Debbie Phillips-DonaldsonDebbie Phillips-Donaldson is editor-in-chief of Petfood Industry magazine and Petfood Forum.From the AuthorAdventures in Pet FoodFactors, and facts, behind pet humanizationA new study of pet owners in Lithuania shows the “pets as family members” ethos extends far and wide, and that social factors matter more than other demographics.Adventures in Pet FoodPet food innovation going in wrong direction for this economy?New pet food product launch activity is down, not surprisingly during economic uncertainty — but this may be the exact right time to focus on innovation.Something to Chew onNew model for cat nutrition research: Cat owner involvementAs cats continue to rise in popularity, and more cat food products are developed for them, research can help fill gaps. Enter an initiative involving cat owners.Adventures in Pet FoodAlternative pet food sales growth: Market savior?If it weren’t for high growth in fresh, dehydrated, freeze-dried, air-dried and similar diets, pet food sales in developed markets like the U.S. would show no increases.Adventures in Pet FoodPet food prices over time: History doesn’t repeat, it buildsData on U.S. pet food spending and pricing (both producer and retail) show steady increases over decades to the current, challenging level for pet owners and producers.Adventures in Pet Food2026 trends: Consumers look to resilience, value, nostalgiaHuman food trends for 2026 are focusing on economic uncertainty and consumer anxiety. Does this approach apply to pet food, and to what extent?Adventures in Pet FoodTop 5 pet food claims, human food trends: Health is the linkHealth is a common theme tying together leading pet food claims and top human food and beverage trends for 2026, according to consumer surveys.Something to Chew onState of pet food: Business caution, revised plansInformal polls indicate growing unease and concerns among pet food businesses, stemming from ongoing trade wars and economic uncertainty.Adventures in Pet Food5 trends driving pet food growth in Asia and beyondPremiumization is among the top trends in the Asia-Pacific pet food market, says a Euromonitor expert, but pushing pricing too far can affect volumes and growth.Adventures in Pet FoodConsumer mindsets make the case for pet companionshipPeople globally are feeling stressed, anxious and overwhelmed. This influences key trends for 2026 while substantiating the benefits of pet ownership.Adventures in Pet FoodBest practices for developing premium pet food productsFor new product development success, it’s crucial to set expectations early on for the product itself, costs and timelines, then stick to the agreed-upon timeline.Something to Chew onWhy Brazil continues to rise in pet food and pet careThe second largest market globally in pet food volume production, with robust export sales, Brazil still has room to grow even during economic ups and downs.Page 1 of 83Next Page