Unlocking the Power of Nature: The Future of Natural Pet Food Preservation

In the ever-evolving world of pet food manufacturing, a groundbreaking shift is taking place – the adoption of natural preservatives. As pet owners increasingly seek out healthier and more wholesome options for their beloved furry companions, the demand for natural pet food products has surged. 

At the forefront of this movement are natural preservatives revolutionizing the way pet food is made and consumed. In a recent market survey, up to 10% of pet food products had mold in some form caused by the high moisture content and efforts made to improve palatability for pets. Additionally, many pet treats are susceptible to mold as they are marketed in convenient resealable packaging and therefore have the potential to introduce moisture and exposure to air if they are not sealed properly between uses.  

Gone are the days of artificial additives and synthetic chemicals used to prolong the shelf life of pet food. Today, pet food manufacturers are turning to nature to preserve the freshness and quality of their products. Natural preservatives, derived from plants, herbs, fruits, and other organic sources, offer a safe and effective alternative to traditional synthetic preservatives.

The portfolio of natural preservatives has grown to meet the demand and also to work with manufacturers for simple ingredient statements. NuTek Natural Ingredients offers a line of natural preservatives for food and pet food products under the brand name NuXtend. NuXtend is a natural preservative that prevents yeast and mold with a clean label offering the same palatability and functionality as synthetic preservatives. NuTek offers plant based, grain free and dairy free options for special diets and recipes. 

“Our cost-effective solutions deliver an all-natural preservation solution while delivering the same great taste and functionality as synthetic preservatives. Our in market efficacy performance delivers stronger mold control than many leading solutions in the market today offering our customers the opportunity for lower inclusion rates and longer shelf life on their products,” commented Steve Zimmerman, Senior Director Technical Sales, NuTek Natural Ingredients.

NuTek's NuXtend can inhibit the growth of Aspergillus spp. in pet foodsSource: NuTek Natural Ingredients


Why are natural preservatives gaining so much traction in the pet food industry? The answer lies in their numerous benefits. Unlike synthetic preservatives, natural preservatives are free from harmful chemicals and additives that can potentially harm pets. They provide a healthier and more nutritionally balanced option for pets aligning with the growing trend towards clean eating and natural ingredients.

Moreover, natural preservatives offer a host of additional advantages. They can enhance the flavor and aroma of pet food making mealtimes an even more enjoyable experience for pets. Natural preservatives also boast antioxidant properties helping to maintain the nutritional integrity of the food and support overall pet health and well-being.

By incorporating natural preservatives into their products, pet food manufacturers are not only meeting consumer demand for healthier options but also showcasing their commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. These natural ingredients are biodegradable and eco-friendly minimizing the ecological footprint of the pet food industry.

At the heart of this transformative trend is a deep-seated belief in the power of nature to provide for our pets in a way that is both nourishing and sustainable. As we continue to prioritize the health and happiness of our furry companions, natural preservatives stand out as a beacon of innovation and progress in the pet food manufacturing landscape.

Choosing the Best Partner 

As a company focused on solutions created in nature and nurtured by science, NuTek Natural Ingredients is a great partner to pet food manufacturers in their new product development and reformulation projects. The technical sales and R&D team at NuTek works with customers to meet the individual requirements of the product and also offer support in key areas of formulation, process and shelf life testing. To learn more and review our complete portfolio, visit our website www.nuteknatural.com or email us at info@nuteknatural.com.