Collagen and Its Potential in Pet Food

Collagen, a complex protein, is gaining popularity as a functional ingredient in pet products like supplements and treats. In human nutrition, collagen is often linked to benefits for joint mobility and skin health, particularly in enhancing skin elasticity. A 2022 report by Future Market Insights on the "Collagen Supplements Market" forecasts that global demand for these supplements will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.4%, reaching $2.8 billion by 2032. Trends in human nutrition frequently extend to the animal sector, leading to increased use of collagen in pet products.

Aime King, a key account manager, and Katie Barry, Ph.D., a product development scientist at International Ingredient Corporation, commented, "Collagen is a well-known ingredient in human food and supplements, and pet owners are interested in ingredients that can bridge human and pet food applications. They are seeking beneficial ingredients to potentially address specific health concerns in pets. The trend towards functional ingredients is growing, and the pet industry is well-suited to incorporate these into various products." (Beaton, 2023)

Collagen has traditionally been used in human beauty supplements for skin, nails, and hair, and is now also considered a potential supplement for joint and digestive health. King and Barry explained, "Pet owners may want to give their pets collagen for similar reasons they use it themselves, as these concerns—such as skin and coat health, joint support, and digestive well-being—are also important in pet health. The ingredient is available in forms that are easy for manufacturers to incorporate into pet treats and supplements, making it more accessible in pet products." (Beaton, 2023)

Use of Collagen in Pet Food Formulations

Collagen, primarily a protein, is naturally found in the skin, bones, cartilage, and connective tissues of animals. It provides essential support, structure, and strength to these tissues.

Collagen can serve as a nutritious and highly digestible protein source in pet food. It is present in many animal-derived ingredients such as chicken and fish and can also be added as a pure supplement. "A balanced, high-quality diet typically provides the necessary building blocks for cats and dogs to naturally produce sufficient collagen. However, like all proteins, collagen undergoes a natural cycle of breakdown and regeneration. Factors such as daily wear and tear, genetic predispositions in certain breeds, UV exposure, stress, and aging can accelerate collagen breakdown, leading to thinner skin, less elastic tendons and ligaments, stiffer joints, and weakened connective tissues. This can limit a pet's mobility, making collagen supplementation a potential way to support their overall health and well-being." (Beaton, 2023)

Sources and Future Potential of Collagen in Pet Food

Collagen is mainly an animal-derived ingredient, with the closest vegetarian alternative being eggshell membrane. Pure collagen can be extracted from animal skin, bones, cartilage, and connective tissues through chemical and enzymatic hydrolysis. This process produces hydrolyzed collagen (collagen peptides), often processed into a powder that can be easily added to a pet's diet. Chicken is a particularly popular source of collagen because it is rich in collagen, low in fat and ash, highly functional, and palatable for both cats and dogs. Dried chicken collagen powder, made from food-grade chicken without by-products, is fully soluble and has a high protein content, typically around 80%.

As collagen becomes more available and pet owners continue to show interest in its benefits, it is poised to become a significant ingredient in the pet market. King and Barry stated, "Collagen will likely be used as a top dressing for both dry and wet pet foods. Its use in treats and supplements is expected to grow as companies focus on specific health benefits. The market for cat treats and supplements, in particular, may expand as cat owners seek products that support joint health and mobility for their aging pets." (Beaton, 2023)

Reference:

Beaton, L. (2023, November 20). Collagen and its potential in pet food: Increasingly touted as a functional ingredient in the pet space, this complex protein is gaining steam in supplements and treats. Pet Food Industry. https://www.petfoodindustry.com/nutrition/pet-food-additives-supplements/article/15636481/collagen-and-its-potential-in-pet-food