The first pet food made for humans: Kormotech unveils the updated concept for its super-premium brand, Optimeal
Kormotech Group of Companies has introduced a refreshed concept for its super-premium pet food brand, Optimeal Holistic. The presentation took place at Kormotech’s booth during the 21st international trade show for pet food and pets, Zoomark, in Bologna. The updated Optimea Holistic is designed for responsible pet parents who aim to extend the lives of their pets through balanced nutrition. The formulas are developed to support pets’ long-term health. Presentation of the new Optimeal concept at Zoomark 2025 “Responsible pet parents recognize an animal’s right to care, attention, and support for both physical and emotional well-being — and they strive to uphold it,” says Roman Shpak, Senior Brand Executive / Premium Brands. “High-quality nutrition is one of the most tangible expressions of daily care and a key factor in ensuring long-term health.” The Optimeal brand was launched by Kormotech Group in 2013 and is now available in over 30 countries. The official brand relaunch is scheduled for this fall, with products set to be available to customers in September. The product range will include both dry and wet food for cats and dogs, developed by a team of nutritionists and veterinarians from across Europe. The products are tailored to the nutritional needs of pets of different ages, sizes, and physiological characteristics. Each Optimeal Holistic formula features carefully selected fresh and natural ingredients that ensure high digestibility and support the long-term health of cats and dogs. The recipes are also highly palatable — according to an Optimeal study in Germany, 93% of pets enjoy eating them. Key features of the refreshed Optimeal: Over 80% of people consider pets part of the family, and more than half view them as full-fledged family members. They are willing to invest time and resources into the well-being of their cats and dogs: in 2023, people in the U.S. spent more on pet care than on their children. A 2025 survey revealed that 39% of Americans cut back on personal spending to afford expenses for their dogs. This trend extends far beyond the U.S. — the humanization of pets has evolved from a trend into the new norm. Responsible pet parents carefully study pet food ingredients, consult experts, and test products based on their pet’s needs. Kormotech’s goal is to give them confidence in making the right nutritional choices every day. “People are rethinking the role of their pets, recognizing the positive impact they have on their lives,” says Roman Shpak, Senior Brand Executive / Premium Brands. “They want to ensure their cats and dogs live long, active lives so they can enjoy many happy years together. Our renewed Optimeal Holistic is created precisely for these people.” Kormotech is an international family-owned company with Ukrainian roots, producing high-quality pet food for cats and dogs under the brands Optimeal, Delickcious, Club 4 Paws, Hav!, Miau!, and My Love since 2003. The company has manufacturing facilities in Ukraine and the EU, offering over 650 products. Kormotech is the market leader in Ukraine, ranks among the top 50 global pet food manufacturers, and is also in the top 21 most dynamic pet food companies. Its products are available in 50 countries, sold both under its own brands and those of partner companies.
The role of vitaminsin the immune system of cats and dogs
By Marijke van de Beek-Weij, MSc and Kevin Truyts, MSc, DSM Nutritional Products Making the most of a healthy and enjoyable life is only possible when our body is defended by an immune system that is nutritionally supported to work at its best. For us and for our pets, the immune system fights harmful bacteria and keeps other toxins that have invaded the body from making us ill. It is a complex and adaptive system that consists of many general functions, with complementary action to support optimum health. Through this adaptive functionality and support, it can develop a memory against infections, infectious agents and foreign substances. Young animals like puppies and kittens are most susceptible to infections as their immune system is not fully developed yet, because they have had little exposure to external threats like bacteria, viruses and foreign substances. A newborn’s immune defences are supported by the mother’s antibodies which are transmitted during gestation. This maternal protection becomes inadequate about 4 to 8 weeks after birth as the provided antibodies decrease below a protection threshold, resulting in an immunity gap. Provided the right nutrients via proper nutrition, young animals develop their own immune system over time. During adulthood the dog’s or cat’s immune system remains fully functional provided their daily diet delivers an adequate amount of key nutrients. With older age their immune function begins to decline, resulting in poorer antibody response at senior age (1, 2, 3). Therefore, throughout all life stages, an optimal supply of key nutritional ingredients in a pet’s diet is the best solution to ensure a high performing immune defence. Providing the proper nutrients has a significant influence on the ability of the immune system to manage disease challenges. Some examples of how different nutrients can help support the immune system to the benefit of the dog or cat are: Functioning of the immune system (See Figure 1) The body’s natural barriers, such as skin, villi and mucous membranes, play an initial role in the first line of defence against disease challenges. They are part of the so called innate (non-specific) immune system. If however, any undesirable substance or pathogen does manage to invade the animal then the body responds by activating the next steps of the innate (non-specific immune) immune system as well as the adaptive (specific immune) defence mechanism. Figure 1: A schematic overview of the functioning of the immune system:1. Microbes invade the body via a wound. 