TV personality and pet lover Rachael Ray is thanking consumers who purchased her Nutrish, Just 6 and Healthy Weight pet food and treats. Ray's “thank you” personal video message is delivered via a QR code that appears on more than 4.5 million packages of the pet food brands.
Ray developed the Nutrish pet food and treat line in 2008 with Ainsworth Pet Nutrition because she “wanted to be able generate a constant stream of revenue to feed and fund the needs of our shelter animals all across the country," Ray says in the video recording. Ray donates 100% of her proceeds from the sales of Nutrish pet food to organizations that help homeless animals.
“Research has found that 14 million mobile users in the US scanned a QR or bar code on their mobile device in June alone,” says Steve Joyce, director of marketing at Ainsworth Pet Nutrition. “We feel the QR code on the Rachael Ray Nutrish packages is a great way for consumers to hear directly from Rachael about her passion for helping animals and see how their purchase is really making a difference.”
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Petfood manufacturer donates cat food to clients who spay, neuter cats through SNAP clinics
Texas, USA-based pet food manufacturer Nulo has joined with the Spay Neuter Assistance Program to help encourage Houston and San Antonio, Texas, USA, residents to spay and neuter their feline companions.
Each client that brings their cat into SNAP for a spay or neuter procedure will receive a free bag of Nulo’s chicken and brown rice cat food while supplies last. Through its pet food donations to SNAP, the company aims to help control the problem of pet overpopulation.
"Spaying and neutering companion cats is especially important for Texans. Intact male cats are at a greater risk of injury and infectious disease. Instinct causes the unaltered male cat to stray in search of females, fight with other male cats, and spray urine to mark territory," said Dr. Jim Weedon, executive director of SNAP. "Additionally, the warm temperatures in Texas, cause cats to have a longer mating season than other areas of the country. Ultimately, this results in the birth of countless homeless kittens and puts a great strain on the resources of animal shelters and communities."
Each client that brings their cat into SNAP for a spay or neuter procedure will receive a free bag of Nulo’s chicken and brown rice cat food while supplies last. Through its pet food donations to SNAP, the company aims to help control the problem of pet overpopulation.
"Spaying and neutering companion cats is especially important for Texans. Intact male cats are at a greater risk of injury and infectious disease. Instinct causes the unaltered male cat to stray in search of females, fight with other male cats, and spray urine to mark territory," said Dr. Jim Weedon, executive director of SNAP. "Additionally, the warm temperatures in Texas, cause cats to have a longer mating season than other areas of the country. Ultimately, this results in the birth of countless homeless kittens and puts a great strain on the resources of animal shelters and communities."
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Nestle plans US$48 million wet pet food production investment in Russia
Nestle Purina PetCare annnounced plans to invest more than US$48 million to double the production of wet pet food at its manufacturing site in Russia.
The money will be used to add production lines at Nestle's pet food manufacturing facility in Vorsino, Russia. Company officials say the investment will double wet pet food manufacturing capacities within the next three years, as well as to produce the entire Purina range of pet food products sold in Russia and exported to other Commonwealth of Independent States countries.
The money will be used to add production lines at Nestle's pet food manufacturing facility in Vorsino, Russia. Company officials say the investment will double wet pet food manufacturing capacities within the next three years, as well as to produce the entire Purina range of pet food products sold in Russia and exported to other Commonwealth of Independent States countries.
AAFCO unveils pet food regulation website
The Association of American Feed Control Officials unveiled its new website, “The Business of Pet Food," which was developed to address frequently asked questions about US pet food regulatory requirements.
The site, www.petfood.aafco.org, includes explanations and links to resources from the states and US government with information about registration and licensing, ingredient listing, labeling requirements and laboratories and analyses.
The site, www.petfood.aafco.org, includes explanations and links to resources from the states and US government with information about registration and licensing, ingredient listing, labeling requirements and laboratories and analyses.
Monday, August 29, 2011
Freshpet offers new pet food, treats at pet specialty stores
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| Freshpet now offers five more refrigerated petfood options for dogs and cats. |
Freshpet says its latest offerings include grain-free Vital Complete Meals for Dogs, grain-free Vital Complete Meals for Cats, Dognation Sweet Potato Chews, Dognation Fresh Bones and Dognation Free-Range Fillets.
“We’ve created our new meals with pet owners in mind – people who want their pets to live a healthy lifestyle just like they do,” CEO Richard Thompson said. “Now, pets can gain the same nutritional benefits you and I get from eating fresh foods.”
HSUS says vegan diets can make cats sick
The animal rights group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals is urging cat owners to feed their pets a vegan pet food diet, which is free of any animal products, the Toronto Sun reported.
PETA says felines do not need meat in their diets, but rather should be fed an all-vegetable diet without artificial supplements.
"The nutritional needs of dogs and cats can be met with a balanced vegan diet," says Ashley Byrne, a PETA spokeswoman. "We see a lot of cats who are vegan and they are thriving, so, they don't need meat."
The Humane Society of the United States disagrees with PETA's recommendations.
"I hope this is not a trend, or we will be seeing a lot of sick cats. It is not appropriate to feed cats a vegan diet," says HSUS spokeswoman, Nancy Peterson.
Experts say felines are obligate carnivores and will suffer organ failure and shortened lifespans when deprived of a meat diet.
