Manufacturers’ trade association UK Pet Food has published a fact sheet on the use of cell cultivation methods in the production of pet food.
The move follows increased trade and media interest in the process, following the launch of Chick Bites, the world’s first cultivated meat-based treat for dogs, in Pets at Home earlier this month. Cultivated meat is seen as a potentially more sustainable method of producing meat for pet food owing to much reduced land and water usage and little to no livestock involvement.
The fact sheet, now available on the UK Pet Food website, is intended to provide pet professionals, owners, and industry stakeholders with clear, science-based insights into the potential role of cell-cultivated products in pet nutrition. Covering key topics such as production methods, safety considerations, and consumer perceptions, the resource aims to inform and support discussions around this emerging technology.
Sarah Hormozi, head of science and education at UK Pet Food, said: “As companion animals continue to play a vital role in society, and pressure on resources increases, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the pet food industry is more important than ever.
“A wide range of safe, sustainable, and nutritious protein sources – such as animal by-products, plant-based ingredients, and insect proteins – are already used in pet food, and the new addition of cell-cultivated products is a new step in driving progress. Our factsheet addresses key questions and highlights the need for continued scientific and innovative exploration in the field of animal nutrition.”
You can read the fact sheet here.