2. Mastocytes release substances that induce inflammation. This causes other immune cells to go to the infected area. 3. Macrophages remove these microbes. 4. Macrophages bind with B- and T-lymphocytes in the lymph nodes. The B-lymphocytes produce antibodies. 5. Antibodies activate other immune cells, such as macrophages and T-killer cells, to attack the invader. 6. T-helper cells lead antibodies and T-killer cells to the infected area. 7. The immune system is fully active. White blood cells (phagocytes) recognize and destroy pathogens. Specialized phagocytes – macrophages – remove microbes. Natural Killer (NK) cells are large lymphocytes that play a role destroying cells, for example, tumour cells and virus-infected cells. NK cells also secrete cytokines to defend against pathogens. All these activities are part of the innate, immune system. The specific, adaptive immune system allows the body to respond more efficiently to a repeated attack by similar pathogens. It stores up information, so it can recognize the pathogens should they invade again. The main players in this system are the B- and T-lymphocytes. B-lymphocytes produce antibodies that react with the pathogen. T-lymphocytes activate macrophages when they recognize a threat, which also destroy pathogens. Table 1: The types of defence mechanism in the immune system Vitamin A and β carotene Vitamin A is crucial for both the innate and the adaptive immune system and is of particular importance for its proper development. Phagocytes and T- and B-lymphocytes cannot function properly without vitamin A. Deficiencies are linked to a weakened and delayed immune functioning, such as reduced effectiveness of mucous membranes (4). Adding β carotene to the pet’s diet has been shown to stimulate the cellular and humoral immune response and acts as an antioxidant (5, 10). Through its antioxidant function it enhances the defence system and has been proven by several studies in animals and humans (6, 7). Studies have also revealed that puppies and kittens given β carotene show better innate and adaptive immune responses. β carotene supplementation significantly restores immune responses in older dogs when compared to their age-matched controls and younger counterparts (8). Important to mention is that cats can convert β carotene to vitamin A, but not in sufficient quantities to be helpful, so pre formed vitamin A is essential (5, 9). B-vitamins A number of B vitamins are linked to the immune system. Inadequacies of vitamin B6 result in fewer lymphocytes being produced, slowing down antibody reaction time. Niacin (vitamin B3) is important for healthy skin and mucous membranes. It is particularly important to ensure niacin adequacy in cat diets as they are unable to compensate for a shortfall through synthesis from tryptophan. Vitamins B6, folic acid and B12 are important in protein formation and various aspects of the immune system, including reduced activity of NK cells and lower production of cells (including basophils and mastocytes) which carry messages in the immune system via the signalling pathways of histamine (11, 12). Vitamin B1 is involved in the production of cholesterol and fatty acids that support the membrane function, the initial barrier against pathogens (12). Vitamin C Dogs and cats can synthesize vitamin C. However, many consider this vitamin as conditionally essential given its function in the immune system and powerful antioxidant support, helping to recycle vitamin E. Vitamin C reduces the tocopheroxyl radical that is formed when vitamin E gets into an oxidized state and therefor is capable of restoring the radical scavenging activity of vitamin E (13). When pets are experiencing periods of high stress, additional vitamin C supplementation is required to ensure its protective function. Vitamin C is
Closing the loop:How biomega® is helping the pet food industry work towards zero waste
Waste is driving a triple planetary crisis of climate change – according to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). For years, our food production and consumption model followed a take-make-dispose linear system. However, those days are now over. With a bigger push for a circular economy, those in agriculture and aquaculture are adopting new and innovative techniques to begin overhauling global food, feed and pet food systems. But we have a long way to go. In its latest report, UNEP found that an estimated 931 million tonnes of food (17% of total food available) was discarded as waste by households, retailers and food service outlets in 2019(1). Fortunately, initiatives like the Upcycled Food Association, are working to prevent food waste on this scale in the future. Under current estimates, the initiative could prevent 318 thousand tonnes of food waste per year(2). This rising imperative for zero waste solutions has revolutionised the way pet food is manufactured. Processes such as rendering has enabled the prevention of up to 50% of meat animal waste, with parts used to make protein ingredients for pet food, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions(3). Then, there are businesses like biomega® that use leading-edge biotechnology to transform salmon parts into premium ingredients for pet food manufacturers. The