or the ultimate crunch from ammonium bicarbonate, each of these ingredients contributes to the perfect balance of texture and taste. So the next time you see your pet happily
munching on a biscuit, know that there’s a little bit of science and a lot of love baked right in. At Bragan Ingredients, we proudly supply these essential leavening agents to the animal feed industry, ensuring that
every pet treat is crafted with the perfect texture and quality.
Bragan Ingredients
– www.braganingredients.co.za
LEAVENING AGENTS
Enhance texture & crunch for a satisfying bite.
Add nutritional value with essential minerals like calcium and phosphorus.
Bragan Ingredients
Extend shelf life by maintaining crispness and product stability.
Ammonium bicarbonate, Calcium carbonate, Monocalciu m phosphate and/or Sodium bicarbonate work to:
Bühler Group introduces advanced drying and cooling systems for pet food, focusing on sustainability, enhanced efficiency, and consistent product quality.
INNOVATIVE DRYING TECHNOLOGY DEFINED
The production of companion foods today carries all of the requirements of yesterday, like moisture uniformity, energy efficiency, and manufacturing reliability. Then, there is the added need for process flexibility, and the growing need to adhere to strict government requirements on food safety. Profitability
remains a critical requirement. When it comes to choosing a technology partner to help navigate this more complex landscape, the choice becomes clear.
Since 1963, Bühler has built their unequaled expertise in pet food drying by understanding the science of drying. This includes pioneering innovations like dual
Advanced pet food drying and cooling solutions
plenum airflow design—the standard for all quality pet food dryers today—automation products that optimise the drying process, and a keen focus on hygienic design. Superior process knowledge, drying knowhow, and demonstrable commitment to pet food safety sets Bühler solutions apart from others. Bühler provides processors with a
“Hygienic design ensures safer and cleaner processing environments.”
SANITATION AND EASY MAINTENANCE
Each Solis machine has full access to the dryer interior, which allows for easy maintenance and cleaning. The machine’s fully welded frame features minimal horizontal surface areas, preventing build-up, and minimising the chance of cross-contamination between product types. Continuous fines management reduces downtime and makes for a cleaner production process.
Maximized production: The Solis features a dual plenum airflow that ensures a uniform moisture content at the dryer exit. The multi-pass design reduces floor space requirements, and gentle treatment throughout the drying process means a higher quality product and a higher yield at the discharge end.
Key features for hygience and efficiency:
1. Food safe design: Hygienic design from top to bottom provides a cleaner process.
2. Superior air management: A unique dual-plenum airflow design provides a more uniform product.
3. Efficient operation: Direct drive fans and efficient drive motors make optimal use of energy.
4. Durable construction: Heavyduty construction and high-quality components ensure steady production.
competitive edge through increased efficiency, profitability, and flexibility in today’s lean manufacturing environments.
is a cleaner drying process, significantly reducing fines outside the dryer and shortening cleaning times.
SOLIS DRYING SOLUTIONS FOR PET FOOD
Addressing the increased focus on food safety regulations and requirements, the Solis takes advantage of state-of-the-art hygienic design at every opportunity. The dryer is constructed from stainless steel, providing a food-safe environment throughout the drying process. An open channel frame, sloped surfaces, and a floor reduce the ability for fines to collect and harbor bacterial growth. This minimises cleaning downtime and maximises production. The cooler has been separated from the dryer to guard against the bacterial problems associated with condensation and fines build-up.
ENHANCED FINES MANAGEMENT
The Solis combines proven fines management technology with new innovations to provide a more effective, efficient, and hygienic solution. The product conveyor features a traditional fines drag, while the plenum sections feature an all-new continuous fines removal system. The result
User-friendly, efficient controls: Solis offers straightforward, intuitive controls that optimise the performance and efficiency of the pet food drying operation. Standard controls feature easy startups, shutdowns, temperature controls, fan controls, conveyor controls, and more. Adding AeroPro Advanced Controls provides even greater handling, efficiency, and productivity, with modules for Moisture, Evaporation, Humidity, Energy Monitoring, and Product Tracking. These advanced controls can significantly increase profitability and have a short ROI.
