Petfood Forum Europe 2024: An Overview

Petfood Forum Europe 2024, set for May 6 at the prestigious Nuremberg Messe in Nuremberg, Germany, promises to be a cornerstone event for professionals in the pet food production sector. Hosted in Hall Sydney, Level 1 of NCC Ost, this conference provides a unique opportunity for attendees to engage directly with industry leaders and explore cutting-edge innovations in pet food technology and marketing.

 

Design Thinking in Pet Snack and Food Innovation: Crafting Connection and Delight

At the forefront of our schedule, David Molenberghs, Co-founder and Chief Innovation Officer at Smoofl, will discuss the shift from a science-driven approach to a design-centric philosophy in pet food development. Key highlights from his session will include:

• The integration of design thinking into product development.
• Strategies for transcending traditional approaches to create meaningful brand experiences.
• How design thinking can differentiate products in a competitive market.

 

 

Pet Probiotics: Understanding Pet Parents’ Beliefs, Motivations, Purchase Journey, and Needs

Lidiia Alaverdova, DVM and head of global marketing at Chr. Hansen will delve into the dynamic market of pet probiotics, emphasizing:

• Current trends and beliefs are influencing pet parents’ decisions.
• Insightful market research from the U.S., France, and China.
• Practical strategies for communicating the benefits of probiotics to enhance customer engagement.

 

Postbiotics Yeast vs. Bacteria for Pet Food: What is the Difference?

Dr. Francesca Susca, global pet product manager at Lallemand Animal Nutrition, will clarify the distinctions between yeast and bacterial postbiotics, covering:

• Differences in cell structures and functionalities.
• Impact of these differences on pet health and product applications.
• Guidelines for selecting appropriate postbiotic solutions based on specific needs.

 

Can Yeast and Yeast Derivatives Help Reduce Pathogenic Pressure in Companion Animals?

Dr. Aleks Szopinska will provide an in-depth look at how yeast and its derivatives can be pivotal in reducing pathogenic threats to pets. Attendees will gain insights into:

• The mechanisms by which yeast derivatives combat pathogens.
• Recent experimental findings support their efficacy.
• Potential implications for the development of new prophylactic strategies.

 

In Vitro Mineral Accessibility in Commercial Vegetarian and Vegan Dry Dog Foods

Mingyang Jeremy Zhu will present his findings on mineral bioavailability in plant-based versus traditional animal-based dog foods, focusing on:

• The impact of anti-nutrients on mineral absorption.
• Comparative analysis of nutrient profiles in vegetarian and vegan dog foods.
• Strategies for improving the nutritional value of plant-based pet foods.

 

Microbial Protein: Consumer Perceptions, Pet Acceptance of Novel Protein

Ally Motta explores the burgeoning field of microbial proteins in pet foods, discussing:

• Nutritional benefits and challenges of integrating microbial proteins.
• Consumer attitudes and the acceptance rates among pets.
• The path forward for incorporating innovative proteins in pet diets.

 

How to Act on Climate Change Impact on the European Pet Food Supply Chain

Zsoka Ardai, climate and sustainable sourcing lead at Mars outlines strategic responses to climate impacts on the pet food supply chain, including:

• Predicted changes in crop and meat production.
• The role of regenerative agriculture in mitigating these effects.
• Collaborative initiatives aimed at sustainable sourcing and resilience.

 

The Future of the Insect Protein Industry: Lessons Learned from Mature Animal Productions

Chloe Champion discusses the evolution of the insect protein sector by comparing it with established animal protein industries:

• Analysis of growth and development benchmarks from mature sectors.
• Strategies that could accelerate the advancement of the insect protein industry.
• Biosecurity and genetic improvements are key factors in industry growth.

 

Breakthrough Thermal Energy Extrusion Technology for Pet Food

Ed de Souza will introduce cutting-edge extrusion technology that enhances the cooking process of pet foods by:

• Offering precise control over thermal energy and mechanical shear.
• Improving efficiency, quality, and safety in pet food production.
• Exploring the impact of thermal extrusion on gut health and digestibility.

 

Mild Extrusion Process Yields Higher Resistant Starch That Improves Gut Health of Dogs

Dr. Isabella Corsato Alvarenga’s presentation focuses on the effects of mild extrusion processes on resistant starch production and its benefits for dog gut health:

• Comparative analysis of different extrusion settings and their impact on starch properties.
• The role of resistant starch in promoting healthy gut flora.
• Potential for enhancing pet food formulations to support digestive health.

 

Engage and Innovate at Petfood Forum Europe 2024

Join us at Petfood Forum Europe 2024 to connect with fellow professionals, discover industry innovations, and discuss the future of pet food manufacturing. Our sessions are tailored to give you the insights and tools needed to thrive in this dynamic industry. Register early for discounted rates and secure your spot at this essential gathering for pet food professionals.