Today we are going to address a fundamental topic for all responsible pet owners: The origin and evolution of the dog and cat food industryUnderstanding the past and present of this industry helps us make more informed decisions about feeding our animals. From the first steps towards commercial pet food to today's sophisticated products, we will go through in detail the historical milestones and production processes of this industry so important to the health of our pets.
Origin of the Pet Food Industry
Getting Started: James Spratt and Dog Biscuits
The journey of pet food began in 1860 by the hand of American businessman James spratt. During a trip to England, Spratt observed sailors feeding dogs leftover biscuits made from flour, water and salt. Inspired, he developed the first commercial dog food: “Spratt's Dog & Puppy Cakes”This product marked the beginning of a revolutionary industry that would forever transform pet food.
In its early decades, the industry began to focus on the manufacturing of dry dog foodSpratt's recipe, made from wheat, vegetables and bovine blood, proved to be a much more convenient and long-lasting alternative to the human food scraps commonly given to dogs. The biscuits were also easy to store and distribute.
International Expansion and the American Market
In the 1870s, Spratt expanded his business to the United States, where his idea was well received, especially among wealthy owners. His commercial success paved the way for other companies to enter the market. More varied products and different formats began to emerge, such as dry and canned foods.
One of the most significant innovations was the introduction of Ken L Ration In 1922, the first canned wet dog food was introduced, the main ingredient of which was horse meat. This format quickly gained popularity, offering a more practical option for pet owners.
Evolution of Industry in the 20th Century
The Rise of Dry Foods and the “Whole Food” Label
In the 30s, companies such as Gaines Food Company, Nabisco and Quaker Oats They began to see the potential of using meat and grain by-products to manufacture dry food for pets. Not only was this approach more cost-effective, it also offered an effective solution for marketing waste from the human food industries. This led to the first pellet-shaped feeds, which were easier to store and had a long shelf life.
In the 70s, the label was introduced “Complete Food”, which assured consumers that the food contained all the essential nutrients for their pets. This marketing strategy, combined with campaigns discouraging home-cooked food, cemented the place of the food in households around the world.
The Emergence of Premium Feeds
In the 80s, manufacturers began to develop premium foods, focused on providing a more “nutritious” diet for different stages of a pet’s life. However, most of them continued to use traditional bases: high cereal and carbohydrate content, with low levels of animal protein.
Later, in the 90s, growing concern for food quality led to the rise of whole grain and organic feeds. These products promoted the use of ingredients “more natural”, although they were generally still rich in cereals.
The Current State of the Industry
What Do Our Pets Really Eat?
Although the market has evolved, most of the commercial feed They are still made from processed raw materials, with high percentages of cereals and carbohydrates. It is important to note that these ingredients are not part of the natural diet of dogs and cats, both of which are primarily carnivorous animals.
Marketing has played a crucial role in perpetuating the idea that these foods are suitable. However, recent studies show that a diet high in carbohydrates and low in animal protein can have long-term negative consequences for the health of our pets, such as obesity and metabolic problems.
Manufacturers and Production Methods
Today, the major players in the industry are giants like Nestlé Purina, Mars Inc. and Colgate-Palmolive (Hill's Science Diet). These companies have dominated the market through strategic acquisitions and global marketing campaigns.
The process of manufacturing feed involves mixing ingredients, cooking them under high pressure in extrusion machines and adding additives such as preservatives and flavour enhancers. While this process ensures a long shelf life for the product, it also destroys many of the essential nutrients.
The Importance of Reading Labels
As responsible consumers, we must learn to read pet food labels. This includes identifying key ingredients and avoiding products that use ambiguous terms such as “animal by-products.” It is also advisable to opt for foods that use preservatives. natural, such as tocopherols (vitamin E), instead of potentially harmful chemical additives such as BHA or ethoxyquin.
The pet food industry has come a long way from Spratt's first biscuits to today's sophisticated products. However, we still face significant challenges, such as ingredient quality and label transparency. By making informed choices, we can ensure our pets are getting the nutrition they really need to live healthy, happy lives.