Increased access for maintenance: Downtime for cleaning can eat into valuable production time. The Solis has been designed to shorten the cleaning cycle as much as possible while still providing a food-safe drying process. The innovations in this area include an increase in the distance between the lower conveyor and the dryer floor, which provides greater access; large inner and outer doors that make for quick, easy, and effective cleaning; and a unique support structure that puts fewer feet to the factory floor, making cleaning beneath the dryer much easier.
Consistent product feeding: An uneven product bed will result in either under-drying or over-drying, which can result in profitability
losses or out-of-spec product. An even load on the conveyor is critical to getting the most uniform moisture content. The AeroFeed OSP programmable oscillating feeders allow uniform drying by spreading the product evenly across the conveyor bed. Fine-tuning adjustments to the feeder can be programmed via the control panel while the dryer is operating, without interrupting production.
Complete pet food production: Bühler offers the most complete end-to-end pet food production solution in the industry today. From raw material handling through grinding, mixing, extrusion, drying, and coating, Bühler’s innovative machine and systems provide a level of precision, flexibility, and efficiency that’s unrivaled in the pet food industry.
Process Knowledge and Support: More than seven decades of experience has resulted in unequaled knowledge in thermal processing. Bühler’s advanced pilot testing facilities and
expert process engineer support help develop your products and processes, and ensure systems are designed to exact specifications. An experienced field engineering staff can provide an overall process survey and recommendations to increase efficiency or productivity.
GLOBAL PRESENCE AND LOCAL SUPPORT
Bühler has sales and service stations in more than 140 countries around the world. This extensive network provides customers with the quick and professional support that only a global technology partner like Bühler can provide. The full breadth of customer service is available to Bühler customers no matter where they are, including technical support, spare parts, and emergency services, along with process evaluations, energy audits, and training.
Bühler - www.buhlergroup.com/drying.
The global pet food industry evolves with consumer demands for health-focused, natural, and sustainable products, propelling significant growth and innovation.
GLOBAL PET FOOD INDUSTRY OVERVIEW
The global pet food industry is undergoing significant transformation, driven by evolving consumer demands for healthier, natural, and sustainable products. According to a recent report by Bloomberg Intelligence, the pet care industry is expected to grow by more than 45% to surpass US$500 billion by 2030. Pet food specifically is forecasted to increase nearly 7% this year and maintain an annual growth of approximately 5%, reaching US$146 billion by the end of the decade. The United States remains the dominant market, followed by Europe, which accounts for nearly one-third of global sales. Additionally, China’s pet care sector is anticipated to grow at a compound annual rate of 6%.
One of the most notable trends in the pet food industry is the increasing focus on health and wellbeing. Pet owners are prioritising nutritional content, seeking foods fortified with vitamins, minerals, and immune-supporting ingredients (Pet Food Industry, 2025). Natural and minimally processed ingredients are gaining traction, with consumers favouring transparency in labelling and avoiding artificial additives. Cost-effectiveness remains a key factor, with brands striving to offer value without compromising quality. The rise of online shopping is also influencing
the industry, with digital platforms providing greater convenience and personalised product offerings. Furthermore, sustainability is playing an essential role, with alternative protein sources, such as Plant-Based and insectderived ingredients, gaining interest globally (IFEEDER, 2024).
SOUTH AFRICAN PET FOOD MARKET INSIGHTS
South Africa presents a unique perspective on pet nutrition. In this market, the emphasis remains on natural, high-protein products with clear labelling and minimal processing.
Pet Food Industry’s Sustainable Transformation
Nevertheless, there is potential for Plant-Based proteins with strong natural credentials. A noteworthy development in South Africa’s pet food sector is the exploration of sustainable protein sources, particularly from wild game. Lallemand’s Yeast-Based Solutions for Pet Food: Lallemand Bio-Ingredients, represented and distributed in South Africa by Savannah, offers a premium range of yeast-based ingredients tailored for the pet food industry, ensuring both palatability and nutritional excellence. Brewer’s yeast and yeast extracts act as effective pet food palatants, enhancing
DID YOU KNOW?