"To force cats to eat a vegetarian diet is both unethical and irresponsible," says Dr. Michael W. Fox, veterinarian and author. "To impose some vegetarian or vegan ideology on one's cat is to go against the nature of cats and their right to be fed a biologically-appropriate diet."
PETA says felines do not need meat in their diets, but rather should be fed an all-vegetable diet without artificial supplements.
"The nutritional needs of dogs and cats can be met with a balanced vegan diet," says Ashley Byrne, a PETA spokeswoman. "We see a lot of cats who are vegan and they are thriving, so, they don't need meat."
The Humane Society of the United States disagrees with PETA's recommendations.
"I hope this is not a trend, or we will be seeing a lot of sick cats. It is not appropriate to feed cats a vegan diet," says HSUS spokeswoman, Nancy Peterson.
Experts say felines are obligate carnivores and will suffer organ failure and shortened lifespans when deprived of a meat diet.
"To force cats to eat a vegetarian diet is both unethical and irresponsible," says Dr. Michael W. Fox, veterinarian and author. "To impose some vegetarian or vegan ideology on one's cat is to go against the nature of cats and their right to be fed a biologically-appropriate diet."
Friday, August 26, 2011
Expanding pet industry gives entrepreneurs a chance for success
The American Pet Products Association estimates that consumers are spending more than US$50 billion on petfood and supplies, a 5% increase over the previous year. At a time when other industries are shrinking or at a standstill, the growing pet industry gives entrepreneurs the opportunity to start their own business selling popular pet products like organic pet food and treats.
"You don't have to go out and invent some patentable, new concept that's technologically innovative," says Bob Vetere, executive director of APPA. "If you have a pretty sweater that you can knit for a dog-that's got a niche too. You can cater to both ends."
The pet market is relatively easy to enter, according to entrepreneur.com, because there are not only many opportunities for product innovation, but also many businesses can be started from home. Vetere says the pet industry adds about 200 to 250 serious businesses each year, though many of these small businesses do not make it past the first year.
Entrepreneurs must understand the market they are targeting as well as the business logistics of the product or service they are offering, experts say. John Nolan, president of Core Marketing and adjunct professor at Pepperdine University's Graziadio School of Business and Management, says pet market entrepreneurs should conduct feasibility studies on their product or service before investing much money and time into it.
"The feasibility study should entail a comprehensive competitive analysis of all existing competitors," Nolan says. "You must know their products, features, benefits, pricing and marketing. In a nutshell-everything about them."
"You don't have to go out and invent some patentable, new concept that's technologically innovative," says Bob Vetere, executive director of APPA. "If you have a pretty sweater that you can knit for a dog-that's got a niche too. You can cater to both ends."
The pet market is relatively easy to enter, according to entrepreneur.com, because there are not only many opportunities for product innovation, but also many businesses can be started from home. Vetere says the pet industry adds about 200 to 250 serious businesses each year, though many of these small businesses do not make it past the first year.
Entrepreneurs must understand the market they are targeting as well as the business logistics of the product or service they are offering, experts say. John Nolan, president of Core Marketing and adjunct professor at Pepperdine University's Graziadio School of Business and Management, says pet market entrepreneurs should conduct feasibility studies on their product or service before investing much money and time into it.
"The feasibility study should entail a comprehensive competitive analysis of all existing competitors," Nolan says. "You must know their products, features, benefits, pricing and marketing. In a nutshell-everything about them."
Importer, consumer costs expected to increase with new FDA fees
In August, the US Food and Drug Administration announced plans to implement “re-examination” fees under the recently enacted Food Safety Modernization Act from importers who fail to comply with requirements materially related to food safety. Set to go into effect on October 1, the new fee structure will create additional costs and fees for both pet food importers and consumers, according to Benjamin England, CEO of FDAImports.com and a former FDA employee.
The new process requires that at least two examinations of a food take place before FDA can assess an imported food fee. However, England says that because FDA has so broadly defined what constitutes as the "first examination," many imported food shipments that use FDA resources will be subject to the import fees. These re-examination fees will come to $224 per hour plus expenses, according to England, which will then be passed on to consumers in the form of higher food costs.
FDA provides four examples of when an importer can expect to pay a re-examination fee. These are: when imported food is reconditioned or relabeled; when an importer seeks release of an imported food under FDA detention; when an importer or foreign manufacturer petitions FDA requesting removal from FDA's import alert; and when FDA supervises destruction of FDA-refused food.
England says FDA's FSMA shifts how the group defines "examination" in two ways. The first is that FDA defines an "examination" outside the context used in the original, Food Drug and Cosmetic Act, and in its own regulations. FDA is over reaching its authority granted in the FSMA, according to England, by including activities involving shipments on import alert as part of those subject to re-examination fees, even when FDA’s own definition are detained expressly “without physical examination.” The second policy shift is that for counting FDA examinations to apply the fee, FDA focuses on imported food-generally, rather than a specific shipment of imported food. As a result, subsequent shipments of the original product put on import alert will also be subject to re-examination fees, according to England. Additionally, foreign manufacturers must pay FDA a fee to review a petition that seeks a product's removal from import alert.
England will speak about FDA's FSMA changes and other issues affecting the pet industry at the upcoming Virtual Petfood Forum on October 6. For more information or to contact Benjamin England, call +1.410.740.3403 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +1.410.740.3403 end_of_the_skype_highlighting or visit www.fdaimports.com.
