INTERVIEW FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE August 2025 89 I had the pleasure of speaking with ADM’s Caitlin Donohue, Global Marketing Director for Pet & Animal Wellbeing, and Dr. Lindsay Sumners, Director of CD&D Health & Wellness, Pet & Animal Wellbeing. Our discussion gives a glimpse into ADM’s approach to supporting customers with product development in the pet sector, highlighting recent innovations, examining how the company integrates scientific research and market data into the design of functional, consumer-aligned pet nutrition solutions. NEXT-GEN PROTEINS FOR PETS Consumers are searching for high-quality ingredients, like wholesome and sustainably sourced ingredients, in the foods they feed their families – including their pets. With their ongoing interest in a variety of protein sources, more pet parents are open to pet food and treats made with alternative proteins, whether they’re sourced from plants, dried yeast or insects, especially after being educated about their benefits. A recent ADM survey shows that additional education makes dog and cat owners more likely to feed their pet food made with insect protein, including 54% of pet parents in France, 63% in Germany, 58% in Spain and 65% in the U.K.1 “We have developed our new concept, the Buzz Bar, in response to the rise of pet parents’ demand for sustainable but healthy snacks,” says Caitlin Donohue. “It features high-quality sources of protein from the inclusion of Hilucia™ black soldier fly larvae protein and oil and ADM soy protein concentrate.” Hilucia™ is manufactured by Innovafeed, a French agtech company that ADM has been in a partnership with since 2022 for the commercialization of insect proteins in pet food. The concept includes ingredients such as oats, cranberry pieces and bacon flavouring to make it palatable for the dog. The baked granola-style bar can be offered as an AAFCO-compliant, single-serve meal on the go, like on car rides or on a walk, or easily portioned into a healthy snack, she remarks. INDULGENT AND NUTRITIOUS SNACKS Pet parents want their cats and dogs to have a positive quality of life. Treats provide an opportunity to strengthen the unique bond between humans and their furry family members. 73% of global pet owners say they still prioritize fun items or treats despite the rising prices.2 With trending human flavours and shapes, as well as wholesome ingredients, ADM aims for a mindfully indulgent snack experience that brings joy to pets and their people. “This trend of giving pets, especially dogs, treats that are fun but also healthy greatly increased during the Covid-19 pandemic. It is a mindful experience for both people and their pets,” the Global Marketing Director explains. “To match this trend, we developed a baked donut, which falls into the category of ‘super premium’.” Caitlin Donohue Dr. Lindsay Sumners
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