Plasma: A Multifunctional Ingredient Revolutionizing Pet Food
In a recent discussion from APC's 'Ask The Pet Food Pro' series, Roger Gerlach, the global pet food sales director, illuminated the diverse applications of plasma in animal nutrition. He emphasized that plasma transcends its role as a basic protein source, providing a wealth of functional and nutritional advantages across various pet food formulations.
Understanding plasma's unique properties reveals its significant distinction from other blood-derived ingredients like blood meal. Gerlach clarified that plasma, derived through a meticulous fractionation of whole blood, preserves essential biological health components, unlike blood meal which is typically made from dried whole blood. This process yields a highly concentrated protein source, typically ranging from 71% to 78%, rich in amino acids, making it a premium nutritional additive. Furthermore, while red blood cells are sometimes utilized for natural coloring in pet foods—a practice gaining traction as regulatory bodies like the FDA increase scrutiny on artificial additives—plasma's parallel use in human medical applications boosts consumer confidence and understanding of its value in pet products.
APC's extensive research, backed by over 600 peer-reviewed studies, underscores plasma's profound impact, especially on gut health and overall well-being in animals. Studies, including collaborations with the University of Illinois, have demonstrated improved digestibility, enhanced fecal scores, and better utilization of short-chain fatty acids in dogs. These benefits are evident across all life stages, from supporting puppy development to aiding mobility in senior dogs, with ongoing research exploring its potential in skin, coat health, and weight management. Moreover, plasma excels in improving the physical characteristics of pet food; it is highly regarded in wet pet foods for its superior binding, emulsification, and water-holding capabilities, ensuring product integrity and texture. In dry kibble, plasma's water-holding capacity allows for higher meat content, facilitating extrusion and reducing product breakage, which offers both manufacturing efficiency and consumer satisfaction. Its exceptional palatability, especially for cats, positions it as a valuable ingredient, capable of reducing the need for additional palatants. Environmentally, plasma represents a significant sustainability success story, transforming a former waste product into a valuable, functional ingredient that meets clean-label standards and contributes to a circular economy. Gerlach aptly describes plasma as the 'Swiss Army knife' of ingredients, highlighting its remarkable versatility and the continuous discovery of new applications, suggesting its potential is still being fully uncovered.
The continuous innovation and widespread applicability of plasma in pet nutrition illustrate a remarkable journey from a discarded byproduct to a cornerstone ingredient. This evolution not only highlights scientific advancements but also reflects a commitment to enhancing animal health, promoting sustainable practices, and meeting consumer demands for high-quality, natural pet food options. It demonstrates how ingenuity can transform overlooked resources into powerful solutions that benefit both pets and the planet.