Growth in pet food with Insect Protein
Sustainable, hypoallergenic and popular with pets, more and more pet shops are discovering the benefits of insect protein-based pet food. Find out how you can capitalise on this growing trend!
More and more pet owners are looking for sustainable, hypoallergenic food for their dogs or cats. Insect protein is an innovative protein source that perfectly meets this need. This protein source is not only environmentally friendly but also hypoallergenic and easily digestible for pets. This presents a unique opportunity for pet stores to respond to a growing trend and strengthen their product range.
Why Choose Pet Food with Insect Protein?
The demand for sustainable and hypoallergenic pet food is growing rapidly. Insect protein is an excellent alternative to traditional protein sources such as chicken or beef and offers multiple benefits:
- Sustainable Alternative: Insects require less water, land, and feed than traditional protein sources and produce fewer greenhouse gases, significantly reducing the ecological footprint.
- Hypoallergenic: Suitable for pets with food sensitivities or allergies.
- Nutritious: Rich in high-quality proteins and essential amino acids for healthy digestion and muscle development.
- Circular Economy: Insects can be bred on organic waste, contributing to a more sustainable food chain.
Strong Market Growth
The demand for pet food containing insect protein is growing worldwide. Stricter environmental regulations and increased awareness of sustainable nutrition are accelerating this trend. In Europe and North America, insect protein is becoming increasingly accepted in both human and animal food. Similarly, in Asian countries such as South Korea and Japan, more applications are being tested.
For pet stores, this is the perfect time to respond to changing consumer demand and stand out with an innovative product range.
Insect Species Used in Pet Food
Currently, seven insect species are approved for use in pet food within the EU. The most commonly used are:
- Black soldier fly larvae (BSF larvae)
- Yellow mealworms
- House crickets
The larvae of the black soldier fly and mealworms are particularly rich in proteins and essential nutrients, making them ideal ingredients for dog and cat food.
Why Is This Interesting for Your Pet Store?
More and more conscious consumers are choosing pet food with insect protein due to its sustainability and health benefits. This offers pet stores a chance to attract a broader customer base, especially pet owners looking for hypoallergenic and environmentally friendly products.
Benefits for You as a Retailer:
- Innovative and Distinctive Product Range: Attract new customers who prioritize sustainability and health.
- High Customer Satisfaction: Insect protein is tasty and highly digestible, ensuring satisfied pets and returning customers.
- Exclusivity and Less Competition: Pet food with insect protein is still relatively new and not yet widely available.
Imby: Innovation in Sustainable Pet Food
Imby is a leading brand in pet food based on insect protein, derived from yellow mealworm larvae. The food is enriched with natural superfoods such as sweet potato, broccoli, and cranberries and is developed in collaboration with veterinarians and nutrition experts.
Why Imby?
- Sustainable & CO₂-Neutral – The first Belgian brand with CO₂-neutral dog food.
- Excellent Acceptance (>90%) – Research (Bosch et al., 2021) shows that cats prefer mealworm protein over other insect proteins.
- Recyclable Packaging – Reduces waste and supports environmentally conscious consumers.
High Acceptance and Satisfied Customers
Pet stores that offer Imby notice enthusiastic customer reactions. Online reviews confirm that pet owners report their pets enjoy the food and respond well to it. This leads to repeat purchases and loyal customers.
An Opportunity for Your Pet Store
By including pet food with insect protein in your product range, you can cater to the growing demand for sustainable and hypoallergenic options. This not only helps attract new customers but also positions your store as a forward-thinking pet retailer.
Interested in Adding Imby to Your Product Range?
Would you like to tap into the trend of pet food based on insect protein? Order Imby online easily or contact us for more information via [email protected] or call 010 311 8400.
Representatives:
Tim van Westerveld
T: +31 (0)6 13556661
E: [email protected]
Denny Vermulm
T: +31 (0)6 57122445
E: [email protected]
