Fungal protein may enhance dog health and digestion

The research focused on a mycoprotein ingredient developed by Finnish biotech company, Enifer.

In the 42-day study involving 16 one-year-old beagles, diets with up to 20% Pekilo Pet showed 83.9% protein digestibility, good fecal quality, and a significant increase in gut microbiome diversity. Even a 4% inclusion rate improved beneficial gut microbes and reduced harmful bacteria, according to the research findings.

The Brazilian team also noted that the mycoprotein boosts the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which support gut health.

No significant differences were found in the palatability of reference diets and the diets containing 4%, 8%, or 16% of the fungal protein.

Founded in 2020 as a spin-off from the VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, Enifer has commercialized Pekilo technology, initially used by the Finnish forest industry, to convert industrial side streams into a high-protein ingredient called Pekilo mycoprotein.

The startup already has partnerships with major companies in the feed, pet food, and food industries, including Skretting, Purina, and Valio.

Produced through fermentation, Enifer's ingredient contains 60% protein and 22% fiber, including beta-glucan, along with smaller amounts of fat, minerals, and vitamins.

Protein digestibility​

Heikki Keskitalo, business development manager and co-founder of Enifer, referencing the study’s findings showing the average apparent digestibility coefficient (ADC) of crude protein in Pekilo Pet to be 83.9%, told us: “There is some variability in the data on protein digestibility for dogs across different protein sources. Poultry meal digestibility is found to be around 75-85% and soy protein 80%.”

One study​​ suggests that beta-glucan may enhance protein ADC in dogs, he continued.

Dog health ​

The Enifer lead believes the health benefits provided by beta-glucans are substantial, with growing evidence that they can improve dog gut health and immunity, along with additional benefits.

"A 2022 study​​ showed that obese dogs supplemented with beta-glucans had lower plasma basal glycemic levels and reduced cholesterol and triglyceride levels compared to an obese group without supplementation. Beta-glucan is also associated with increased satiety, which can aid in weight management in dogs.”

There is still limited data on how beta-glucans affect the gut microbiome of dogs across various breeds and ages, he stated. However, studies ​​have shown that factors such as age, breed, and body condition can significantly influence canine gut microbiota, said Keskitalo.

As to the implications of increasing gut microbiome diversity for overall canine health, he outlined how numerous studies highlight the critical role of the gut microbiome in animal health, demonstrating its influence on nutrient absorption, metabolism, and defense against pathogens. “Enhanced diversity within the gut microbiome has been shown to offer a range of benefits, including immune system modulation, stress reduction, protection against harmful bacteria, and improvements in growth performance.”

Regarding the role of SCFAs and branched short-chain fatty acids (BSCFAs) in canine health, Keskitalo explained: "The results show that dogs fed Pekilo Pet had higher fecal concentrations of propionate and butyrate, two key SCFAs that support intestinal health, primarily due to their anti-inflammatory properties. Butyrate, in particular, serves as the main energy source for colonocytes, helping maintain the integrity of the intestinal mucosa in the colon."

He added: "This mucosal barrier plays a critical role in separating the contents of the gut from the underlying tissues and bloodstream. It is crucial in preventing harmful substances, such as pathogens and toxins, from entering the body. A healthy and well-functioning intestinal barrier is essential for maintaining both gut health and overall health. If this barrier is compromised, it could lead to inflammation, infections, or other gastrointestinal disorders."

The study also found that Pekilo Pet increased the probiotic bacteria genera Lactobacillus and Lisimosilactobacillus, while reducing harmful bacteria like Enterocloste, which is linked to colorectal cancer in humans, said Keskitalo.

Regarding long-term use, he said the fungal protein is safe for most dogs, though Dalmatian dogs, which have a genetic issue with nucleotide metabolism, should follow a low-nucleotide diet.

Further research ​

Pekilo Pet can also be used in cat food, though formulation adjustments may be needed for optimal palatability.

The startup plans to conduct more feeding studies on cats to gain more insights into providing optimal applications for feline diets.

Enifer is also looking to measure the impact of the fungal protein on dogs' blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

Scaling production ​

Enifer expects its production to scale up by 2026, potentially serving as a model for other upcycled proteins. Keskitalo said the company’s expansion is supported by the legacy of the original Pekilo production, providing a foundation for its current process and growth plans.

“In contrast with many other startups, we are not starting our scaleup from zero. We are lucky to build on the legacy of the original Pekilo, which was produced in Finland between 1975 and 1991. Although we have refined the process, and it now diverges in some ways from the original, we still have the blueprints and proof of viability of the original plants on which to build.

“In addition to the plant currently under construction​​, we are already planning larger production facilities that would focus exclusively on producing Pekilo Pet, which is targeted at animal nutrition. These will undoubtedly address the demand outside Finland.”