turning point The company’s CEO, Stig Petersen, recently shared his unique insight into how zero waste principles are evolving within the industry, particularly in response to changing consumer demands and legislation. “For decades, high quality raw materials from the marine sector have delivered ingredients for feed and pet food next to human food, health and nutrition. We’re at a real turning point in driving the key issue of sustainability, where a larger part of these raw materials can be made available for human health and nutrition,” commented Petersen. “What is meant to be food must be utilised for food where possible and thereby sustainability, in the context of the health and nutrition sector, is certainly no exception. Innovation in process design and manufacturing is at an all-time high and the consumer is more engaged than ever before. It’s clear that logical and robust circular economies are the way forwards, both commercially and for protecting the future of the sector. “Importantly for brands and product developers, as global consumers get savvier, the umbrella term ‘sustainability’ doesn’t hold the same commercial weight. Consumers want demonstrable proof and action. There’s a marked move towards building a stronger circular economy, removing waste from the equation. This covers areas such as manufacturing and logistics, but innovation can also be found in ingredient sourcing and production too. It’s likely that over the coming year, we will see massive acceleration in technology that directly addresses circular economy principles.” Reduce, reuse, recirculate Championing zero waste operations is part of the Norwegian-based company’s ethos – and they are not alone. According to Euromonitor research, many top global packaged food and pet food players have already defined their sustainability approach. Between 2020 and 2021, 80% of those companies identified had committed to reducing impacts on the environment with emissions-based targets(4). This included a stronger focus on renewable energy, sustainable and regenerative agriculture and carbon neutrality. “We’re proud to be well positioned regarding sustainability at biomega®,” continues Petersen. “Reducing the environmental burden of business has been crucial to our activities and we’ve been in the fortunate position of leading by example. For instance, our business has been certified by aquaculture environmental organisations previously and we have now started the process to achieve ASC certification as testament to our responsible operations. This includes sourcing from approved Atlantic salmon and optimising the use of marine resources.” For biomega®, location is pivotal to its success. The biosciences business has taken additional steps to ensure its operations are keeping carbon emissions to a minimum. As such, it is currently in the final stretches of building its new biorefinery at the Port of Hirtshals, Denmark, which is on track for completion this summer. The new multi-million EUR biorefinery will aim to support petfood and human nutrition manufacturers by extending the company’s capacity by a minimum of 20k MT raw materials. It forms part of a major investment by AMERRA Capital Management, which acquired biomega® in 2017, and Mirova Natural Capital. “With the Nordic region continuing to lead from the front to become 100% self-sufficient in terms of its gas supply, the Hirtshals biorefinery sources its gas directly from Danish distribution, of which 30% is sourced from biogas,” says Petersen. “Due to its location, any surplus energy will also be circulated around the port for future operational use. Aside from energy consumption, our new biorefinery is also located closer to the source of our raw material, further minimising our carbon footprint.” Meeting net-zero emissions targets Known as the green port development, the large-scale project aims to make the Port of Hirtshals a pioneer in sustainability. By 2027, it hopes to offer green energy as standard and operate a smart energy system, where surplus heat can be reused as part of industrial symbiosis(5). Projects like these form part of Denmark’s pledge to reach its 2030 target of 70% emissions reduction and climate neutrality by 2050(6). For biomega®, the biorefinery also assists in Norway’s push to reach net-zero targets by 2050 too(7). “By upcycling undervalued sidestreams through our enzymatic hydrolysis process into high-quality, premium ingredients for use in petfood, aquaculture and human nutrition applications, biomega® is a part of the responsible consumption and production movement,” explains Petersen. “Aligning with the UN Global Compact and sustainable development goals, we are forging a path that enables pet food manufacturers and brands to choose zero waste from the outset.” With more than 20 years of investment in its research and development into sustainable processes, biomega® is helping its customers and suppliers work towards a fully traceable and circular marine production system. Its biorefinery in Norway – and soon Denmark – operate to a 24/7 production continuity model using enzymatic hydrolysis. The patented process delivers minimal environmental damage due to its gentle separation
Trust – The currency that drives business growth in the 21st Century
