New approach to alternative protein sources

The innovative German company has already committed itself in the past to the continuous research and development of ethnically and ecologically responsible pet food with alternative protein sources. Now Dr.Clauder is once again proving to be a pioneer in the pet industry. The company from the Lower Rhine has teamed up with protein experts Calysta to develop a revolutionary trainee dog treat that really packs a punch. Herman Sloot, vice-president of commercial development at Calysta, had already presented the company’s goals at the Heimtier-Kongress (Pet Congress) 2023 in Hamburg and received a lot of positive feedback from pet food manufacturers back then. Now the words have been followed up by deeds.

The treat, called Natural Cultivated Protein, was produced completely animal-free but contains a meat-like amino acid profile, according to Dr.Clauder and Calysta. The two co-operation partners add that it is tasty and easy to digest. It is expected to be launched on the market in the fourth quarter of this year and distributed throughout Europe.  

Calysta explains that an important component of the air-dried treat is the so-called FeedKind Pet protein, a completely new nutrient-rich pet food ingredient that is produced from the natural bacterium Methylococcus Capsulatus using a patented fermentation process. The bacterium can utilise methanol as an energy and carbon source, which is efficient and provides high-quality protein. In the fermentation process, the microorganism is cultivated in a bioreactor filled with a nutrient solution containing methanol as well as vitamins and minerals. The bacteria multiply under controlled conditions and produce the desired protein. After fermentation, the protein is separated from other components of the culture fluid and impurities are removed in several purification steps. The purified protein is then dried to preserve it and make it easier to store and transport. It is further converted into forms such as powder, pellets or flakes as required.

According to Dr.Clauder, the use of bacterial protein saves arable land, energy and water – “a win for the planet”. The protein is produced by natural fermentation and is GMO-free. It is an ingredient that, according to Calysta, has a high nutrient density and a complete amino acid profile for dogs as well as postbiotic properties that help to maintain a healthy gut in animals. FeedKind Pet is also a vegan protein source.

“Dog owners have high expectations of their pet’s food and are increasingly paying attention to the origin, quality and safety of the ingredients used,” emphasises Calysta director Sloot. “For the first time, the European pet food industry has the opportunity to choose a high-quality protein source that is nutritious and environmentally friendly. Calysta is now producing on a large scale and FeedKind Pet is authorised for use in pet food in the EU. We are delighted that Dr.Clauder is launching a treat with FeedKind Pet protein, setting a new standard for dog treats - one that prioritises both taste and health while being kind to our planet.”

“Novel proteins that are produced with respect for nature, which are vegetarian, nutritious and tasty are in high demand,” explains Alexander Gerards, managing partner of Dr.Clauder. “We are delighted that with FeedKind Pet we have been able to develop a dog treat that offers exactly that: vegetarian, complete amino acid profile and delicious. The cultivated protein of Dr.Clauder’s Trainee Snack is a real innovation that meets market demand.”

“The number of pets is increasing worldwide and there is little sign of this slowing down any time soon,” says Alan Shaw, co-founder and CEO of Calysta. “FeedKind Pet’s protein is a win-win for both the pet industry and the consumer, providing optimal benefits for pets, owners and the planet. The first commercial launch of a pet food product in Europe containing FeedKind Pet is an exciting milestone for Calysta.”