Calysta novel protein secures European pet food market entry

FeedKind Pet is being incorporated into an air-dried dog treat produced by German pet food brand, Dr Clauder’s.

Health benefits and sustainability​

The ingredient is nutrient dense, said Herman Sloot, vice president commercial development at Calysta.

“FeedKind Pet has a protein content exceeding 65% and a rich supply of essential amino acids. It serves as a comprehensive protein source crafted to meet the specific nutritional requirements of both dogs and cats. It’s non-GMO, vegan, grain, gluten, and soy free.”

It also has postbiotic properties designed to help maintain a healthy gut in animals, continued Sloot.

“We have a proven high digestibility in comparison to other proteins – both traditional sources such as meat-by-product or plant protein, but also to novel protein sources. The combination of being vegan and still delivering a full nutritional, highly digestible profile is what makes FeedKind stand out.”

Industry trends and environmental impact​

Asked how the introduction of these treats align with broader trends in the pet food industry, such as the growing popularity of alternative protein sources and the emphasis on pet health and wellness, he told us: “We know that pets are extensions of the family, and pet owners are increasingly seeking out products that align with their hopes and ambitions for the environment. They’re also now more willing to invest in high-quality, premium pet food and treats that they know will benefit their pet’s health.”

Produced by controlled fermentation of natural bacteria, the controlled production process for FeedKind ensures the absence of contaminants such as pesticides or heavy metals, explained Sloot.

In response to ongoing supply challenges, pet food companies need to seek out sustainable protein sources, remarked the commercial development lead.

“Every ton of FeedKind Pet is a ton of new protein that doesn’t interfere with the human food chain. The process uses no agricultural land, and almost no water.”

By choosing these products, pet owners can support more sustainable agricultural practices, reduce waste, and minimize their pets' carbon footprint, commented Sloot.

“Also, not to be underestimated, our process is proven to be scalable, with our first production plant already producing a sizeable amount of 20,000Mt annually.”

Global potential and regulatory progress​

The Dr Clauder Trainee Snack cultivated protein treat has now been introduced into the European market.

“Dr Clauder’s and Calysta will develop a comprehensive information campaign for both consumers and B2B customers to ensure they have access to and a clear understanding of this new protein source and its benefits,” Anna Heuvens, head of marketing at Dr Clauder’s, told us.

Dr Clauder’s main commercial presence is in Europe, but it ships globally. “As FeedKind Pet becomes part of the future portfolio, and given regulatory approvals, in the future we look forward to being able to use the ingredient outside of Europe,” she said.

FeedKind Pet is already approved for use in both the EU, the UK, Canada, and other markets. The ingredient was exposed to extensive analysis to meet the EU standards including the appropriate toxicity and allergy testing. Progress is being made in terms of the regulatory pathway in the US, according to Calysta, where the novel protein has secured aqua-feed related GRAS approval with the expectation of extension to pet food applications.