Market Trends of Pet Food Packaging Industry
Dry Pet Food Type will Witness the Fastest Growth
- Pet foods come in three types, depending on their final moisture content, namely wet, semi-moist, and dry (also called kibble). Baked, pelleted, and extruded feeds are a few types of dry pet foods, with extruded foods being the most popular. Different types of pet foods have varying moisture contents and textures, necessitating different packaging solutions.
- For instance, wet foods require packaging that maintains freshness and prevents leakage, while dry foods need packaging that keeps them crisp and protected from moisture. This variety creates a demand for diverse packaging options.
- Dry pet foods have a long shelf life due to their low water activity and consequent microbiological stability. However, they are typically less appealing to pets than moist or semi-moist pet foods, probably due to their low flavor appeal. In contrast, some pets may prefer dry pet foods due to their textural qualities. This drives the growth of the dry pet food packaging market.
- Dry pet food has not conventionally been a demanding product to package, with prominent brands offering dry pet food in paper bags. Companies like Nestlé Purina are exploring new packaging methods, including new paper-based materials and piloting reusable packaging systems where customers can bring their containers to take dry pet food.
- According to UK Pet Food, the market value of dog pet food in the United Kingdom in 2023 accounted for GBP 1840 million (USD 2303 million). With the rise in pet food sales, there is a parallel increase in the demand for packaging materials. Pet food packaging manufacturers may experience higher orders for materials such as plastic, paper, and metal to create various packaging solutions.
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Increasing Pet Ownership in North America Drives Market Growth
- The demand for pet food packaging in North America can be correlated with the increasing adoption of pets and rescue dogs in the region. As more people in North America adopt pets, especially rescue dogs, the demand for pet food correspondingly increases. This surge in pet ownership directly contributes to a higher demand for pet food packaging, creating opportunities for packaging manufacturers to cater to a growing market.
- The increase in the adoption of pets and rescue animals also led the packaging industry to focus on the premiumization and safety of pet food products. The bag or container makes manufacturers stand out with cat and dog owners who want sustainable options, personalized pet diets, and ingredients that even humans find appealing.
- Pet humanization is one of the biggest trends reshaping the pet care industry. A survey conducted by Mondi suggested that 75% of the respondents intend to spend more and feel more favorable toward brands with sustainable packaging. Thus, brands seek solutions that complement their corporate values in the pet food industry, with sustainability being the prime concern.
- Dry pet food bags require unique construction. The inner layer of the multiwall bag should protect the contents, and the outer layer needs to be aesthetically pleasing with no grease stains permeating through the inner layer. Companies like Mondi offer pet food packaging solutions such as BarrierPack Recyclable. These premade pouches and FFS roll-stock constitute plastic laminates that are recyclable in areas where flexible packaging is accepted and through store drop-off. It is done without compromising functionality.
- BASF America is creating more sustainable pet food packaging with its water-based emulsion, JONCRYL HPB 1702. It can sustainably deliver the grease-resistant properties and food safety certifications demanded by the pet food market.
- According to the American Pet Products Association Inc., the pet industry expenditure in the United States reached USD 147 billion in 2023 compared to 2018, which was USD 90.5 billion. With more spending on pets, there is likely a corresponding increase in demand for pet food. This creates a higher need for pet food packaging to accommodate the increased production and consumption.
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