Your palatability training resource

Pets’ preference

Imagine you have bought a new bag of dog food. Your son feeds the dog at mealtime. He calls out, “I think the dog is sick; she will not eat her food.” Your normally enthusiastic canine eater is barely interested in her kibble. She seems fine, but you wonder about the new food.

The next day, the same thing happens. You return to the store to buy your regular brand of dog food. You throw away the unwanted food, and life returns to normal.

The need to understand palatability

This scenario is alarming for pet food professionals. A huge investment in nutrition, quality, food safety, and branding was made. The outcome? Failed palatability. And the investment, at least in this case, was for naught.

If palatability is not acceptable, the pet will avoid eating under the watchful eye of the pet parent. Palatability helps pet food companies accomplish the critical success factor of the repeat sale, and that is why it is critical to understand palatability.

Palatability companies will happily spend time with pet food professionals, educating them about palatability options and considerations. Fortunately, an e-learning option has become available via GlobalPETS Academy. The module, entitled “Principles of Palatability,” is designed to help pet food professionals quickly learn about pet food palatability. After completing this course, you will know how to define palatability, the purpose of palatants and how to measure palatability. Qualifying pet food professionals may be eligible to take the course at no cost by contacting your AFB International Sales Representative or by contacting the AFB International office in your region.

A worthwhile investment

The investment in understanding pet food palatability pays off in the end. Pets happily consume nutritious, high-quality foods; pet parents feel good about their investment, and pet food companies successfully introduce diets that benefit two- and four-legged customers.

Take some time to invest in the continuing education of yourself and your team members. Call your palatability provider to ask for in-person palatability education, or visit GlobalPETS Academy at globalpets.academy to complete the new course. Together, we will ensure that the investments made in pet food nutrition, quality, food safety and technology bring as much value as possible to the pets and pet parents we serve.