Pet Food Ingredients Market Overview, 2025-30

The increasing adoption of pets globally and pet humanization due to the work-from-home trend, which affected consumer perception regarding the pet’s nutritional needs, are driving the demand for the pet food ingredient market. There is an increasing trend of staying single or childless for more extended periods, which has led to a growth in the adoption of companion animals.

This trend is primarily observed in Europe and the United States, but emerging economies such as Asia Pacific countries are also speedily adapting. Consequently, a vast market for nutritious and healthy pet food is anticipated to drive the market.For the past few years, more consumers have been adopting a grain-free diet for their pets out of health concerns.

In 2023, Natural and Grain-Free Pet food is still growing but is a smaller piece of the Pet Food pie. Though many pet owners are still choosing grain-free options, there are a few factors impacting the return to non-grain-free. The inflationary pressures are driving more consumers to seek out cheaper alternatives or buy in bulk. Compared to substitute products such as homemade pet meals or raw feeding trends, commercial pet food ingredients offer the advantages of consistency, safety, and scientifically balanced nutrition. While raw or homemade diets are gaining traction among niche groups who emphasize natural feeding, commercial pet food ingredients maintain a stronghold due to convenience, certification, and broad availability.

The growing awareness around pet obesity and allergies creates opportunities for ingredients that support weight management and digestion, such as probiotics and dietary fibers. Additionally, plant-based proteins and alternative ingredients like insects and lab-grown meat present untapped potential, aligning with sustainability goals. The expansion of e-commerce and direct-to-consumer sales channels further supports innovation and accessibility in the pet food ingredient market.

According to the research report, "Global Pet Food Ingredients Market Overview, 2025-30," the Global Pet Food Ingredients market was valued at more than USD 39.80 Billion in 2024, with the CAGR of 5.86% from 2025-2030. The market for pet food ingredients is being driven by growing awareness of the nutritional benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, minerals, dietary fiber, and carotenoids required for pet nutrition. Furthermore, these ingredients improve digestive health, aid in weight loss, and boost the immune system, all of which help to expand the market. Some of the market's primary factors include an increase in dog and cat adoption, as well as a growing emphasis on improving productivity and health.

The easy availability of pet food items across a variety of platforms, including retail stores, supermarkets, and online retailers, is expected to drive further growth in the industry. However, the increasing market competition is a major impediment. Manufacturers of all sizes, from start-ups to the most extensive pet retailers in the U.S., are introducing new goods and services such as human-grade fresh meals, activity monitors, and medical diagnostic tools. Many brands that market human-grade food for dogs and cats have emerged due to the rising pet humanization trend. Some of those meals include a whole wheat food diet, squash, and sweet potatoes.

Animal-based pet food ingredients are associated with various health advantages, including improved skin and coat condition, improved cognitive benefits for older pets, and efficient support for digestive and intestinal health. For instance, Farmina, a global pet food manufacturer, manufactures various animal-based pet food items such as chicken, lamb, duck, and fish. The COVID-19 pandemic had a positive impact on the growth of the pet food ingredients market. During the pandemic, most consumers adopted pets, resulting in a spike in sales of pet food ingredients. This sales spike was witnessed during the first lockdown, as consumers stocked up on food in anticipation of future shortages.

Market Drivers

• Increasing Global Pet Ownership and Pet Adoption Rates: The global surge in pet adoption - especially during and after the COVID-19 pandemic - has significantly expanded the consumer base for pet food products. Regions like Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and parts of Africa are experiencing steep growth in pet populations, especially among millennials and Gen Z. These younger demographics are more inclined toward online shopping, brand loyalty, and nutritional transparency, fueling demand for better quality pet food ingredients.
• Growth of the Companion Animal Health Industry: The rising availability of veterinary care and increasing focus on preventative pet healthcare are driving demand for ingredient-based solutions tailored to chronic health issues such as obesity, diabetes, and allergies. Vets now play a greater role in influencing pet food purchases, further pushing the market toward scientifically formulated and condition-specific products.