The new process requires that at least two examinations of a food take place before FDA can assess an imported food fee. However, England says that because FDA has so broadly defined what constitutes as the "first examination," many imported food shipments that use FDA resources will be subject to the import fees. These re-examination fees will come to $224 per hour plus expenses, according to England, which will then be passed on to consumers in the form of higher food costs.
FDA provides four examples of when an importer can expect to pay a re-examination fee. These are: when imported food is reconditioned or relabeled; when an importer seeks release of an imported food under FDA detention; when an importer or foreign manufacturer petitions FDA requesting removal from FDA's import alert; and when FDA supervises destruction of FDA-refused food.
England says FDA's FSMA shifts how the group defines "examination" in two ways. The first is that FDA defines an "examination" outside the context used in the original, Food Drug and Cosmetic Act, and in its own regulations. FDA is over reaching its authority granted in the FSMA, according to England, by including activities involving shipments on import alert as part of those subject to re-examination fees, even when FDA’s own definition are detained expressly “without physical examination.” The second policy shift is that for counting FDA examinations to apply the fee, FDA focuses on imported food-generally, rather than a specific shipment of imported food. As a result, subsequent shipments of the original product put on import alert will also be subject to re-examination fees, according to England. Additionally, foreign manufacturers must pay FDA a fee to review a petition that seeks a product's removal from import alert.
England will speak about FDA's FSMA changes and other issues affecting the pet industry at the upcoming Virtual Petfood Forum on October 6. For more information or to contact Benjamin England, call +1.410.740.3403 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +1.410.740.3403 end_of_the_skype_highlighting or visit www.fdaimports.com.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Castor & Pollux partners with nonprofit Austin Pets Alive!
Castor & Pollux Natural PetWorks announced a partnership with Austin Pets Alive!, a nonprofit organization that implements no-kill programs in Austin, Texas, USA.
As part of the partnership, Castor & Pollux will provide 1,000 pounds of pet food monthly to the shelter and will create a coupon program that gives a percentage of coupon-attributed sales to APA. The company will also provide "starter kits" for adoptive pet parents at all adoption outreach events that APA holds.
In celebration of the partnership, Castor & Pollux will donate a pet meal for each new Facebook fan both APA and Castor & Pollux's Facebook page until Wednesday, August 17.
“Our goal is to save 5,000 cats and dogs in 2011, which requires an enormous amount of food that is difficult for a non-profit to afford. Our partnership with Castor & Pollux allows us to use our limited resources to save more pets," said Ellen Jefferson, executive director of APA. “In Castor & Pollux we’ve found an ideal partner - not only are they serious about cementing their legacy by helping pets in need, but their products offer our pets an ideal start in their new lives with their nutritious, all-natural and organic food.”
As part of the partnership, Castor & Pollux will provide 1,000 pounds of pet food monthly to the shelter and will create a coupon program that gives a percentage of coupon-attributed sales to APA. The company will also provide "starter kits" for adoptive pet parents at all adoption outreach events that APA holds.
In celebration of the partnership, Castor & Pollux will donate a pet meal for each new Facebook fan both APA and Castor & Pollux's Facebook page until Wednesday, August 17.
“Our goal is to save 5,000 cats and dogs in 2011, which requires an enormous amount of food that is difficult for a non-profit to afford. Our partnership with Castor & Pollux allows us to use our limited resources to save more pets," said Ellen Jefferson, executive director of APA. “In Castor & Pollux we’ve found an ideal partner - not only are they serious about cementing their legacy by helping pets in need, but their products offer our pets an ideal start in their new lives with their nutritious, all-natural and organic food.”
WATT eLearning offers educational courses, webinars for pet food professionals
WATT eLearning, an online education portal, has a number of courses available on–demand for pet food industry professionals to access 24 hours a day.
WATT eLearning’s “Building Blocks of Companion Animal Nutrition” course is the latest in interactive educational offerings for petfood industry professionals. The course, developed by Linda Case, owner of AutumnGold Consulting, includes six modules with an accompanying textbook and certificate of completion. Course content is designed for those seeking a scientific understanding of basic pet food nutrients and their functions, companion animal nutrient needs and feeding behaviors.
Watt’s eLearning platform also offers 17 pet food conferences and workshops, available for users to access on a computer or smart phone. The conferences and workshops cover a range of topics in petfood and pet nutrition, such as petfood processing, petfood ingredients, Salmonella control and pet product marketing.
These online sessions are webinars created from expert presentations at WATT’s Pet food Forum and Pet food Workshop events, which may be accessed for a fee at www.wattelearning.com.
WATT eLearning’s “Building Blocks of Companion Animal Nutrition” course is the latest in interactive educational offerings for petfood industry professionals. The course, developed by Linda Case, owner of AutumnGold Consulting, includes six modules with an accompanying textbook and certificate of completion. Course content is designed for those seeking a scientific understanding of basic pet food nutrients and their functions, companion animal nutrient needs and feeding behaviors.
Watt’s eLearning platform also offers 17 pet food conferences and workshops, available for users to access on a computer or smart phone. The conferences and workshops cover a range of topics in petfood and pet nutrition, such as petfood processing, petfood ingredients, Salmonella control and pet product marketing.
