Sustainable ingredients
The use of by-products from the human food chain prevents disposal of healthy and tasty ingredients
Pet owners want to feed their pets in a way that respects the environment. Sustainable ingredients, environmentally friendly production, recyclable packaging materials – all these factors play a major role in ensuring the long-term sustainability of the pet food industry.
Sustainable ingredients sourcing means ensuring to the best of our abilities that the ingredients we use have a positive impact on the local community and a limited impact on the ecosystems from which they are sourced.
When it comes to pet food ingredients, the Industry is conscious of sourcing pet food ingredients responsibly and sustainably.
The pet food industry has been one of the first to commit to recycling: the use of by-products from the human food chain prevents disposal of healthy and tasty ingredients.
It reduces the price of meat for human consumption and the demands on the human food chain and pet food manufacturers are expert in converting these by-products into valuable nutritious products for our pets.
With growing pressure on our planet’s resources, UK Pet Food and our members are focused on finding smart, sustainable ways to make pet food. One exciting area we’re exploring is alternative proteins, like insect-based foods and even cell-cultivated ingredients now in dog treats. We’re backing research and innovation in these new ideas, alongside improving traditional methods to help build a more sustainable future for pets and people alike.
Find out more about Category 3 animal fats & how these essential raw materials for pet food are becoming a rare commodity to the pet food industry:
Download our 'Insect-based ingredients in pet food' fact sheet for more information about this great alternative to traditional ingredients:
Handy tips for pet owners to shop more sustainably
Visit our Pet Care Advice hub for handy tips to share with pet owners on how they can shop more sustainably when buying pet food