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Changes in the Pet Food Industry Lead to a Stronger Personal Connect for Consumers
The pet food industry has seen tremendous changes in the way consumers think when purchasing food for their pets. Fifteen years ago it was a challenge to find a good, nutritious pet food according to Victoria Stilwell, internationally known dog trainer and star of the TV show, It’s Me or the Dog, who spoke during the 2016 Petfood Forum in Kansas City, Missouri in April.
Stilwell’s presentation addressed many things including her training techniques using food as a paycheck for the dogs she trains. She mentioned that dogs are motivated by food and since she uses food as a training method she is constantly searching for the best training treats on the market. Stilwell urged the industry to continue to make truly great food because it means a great deal to consumers to have great food.
It’s no secret that pet owners are concerned with the diets they feed their beloved pets. Recent pet food industry trends would indicate that consumers want wholesome, balanced diets for their dogs, cats and other pets.
Pet food trends often mimic the trends we see in human foods. Think about some of the ways the industry has shifted in the last several years. A few things consumers are demanding today in their pet’s food include grain-free, non-GMO, ingredients sourced and made in the USA, gluten-free and high protein.
So how do consumers make the right decision when purchasing pet food? According to Stilwell, consumers want a short ingredient list.
When it comes to advice on which pet foods to feed, Stilwell said consumers tend to listen to recommendations made by their veterinarians and dog trainers.
"This is an emotional industry," Stilwell explained. "When we deal with pets, we are dealing with people's families."
It is our responsibility as pet food suppliers and manufacturers to produce healthy and wholesome pet food. At MFiber we take this seriously, that’s why we work with local farmers right here in the USA to grow a crop that we know pet food consumers feel good about feeding.
Lynzee Glass, Director of Communications
Lynzee Glass has always had a passion for agriculture. Lynzee grew up in a small southwest Missouri town on her parents’ beef cattle operation. Her true appreciate for agriculture was developed during her involvement in FFA (Future Farmers of America). Lynzee attended Missouri State University where she earned a Bachelor of Science in agricultural communications. After graduation Lynzee worked as the managing editor of Ozarks Farm and Neighbor newspaper, a regional livestock publication, where she had the opportunity to share the stories of Ozark farmers. Throughout that time, Lynzee was published over 100 times. Under her direction as managing editor, Ozarks Farm and Neighbor was award first-place in newspaper- general excellence by the Livestock Publications Council. She has also been recognized in the industry for her writing and photography skills.
Today, her role as Director of Communications gives her the opportunity to continue working in agriculture. Lynzee oversees the website, social media, event planning, marketing and advertising.
When Lynzee is not at the office she can be found volunteering within her church, serving as the marketing chair for Missouri State University Darr School of Agriculture Alumni and spending time with family and friends.