These online sessions are webinars created from expert presentations at WATT’s Pet food Forum and Pet food Workshop events, which may be accessed for a fee at www.wattelearning.com.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
UK pet company launches dog weight loss product
A dog weight loss product recently launched in the UK aims to help solve the rising problem of pet obesity.
Pooch & Mutt developed the Slimmin' Tonic to be added to pet foods, either by sprinkling it on top or by mixing it with water to make a "gravy."
"It is by no means a magic-pill for fat loss, but it will certainly help. Slimmin’ Tonic should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise," the company says. "As well as actively reducing a dog’s appetite, Slimmin’ Tonic will help your dog to turn the food it eats into energy at the same time as helping to build muscle. This will help your dog become more active and therefore healthier.”
Pooch & Mutt developed the Slimmin' Tonic to be added to pet foods, either by sprinkling it on top or by mixing it with water to make a "gravy."
"It is by no means a magic-pill for fat loss, but it will certainly help. Slimmin’ Tonic should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise," the company says. "As well as actively reducing a dog’s appetite, Slimmin’ Tonic will help your dog to turn the food it eats into energy at the same time as helping to build muscle. This will help your dog become more active and therefore healthier.”
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Contaminated pet food may sicken pets, humans, veterinarian warns
In the last few years, an increasing number of pet foods and pet treats have been recalled due to Salmonella contamination concerns, showing it is not just human food that is subject to food poisoning. In a New York Times article, a veterinarian at the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that pet food contaminated with Salmonella can sicken not only pets that consume it but also humans that handle the petfood.
“The problem of Salmonella in pet foods and pet treats, even in pet supplements like vitamins, is something people should be aware of,” said Dr. Casey Barton Behravesh, a veterinary epidemiologist at the CDC. “It’s important for people to know that after they feed their pets or give them treats, they should wash their hands, particularly before they prepare food or baby bottles or before they eat.”
In 2010, the CDC reported that from 2006 to 2008, nearly 80 people, including 32 children under two, were infected with Salmonella after coming into contact with dry dog or cat food, which was also the first time dry petfood was found to be contaminated.
Dried pet food is often heated to high temperatures that kill bacteria before the product is formed into kibble shapes, though the contamination can occur at various production stages if the food is not produced under sterile conditions, veterinarians say. Wet petfood is vacuum-sealed and sterilized but can be contaminated after opening if handled and stored improperly. Pig ears and raw meat may be contaminated from the original animal carcass since these products are not cooked.
In the documented outbreaks involving humans, pets that are fed the contaminated food or treats often showed no visible signs of food poisoning, and the pet's contamination may not ever be diagnosed by a veterinarian. Symptoms of food poisoning in pets are similar to those in people, including lethargy, fever, vomiting and bloody diarrhea.
“The problem of Salmonella in pet foods and pet treats, even in pet supplements like vitamins, is something people should be aware of,” said Dr. Casey Barton Behravesh, a veterinary epidemiologist at the CDC. “It’s important for people to know that after they feed their pets or give them treats, they should wash their hands, particularly before they prepare food or baby bottles or before they eat.”
In 2010, the CDC reported that from 2006 to 2008, nearly 80 people, including 32 children under two, were infected with Salmonella after coming into contact with dry dog or cat food, which was also the first time dry petfood was found to be contaminated.
Dried pet food is often heated to high temperatures that kill bacteria before the product is formed into kibble shapes, though the contamination can occur at various production stages if the food is not produced under sterile conditions, veterinarians say. Wet petfood is vacuum-sealed and sterilized but can be contaminated after opening if handled and stored improperly. Pig ears and raw meat may be contaminated from the original animal carcass since these products are not cooked.
In the documented outbreaks involving humans, pets that are fed the contaminated food or treats often showed no visible signs of food poisoning, and the pet's contamination may not ever be diagnosed by a veterinarian. Symptoms of food poisoning in pets are similar to those in people, including lethargy, fever, vomiting and bloody diarrhea.
Monday, August 22, 2011
Royal Canin's Russian pet food subsidiary announces 2010 profit increase
JSC Roskan, the Russian subsidiary of Mars' pet food brand Royal Canin, increased its net profit by 33% in 2010. JSC Roskan's net profit in 2010 was 290.9 million rubles (US$10 million), an increase from 2009's net profit of 218.6 million rubles (US$7.5 million), according to Spark-Interfax.
The company's 2010 revenue also increased from 2.4 billion rubles (US$82.5 million) in 2009 to 3.1 billion rubles (106.5 million) in 2010. Profit from sales rose to 596.4 million rubles (US$20.5 million) in 2010, from 491.8 million rubles (US$16.9 million) in 2009.
The company's 2010 revenue also increased from 2.4 billion rubles (US$82.5 million) in 2009 to 3.1 billion rubles (106.5 million) in 2010. Profit from sales rose to 596.4 million rubles (US$20.5 million) in 2010, from 491.8 million rubles (US$16.9 million) in 2009.
Friday, August 19, 2011
Pet Product News readers vote top pet food products
Pet Product News International conducted its first Retailers’ Top Pick Awards contest, in which the magazine's pet retailing readers voted on 14 pet product categories, including best cat, dog and bird food products.
