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Ingredient solutions for pets
Ingredients researched for companion animals are diverse and address common concerns such as immunity and digestion.
5 Min Read
At a Glance
- Probiotics are crossing over from human to pet supplements.
- Can we cure dog breath?
- Immunity supplements are a rising concern.
[Editor's note: The following article is an excerpt from a larger feature that includes three key health conditions that are trending in both the human and pet spaces; shifts in product claims that mirror human key food trends; and results of a companion animal owner survey around pet supplements of most interest to consumers. The complete story can be found by clicking here to download the free Natural Products Insider digital magazine on pet supplements here.]
Ingredients researched for companion animals are diverse and address common concerns such as immunity and digestion.
To identify the potential effects on canine health of its Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis CECT8145 (aka BPL1, a trademark registered for Biopolis S.L. in the EU and other countries), ADM recently completed an exploratory, first-in-species study with adult dogs, reported Caitlin Donohue, marketing director of microbiome solutions in pet and animal well-being at ADM. The goal was to evaluate the effects of BPL1 daily supplementation as a live probiotic and as a heat-treated postbiotic.
“Data indicate that both versions of BPL1 can safely be supplemented in healthy adult dogs, with changes observed in fecal short-chain fatty acids, bacterial composition and fecal metagenome, when compared to control,” she shared. The study is currently undergoing peer review, and a further clinical study is ongoing to assess additional physiological outcomes.
In the pet probiotic park, ADM’s new oral health solution (Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CECT9161) for dogs is a heat-inactivated preparation of nonviable microorganisms and their metabolic components. Donohue pointed out this postbiotic can withstand aggressive formulation environments, such as pressure and heat commonly used in pet food processing methods. A study under peer review showed the postbiotic inhibited canine oral biofilms and reduced dental plaque.
Rathi agreed the oral health space is a breakout area for pets. Specialty Enzymes & Probiotics’ Bactase Pet is a potent proteolytic and antioxidant blend formulated to support the tooth, gum and overall dental health by promoting the breakdown of plaque, the reduction of biofilm formation and a decrease in bacterial growth.
Oral health and digestive function go hand in hand for animals, as they do in humans. Zahid explained, “A diverse, well-balanced gut microbiome is crucial for almost every aspect of pets’ overall health, from nutrient absorption to cognitive functions.” Vitalus’ Vitagos is a syrup containing a high amount of galactooligosaccharides (GOS), suitable for use in pet foods, treats and supplements.
Rathi noted DigeSEB Super Pet from Specialty Enzymes & Probiotics “goes beyond optimizing digestion to support two areas of great importance to pet owners — energy and appearance — which are excellent reflectors of overall health and well-being.” In a 2023 in vitro study, the ingredient supported digestion and promoted nutrient absorption, as well as aided skin coat health and energy levels.
The research used a semi-dynamic model of the canine digestive system and found adding DigeSEB Super Pet to dog food promoted improved dry matter digestibility by nearly 57%, as well as gains in amino acid release by 55%, digestible energy by nearly 53% and antioxidant release by 171%.
Rathi added that the study results correlate to the findings in a 30-day case study (in process of publication) with 10 dogs. The case study found taking the ingredient with food enhanced skin coat quality in 90% of dogs and physical activity in 70% of dogs. The case study also found an increase in red blood cell, hemoglobin and platelet counts by 2%, 8% and 20%, respectively, indicating greater immune support.
A recent animal clinical study demonstrated that Arthrospira platensis (as Hawaiian Spirulina, from Cyanotech) enhanced immune response and gut health in dogs, and supported canine hematological and immunological function, according to Kakuk.
The randomized trial was conducted in 30 adult dogs who were fed 1.5 to 2 g of the supplement for every 50 pounds of the dog’s weight. Their immune response was assessed by vaccine response, and gut health was evaluated by fecal immunoglobulin A and gut microbiota. Dogs that were fed spirulina showed a statistically significant higher vaccine response and higher levels of IgA and gut microbiota stability compared to the control group.
Astaxanthin is a versatile antioxidant that has shown to support pet health in several ways. In animal clinical studies, the colorful carotenoid reduced age-related oxidation and inflammatory damage in dogs, as well as enhanced immune response; improved age-associated mitochondrial dysfunction in healthy dogs; and stimulated immune response in cats.
These clinically studied ingredients are but a handful of the growing number of options aimed at promoting and helping sustain pet health. Donohue is optimistic about the market, noting 2023 ADM Outside Voice research that indicated almost three-quarters (72%) of U.S. pet owners showed interest in buying pet health supplements in the future.
It’s never been a better time to welcome a(nother) dog or cat in the home.
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