Jessica TaylorFrom the Author - Page 12HomePetfood gets politicalThe Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) just released its first ever dog food, Humane Choice. Launched in February 2010, the dog food does not contain animal-based proteins (it is a vegan, soy-based formula) or support the factory farming industry.HomeEuropean regulatory updateIn a record time of just over one year since the proposal, the new EU regulation on the Marketing and Use of Feed (767/2009/EU) was adopted and published in the Official Journal of the EU in the beginning of September 2009. Circulation of feed materials and compound feed is regulated by four main directives and some 50 amending or implementing acts, making this turnaround surprisingly a fast one.HomeProtecting your petfood"As consumers start to tighten purse strings they naturally become more sensitive to food waste, especially when considering premium purchases," says Hella Neffati, marketing manager for Crown Food Packaging USA. "Packaging, therefore, plays an even more vital role in both preserving and promoting the products at point of sale."HomeIn plain sightThe petfood aisle is a sea of bright-colored packaging and dozens of kibble shapes. Consumers have proven that familiar "humanized" petfoods and treats are what they are after when it comes to feeding their pets.HomePuzzling petfoodAccording to Marty Becker, DVM, dogs and cats are in the habit of chowing down whatever has been put in their bowls--leaving them bored, overweight and acting out with behavioral problems. By using food puzzles to feed their pets, consumers allow the dog or cat to work for their food and feel more satisfied, both physically and emotionally, attests Becker.HomeCatering to the conscientiousIt all started with a cat named Spot. As a kitten, Spot was full of life, healthy and happy. As an adult, however, Spot became a sickly cat, plagued by digestive problems, skin irritations, excessive shedding and an unpleasant odor, according to Halo.HomeLive long, live strongFrom puppy to senior to everything in between, lifestage specific petfoods target strengthening immunity and lengthening the life span of dogs and catsHomeExtrusion elevation: the latest technologySince the commercialization of petfood, improved techniques for processing petfoods and treats have resulted in the expansion of the petfood supply by prolonging keeping times, preventing spoilage and increasing the variety of food products available. The latest extrusion, drying and cooling developments from company's like Clextral, Wenger and Aeroglide continue to focus on these very advancements, hoping to continue to improve overall petfood quality for both the consumer and their pets.HomePackaging trends: the age of convenienceThe basic functions of effective petfood packaging are containment of the product, protection for the product and consumer, promotion and communication. The most important function of your packaging, however, may very well be how convenient it is for pet owners.Pet Food MarketNothing but naturalAunt Jeni’s Home Made promotes the health and longevity of pets with their natural and raw lines of productsMarket Trends and ReportsHigh-involvement petfoods and feeding plansCommercial petfood makers are creating mixers and diets that require consumers to get involved with preparationProductionNew weapons against contaminantsSay sick em to Salmonella and other disaster-causing impurities by implementing the latest technology and processesPrevious PagePage 12 of 13Next Page