Market Challenges

• Fragmented Supplier Networks and Quality Control Issues: Many pet food companies source ingredients from multiple global suppliers. Ensuring consistent quality, safety, and traceability across such a fragmented supply chain is a major challenge. Cases of contamination, such as melamine or aflatoxin outbreaks, have triggered pet food recalls in the past, damaging brand trust and incurring regulatory penalties.
• Consumer Misinformation and Marketing Oversaturation: With more pet food brands entering the market, consumers are overwhelmed by marketing messages - claims like “grain-free,” “organic,” “raw,” and “holistic” are often used inconsistently. This has led to consumer confusion and skepticism. Some of these trends (e.g. grain-free diets) have also come under regulatory and scientific scrutiny, especially when linked to conditions like canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), complicating product development and messaging.

Market Trends

• Rise of Raw, Fresh, and Freeze-Dried Pet Foods: There is increasing demand for less processed, nutrient-dense pet food formats such as raw frozen, gently cooked, air-dried, and freeze-dried meals. These formats are marketed as more natural and biologically appropriate, and typically require high-quality, minimally altered ingredients. As a result, ingredient suppliers are under pressure to deliver food-safe, high-nutrition raw materials.
• Pet Food as Part of a Lifestyle: A growing number of brands are positioning their pet food offerings not just as food but as part of a larger lifestyle experience. This includes matching diets for pets and owners (e.g., keto, paleo, vegan), social media marketing campaigns, and the use of influencer pets to drive premium product appeal. This lifestyle integration increases demand for innovative ingredients that reflect current human food trends - like ancient grains, collagen, or adaptogens.
• Private Label and DTC (Direct-to-Consumer) Growth: Major retailers and startups are entering the pet food space with private label brands and DTC subscription models. These businesses often operate with leaner supply chains and emphasize ingredient quality, customization, and affordability. This trend intensifies competition and further increases the demand for affordable yet premium-grade ingredients with reliable sourcing.

Vegetables and fruits are the fastest-growing ingredient type in the global pet food ingredients industry due to rising consumer demand for natural, nutrient-rich, and plant-based components that promote pet health and wellness.

The surge in the use of vegetables and fruits in pet food ingredients is primarily driven by a growing trend among pet owners who increasingly view their pets as family members deserving of the same quality nutrition they seek for themselves. This shift in mindset has amplified demand for natural, wholesome, and clean-label pet foods that prioritize health benefits, sustainability, and transparency. Vegetables and fruits are naturally rich sources of essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and dietary fiber, all of which contribute to improving pets’ digestive health, immune function, and overall well-being.

Unlike traditional protein-heavy pet foods, plant-based ingredients help pet food manufacturers meet the needs of health-conscious consumers looking to avoid artificial additives, fillers, and animal by-products. Additionally, the rise of specialized diets - such as grain-free, vegan, and hypoallergenic formulations - has made plant-derived ingredients an attractive and versatile option in ingredient formulation. Vegetables and fruits also align well with sustainability goals due to their lower environmental footprint compared to animal-based proteins, appealing to eco-conscious consumers who prioritize sustainable and ethical sourcing.

The expansion of global supply chains and advancements in food processing technologies have made it easier to incorporate high-quality fruit and vegetable ingredients that retain their nutritional properties while improving palatability and shelf life. Moreover, ongoing research highlighting the benefits of phytochemicals and bioactive compounds in plant ingredients has further bolstered their inclusion in pet foods targeted at preventive health and chronic condition management.

The plant-based source type is the fastest-growing segment in the global pet food ingredients industry because it meets increasing consumer demand for sustainable, ethical, and health-focused alternatives to traditional animal-based ingredients.