By David Primrose, Petfood Consultant, Synergy Petfood Trust – What is it and why does it matter? Trust is intangible and we can’t touch it. However, it plays a highly significant role in shaping our daily lives, with both positive and negative outcomes, as outlined in the following examples: – Like all commercial enterprises, trust matters as it drives the success of the global petfood industry. History records that trust in commercial petfood was damaged by the melamine crisis of 2007 – 2008. This resulted in the largest and most costly recall in petfood industry history and the deaths of 000’s of pets. Anecdotal evidence also indicates that more pet owners became interested in making “homemade” petfood. Trust or mistrust affects all aspects of business performance both internally and externally: – Collectively these trust / mistrust effects reach across all stakeholders involved in the petfood supply chain, including willingness of pet owners to purchase a petfood brand. Trust is also important when it comes to innovation and market implementation of new products and impacts success, this is an important factor when we consider the need to implement sustainable raw materials and new food processing technologies in the petfood industry. Humanisation of petfood and future evolution Commercial petfood dates to the 1860’s with Spratt’s dog biscuits, with wet petfood entering the market in the 1920’s and dry kibble petfood appearing in the 1950’s. This indicates that petfood innovation is not new and continues to drive market growth now and in future. For many years, the concept of humanisation has driven both market growth and innovation in the petfood industry and this trend is expected to continue in future. The term “humanisation” of petfood does not have a formalised, harmonised definition and means different things to different people. For examples, it includes concepts like: – Why trust in petfood matters more than ever. Trust in food and petfood is essential to ensure it is safe, nutritious, legal and of the quality expected. When any of these fails, trust is damaged and we, our pets and the petfood industry businesses suffer undesirable effects like illness or we lose business. Ensuring safety, nutritional adequacy, legality, and quality requires a petfood system. In general terms, a (human) food system can be considered as a complex interlinked web containing: stakeholders e.g., consumers, food producers, retailers and regulatory authorities; processes e.g., food manufacturing, distribution, retail; and external influences e.g., climate, diseases, environment, and consumer beliefs that affect the production and consumption of food. This concept also applies to petfood, but why is it important? Clearly trust in safe, legal, and nutritious petfood of the quality expected is key to both pet owners and petfood manufacturers. However, trust is more likely to become of increasing importance as the industry faces up to challenges in the 21st Century. Petfood in the 21st century faces new opportunities and challenges. Based on ongoing humanisation, sustainability is a key trend that is likely to translate into the petfood industry on a growing basis, as pet owners become increasingly aware of issues like climate change and raw material availability. As a concept, sustainability embraces many aspects around a common theme of efficient resource utilisation including land use, greenhouse gas emissions, energy, water, packaging, and ingredients. In addition to consumers (pet owners) pushing development of sustainability, it is likely that other stakeholders including the petfood manufacturing sector (pet food manufacturers and suppliers), and regulatory authorities will also drive the sustainability agenda. To achieve sustainability goals, it is likely that the petfood industry will implement the use of alternative sustainable ingredients e.g., insect protein, microalgae-based oils, and the possibility of new food processing technologies. In implementing these novel technologies this will align the petfood industry with the human food sector’s sustainability initiatives and further enhance the concept of petfood humanisation. Whilst the fact that pet owners will be one of the driving forces for sustainability will help ensure engagement with novel technologies (ingredients and food processing), the industry must ensure effective messaging to build trust in these. Consumer acceptance of alternative food ingredients and novel food processing technologies. Like all industries, the on-going success of the global petfood industry depends on innovation in other parts of the consumer goods sector, lack of innovation is seen as contributory factors in business failure of companies like Blockbuster and Toys R Us1. We see many examples where innovation in human food systems translate into petfood including the use of ingredients to promote gut health in both humans and pets e.g., probiotics and pre-biotics and technologies like High-Pressure Processing (HPP) used to extend shelf-life and control foodborne pathogens in human foods like guacamole and “raw” petfood. Often new foods can be seen as “Frankenfood” for example genetically modified food ingredients. Another example of food that faced challenges with consumer acceptance is sushi. Whilst widely accepted in Japan, when first introduced outside the region western consumers were at first reluctant to engage with the concept of eating “raw” fish. However, in the US alone the market value of sushi restaurants was estimated at US$ 22 billion in 20192 indicating how “alternative” foods have been accepted. Acceptance of sushi has been identified by researchers in the US and Australia as a model in prediction of consumer acceptance of insects3. A critical success factor in successful implementation of innovative concepts is how we convey and present the benefits and opportunities to consumers who might distrust these, as outlined in the examples above. The impact of (mis)information sources on trust Like it or loathe it, we live in the digital era where social media is an important source of (mis)information that we are bombarded with 24 hours a day. This is an important determinant of how we believe in trust.Depending on how we respond to this information means the difference from positive or negative outcomes and actions. We see this in all walks of daily life from military conflict, how we engage with new products and how we purchase the petfood used
