What to Expect at SuperZoo 2024

SuperZoo is just around the corner, and I'm excited. In the latest episode of Petworking , I sat down with three industry leaders to discuss upcoming trends and innovations in pet nutrition ahead of this major event, and what we can hope and expect to see on the show floor in Las Vegas this week. My guests were Dr. Greg Aldrich , COO of Nulo Pet Food , Greg Kean VP of Global Innovation and Nutrition at Wellness Pet Company , and Dr. James Templeman , Director of Nutrition at Primal Pet Foods .

Key discussion points included:

• Alternative processing methods: The experts expect to see continued innovation in minimally processed pet foods, including raw, frozen, freeze-dried, and gently cooked options. These products aim to provide optimal nutrition while addressing consumer demand for less processed foods.
• Affordability and value: With economic pressures affecting pet owners, companies are working to balance premium nutrition with affordability. This includes offering smaller package sizes and positioning some products as meal toppers rather than complete diets.
• Consumer experience: The panel emphasized the importance of creating positive feeding experiences for both pets and owners. This includes factors like aroma, texture, and variety to keep pets interested and owners satisfied.

"Sometimes we get into a very rigid sort of mechanistic approach, but there's a human behavior, there is a hedonic experience, there's an emotional play in what we're trying to do." - Dr. Greg Aldrich, Nulo Pet Food

• Fresh and refrigerated foods: While fresh pet food continues to grow in popularity, the experts noted challenges around profitability, logistics, and consumer education. They expect continued innovation in this space to address these issues.
• Science-backed nutrition: There's an increasing focus on conducting feeding trials and other research to validate nutritional claims and build veterinarian and consumer trust.

"We have a responsibility when we're feeding cats and dogs complete and balanced nutrition... The job number one is to get the product right." - Greg Kean, Wellness Pet Company

• Sustainability: The experts hope to see more innovation around sustainable nutrition, including alternative proteins and upcycled ingredients.

"I would really like to see the next manufacturer, the next product that really takes sustainability to heart when it comes to the nutritional aspects of it." Dr. James Templeman, Primal Pet Foods

• Cat food innovation: With the growing cat population, there's an opportunity for more product development specifically for felines.

"Something that we have our eye out on, having a very strong and established wet cat business and looking for some inspiration in that area is certainly something that I hope to see." - Greg Kean, Wellness Pet Company

While it's challenging to predict the next big breakthrough, the experts agreed that Super Zoo often provides surprises in terms of new product concepts. They look forward to seeing how companies continue to innovate to meet evolving consumer demands and pet nutritional needs.

As the pet food industry continues to evolve, it's clear that balancing nutrition, affordability, sustainability, and consumer experience will be key drivers of innovation. Super Zoo 2024 promises to showcase the latest advancements in these areas, potentially unveiling the next big trend in pet nutrition.

Listen to the episode, and share your thoughts in the comments!

If you'll be attending SuperZoo this week, and would like to meet up, please feel free to reach out to me directly.