Top winners in the edible cat products category include: Bonus Bites Treats by Bravo; Signature Series for cats by Evanger’s Dog & Cat Food Co.; and Cosmic Catnip brand Catnip Bubbles by OurPet's.
For dogs, the top edible products are: Bravo's Training Treats in first place; Surf 'N Turf raw dinners by Stella & Chewy's in second place; and Instinct Limited Ingredient Diets by Nature's Variety in third place.
Winning bird products include: Sunflower Candy Cups mini by Greenfeather Bird Supply in first place; Ultimate Polly Wanna Pinata by Fetch-It-Pets in second place; and Forage-N-Play Swings by Super Pet in third place.
Top winners in the edible cat products category include: Bonus Bites Treats by Bravo; Signature Series for cats by Evanger’s Dog & Cat Food Co.; and Cosmic Catnip brand Catnip Bubbles by OurPet's.
For dogs, the top edible products are: Bravo's Training Treats in first place; Surf 'N Turf raw dinners by Stella & Chewy's in second place; and Instinct Limited Ingredient Diets by Nature's Variety in third place.
Winning bird products include: Sunflower Candy Cups mini by Greenfeather Bird Supply in first place; Ultimate Polly Wanna Pinata by Fetch-It-Pets in second place; and Forage-N-Play Swings by Super Pet in third place.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Vet answers common pet food questions from consumers
With so many petfood choices on store shelves, consumers may be confused about what type of pet food to purchase for their dog or cat. In a USA Today article, Denise Elliott, a veterinarian who is also certified by the American College of Veterinary Nutrition, answers some of the most common questions she hears about choosing a petfood.
Elliot says when choosing between wet or dry food, consumers should consider their pet's age, lifestyle and other factors. She recommends wet pet food if weight is a problem because it is easier to control portions with a can instead of pouring in extra dry food. She also said that cats with urinary tract issues do better on wet petfood. Dry food, however, is more cost-effective, Elliot says, and it does not spoil if unteaten for a long time, unlike wet food which can grow bacteria.
Treats should only be given for training and are often given out of guilt, says Elliot, who encourages pet owners to reward their pet with interaction time or toys instead of extra calories in a treat.
Another question Elliot frequently receives is whether it is necessary to purchase premium petfoods as opposed to mid-priced supermarket brands.
"There are very good brands sold in supermarkets," Elliot says. "For the majority of animals, we can find something good that will provide complete nutrition at the lower price point."
Consumers can tell if their pet may be eating the wrong food by visual signs, such as dry, flaky skin or a coat that is not shiny, as well as gastrointestinal problems. Elliot urges consumers to talk to their veterinarian about selecting a petfood.
Elliot says when choosing between wet or dry food, consumers should consider their pet's age, lifestyle and other factors. She recommends wet pet food if weight is a problem because it is easier to control portions with a can instead of pouring in extra dry food. She also said that cats with urinary tract issues do better on wet petfood. Dry food, however, is more cost-effective, Elliot says, and it does not spoil if unteaten for a long time, unlike wet food which can grow bacteria.
Treats should only be given for training and are often given out of guilt, says Elliot, who encourages pet owners to reward their pet with interaction time or toys instead of extra calories in a treat.
Another question Elliot frequently receives is whether it is necessary to purchase premium petfoods as opposed to mid-priced supermarket brands.
"There are very good brands sold in supermarkets," Elliot says. "For the majority of animals, we can find something good that will provide complete nutrition at the lower price point."
Consumers can tell if their pet may be eating the wrong food by visual signs, such as dry, flaky skin or a coat that is not shiny, as well as gastrointestinal problems. Elliot urges consumers to talk to their veterinarian about selecting a petfood.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
AFIA announces pet food regulatory training course
In October, the American Feed Industry Association will hold a regulatory training short course for pet food industry professionals in Arlington, Virginia, USA.
The course will take place October 11-12, serving as training on how to work as a regulatory professional in the petfood industry. Government officials will help attendees develop strategies to solve issues affecting their businesses, in addition to covering advanced topics and regulatory strategies. The course is designed for regulatory directors with several years' experience, AFIA says.
AFIA offers a short course early registration rate of US$399 for members or US$789 for non-members. Registration is available at www.afia.org.
The course will take place October 11-12, serving as training on how to work as a regulatory professional in the petfood industry. Government officials will help attendees develop strategies to solve issues affecting their businesses, in addition to covering advanced topics and regulatory strategies. The course is designed for regulatory directors with several years' experience, AFIA says.
AFIA offers a short course early registration rate of US$399 for members or US$789 for non-members. Registration is available at www.afia.org.
Nestle Purina launches new dog food brand TV ad campaign
Beneful, a dog food division of Nestle Purina PetCare, said it began a new television advertisement campaign that plays squeaks, pings and other noises only heard by dogs, while also showing images that appeal to pet owners.
Another part of the company's ad campaign was launched in 2010, when dog-food scented billboards were put up around Germany. Beneful's new ad campaign is among the first to appeal not only to dog owners, but also directly to their dogs, the company says.
Another part of the company's ad campaign was launched in 2010, when dog-food scented billboards were put up around Germany. Beneful's new ad campaign is among the first to appeal not only to dog owners, but also directly to their dogs, the company says.
Stella & Chewy's to relocate natural pet food plant
Stella & Chewy’s will relocate from its current natural pet food production plant in Muskego, Wisconsin, USA, to a larger petfood manufacturing facility in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.
