Growing Demand For Pulse Crops In Pet Food Industry

The trend towards humanizing pets has been gaining momentum in recent years, and it is particularly evident in the pet food industry. According to a 2021 survey of dog and cat owners, more than half of respondents said they spend more money on their pets’ food each year than on themselves. This shift towards higher-quality pet food has driven the demand for nutritious, pure ingredients.

As pet owners become more conscious of the ingredients in their pets’ food, the demand for high-quality, grain-free options has increased. This trend has led to a growing market for pulse crops, and major processor Columbia Grain International (CGI) is actively recruiting contract growers to meet this demand.

Pulse Crops: A Win-Win for Growers And Pet Owners

CGI is actively recruiting farmers interested in growing pulse crops, which include dry green peas, dry yellow peas, lentils, and chickpeas. These crops have many benefits for growers, including replenishing the soil and helping to increase yields for subsequent crops. They also do well in drier conditions and are generally competitive in price compared to wheat.

CGI is offering to contract purchases from farmers and buy at one of their elevator locations in Montana. They will precontract for future delivery, and if the crop doesn’t produce what is expected and the farmer can provide proof, CGI has an Act of God clause in the contract.

Pet Food Variety

• Grain-Free Pet Food And Pulse Crops– As pet owners seek out healthier, grain-free options for their pets, pulses have become a key ingredient in many premium pet foods. The grain-free pet food market experienced a dip in popularity due to concerns that it may cause heart issues in pets, but government regulators have deemed these concerns unfounded.
• Flax: Another Healthy Ingredient for Pets– In addition to pulses, CGI is also supplying manufacturers with flax, a popular seed among humans that is high in plant-based Omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids help to promote mobility and produce a healthy coat in animals.

Insight

The increasing demand for high-quality, grain-free pet food has created a market for pulse crops, which are both nutritious for pets and beneficial for growers. As one of the largest producers and exporters of pulses in the United States, CGI is well-positioned to meet this growing demand and is actively recruiting contract growers to help supply the industry. With a focus on quality ingredients, pet owners can continue to treat their furry family members to the best possible nutrition.

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