Where plants and dogs agree

Brandenburch is taking the next step in plant-based dog food and treats. As a private label, well substantiated, healthy, scalable and without cross-contamination of animal protein. Made in Holland.

At the upcoming edition of Interzoo, Brandenburch will be presenting something new that goes beyond just a product launch. It is a strategic step based on years of development, research and manufacturing expertise: complete plant-based kibbles and snacks for dogs. Not a consumer brand but a carefully thought-through solution for brands that are ready for the future of pet nutrition.

Brandenburch normally operates behind the scenes, as a specialist manufacturer of plant-based pet food and as a partner for brands, retailers and concept developers. At Interzoo, however, the company will be stepping forward emphatically with a clear statement: plant-based dog food is no longer a trend but an evidence-based and industrially viable sustainable category.

From discussion to evidence, nutrients over ingredients

The debate around plant-based dog food is shifting. Whereas previously the main focus was on ingredients, this is increasingly shifting to nutritional composition. After all, dogs do not need specific ingredients like ‘meat’ in their diet; they need the right balance of specific nutrients.

Brandenburch is embracing that scientific approach. In collaboration with a recognized external team of specialists (nutritionists and veterinarians), a recipe has been developed based on one core principle. It is not the origin of the raw materials that is decisive but the correct nutritional value of the final product.

For Joyce Hofman, after whom Joyce Hofman Animal Clinics is named, and her team of 14 veterinarians, this approach is a logical step into the future of pet nutrition: “Not as a niche but as a full-fledged and flavorful food that brings together health, sustainability and practical experience. If the nutritional balance is right, a plant-based diet for dogs can be complete and healthy. In my practice, I see that for many pets it works very well and is a sustainable nutritional model.” That is exactly where Brandenburch stands out as a manufacturer.

Developed in house, validated by experts

Instead of using a generic recipe, Brandenburch opted to undertake an intensive in-house development process. The plant-based kibbles and snacks are built from functional nutritional goals: protein quality, amino acid profile, digestibility, taste acceptance and stability in production.

According to an independent veterinarian and FEDIAF-qualified nutritionist specialized in dog nutrition, who is heavily involved in the development of the Brandenburch recipes: “For dogs, nutrition is not about the ingredient but about the nutrients. If all the essential nutrients are present in the right balance, this plant-based recipe can form a complete and healthy diet. So, with the right knowledge and formulation, it is a relevant and responsible choice within the spectrum of modern dog foods. That is exactly how Brandenburch has approached it.”

This is crucial for B2B parties because the market is becoming more critical. Claims need to be substantiated – toward retailers, consumers and in terms of regulation.

Taste and acceptance, a crucial factor

One of the most prevalent misconceptions surrounding plant-based dog food is that acceptance by dogs poses a challenge. Brandenburch has therefore explicitly invested in professional palatability testing and recipe development by an independent, FEDIAF-qualified nutritionist highly respected by veterinarians. The test is carried out in a familiar home environment with specially trained dog owners, for reliable measurement.

The result: products that are not only nutritionally complete but also proven to be appealing in terms of smell, texture and taste experience for dogs. This makes them suitable for both complete foods and snacks and as functional supplements.

For brands, this means they do not have to choose between sustainability and performance – a tension that has often been a barrier in the past.

Unique benefits, no cross- contamination, smaller batches

In addition to the substantive underpinning, Brandenburch has an important industrial advantage that is rarely highlighted and/or achievable within the sector: production without the risk of cross-contamination of animal protein.

Because the production of these plant-based recipes takes place in a plant-based factory without animal proteins, a clean production chain is guaranteed. For brands seeking to ensure transparency and traceability, this is a strategic differentiator. Especially in a market where consumers and retailers are increasingly demanding provenance, sustainability and the integrity of production chains.

Private label, an accelerator of innovation

Whereas many manufacturers opt for their own consumer brand to launch innovation, Brandenburch deliberately chooses private label. This is part of its DNA: to strengthen partners rather than compete.

The new plant-based line is therefore being presented as a white-label concept. Physical samples will be handed out at the Interzoo fair. This finished product significantly lowers the threshold for a market launch. Brands do not have to go through an R&D journey taking years but can enter the market with a proven, scalable and evidence-based solution.

Besides a finished product, Brandenburch also has all the space and knowledge for co-creation through tailor-made recipes. The product can also be introduced into existing product lines as a plant-based variant within the overall range.

Momentum in the market

The timing of this introduction is anything but coincidental. The international pet food market is moving toward sustainable healthy sources of protein, transparent insights into ingredient provenance and more plant-based ingredients and nutrition.

Retailers are seeking distinction. Brands are seeking credible innovations. And consumers are becoming more critical of sustainable impact, product composition and promise. Within that force field, Brandenburch positions itself as a substantive partner and manufacturer that makes the delivery of quality and innovation practicable.

A clear vision

Brandenburch’s core message is clear: the future of dog food is about quality, health and sustainability. And is, therefore, plant-based. The focus is on nutrients, not dogma around ingredients. Plant-based is not a replacement out of necessity but a fully-fledged alternative from the point of view of innovation, sustainability and scientific evidence. And tastefully appreciated by the end customer, the dog.

Combining this vision with industrial scalability and private label flexibility, Brandenburch positions itself as a progressive manufacturer in the international pet food sector. With the unique advantage of no cross- contamination of animal proteins.

An invitation to progressive brands

The message toward the market is therefore an invitation. Come and have a chat. Experience the product. Ask the critical questions. And discover how plant-based dog food, backed by expertise and produced without any cross-contamination risk, can become a reality within your own brand strategy today.

Interzoo: Hall 2, Booth 335