한뉴픽

The population who has companion animal owning is growing, the pet food industry is also developing along with them. There is a growing tendency to accept companion animals a member of the family. This has led to concerns increasing about what foods to be chosen for the health and happiness of companion animals, as well as growing public interests in quality and safety of pet food. With a variety of production flooding the marketplace, consumers have been experiencing burdens and confusions of choice.

The pet food market has grown significantly in recently. This has been made possible by the launch of various products growing interests in the pet health not only such as, high-end diets and function food. In the past, low-cost diets were mainly mass-produced, but now products with various standards, such as natural ingredients, additive-free, and organic, are gaining more popularity then before. These changes are also linked to those in consumer awareness of health. However, as the number of products increases, confusion about it often arises for consumers as to which products are truly good for companion animals health. In other words, the greater the range of choices, the greater a responsibility for product selection is left to the consumer.
On the other hand, several issues of concern exist behind the development of the pet food industry. First, it is common for some companies to present products that focus more on marketing than on scientific evidence. Phrases such as “natural” and “additive-free” attract consumers' attention, but the actual ingredients and nutritional balance of the product may rely on superficial advertising without sufficient verification. Second is the issue of raw material safety. Since these products are directly related to the health of companion animals, strict control should be require both in the selection of raw materials and in the manufacturing process. However, some companies have reported problems with unclear origins or lack of quality management, which has increased consumer anxiety.

Realizing these issues, consumers need to take a cautious approach to the pet food. For goodness sake, we always check the ingredient list and manufacturing process carefully before purchasing products, and consult the opinion of professional veterinarians or pet nutritionists if possible. Furthermore, as more companies invest in R&D and launch health and nutrition-based products, the credibility and sustainability of the industry will increase as a whole. In case of consumers, we have a responsibility to lead the way of improving market transparency and quality through informed and rational choices, rather than simply following trends.
The tendency of industry reflects the changing values of modern people who treat their companion animals as a member of the family, at the same time, It is an important area of concerns and solutions for consumers, companies, and governments etc. Consumers must review information related to carefully, interactive concerns thet should make responsible for choices to provide a healthy diet for their companion animals, and then companies must provide scientifically rational product development and transparent information. The government and relevant agencies need to strengthen the safety and the reliability of the industry in general through appropriate regulations and supports. When mutual cooperation takes place, the pet food industry can be developed in a healthier and more sustainable management as soon as possible.

Choi Su Yeong / Reporter