This week we discuss The Big Three, who they are, what they do and what this means for the pet food industry.
Pet Food Domination
The pet food industry has long been dominated by a select few corporations, commonly referred to as the "Big Three." These conglomerates wield significant power and influence, shaping the landscape of the pet food market.
The dominance of these corporations in the pet food industry is primarily due to their extensive resources, established distribution networks, and strong brand recognition. They invest heavily in marketing and advertising to promote their products and maintain their market share.
However, it is important to note that the pet food industry is not solely controlled by the Big Three corporations. There are several smaller and independent companies that operate within the market, often specialising in niche or premium pet food segments. These companies often emphasise natural, organic, or sustainable ingredients, appealing to pet owners who prioritise better quality and transparency in their pet's diet.
Recently however, Mars Inc has purchased Champion Petfoods which produces what were much loved brands of alternative dog food, Orijen and Acana, and Nestlé Purina PetCare acquired another popular alternative, Lily's Kitchen. Let's get to know The Big Three a little more...
Nestle
Nestlé Purina PetCare, a subsidiary of the global food and beverage giant Nestlé, is one of the largest pet food companies in the world. It produces a wide range of pet food products, including popular brands like Purina ONE, Friskies, and Fancy Feast. Nestlé Purina's extensive distribution network and marketing campaigns have helped establish its presence in the pet food market.
Mars
Mars Petcare, a division of Mars, Incorporated, is another major player in the pet food industry. Mars Petcare is known for its well-known brands such as Pedigree, Whiskas, and Royal Canin. The company's diversified product portfolio caters to different pet species and addresses various dietary needs. Mars Petcare has a strong global presence and invests heavily in research and development.
Colgate-Palmolive
Hill's Pet Nutrition is a subsidiary of Colgate-Palmolive Company and is recognized for its specialized pet food products. Hill's Science Diet and Prescription Diet are popular brands within its portfolio. The company focuses on producing therapeutic and prescription diets for pets with specific health conditions. Hill's Pet Nutrition has established itself as a trusted brand among veterinarians.
Animal Testing
Throughout history, animal testing has been prevalent in various fields such as biomedical research, pharmaceutical development, toxicology studies, and cosmetic testing. A range of animals, including mice, rats, rabbits, guinea pigs, dogs, and primates, have commonly been utilised for these experiments. These animals undergo a variety of procedures, including injections, force-feeding, surgical interventions, exposure to toxins, and behavioural tests.
Numerous diseases have been extensively studied through animal testing, providing valuable insights, however, it subjects animals to unnecessary suffering and many argue for the adoption of alternative testing methods that do not involve animals. With the biological differences between species,
the results from animal studies may not always precisely translate to humans. Balancing scientific progress, ethical considerations, and the welfare of animals remains a challenging and ongoing debate.
Animal testing generally is not banned in the UK. However, it is illegal to use animals if there is another way of conducting research. New medicines must be tested, by law, on animals before being tested on humans.
A huge 3.06 million procedures were carried on in Great Britain in 2021.
Did you know?
Each of the big three have adopted the 3 R's approach to animal testing - Replacement, Reduction and Refinement. However this means some testing still continues in line with this approach.
As a nation of dog lovers, the vast majority also have a profound love for other animals to. Hearing about animal testing still continuing is devastating, Knowing it still happens on British soil is even more heart-breaking.
Many dog lovers are aware of the facilities in the UK that are used to breed beagles that are "trained" from an early age to "accept" their fate as being test animals, before being shipped to other facilities for the actual testing. For more information please see the Facebook group "Free the MBR Beagles"