Pets In Society
By Roger W Dean Pet Populations – and the Pandemic At first glance, it was a matter somewhat surprising that the Petfood Manufacturers Association (PFMA) reportedly found it so easy to compile data for pet populations in the UK for 2021, owing to the disruption of daily life caused by measures to control the pandemic. In retrospect, however, the PFMA’s researchers will have had some aspects of hive research made easier by the measures taken to control the pandemic. Given the advice to, where ever possible, work from home, the researcher’s knock at the door will produce a welcome response. Lockdown will have been a trial for many people confined by government fiat to their dwelling places and the researcher’s visit may even have been positively welcomed. The effects of the pandemic on pet populations in the UK appear to have been dramatic, though there may be side effects which have yet to make themselves apparent. More on that later. The Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association recent release of its annual pet population data for 2021, confirmed that 3.2 million households in the UK have acquired a pet since the start of the pandemic. This has largely been driven by the so-called ‘Gen Z’ – born between 1997 and 2012, and Millennials, born between 1981 and 1996, two thirds of new owners are aged 16 and 34 and 56 per cent of new pet owners have children at home. Although 74 per cent of respondents claim their pet has helped their mental health through the pandemic, ‘the study raises pet welfare concerns’. According to the PFMA, ‘There are now 34 million pets in the UK, including 12 million cats and 12 million dogs, 3.2 million small mammals such as guinea pigs and hamsters, 3 million birds and 1.5 million reptiles. In total, this equates to 17 million households that are responsible for their pet’s welfare. Notably, over a third – 38 per cent – of new owners claim that having a new pet was like having a new baby and almost a fifth of families with children admitted that training ‘was more challenging than expected’. Sadly, 5 per cent have already had to give up a pet and this figure increased to 11 per cent among families. Nicole Paley, PFMA’s deputy Chief Executive commented that PFMA’s research confirmed the belief that ‘many more people are benefitting from pet ownership’ and that PFMA ‘are reassured by the mental health findings’. However, it was clear that PFMA needed ‘to consider the welfare of these new pets. As the survey highlighted, introducing a pet to a household in Covid times could have repercussions or create some unexpected difficulties. Paley also noted that PFMA had looked in more detail at the future concerns of new pet owners. Perhaps worryingly, although just 15 per cent had ‘a pet-friendly office environment, only 10 per cent were concerned about returning to work and spending less time with their pet. This figure increased among younger generations, with 15 per cent of 16-34 year olds ‘concerned about spending less time with their pet in the future’. Paley called for the PFMA to ‘work together with the pet care sector to ensure the 3.2 million households with new pets get the support they need’. Paley said that the support required was represented in terms of access to educational material, training and adequate flexible working from home ‘or pets in the office policies’. RSPCA pet welfare expert Dr Samantha Gaines said that as these figures demonstrate, ‘a huge number of people have added a new pet to their family during lockdown’ while other pet owners had made the most of spending more time at home during the pandemic ‘to enjoy the company of their pets. Dr Gaines said that many of our pets ‘were now used to having us around all the time while others have never known any different so we have real concerns that life post-lockdown, both in terms of a new routine and spending time alone, could be really difficult for them to adjust’ which, as Dr Gaines observed, ‘is why it’s so important that owners start to prepare them now’. In the absence of this preparation, pets could be facing their own crisis.’ There is, as might be expected, a great deal in the literature regarding pets in the context of the pandemic. A disturbing article in the Guardian newspaper published on 1 December 2021 reported that ‘The cats and dogs that helped us through the pandemic are increasingly being dumped in the street or handed over to charities – and pet shelters are dealing with the fallout. Pet Obesity There is little doubt that ongoing economic development has brought significant advantages to much of the UK’s population, even if it sometimes associated with concerning physical aspects such as an overindulgence in food or alcohol. However, with the increased financial resources being enjoyed by many families, part of those additional resources may likely be spent on acquiring a pet.As discussed above, with the intervention of the pandemic, the pet population of the UK has undergone an additional and, reportedly, substantial upwards further revision in pet numbers. In this context, veterinarians ‘have seen a worrying rise in obese pets’. The problem is not of recent standing. Another newspaper article highlighted the fact that pet obesity was ‘a growing problem’ in the UK – and the publication went on to highlight the fact that the article was ‘more than seven years old’. The article, quoting comments by the Peoples Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) expressed concerns over the fact that ‘Increasing numbers of obese cats, dogs and rabbits are developing similar health problems to overweight humans’, adding that ‘lockdown had made things worse’. The PDSA have engaged in a running commentary on the increasing problem of obesity in the nation’s pets. In a post on the PDSA’s website in 2019, it was reported that vets estimated that nearly half of dogs in the UK are overweight, pointing out that
