HØRSHOLM, DENMARK — As the market for science- and solutions-based pet food and treat formulation continues to grow alongside a burgeoning number of pet-owning households in the United States, Chr. Hansen has entered the category with a line of live probiotic solutions.

The line includes three probiotic technologies, each targeting specific life stages of pets: early development, adulthood and geriatric.

Chr. Hansen PET-PROSTART™ is intended for young puppies and kittens, and can also benefit mothers during periods of pregnancy and lactation. PET-PROESSENTIALS™ is designed to support everyday health and wellbeing in adult dogs and cats, and PET-PROVITAL™ is intended for senior pets ages 7 and up.

“The microbiome of the pet’s digestive tract influences a wide range of important systems including digestion, immunity and behavior,” said Lidiia Alaverdova, DVM, senior global product manager of pet health and nutrition at Chr. Hansen. “By adding probiotics, live bacteria that positively interact with the microbiome and the pet’s digestive tract, we can support normal health and well-being of pets.

“Pets make our world complete and impact our lives in so many ways, and pet owners wish to return the favor by increasingly treating their cats and dogs like members of their family,” Alaverdova added. “Probiotics for pets could be a game-changer for brands in terms of differentiating and taking their premium pet food to the next level.”

According to a survey conducted by YouGov Analysis Institute, which sampled 1,010 pet-owning Americans ages 18 and up between Dec. 14 and 18, 2020, 24% of respondents reported turning to probiotics to support healthy digestion, immunity and overall wellbeing in their pets. Additionally, 30% of respondents said they are looking to incorporate more probiotics in their pets’ nutrition plans.

Chr. Hansen cited this survey, also pointing out that today’s pets are living longer than ever before due to higher quality care and nutrition, and that growing and elderly animals alike can benefit from probiotic ingredients.

The company’s new pet-specific probiotic line can be used in pet food and supplement formulations.

Chr. Hansen has been providing nutritional solutions to animals and humans for more than 145 years. The company’s microbial and fermentation technology platforms include a collection of roughly 40,000 microbial strains.

Read more about product development, ingredients and formulation.