Emerging innovations in pet food industry sustainability, nutrition, and consumer trends in 2024

The pet food industry in 2024 is at a pivotal juncture, marked by transformative advancements in sustainability, nutritional science, and consumer-centric innovation. This review explores emerging trends that redefine pet nutrition, including the integration of alternative protein sources such as insects, algae, and yeast to address environmental and ethical challenges. The growing emphasis on eco-friendly manufacturing practices, such as the adoption of biodegradable packaging and local ingredient sourcing, reflects an industry-wide commitment to sustainability. Advances in functional nutrition are highlighted, showcasing products tailored to support gut health, joint care, and mental well-being, driven by breakthroughs in understanding the gut-brain axis. Technological innovations, including AI-driven formulation, DNA-based diet personalization, and precision fermentation, are enhancing product quality and sustainability. The rise of vegan and plant-based pet diets, alongside evolving consumer preferences for transparency and premium offerings, underscores a shift toward ethical and health-conscious consumption. This paper critically examines these developments, their market implications, and identifies avenues for future research to support industry growth and innovation.sustainability; alternative proteins; functional nutrition; technology; consumer trends