Loughry Campus at the forefront of European pet food innovation
Date published:
Hayley O’Neill, Food Technologist at the College of Agriculture Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE), recently attended Petfood Forum Europe 2026 in Nuremberg, Germany, gaining valuable insights into the rapidly evolving pet food sector.
The event brought together global experts, innovators and industry leaders to explore the future of pet care, sustainability, nutrition and supply chain resilience.
CAFRE is supporting the Northern Ireland Pet Food industry as it presents opportunities for the wider food sector to introduce circularity and create a ‘zero waste’ food system.
Key topical updates from Petfood Forum Europe 2026
- Market trends: European pet care continues to be driven by premiumisation, functional nutrition and the humanisation of pet diets, creating opportunities for science-led product innovation.
- Sustainability focus: A whole value chain approach is essential, with life cycle assessments supporting informed decisions on ingredient choice, including the continued role of rendered materials.
- Ingredient innovation: Enzymes are improving digestibility and sustainability, while alternative omega-3 sources such as algae are gaining traction.
- Consumer trends: Subscription models are growing, with convenience and personalisation key to success, alongside emerging interest in novel proteins such as cultivated meat.
- Digitalisation & processing: AI is enhancing supply chain auditing and traceability, while advances in freeze-drying are improving energy efficiency, hygiene and nutritional quality.
Reflecting on the event, Hayley noted: “Petfood Forum Europe reinforced that the industry is moving towards a more science-driven, sustainable and consumer-focused future. For Northern Ireland companies, there is a real opportunity to capitalise on innovation - particularly in functional nutrition, sustainable ingredient sourcing and advanced processing technologies.”
By attending leading international events such as Petfood Forum Europe, CAFRE continues to ensure that the NI pet food sector remains competitive, innovative and aligned with European market trends.
Companies interested in exploring these developments further are encouraged to engage with CAFRE for technical support in areas such as product development, sustainability assessment and process optimisation.
For further information contact: Hayley O’Neill, Email - Hayley.ONeill@daera-ni.gov.uk
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