Interzoo 2018: Pet Industry Unveils Innovative Sustainability Initiatives
The pet industry's focus on sustainability took centre stage at Interzoo 2018. Innovative products and initiatives were unveiled, including insect protein-based dog food with a significantly lower carbon footprint and compostable pet food bags. Meanwhile, several European companies joined forces to improve sustainability in the sector.
A case study presented at the event revealed that insect protein-based dog food has an 18% lower carbon footprint compared to lamb-based alternatives. Foxpak Flexibles introduced compostable pet food and treat bags, contributing to waste reduction. Pets International magazine launched a fundraising effort to establish the European chapter of the Pet Industry Sustainability Coalition (PISC), aiming to promote sustainable practices across the industry.
Several European companies, including Fleisheslust, introduced unique products. Fleisheslust launched a wet dog food product using camel protein, diversifying the protein sources in pet food. While there's no specific information on European companies focusing on cold-pressed maize, the trend of cold-pressed dog food gained prominence at Interzoo. This method requires less energy consumption, making it more sustainable. Companies like Forza10, Taste of the Wild, and Luna & Leo, known for their high-quality and natural products, could potentially explore cold-pressed components in their offerings. The World Pet Association (WZF) also announced an initiative to create a manual for pet companies to improve their sustainability practices.
Interzoo 2018 highlighted the pet industry's commitment to sustainability, with innovative products and initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impact. The introduction of insect protein-based dog food, compostable bags, and the promotion of cold-pressed methods demonstrate a shift towards more sustainable practices. The establishment of the European PISC chapter and the WZF's manual initiative further underscore the industry's dedication to improving sustainability across the board.
