Looking back at Interzoo: last week’s highlights

Around 37,000 trade visitors from 140 countries attended last week’s Interzoo 2024, which included the participation of more than 2,100 companies from around the world. Some companies leveraged the popularity of the pet trade event to showcase what they do and release new products.

Alternative novel protein

Hamburg-based biotechnology company MicroHarvest partnered with vegan pet food brand VEGDOG to launch dog treats made from microbial protein. According to the company, the so-called ‘VEGDOG Pure Bites’ snack feature “dramatically” less carbon dioxide emissions than beef treats.

The new product competes well with insect protein and offers pets hypoallergic and digestive benefits. Treats made using potato and apple pomace have been launched for the European market.

In Nuremberg, German pet food manufacturer Green Petfood released a new wet food line featuring insects and soy chunks. The company has unveiled both vegetarian and insect-based pet food options, featuring key ingredients like psyllium husk, yeast, omega-3 and 6 fatty acids, algae oil and more.

Another German pet health and nutrition company, Dr. Clauder, partnered with Calysta, a California-based biotechnology company, to launch the world’s first dog treats made with FeedKind®, a fermented, nutrient-dense and vegan protein source with a complete amino acid profile for dogs and postbiotic properties for gut health.

The company says its air-dried treats will soon be available for the European market.

Treats and supplements

Belgian pet food manufacturer Edgard & Cooper, recently acquired by General Mills, launched a new range of cat treats for ‘rewarding,’ ‘mental play’ and ‘hunting.’ The treats are designed to be nutritious and purposeful while supporting feline well-being.

Another Belgian pet food producer, YDOLO (Your Dog Only Lives Once), launched a semi-moist dog food during Interzoo aimed at revolutionizing the kibble game. 

The grain-free product contains 75% fresh meat, offering “maximum taste, vitamins, minerals and protein structure.”

Accessories and toys

US-based sustainable pet food maker Augie Bones unveiled a line of plant-based tough dog chew toys in 3 sizes and flavors. The toys aim to provide non-toxic alternatives to traditional chew toys.

New York-based sustainable pet fashion accessory company A Pet with Paws launched its innovative Pet Trek carrier in Nuremberg. It is a stylish four-wheel carrier with ergonomic support, enabling a painless travel experience for pets and their owners. This item blends luxury and practicality and offers an innovative and design-forward product.

Eco-friendly cages were also popular this year. Voltregà, a Spanish pet accessory manufacturer, launched its XXL cages for rabbits and birds crafted from 100% recycled materials.