The Power of PostbioticsGiving pets the best health support
With Alana Harvey-White,Commercial Manager Pet and Equine, Cargill The development and availability of functional ingredients are contributing to enriched pet food diets. Included in these ingredients are pre- and probiotics, and now the newly defined postbiotics. The core function of these is the association of microbes and the foods they feed on, which provides a favourable outcome. During the past 18 months, a postbiotic has been more accurately defined. The International Scientific Association of Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP) describes a postbiotic as ‘a preparation of inanimate microorganisms and/or their components that confers a health benefit to the host’. “Postbiotics may contain intact inanimate microbial cells and/or microbial cell fragments or structures with or without metabolites as end products,” says Alana Harvey-White. “They differ from pre- and probiotics in that they are the product of the two, when produced in the animal.” Prebiotics are generally fibres found in plant cell walls. They serve as fuel for beneficial organisms in the gut. Probiotics, such as live beneficial bacteria and yeasts, are found in the gut and provide ‘factories’ that can use prebiotics to make metabolites. The metabolites (postbiotics) are then utilised by the host animal, and have been shown to be highly beneficial to its health and well-being. “The effectiveness of in vitro pre- and probiotics, and therefore postbiotics, can be impacted by the health and stress status of the pet,” adds Mrs Harvey-White. “The great benefit of a postbiotic supplement is its consistency and stability.” Diamond V, a Cargill company, has been developing and producing ingredients, now defined as postbiotics, for more than 75 years. Its products are backed by research that includes more than 425 controlled research studies and 120 peer-reviewed publications across all livestock, pet and aqua species. Using innovative fermentation techniques and proven analytical methods, the company produces postbiotics in a highly controlled environment to ensure a consistent high quality and reliable product. They are produced through the precise fermentation of inputs – typically bacteria and yeasts and a proprietary nutrient-rich media – to generate a blend of more than 20 beneficial metabolites. These metabolites include amino acids, vitamins and short-chain fatty acids, which are known to support health. They are also proven to be stable through all typical manufacturing processes, such as pelleting, extrusion, retorting and aseptic packaging. “This is an advantage compared to many other supplements, and this is why the innovation of postbiotics has been a game-changer particularly in pet food,” adds Mrs Harvey-White. First for pets Cargill’s Diamond V developed and marketed the first such product for pets, called TruPet. TruPet has been proven to be effective in supporting immunity, digestion and vitality in dogs.“It is a leader in fermentation and postbiotic technology,” says Mrs Harvey-White. “TruPet contains a unique blend of bioactive compounds that work with the pet’s biology to support beneficial bacteria and balance the gut microbiome. The significance of postbiotics in pets, as shown by trials using TruPet, is more active dogs, a healthy digestive system with improved gut microbiome and less smelly faeces, and a better-supported immune system,” she adds. TruPet put to the test Species-specific trials show that the postbiotic additive supports immunity and promotes gut and overall health in dogs. Trial results showed that dogs fed a diet with TruPet had lower levels of key indicators that are known to increase when the immune system is activated, including white blood cells, neutrophils, TBARS and TNF-a. Cargill’s postbiotics have been proven to be highly appetising with food supplements containing its postbiotic preferred almost 2:1 compared with the control product. “Postbiotics should be considered a valuable part of pet nutrition,” adds Mrs Harvey-White. “Products like TruPet, which have been proven to support a strong gut and promote a healthier microbiome, can bring real benefits to the overall well-being of our pets.” TruPet was launched in Europe in 2021. It is a consistent product used in products to promote a healthy digestive system via the gut microbiome and an effective immune system, leading to healthy, active pets. TruPet is cereal-free, GMO-free and scientifically proven, and it is stable through processing. Other postbiotics from Diamond V for pets include Epicor Pets, for use in pet supplements and treats, and TruEquine for use in equine diets. “These all use the postbiotic technology developed by Diamond V to bring advantages to pet and equine wellbeing and performance,” adds Mrs Harvey-White.
