Exploring the dimensions of palatability with bone broth

Palatability remains a fundamental measure of pet food performance, but its importance extends beyond ensuring sufficient intake.

Research also points to an emotional dimension: the sensory properties of pet food evoke responses in owners too, linking the pet’s eating experience to their perception of the product.

For pet food and treat manufacturers, this opens the door to formulations that combine the palatability pets respond to with nutritional value and an ingredient story owners easily understand.

The growing opportunity in toppers

Meal toppers are one format where palatability, nutrition and owner engagement come together. Jakob Lassen, Veterinarian and Business Manager at Essentia Protein Solutions, sees great potential in healthy, tasty toppers based on bone broth: “As reported by GlobalPETS earlier this year, food toppers are gaining popularity – not only as a way to encourage picky pets to eat, but even more so as a way to add nutrients and provide enrichment and mental wellbeing. Bone broth fits naturally into this space,” he explains.

The increasing demand for toppers reflects a broader approach to feeding, where owners actively enhance and personalize their pets’ meals. Adding a topper can make the eating experience more appealing while giving owners an opportunity to add something they perceive as beneficial.

More to the bowl

PalPremioTM Bone Broth is based on a simple principle familiar from human food. Animal bones are cooked in water to release their natural components, including protein and collagen, while developing a rich, meaty taste and aroma.

Available as beef, pork and chicken bone broth, the PalPremio range enables manufacturers to match the broth to different formulations and preferences. The ingredients are supplied as convenient powders and can be coated onto kibbles, incorporated into wet food and treats, or used in formulations for meal toppers.

This versatility means bone broth can perform more than one role. It contributes to palatability while adding protein and naturally occurring collagen to the nutritional profile. At the same time, its straightforward origin supports the growing demand for recognizable ingredients and clean-label pet food concepts.

Lassen adds: “With its meaty taste and aroma combined with protein and naturally occurring collagen, PalPremio Bone Broth can support both the sensory and nutritional aspects of the meal.”