Lallemand’s yeast-based ingredients, especially brewer’s yeast, provide essential nutrients and palatability, making pet food both nutritious and flavourful.
flavour while providing essential nutrients. Rich in high-quality proteins, brewer’s yeast supports muscle maintenance and overall pet health. It supplies key amino acids vital for growth and recovery, making it an excellent dietary component for both young and ageing pets. Beyond its protein content— typically around 50% in inactive yeast—yeastbased products offer a concentrated source of B vitamins, including B1, B6, and B12. These vitamins play a crucial role in energy metabolism, nervous system function, and skin and coat health. Brewer’s yeast is also a natural source of essential trace minerals such as selenium and zinc, known for their immune-boosting and antioxidant properties, promoting overall vitality in companion animals.
LALVITA® T31 AND WHOLE-LYFE® 933
Lallemand’s Lalvita® T31 and WholeLyfe® 933 (autolysed yeast) provide highly appetising options, delivering bold, savoury notes that naturally attract pets to their food. Whether used in dry snacks, wet meals, or treats, their rich umami profiles enhance palatability, making each bite more appealing. Beyond taste, both contribute to the overall sensory experience, encouraging even the fussiest eaters to enjoy their meals. For formulators seeking allergen-free solutions, Lalvita® 2130 offers an alternative to brewer’s yeast, delivering essential nutritional benefits without introducing gluten into the formulation. For pet food brands prioritising sustainability and premium nutrition,
PLANT-BASED ALTERNATIVE PROTEINS
INGREDIENT INNOVATION
THAT'S VALUE DRIVEN
HEALTH & WELLNESS FOR PETS
Additionally, for pet food formulations incorporating plant-based alternative proteins, Lallemand, through Savannah, offers torula yeast-based masking ingredients, such as the Toravita® range. Toravita® 024, for example, combines its naturally high protein content (>48%) with flavour-masking properties. This ingredient supports the development of pet food using diverse alternative protein sources, enabling flavourists to work from a
We supply the pet care industry with high-quality ingredients and functional additives, supporting pet food manufacturers, supplement brands, and grooming specialists. Partnering with leading global manufacturers, we offer innovative solutions for enhanced nutrition, improved digestion, and overall pet wellness.
more neutral base that can be customised to suit companion animals’ preferences while completing the nutritional profile. Engevita® HiPRO Beyond presents an exceptional alternative protein source. With a well-balanced flavour profile, high digestibility (as demonstrated through in vitro PDCAAS results), and the absence of antinutritional factors, this complete yeast-based protein
provides all essential amino acids. It is particularly beneficial for puppies, kittens, and senior pets requiring superior nutrition. Unlike many alternative proteins, Engevita® HiPRO Beyond boasts a mild, pleasant taste without undesirable off-notes.
VERI-TE RESVERATROL
Veri-te™ Resveratrol is another ideal ingredient for use in canine health products to support age-related challenges. Many scientific studies have revealed chronic inflammation and oxidative stress as an important risk factor in the increasing incidences of cardiovascular, metabolic and cognitive conditions among companion animals. Stiffening of joints, loss in vitality and diminishing quality of life are the consequences of oxidative stress in dogs
due to aging. Resveratrol promotes a normal inflammatory response and combats oxidative stress in dogs. Data suggests resveratrol supplementation depresses oxidative burst reactions while promoting pro-inflammatory leukocyte cytokine production and decreasing anti-inflammatory cytokine production. Verite™ resveratrol is therefore a perfect solution for specialized pet food to target joint, bone, cognitive, cardiovascular, or metabolic health. As the pet food industry continues to evolve, Lallemand’s yeast-based solutions provide a sustainable, high-quality option to meet the growing demand for natural, nutritious, and functional ingredients for pets.
Pet packaging trends redefined
The pet food industry is constantly evolving, striving to meet the demands of increasingly health-conscious consumers while maintaining efficiency and sustainability. As reported by some of the leading food manufacturing companies featured in SA Food Review magazine, there are several notable trends in packaging, labelling, and machinery that are reshaping the industry in 2025.
SUSTAINABLE PACKAGING SOLUTIONS
Consumers are prioritising sustainability more than ever. This shift drives brands to adopt sustainable packaging options such as biodegradable pouches and compostable films. Using mono-material canisters and refillable containers is becoming the norm, particularly in Europe. These eco-friendly alternatives not only reduce environmental impact but also enhance product shelf life. Companies are innovating with materials like biodegradable films that replace traditional plastics, ensuring food safety and quality while lowering carbon footprints.
