3 future trends in pet food manufacturing | PetfoodIndustry

Cade Culver, chief growth and transformation officer at Alphia, predicts key emerging trends in the next five years for the pet food industry.

The pet food manufacturing industry is experiencing significant transformation driven by emerging trends, technological advancements and sustainability demands, shaping the future of pet nutrition.

Cade Culver, chief growth and transformation officer (CGTO) at Alphia, a pet food co-manufacturer for brands and retailers, told Petfood Industry to expect on-the-go pet food solutions for traveling pets, premium food mimicking human diets, and a balance of affordability and quality as the key trends in the next five years, driven by deeper pet-owner bonds, demand for high-quality nutrition, and value-conscious spending.

Advancements in technology, such as AI and automation, are poised to revolutionize pet food production processes. These technological advancements are expected to enhance efficiency, safety and quality in pet food manufacturing, noted Culver.

"We are seeing how AI can optimize supply chain management, predict maintenance needs, and ensure quality control through advanced data analytics while automation streamlines production lines, minimizing human error and physical strain on factory workers, leading to safer working conditions," he said. "We're excited to see the future impact of AI on the pet food industry as technology continues to advance."

The sustainability trend is expected to continue to influence how pet food manufacturers approach production and packaging, focusing on reducing their environmental footprint. The shift toward eco-friendly products necessitates substantial investments in sustainable manufacturing processes, ingredients and packaging. "Committing to sustainability instills consumer trust and brand loyalty, showing that our customers are leaders in environmental stewardship within the industry," said Culver.

Cade Culver, CGTOAlphiaCade Culver, chief growth and transformation officer (CGTO), leads Alphia’s business growth and transforming strategies within the company. With over 16 years in the consumer packaged goods industry, he previously served as president at Lassonate Pappas & Company, CCO at Hearthside Food Solutions, and VP and GM of Dole Diversified North America.