Trending: Pet Food 100th episode special: Where the pet food industry has been and where it's heading
Dec 4, 2025
In this special discussion, guests Dr. Greg Aldrich, a pet food science expert from Nulo, Marcel Blok, a seasoned European consultant, and Dr. Gail Kuhlman, a board-certified nutritionist, delve into the evolution of the pet food industry. They explore the shift from utilitarian foods to family-oriented products and the impact of consumer demands on nutrition. The panel also addresses innovations in minimal processing, sustainability, and the importance of diversity in leadership roles, while forecasting future trends like personalized nutrition and local production.
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Most Volume Still Uses Traditional Processes
- Conventional extrusion and sterilization still account for ~90–95% of global pet food volume.
- True innovation often follows trends set in human food and arrives slowly in pet markets.
Recruit Diversity To Drive Change
- Recruit diverse talent and build inclusive leadership to accelerate innovation and adaptability.
- Use intern programs and partnerships with universities to expose students to pet food careers early.
Fund Academic Training Deliberately
- Industry should invest more in academic research and training to grow talent and innovation.
- Redirect a portion of industry fees or funds to support education, grants, and student training programs.