The rapid growth of plant-based ingredients in the global pet food industry reflects a profound shift in consumer attitudes towards sustainability, ethics, and health. Modern pet owners are increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of pet food production, particularly the carbon footprint, water usage, and land demands associated with animal agriculture. Plant-based ingredients offer a more sustainable alternative that aligns with global efforts to reduce environmental degradation and promote eco-friendly consumption. Beyond sustainability, many consumers are motivated by ethical concerns surrounding animal welfare and seek pet food products that minimize animal exploitation.

This ethical awareness drives demand for plant-derived proteins, fibers, and nutrients that can provide balanced nutrition without reliance on traditional animal sources. In addition to these factors, health considerations play a critical role. Plant-based ingredients are often perceived as natural, minimally processed, and free from hormones or antibiotics, appealing to pet owners who prioritize clean-label products with fewer allergens and additives. Moreover, the versatility of plant-based ingredients enables manufacturers to formulate specialized diets catering to pets with food sensitivities or chronic conditions such as obesity, diabetes, or digestive issues.

The increasing availability and variety of plant protein sources - including peas, lentils, chickpeas, soy, and various grains - have enhanced the palatability and nutritional profile of plant-based pet foods, overcoming previous limitations related to amino acid balance and digestibility. Technological advances in food processing and ingredient isolation have further improved the texture, flavor, and bioavailability of plant-based components, making them competitive with traditional animal-derived ingredients.

The wet form type is the fastest-growing segment in the global pet food ingredients industry due to its superior palatability, higher moisture content, and ability to meet the evolving nutritional and convenience demands of pet owners.

Unlike dry kibble, wet food closely mimics the natural moisture levels found in a pet’s ancestral diet, making it more appealing and beneficial from a physiological standpoint. Additionally, wet food is often more palatable and aromatic, encouraging better appetite and food intake in picky eaters or pets with reduced appetite due to age or illness. This enhanced palatability helps pet owners ensure their pets receive adequate nutrition, which is a key consideration for many consumers. Another critical driver is the convenience and variety offered by wet food. It comes pre-portioned in cans, pouches, or trays, making feeding easier and reducing food waste compared to dry forms that require careful storage.

Wet food formulations often contain high-quality proteins and nutrient-dense ingredients, and advancements in preservation technology have improved shelf life without compromising nutritional value. The trend towards premiumization in pet food also boosts wet food sales, as many consumers are willing to invest in more luxurious, gourmet options that often come in wet form, perceived as fresher and more wholesome. Moreover, wet pet food fits well within the growing segment of specialized diets tailored to specific health conditions such as weight management, dental care, or digestive health, allowing manufacturers to incorporate functional ingredients effectively.

The market is also influenced by a surge in pet humanization, where pet owners seek foods that mirror human-grade quality and fresh ingredients, which are more feasible in wet formulations. As urban lifestyles become busier, pet owners appreciate the ease of serving wet food without additional preparation. The growing global middle class and expanding pet ownership in emerging markets also contribute to increased wet food consumption, as these consumers tend to experiment more with diverse product formats.

Fish as a pet type is the fastest-growing segment in the global pet food ingredients industry due to rising popularity of fishkeeping as a low-maintenance, visually appealing, and therapeutic pet option, driving increased demand for specialized, nutritious fish food ingredients.

Fishkeeping is often perceived as a low-maintenance alternative to traditional pets such as dogs and cats, requiring less space, exercise, and time commitment, which appeals strongly to urban dwellers, busy professionals, and families living in smaller homes or apartments. The visual appeal and calming effect of watching vibrant, colorful fish in well-maintained aquariums also contribute to their popularity, as fish tanks are known to reduce stress and enhance the ambiance of homes and offices alike. This rise in fish ownership naturally leads to heightened demand for quality fish food ingredients tailored to the nutritional needs of various species, from ornamental tropical fish to koi and goldfish.

Unlike generic or household feeds, specialized fish food formulations emphasize balanced nutrition, supporting growth, coloration, immune health, and longevity, which are critical to maintaining healthy and vibrant fish. Moreover, advances in aquaculture nutrition have led to improved ingredient blends that optimize digestibility and minimize water pollution, addressing environmental concerns associated with fishkeeping.

