Irish dog nutrition brand Blue Pet Co has created a range of zero-carbon dog supplements from seaweed.
The County Kerry-based company uses zero-carbon biotechnology methods to produce the functional supplements enriched with unique marine extracts from seaweed hand-harvested along the West Coast of Ireland.
The process is one of only a handful of bioprocessing techniques available worldwide and the only one of its kind in Europe, says the company. The supplement range targets a number of key health areas, including joints and muscles, skin and hair, teeth and gums.
Chief executive Gary Daly said: “Pet owners today face many challenges, including rising environmental concerns and vet bills. Moreover, an increasingly diverse breed pool results in many pets missing out on the nutrients they need. With Blue Pet Co we offer a range of dog supplements that make it easier for owners to address their pet’s specific nutritional needs and to do so more sustainably.”
He continued: “Seaweed is not only a superfood which promotes gut, bone and skin health and immunity in humans and dogs; it’s fast-growing, regenerates easily and can be sourced from right on our shores. It’s a win-win for pets and the planet.
“Seaweed’s role in absorbing carbon – faster and in vaster quantities than trees – is gaining recognition around the globe. Zero-waste simply doesn’t happen in the pet industry, but using fast-regenerating, carbon-sequestering seaweed in animal food products can make a huge difference. At Blue Pet Co., we’re also in a unique position where we oversee the entire supply chain, which allows us to adhere to a closed loop business model, reducing our environmental impact at every step of the way.”
Blue Pet’s range includes GoShine Chews (RRP €26.95) to help support skin and coat condition, GoActive Chews (RRP €23.95) for improved mobility, joint and muscle health, GoSmile Sticks (RRP €9.75) for healthy teeth and gums, and grain-free, plant-based GoFuel Energy Bars (RRP €2.99) for increased energy and supports joint and muscle care. Blue Pet Co’s packaging is also 100% recyclable.
Blue Pet Co recently became a member of 1% for the Planet. The certification is given to businesses that commit to donating 1% of annual sales to environmental causes.
To mark Earth Month 2023, the company teamed up with climate expert Fionnuala Moran to promote eco-friendly pet ownership to share a series of simple actions for pet owners to help reduce their carbon footprint. These include shopping with sustainable suppliers, feeding dry food instead of wet, opting for biodegradable or compostable dog poo bags, and looking for toys made out of recycled materials.