dsm-firmenich Speaking at The Animal AgTech Innovation Summit
The Animal AgTech Innovation Summit, the leading technological innovations event in the animal agriculture industry, is set to take place on 8 – 9th April 2025. The event gathers global leaders in livestock production to discuss the sector’s innovations, challenges and opportunities, with a focus on the role of technology in achieving long-term economic and environmental sustainability. Experts from dsm-firmenich Animal Nutrition & Health will be at the event, with key Precision Services spokespersons available for insights and interviews. Leonardo Sá, Head of Precision Service Hub Scott Cavey, Director, Precision Nutrition and Health Timings Leonardo will speak at two slots, leveraging his experience introducing artificial intelligence into FarmTell™ – a complete software suite designed to transform feed mills, beef & dairy farms into increasingly profitable and sustainable businesses. 9th April, 8:00am – 9:00am Latin American Breakfast Briefing: North & Latin American Collaboration 9th April, 11:00am – 11:45am Optimizing Farm Data Efficiency: Farm Data Solutions for Profit & Sustainability Scott will host one speaking slot leveraging his expertise leading Verax™ – a decision-making tool that enables data-driven optimization of nutrition to improve your animals’ health, performance and environmental footprint. 9th April, 11:45am – 12:30pm Networking Roundtable Discussions – System to System Data Integration: Accelerating Adoption in Animal Agriculture A full program can be found here Availability for Interview Leonardo and Scott are available throughout the event for both interviews and general discussion. Should you be attending the Animal AgTech Innovation Summit and wish to speak with both experts, please reply to this email and we’ll be happy to facilitate a time to meet.
Evonik invests into technical upgrade of European methionine Verbund
Essen, Germany. Evonik is continuing to optimize its global production setup for MetAMINO® (DL-methionine) with a technical upgrade of its European methionine Verbund Antwerp (Belgium)/Wesseling (Germany). The low double-digit million euro investment requires a partial shutdown of these facilities for 8-10 weeks in the period May to July 2025. All existing contracts and supply agreements will be honored. “We are constantly working to further increase the process efficiency, reliability and sustainability of our three global methionine production hubs. This is how we remain competitive and ensure highest possible supply security for our customers,” said Dr. Dirk Hoehler, head of the amino acids business of Evonik’s Animal Nutrition business line. Measures to increase process efficiency and reliability include a new process control system and a new bagging station. Various technical improvements will contribute to reduce nitrogen, sulfur, and CO2 emissions. Hoehler: “To reduce our ecological footprint is an ongoing, strong motivation for us. We are committed to the strictest European sustainability requirements.” Evonik is the only global player in methionine that serves growing global feed markets from three world-scale production hubs in three regions of the world: Antwerp/Wesseling, Mobile (Alabama, USA), and Singapore. In the last three years, Evonik has invested over €200 million in expanding its methionine facilities in Singapore and in the backward integration of methionine production in Mobile. MetAMINO® is used in livestock production to feed animals healthily, efficiently, and sustainably. With its science-based approach, the Animal Nutrition business line of Evonik develops products, services and system solutions that help supply a growing world population with healthy, high-quality and affordable animal protein. COMPANY INFORMATION Evonik is one of the world leaders in specialty chemicals. The company is active in more than 100 countries around the world and generated sales of €15.2 billion and an operating profit (adjusted EBITDA) of €2.1 billion in 2024. Evonik goes far beyond chemistry to create innovative, profitable, and sustainable solutions for customers. About 32,000 employees work together for a common purpose: We want to improve life today and tomorrow. ABOUT NUTRITION & CARE The focus of the business of the Nutrition & Care division is on health and quality of life. It develops differentiated solutions for active pharmaceutical ingredients, medical devices, nutrition for humans and animals, personal care, cosmetics, and household cleaning. In these resilient end markets, the division generated sales of €3.76 billion in 2024 with more than 5,500 employees. DISCLAIMER In so far as forecasts or expectations are expressed in this press release or where our statements concern the future, these forecasts, expectations or statements may involve known or unknown risks and uncertainties. Actual results or developments may vary, depending on changes in the operating environment. Neither Evonik Industries AG nor its group companies assume an obligation to update the forecasts, expectations or statements contained in this release.
