How KIKA Group's R&D drives its global competitiveness

KIKA Group, a leading Baltic pet food manufacturer, recently concluded a comprehensive scientific study confirming the nutritional value of its pet food products. The research, conducted in collaboration with the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences (LSMU) Veterinary Academy, focused on dogs of all ages, including puppies, pregnant and nursing females, and adult dogs.?

Through extensive R&D efforts, KIKA aims to strengthen its position in the global market by scientifically validating the superior qualities of its pet food.

The research investments of €1.17 million is expected to provide a competitive edge as the company enters major markets like the U.S., Japan, and South Korea.

Under the guidance of Dr. Rolandas Stankevicius , Dean of the LSMU Veterinary Faculty, a team of scientists carried out tests at KIKA's "Tauro Kennel" breeding facility. The study evaluated the digestibility, nutrition, and overall effectiveness of the food, involving 117 dogs from various breeds such as Bichon Frise and Pomeranians.

“While such tests are not mandatory in Europe, we are one of the few manufacturers to have our own kennel and conduct research at this level,” said Robertas Si?iovas , Head of Technology and Product Development at AKVATERA LT , part of KIKA Group.?

"Meeting standard market requirements is just the beginning for us; we aim to scientifically validate the functionality of our products."

The research showed impressive results, with protein absorption rates exceeding 85% and fat absorption over 95%, matching the highest global standards. This confirms that KIKA’s pet food is nutritionally rich and of high quality.

200 formulas in the product portfolio

KIKA Group has developed over 200 pet food formulas, serving both its six core brands and private-label products for major European retailers.?

Recently, the company completed a special pet food delivery for Japan, producing 160 tons of veterinary diet products.?

The quality-focused Japanese market is very demanding and the local partners will distribute these products under its own brand name, reflecting KIKA’s ability to meet international standards.

Si?iovas noted, “Receiving such a contract from the demanding Japanese market validates our expertise in producing world-class pet food.”

No signs of slowing down

KIKA Group conducts an average of 30 new feeding trials annually at its breeding facilities, with each trial lasting 2-3 weeks. As a result, food testing is a year-round activity at the breeding sites.

No formula developed by KIKA Group passes through the company's research department without thorough examination. Specialists must personally verify that the new food formula is palatable, elicits enthusiasm upon presentation, and is easily digestible.?

Ongoing statistical analyses are conducted, and the department adheres to strict food testing protocols that facilitate statistical calculations and comparisons with competitor products. Only after successful results are products released to the market.

Such extensive testing is undertaken by only a few companies in Europe.

KIKA Group has also amassed thousands of consumer and client testimonials that demonstrate the effectiveness of its products. However, to maintain an impeccable reputation in the eyes of advanced clients and experts in canine nutrition, this is not sufficient.

Consequently, after scientifically researching its existing core products, KIKA Group has already scheduled new studies in collaboration with researchers from LSMU, into which it intends to invest an additional €2 million. Overall, over the next three years, the group will invest up to €5 million in the development of new formulas and products.

The goal of this research phase is to create and scientifically validate higher-level therapeutic food products—veterinary and dietary offerings.

“The primary aim of these studies will be to initiate the development of clinical trials. We will collaborate with LSMU's Small animal clinic, which possesses invaluable practical experience. We will conduct studies on three products, which will require a large sample size, so we plan to involve additional animal clinics as well as international veterinarians affiliated with the European Veterinary Association,” says Robertas Si?iovas.

Reducing symptoms of allergies and skin issues, as well as alleviating digestive problems, will be key therapeutic aspects of KIKA Group's new food line.

Collaboration with French scientists

KIKA strategy involves centralizing all research competencies across the group and initiating such strategic collaborations as with one of the largest pet nutrition research centers in Europe. Lithuanian investments in this collaboration will create opportunities to develop and create super premium functional products alongside French scientists.

The research specialists from the Lithuanian company have been consulting with scientists from the European Association of Veterinary Universities regarding issues in the cat care market for some time.?

Recognizing the numerous unresolved challenges faced by cat owners, KIKA Group's researchers see significant potential in establishing a dedicated center for cats and developing similar food products to address these issues.

"While it is still early to discuss the specifics of our plans, we see great potential for expansion into the cat food and care segment. Currently, approximately 30% of our products are designed for cats, and there is a noticeably increasing demand for specialized cat food products in the global pet food market.?

Strengthening our focus on cat products is a strategic priority for us," says Robertas Si?iovas.

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