The expansion of the aquarium hobby, fueled by growing awareness, online communities, and educational resources, has also increased interest in fish health and nutrition, prompting pet food manufacturers to innovate with ingredients such as algae, krill, spirulina, and other marine-based nutrients that enhance fish vitality. Additionally, the globalization of pet food supply chains has made it easier to distribute specialized fish foods worldwide, further supporting market growth. The rise in ornamental fish breeding and trade contributes to an expanding customer base with specific dietary needs, encouraging continuous product development in the industry.

The Asia-Pacific region is experiencing rapid growth in the global pet food ingredients industry primarily due to rising pet ownership driven by urbanization, increasing disposable incomes, and growing awareness of pet health and nutrition.

The Asia-Pacific region's surge in the global pet food ingredients industry is largely fueled by significant socio-economic and cultural shifts, most notably the steady rise in pet ownership across emerging economies such as China, India, Indonesia, and Thailand. As urbanization accelerates, especially in major cities, traditional lifestyles are changing - smaller family units and apartment living have increased the appeal of pets as companions, particularly among millennials and the elderly. Concurrently, economic growth has led to higher disposable incomes and a burgeoning middle class with greater spending power and willingness to invest in premium products, including high-quality pet food.

This demographic shift has fostered a growing consciousness about pet health and well-being, mirroring trends seen earlier in Western markets. As pet owners become more informed, there is increasing demand for nutritious, organic, and functional pet foods that cater to specific dietary needs and health conditions, prompting manufacturers to source innovative and specialized ingredients such as probiotics, omega fatty acids, and grain-free alternatives. In addition, the influence of Western pet care trends and digital platforms has heightened awareness of global pet nutrition standards, further driving the shift from table scraps and homemade diets to commercially produced, nutritionally balanced pet foods.

This transformation is being supported by government policies that encourage the development of the animal food sector, local production facilities by global pet food companies, and increased investment in R&D across the region. E-commerce growth has also played a pivotal role by making premium pet products more accessible in tier-2 and tier-3 cities.

• In September 2023, Symrise inaugurated its dry pet food pilot plant in Elven, France. The facility is equipped with an R&D unit with an aim of understanding the dry pet food production process, measurement of palatability performance, and laboratory studies.
• In July 2023, Symrise transformed its pet nutrition ingredients brand into “Nuvin”. This was aimed at strengthening company’s offerings in egg, chicken, hydrolyzed protein, and other pet health solutions.
• In June 2023, DSM has enhanced its premix capabilities in North America with the construction of a cutting-edge premix plant in Tonganoxie, Kansas. Positioned strategically in the central part of the U.S., near the core of pet food manufacturing in the country, this new plant is expected to commence operations in 2025.
• In May 2022, Darling Ingredients Inc has completed the acquisition of all shares of Valley Proteins, Inc. for an estimated USD 1.1 billion in cash. Valley Proteins oversees 18 significant rendering and used cooking oil facilities situated across the southern, southeast, and mid-Atlantic regions of the United States. With a workforce of 1,900 employees and a fleet of 550 vehicles, Valley Proteins is a notable player in the rendering and recycling industry.

Considered in this report

• Historic Year: 2019
• Base year: 2024
• Estimated year: 2025
• Forecast year: 2030

Aspects covered in this report

• Pet Food Ingredients Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Ingredient

• Meat & meat Products
• Cereals
• Vegetables & Fruits
• Fats
• Additives & Others

By Source

• Plant Based
• Animal Based
• Synthetic

By Form

• Dry
• Wet

By Pet

• Dog
• Cat
• Fish
• Others (rabbits, birds, and horses)

The approach of the report:

This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual report of companies, analyzing the government generated reports and databases.

After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we have started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience

This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to this industry, government bodies and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.