Programme
The Pet Food Digital Summit will consists of two category-focused sessions. Each session will include dynamic presentations, fireside chats and panel discussions with stakeholders from across the industry.
The Pet Food Digital Summit 2025 is FREE to attend, and pre-registration is required.
Day One | 25 March, 2025
Alternative proteins and sustainability drivers in pet food
As the pet food industry grows, so does the need to minimise its climate impact. Addressing the environmental footprint of feeding cats and dogs is crucial. We will explore the extent human-grade pet foods, which often use prime meat cuts, add pressure to an already strained global food system expected to feed 9 billion people by 2050.
We will look at ways to ensure responsible sourcing of ingredients, such as marine raw materials certified by organisations like the Aquaculture Stewardship Council and Marine Stewardship Council. Alternative proteins, including insects, yeast, cultured meat, and microbial/algae sources, present promising options, but their sustainability benefits need further exploration to ensure they can help reduce the environmental impacts of pet food. This session will also explore how impacts are measured, why they matter, and innovative solutions to create a more sustainable future for pet nutrition.
Day Two | 26 March, 2025
Exploring the gut microbiome in pets
Emerging research reveals the gut microbiome of cats and dogs not only influences their digestive health but also plays a vital role in their overall wellbeing. This session will delve into the groundbreaking science behind how nourishing and supporting the gut microbiome can enhance pets' digestive health and beyond.
We will hear how the gut microbiome can affect other body systems, supporting skin, ears, lungs, and other microbiomes through nutrient supply and beneficial compounds - a relationship known as the gut-lung or gut-skin axis. Additionally, we will examine whether the gut microbiome can also influence mood, cognition, and behaviour and how the understanding and optimising of this gut-brain connection may offer new opportunities to improve both the mental and physical health of pets.