The company currently has about 40 full-time employees and occupies a 17,000-square-foot space in Muskego, but recently leased a 48,862-square-foot facility from Lassman Family Ltd. Partnership. Stella & Chewy's plans to move in October, according to Marie Moody, the company's founder and president.
The company currently has about 40 full-time employees and occupies a 17,000-square-foot space in Muskego, but recently leased a 48,862-square-foot facility from Lassman Family Ltd. Partnership. Stella & Chewy's plans to move in October, according to Marie Moody, the company's founder and president.
Dr. Harvey's launches natural petfood, pet products video series
Dr. Harvey's holistic pet food company launched a YouTube video series on pet health, as well as the importance of feeding an all-natural pet food diet and using chemical-free pet products.
These videos, which appear on Dr. Harvey's pet food website and on the company's YouTube channel, highlight the company's holistic pet product benefits and the philosophy behind them. The videos include a step-by-step guide on making fresh homemade dog food, along with real pet owners who feed Dr. Harvey's pet food to their pets.
These videos, which appear on Dr. Harvey's pet food website and on the company's YouTube channel, highlight the company's holistic pet product benefits and the philosophy behind them. The videos include a step-by-step guide on making fresh homemade dog food, along with real pet owners who feed Dr. Harvey's pet food to their pets.
Kansas State to hold November short course for animal feed industry
Kansas State University will hold a short course, “Establishing a HACCP Program for the Feed Industry," on November 7-10, in Manhattan, Kansas, USA. This interactive course will focus on the development of a Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points plan for all sectors of the animal feed industry.
The US$475 course fee includes all handouts, breakfasts, lunches, refreshments and one dinner. The registration deadline is October 28, but course size is limited to 30 participants. Registration is available at www.afia.org. For more information, contact Anita McDiffett, from K-State, at almgret@ksu.edu.
The US$475 course fee includes all handouts, breakfasts, lunches, refreshments and one dinner. The registration deadline is October 28, but course size is limited to 30 participants. Registration is available at www.afia.org. For more information, contact Anita McDiffett, from K-State, at almgret@ksu.edu.
RECALL: Merrick recalls Doggie Wishbone treats due to Salmonella
Merrick Pet Care is recalling 248 cases of its Doggie Wishbone pet treats because of potential Salmonella contamination.
The affected treats are marked as follows: ITEM # 29050, UPC code 2280829050, Lot 11031 and a "Best By" date of January 30, 2012.
The pet treats were shipped to distributors in 10 states, according to Merrick. The company says the possible Salmonella contamination was identified through routine sampling by the US Food and Drug Administration, but that no illnesses have been reported.
Consumers who purchased the recalled Doggie Wishbone treats are urged to return the unused portion to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at +1.800.664.7387, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CST.
The affected treats are marked as follows: ITEM # 29050, UPC code 2280829050, Lot 11031 and a "Best By" date of January 30, 2012.
The pet treats were shipped to distributors in 10 states, according to Merrick. The company says the possible Salmonella contamination was identified through routine sampling by the US Food and Drug Administration, but that no illnesses have been reported.
Consumers who purchased the recalled Doggie Wishbone treats are urged to return the unused portion to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at +1.800.664.7387, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CST.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Organic growth in pet segment boosts Hill's Pet second quarter earnings
Colgate-Palmolive, parent company of Hill's Pet Nutrition, held an earnings call on July 28, to discuss the company's second quarter 2011 results.
The company is focused on organic pet food sales growth in emerging markets, where the highest quarterly growth in one year was recorded, helped by strong organic growth in the Hill's pet segment, according to Bina Thompson, president of investor relations. In the U.S., Hill's veterinary product channel saw renewed growth in the second quarter, following a decline during the economic recession. Thompson said this growth in the US and Europe is being driven by Vet Exclusive products the company launched earlier in the year, under the Science Diet Healthy Advantage brand in the US and Science Plan VetEssentials name in Europe. Natural petfood is the fastest growing segment within the category, as pet humanization and the inclusion or exclusion of specific ingredients are increasingly driving consumer behavior, according to Cook.
The company expects modest growth for the third quarter of 2011 and the full year, and organic sales growth in the mid-single digits following the launch of several new petfood products. A full transcript of the earnings call is available online.
The company is focused on organic pet food sales growth in emerging markets, where the highest quarterly growth in one year was recorded, helped by strong organic growth in the Hill's pet segment, according to Bina Thompson, president of investor relations. In the U.S., Hill's veterinary product channel saw renewed growth in the second quarter, following a decline during the economic recession. Thompson said this growth in the US and Europe is being driven by Vet Exclusive products the company launched earlier in the year, under the Science Diet Healthy Advantage brand in the US and Science Plan VetEssentials name in Europe. Natural petfood is the fastest growing segment within the category, as pet humanization and the inclusion or exclusion of specific ingredients are increasingly driving consumer behavior, according to Cook.
The company expects modest growth for the third quarter of 2011 and the full year, and organic sales growth in the mid-single digits following the launch of several new petfood products. A full transcript of the earnings call is available online.
Monday, August 8, 2011
FDA launches PETNet petfood incident tracking
The Partnership for Food Protection and the US Food and Drug Administration launched the Pet Event Tracking Network, PETNet, which is a secure, Web-based information exchange system for pet food-related incidents.