Convenience and premium design: Today’s pet owners are looking for convenience in pet food packaging. This trend pushes manufacturers to develop resealable pouches and easy-to-open designs, which simplify
The pet food industry embraces sustainability and innovation, with packaging, labelling, and machinery trends enhancing efficiency and consumer trust.
DID YOU KNOW?
smart packaging with sensors and QR codes now offers real-time product insights and engages tech-savvy consumers.
storage and use while preserving product freshness. Along with convenience, there is a surge in premium packaging that appeals to consumers who view pets as family members. Sophisticated designs featuring foil stamping, embossed logos, and minimalist aesthetics reflect the product’s premium quality and cater to discerning buyers.
INTERACTIVE AND TRANSPARENT LABELLING
Ingredient transparency and clear labelling remain key to gaining consumer trust. Packaging now prominently features ingredient sources, nutritional information, and certifications in a clean, easy-to-read format. Innovations in labeling include interactive
elements like QR codes, which engage techsavvy consumers and provide added value by linking to detailed product information. This approach aligns with the demand for clean labelling and authenticity in pet food.
Advancements in packaging machinery: The adoption of advanced machinery is crucial for the industry’s growth, especially in optimizing production efficiency and sustainability. Automated systems like robotic palletisers enhance the speed and precision of packaging. Innovative machinery, such as Levapack’s eco-efficient models, handles biodegradable materials and minimises energy consumption. Moreover, the integration of IoT in packaging machines allows real-time monitoring and quality
control, ensuring optimal product conditions during production and transit. Sustainability and technological integration: Technology plays a significant role in facilitating sustainable practices within the industry. Intelligent packaging that incorporates sensors, RFID tags, and thermochromic ink ensures product safety and freshness. The use of smart packaging technology enhances consumer engagement by offering real-time product insights and storage information. Meanwhile, modifications in material science allow the creation of packaging that’s both biodegradable and suited for the preservation needs of fresh and frozen pet products.
CUSTOMISED PACKAGING DESIGNS
Pet food packaging is becoming more tailored to regional preferences and consumer habits. Hyper-personalisation allows brands to connect with local markets by incorporating culturally relevant motifs and heat-resistant materials suitable for specific climates. This trend is supported by machinery that offers flexibility in handling various pack sizes and materials efficiently, catering to diverse consumer bases without significant adjustments in production lines.
As the pet food industry continues to grow, these packaging, labelling, and machinery trends will play a pivotal role in shaping its future. By embracing sustainability, convenience, and innovation, brands aim to meet the evolving demands of consumers while reducing environmental impact, ensuring a win-win for both pet owners and the planet.
Paw-some gadgets your furry friends will love
From smart technology to eco-friendly solutions, 2025’s pet product trends reflect the growing focus on health, sustainability, and innovation. Discover the cutting-edge tools and products reshaping pet care across the globe.
Automated Pet Feeders
Wi-Fi-enabled feeders allowing pet owners to schedule feeding times remotely via smartphone apps.
Biodegradable Waste Bags
Eco-friendly options for pet waste disposal, aligning with global sustainability goals.
Chew-Resistant Toys
Highly durable and safe toys designed for heavy chewers.
Eco-Friendly Pet Beds
Beds made from sustainable and biodegradable materials, catering to environmentally conscious pet owners.
Smart Collar GPS Trackers
Devices to monitor pets’ location and health metrics like heart rate and calories burned.
Self-Cleaning Litter Boxes
Smart, Wi-Fi-connected litter boxes that efficiently clean themselves after each use.
Through an innovative and out the box approach to our clients needs we are able to provide practical, efficient and cost saving solutions to almost every challenge.
With the manufacturing plant consisting of 10 colour and 8 colour MPS EPW560’s and a full compliment of the latest offerings in finishing equipment for the conversion and inspection of our shrink sleeves, multi-layer sachets and wrap around labels, ISW is one of only a handful of narrow web printers capable of producing wide Lay Flat shrink sleeves, achieving a L/F of 276mm from a printed web width of 575mm.
