Pet food industry shifts: Merger deal, novel ingredients, and a new push for sustainability
Here’s a roundup of the latest key events shaping the sector.
UK merger
Butcher’s Pet Care (BPC), a leading UK pet food manufacturer, has agreed to be acquired by Inspired Pet Nutrition (IPN), a portfolio company of CapVest. The deal, signed on August 23, is expected to close in Q4 2024. Founded in 1983, BPC is known for its wet dog and cat food products, including brands like Butcher’s, Blink!, and Classic. Operating from a facility in Crick, Northamptonshire, BPC also produces own-label pet food and holds a strong market position in Poland, where Butcher’s is the second-largest dog food brand.
IPN, based in Thirsk, North Yorkshire, is recognized for its Harringtons and Wagg brands and has been expanding its portfolio since CapVest acquired it in 2020.
Ingredient innovation
Calysseo has announced the availability of its novel protein, FeedKind Pet, to European pet food producers following its first major shipment from its Chinese production hub. This non-GMO protein, free from animal and plant ingredients, is made through fermentation and can be used in various pet food products, including dry kibble and treats. Calysseo, a joint venture between Calysta and Adisseo, has begun international shipments following export approval earlier this year. The protein is now approved for use in the EU, UK, and Canada.
Strategic partnerships
Insect meal producer Innovafeed has entered into strategic partnerships with US pet food companies Jiminy’s and Arch. These collaborations, featuring Innovafeed’s Black Soldier Fly (BSF)-derived ingredients under the "Powered by Hilucia" label, were unveiled at North America’s Superzoo pet retail event. The co-branded products, Jiminy’s Good Grub Dog Food and Arch’s Insect and Plant Recipe Dog Food, will soon be available online and at major pet food retailers. The Powered by Hilucia label aims to raise awareness of the environmental benefits of BSF-derived ingredients.
Sustainability push
In a move towards a more sustainable future for pet nutrition, EIT Food and Mars Petcare have launched an Open Innovation Challenge. This initiative aims to develop sustainable pet food ingredients by discovering innovative ways to transform agricultural byproducts into nutritious proteins and sugars that are digestible by pets. The challenge presents an opportunity for organizations leveraging innovative technologies to collaborate with the global leader in pet care.
Up to two finalists will receive support from Mars Petcare to develop a joint Proof of Concept. Applications are open until September 22.