PETNet’s voluntary information exchange, surveillance and alert system provides real-time information sharing about emerging petfood-related illnesses and product defects among FDA, and other federal and state agencies. PETNet is currently made up of more than 200 representatives from four federal agencies, all 50 states and Puerto Rico.
The system will be accessible to PETNet members that are federal, state and territorial government officials responsible for the regulation of petfood products and the investigation of disease outbreaks in companion animals. Members can enter “events” into the system after they have identified a trend or a suspicious incident or defect associated with pet food products. Once entered on the standardized form, the information will be immediately available to all other PETNet members, allowing other members to track the emergence of such data and to evaluate the need for action within individual jurisdictions.
PETNet’s voluntary information exchange, surveillance and alert system provides real-time information sharing about emerging petfood-related illnesses and product defects among FDA, and other federal and state agencies. PETNet is currently made up of more than 200 representatives from four federal agencies, all 50 states and Puerto Rico.
The system will be accessible to PETNet members that are federal, state and territorial government officials responsible for the regulation of petfood products and the investigation of disease outbreaks in companion animals. Members can enter “events” into the system after they have identified a trend or a suspicious incident or defect associated with pet food products. Once entered on the standardized form, the information will be immediately available to all other PETNet members, allowing other members to track the emergence of such data and to evaluate the need for action within individual jurisdictions.
Friday, August 5, 2011
Fish4Dogs pet food wins UK business award
Fish4Dogs natural petfood was awarded International Business of the Year 2011 by the Herefordshire and Worcestershire UK Chamber of Commerce. The company was presented the award at the Chamber Business Awards, held at Worcester Cathedral.
"The International Trade category was a very competitive category to judge but we were particularly impressed by Fish4Dogs because they had a very structured business plan, heaps of enthusiasm and they have something really special. The judges all concluded that they expect the pet food company to be a global success," said Eric Brown, international trade director at UK Trade and Investment.
"The International Trade category was a very competitive category to judge but we were particularly impressed by Fish4Dogs because they had a very structured business plan, heaps of enthusiasm and they have something really special. The judges all concluded that they expect the pet food company to be a global success," said Eric Brown, international trade director at UK Trade and Investment.
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Pet food packaging conference scheduled for December
The Packaging Group Inc. announced that the conferences and courses of its Pet Food Pac-2011 will take place on December 6 and 7, in Monroe Township, New Jersey, USA.
Two courses will be held on December 6, covering shelf life extension and humanization of pet food packaging. On December 7, a number of speakers will cover the entire supply chain of pet food packaging, from flexible to rigid.
More program details will be available September 15. For detailed information on display tables, course and seminar content, and paper submissions, contact Stan Sacharow, of The Packaging Group, at +1.732.636.0885 or univpac@aol.com.
Two courses will be held on December 6, covering shelf life extension and humanization of pet food packaging. On December 7, a number of speakers will cover the entire supply chain of pet food packaging, from flexible to rigid.
More program details will be available September 15. For detailed information on display tables, course and seminar content, and paper submissions, contact Stan Sacharow, of The Packaging Group, at +1.732.636.0885 or univpac@aol.com.
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Fresh butcher meat fuels a new pet food trend
A new trend in pet food has consumers turning to the butcher for fresh meat to feed their pets.
One retailer, Albright Farms, in Monkton, Maryland, USA, offers cuts of meat and bones specifically for pets. The meat products, from grass-fed and locally raised animals, are another way to promote sustainability of local farming.
“Our mission here is to get as much out of the animal as possible,” said Jake Dickson, an owner of Dickson’s Farmstand, a New York retailer of meats for pets. “Both in terms of profitability, but also philosophically — doing honor and justice to that animal.”
Dickson's Farmstand offers an array of animal parts, such as blood from hearts, tongues and livers as well as slabs of New York strip. Some of the meat trimmings are also ground up into sausage. Though, this meat is a more expensive choice for dog food, running about US$10 for a 1 1/2-pound package at Dickson's.
Another New York retailer following the petfood trend is Fleisher’s Grass-Fed and Organic Meats. The company's US$4, two-ounce ready-to-eat packages contain organic chicken and beef hearts, liver and tongue, and are sprinkled with beef fat.
“If you’re not feeding your dog human-quality food it’s a terrifying thing,” said Jessica Applestone, owner of Fleisher's. “It’s very true that there’s much more of a movement, and we’re very happy to see it. People see that pushing a better diet for their dogs results in less vet visits.”
One retailer, Albright Farms, in Monkton, Maryland, USA, offers cuts of meat and bones specifically for pets. The meat products, from grass-fed and locally raised animals, are another way to promote sustainability of local farming.
“Our mission here is to get as much out of the animal as possible,” said Jake Dickson, an owner of Dickson’s Farmstand, a New York retailer of meats for pets. “Both in terms of profitability, but also philosophically — doing honor and justice to that animal.”
Dickson's Farmstand offers an array of animal parts, such as blood from hearts, tongues and livers as well as slabs of New York strip. Some of the meat trimmings are also ground up into sausage. Though, this meat is a more expensive choice for dog food, running about US$10 for a 1 1/2-pound package at Dickson's.