Alltech launches Planet of Plenty, LLC to advance agricultural storytelling, advocacy and education
New entity expands the reach of World Without Cows documentary and supports additional science-based agricultural storytelling and advocacy initiatives Alltech, a global leader in animal nutrition and crop science, has launched Planet of Plenty, LLC,a new business entity dedicated to science-led storytelling, advocacy and educational initiatives that amplify agriculture’s vital role in creating a sustainable future. This initiative builds on Alltech’s vision of Working Together for a Planet of Plenty®, which unites the agri-food community in creating a world where agriculture thrives, nutritious food is abundant and accessible, and our planet’s natural resources are replenished for generations to come. While most families had ties to agriculture just two generations ago, many people today lack firsthand exposure to how the world’s food is produced. This disconnect can lead to misconceptions and oversimplified narratives about agriculture’s environmental impact, the role of farmers in creating climate solutions, and the complexity of feeding a growing population while protecting natural resources. Through powerful storytelling, advocacy and educational initiatives, Planet of Plenty LLC aims to bridge that gap. “Through Planet of Plenty LLC, we can take viewers on a global journey — into fields, research labs and farming communities — where they will see firsthand the intricate relationship between agriculture, the environment and food and economic security,” said Dr. Mark Lyons, president and CEO of Alltech. Planet of Plenty LLC will serve as a collaborative hub where those within the agri-food community and beyond can: · Promote science-based storytelling · Advocate for the world’s agri-food producers · Support educational initiatives · Broaden the conversation about agriculture’s role in shaping a more sustainable future Planet of Plenty LLC’s flagship project is World Without Cows, a feature-length documentary that amplifies the diverse perspectives of researchers studying methane emissions, farmers implementing regenerative practices, experts tackling the challenge of nourishing a growing population, and people in rural communities who rely on cows for their livelihoods. Co-created by two award-winning journalists who now work at Alltech, World Without Cows takes viewers on a global journey to foster a deeper understanding of everything cows contribute — and what the world might look like without them. Over the past six months, World Without Cows has been screened at film festivals and events worldwide, sparking a broader discussion about the essential role of agriculture in sustainability, food security and the global economy. Through collaboration with Alltech’s in-house media team and extensive global network, Planet of Plenty LLC will continue to create visually compelling, deeply informative content that accurately portrays modern agriculture’s complexities and opportunities — using science-based insights and storytelling to engage with audiences, just as World Without Cows has done around the world. As interest in World Without Cows grows, this initiative offers supporters a mechanism to strengthen the documentary’s impact by opening doors to new audiences. Financial contributions to Planet of Plenty LLC will directly fund efforts to expand the documentary’s reach — and will also support additional science-based storytelling and advocacy initiatives that keep the conversation going. “Agriculture’s most powerful stories are told by those on the frontlines,” Dr. Mark Lyons said. “Driving meaningful change begins with awareness, understanding and broader conversations, which Planet of Plenty LLC will endeavor to cultivate.” To learn more about World Without Cows and how to contribute to Planet of Plenty LLC, visit worldwithoutcows.com/contribute.
TechMix Europe hires Mayte Aragon
TechMix Europe has hired Mayte Aragon as Supply Chain Manager. Working from the TechMix European headquarters in Barcelona, Ms. Aragon will be responsible for all supply chain functions across Europe including those with contract manufacturers, warehouses and distribution partners. She will continue to integrate the Supply Chain team into the broader innovation efforts. The scope of her work will include the complete portfolio of products that are designed to support animalsthrough physiological and behavioral challenges brought on by stress and other production factors. Ms. Aragon’s professional journey is diverse and includes many years working within the cosmetics sector for global consumer brands along with laboratories and other global manufacturing enterprises. She has spearheaded global, cross-functional work platforms designed to unite corporate stakeholders, manage inventory and assure all business units are operating at highest efficiency. Along with her Masters degree in Supply Chain Management, she brings more than 10 years of experience as Head of Production, that includes planning, forecasting, and extensive experience in packaging and logistics. “The International unit of TechMix has been growing steadily for years. Mayte will help drive focus, operational efficiencies and closer supplier relationships, allowing the entire team to work better and smarter with even more focus on customer success” says David Muysson, TechMix COO. TechMix has a robust product line of multi-species solutions that support animal performance. Focus is on bovine and swine products that include Fresh Cow YMCP®, YMCP Vitall®, Bovine BlueLite® and calf products such as BlueLite ReplenishM and BlueLite C Hydra Tabs® along with our innovative Baby Pig Restart® APF, and Swine BlueLite® among many others. The TechMix portfolio is key to keeping animal drinking, eating and producing™. For more information, visit: www.techmixglobal.com About TechMix: Since 1983, TechMix has been the leading innovator of technologies and products that support the physiologic needs of animals challenged by stress events and production demands. At TechMix, we listen to and work alongside producers and veterinarians to understand the challenges they face. It’s these relationships along with our family-owned foundation that enable us to remain nimble and quickly respond to the evolving health needs of animals. From our roots in hydration technology, we continue to innovate and develop highly-effective, non-pharma products—science basedsolutions that meet the needs of agribusiness and its consumers globally. This platform is the core to our resolve to keeping animals drinking, eating and producing globally. This platform is the core to our resolve to keeping animals drinking, eating and producing.