OSLO, NORWAY — QRILL Pet, a functional marine ingredient by Aker BioMarine, announced its new partnership with Chinese pet food manufacturer Fullpet Co. on Dec. 16. Through the partnership, QRILL Pet will provide Fullpet with raw materials for production of healthy pet nutrition products.

Earlier in December, the companies signed an agreement to collaborate during the fifth annual China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai. Aker BioMarine and Fullpet first entered a partnership during the fourth annual CIIE.

Fullpet currently uses QRILL Pet’s krill-based protein ingredients to manufacture highly nutritious, functional pet foods. Under the new partnership, Fullpet and QRILL Pet will explore scientific research, technology and consumer trends within the Chinese pet food and treat industry.

“In the past year, we formed an incredible partnership with Aker BioMarine, recognizing not only the quality of their ingredients, but the quality attitude of their team members,” said Zheng Zhen, deputy general manager of Fullpet Co. “This level of excellence coincides with the outlook and expectations of Fullpet. Aker BioMarine has complete control of their supply chain and full competency when it comes to product development and promotion. We look forward to continuing our work with Aker BioMarine to improve the health of pets in the field of exploration.”

According to Aker BioMarine, China is the largest market in the world for marine-based ingredients. The company currently has a team of well-experienced pet food industry professionals in the region.

“China is an extremely fast developing pet food market and we are already making strides with Fullpet,” said Matts Johansen, chief executive officer, Aker BioMarine. “At Aker BioMarine, we are much more than an ingredient supplier. We are a collaborative partner who brings valuable insights, introduces new market opportunities, and guides our customers for growth and product expansion across all aspects of the supply chain, even down to marketing.

“By strengthening this strategic partnership and heavily focusing on research, sustainability, technology and consumer insights, we can ensure success in the Chinese market and together we will continue to upgrade pet health food in China,” Johansen added.

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