Another New York retailer following the petfood trend is Fleisher’s Grass-Fed and Organic Meats. The company's US$4, two-ounce ready-to-eat packages contain organic chicken and beef hearts, liver and tongue, and are sprinkled with beef fat.
“If you’re not feeding your dog human-quality food it’s a terrifying thing,” said Jessica Applestone, owner of Fleisher's. “It’s very true that there’s much more of a movement, and we’re very happy to see it. People see that pushing a better diet for their dogs results in less vet visits.”
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
RECALL: Nestle Purina recalls One Vibrant Maturity cat food for Salmonella
Nestle Purina is voluntarily recalling bags of its Purina One Vibrant Maturity 7+ dry cat food due to concerns the pet food could be tainted with Salmonella, according to the company.
Purina is recalling select 3.5- and 7-pound bags of the pet food, marked with a "Best by" date of May 2012.
Recalled 3.5-pound cat food bags have production codes of 03341084 and 03351084, with UPC codes of 17800 01885. Recalled 7-pound bags have production codes of 03341084 and 03351084, with UPC codes of 17800 01887.
According to Keith Schopp, Nestle Purina PetCare spokesman, the recalled product was made at the company's petfood facility in Davenport, Iowa, USA, and shipped to 12 states: California, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Dakota, Nebraska, Ohio and Wisconsin, USA.
The company said consumers who purchased the recalled cat food should throw it away immediately, and contact the company for a refund by calling +1.800.982.6559 or visiting Purina's website.
Purina is recalling select 3.5- and 7-pound bags of the pet food, marked with a "Best by" date of May 2012.
Recalled 3.5-pound cat food bags have production codes of 03341084 and 03351084, with UPC codes of 17800 01885. Recalled 7-pound bags have production codes of 03341084 and 03351084, with UPC codes of 17800 01887.
According to Keith Schopp, Nestle Purina PetCare spokesman, the recalled product was made at the company's petfood facility in Davenport, Iowa, USA, and shipped to 12 states: California, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Dakota, Nebraska, Ohio and Wisconsin, USA.
The company said consumers who purchased the recalled cat food should throw it away immediately, and contact the company for a refund by calling +1.800.982.6559 or visiting Purina's website.
'Business Day' pet food safety segment to re-air in July, August
The petfood safety segment on "Business Day with Terry Bradshaw" will air again in select U.S. regional markets in July and August.
In the Huntsville, Decatur and Florence, Alabama, USA markets, the pet food safety segment will re-air on Saturday, August 6, 13, 20 and 27, at 8 a.m. on the Fox WZDX-TV channel. In Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, USA, the segment is scheduled to air on Pittsburg Cable News Network, at 6:30 a.m. on the Sundays of August 7, 14, 21 and 28. The St. Louis, Missouri, USA, CNN Headline News Charter Cable channel will air the segment on July 27 and July 28, at 7:54 a.m., 12:54 p.m. and 5:54 p.m., with an additional showing scheduled on July 28 at 6:54 a.m.
In the Huntsville, Decatur and Florence, Alabama, USA markets, the pet food safety segment will re-air on Saturday, August 6, 13, 20 and 27, at 8 a.m. on the Fox WZDX-TV channel. In Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, USA, the segment is scheduled to air on Pittsburg Cable News Network, at 6:30 a.m. on the Sundays of August 7, 14, 21 and 28. The St. Louis, Missouri, USA, CNN Headline News Charter Cable channel will air the segment on July 27 and July 28, at 7:54 a.m., 12:54 p.m. and 5:54 p.m., with an additional showing scheduled on July 28 at 6:54 a.m.
Natura reaches deal in class-action pet food lawsuit
A US$2,150,000 settlement was reached with Natura Pet Products Inc., Natura Pet Food Inc., Natura Manufacturing and Peter Atkins in a class-action lawsuit regarding advertising of Natura's petfood, according to a report. The lawsuit originated after claims that the company misrepresented its pet food quality as "human-grade."
The company admitted no fault, but reportedly agreed to the cost of the settlement in order to avoid a court trial. The settlement calls for the company to create a US$2,150,000 fund, from which it would pay attorneys fees, expenses up to US$60,000 to lawyers representing the Class and costs to Class members who submitted claim forms. The US District Court for the Northern District of California will hold a hearing in this case on February 17, 2012, to consider whether to approve the settlement deal.
The company admitted no fault, but reportedly agreed to the cost of the settlement in order to avoid a court trial. The settlement calls for the company to create a US$2,150,000 fund, from which it would pay attorneys fees, expenses up to US$60,000 to lawyers representing the Class and costs to Class members who submitted claim forms. The US District Court for the Northern District of California will hold a hearing in this case on February 17, 2012, to consider whether to approve the settlement deal.
Monday, August 1, 2011
Prinova forms Animal Nutrition brand for pet industry
Prinova USA, formerly Premium Ingredients International, created a new brand for the pet industry called Prinova Animal Nutrition.
The renewed focus on animal nutrition includes a flavor product manufacturing facility built in 2010 at Prinova’s corporate headquarters in Carol Stream, Illinois, USA. Prinova Animal Nutrition also has its own team of technical personnel and a research and development laboratory.
The renewed focus on animal nutrition includes a flavor product manufacturing facility built in 2010 at Prinova’s corporate headquarters in Carol Stream, Illinois, USA. Prinova Animal Nutrition also has its own team of technical personnel and a research and development laboratory.
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