Why Choose Food Research Lab's FRL as Your Food Product Development (FPD) Consultant and Partner?

There are several options in almost every product area in today’s market, and the difficulty is in coming up with unique items that stand out and connect with customers. Food Research Lab's Food Research Lab takes a holistic approach to creating food and beverage products. We define, demographically target, and build effective goods through a sequential process for category selection and comprehension. The client can visit the lab to learn the process. We offer unlimited rounds of revisions to ensure customer satisfaction. The final product prototype, along with the documentation process, including the video (through email), will be shipped to the client, and in case the client is not satisfied with the video, a food technology consultant will visit the place for the product demo at the client’s costs.

What are the different forms that you deliver the Food Product Formulations?

The food industry is witnessing a new form of consumption. Keeping that in mind, we can formulate the products in the form of ready-to-eat, ready-to-drink, ready-to-mix, ready-to-serve, and ready-to-cook food products. We use ingredients that offer an added value to the development and improve its indulgence and sustainability in terms of its functional ingredients, plant-based food dyes, and natural preservatives with a clean label.

What are the sectors Food Research Lab cover?

We cover a wide range of sectors such as soups, sauces and dips, chips, tortillas, dry beverage powder, plant-based products, masalas, puddings, instant mixes and many more.

How is sensory testing been carried out?

Our sensory examination leads to the precise formulation and recipe recommendations. We develop data-driven design models based on sensory research and customer insights. The fact-based design methodology used by Food Research Lab reduces risk and gives our clients market confidence while cutting development time in half. With our dedicated sensory lab facility, our team takes satisfaction in creating and optimizing successful products in the marketplace, generating a favourable return on investment, and developing brand advocates.

The European Union defines “natural” in pet food through the guidelines set by the European Pet Food Industry Federation (FEDIAF). These standards are important for manufacturers aiming to meet EU regulatory expectations for natural pet food labeling. Below, we outline FEDIAF’s criteria for using the term “natural” in pet food ingredients, processing methods, and nutrient additions.

Understanding “Natural” Pet Food Ingredients According to FEDIAF Standards

Interesting News . Nov 21, 2024

The European Union defines “natural” in pet food through the guidelines set by the European Pet Food Industry Federation (FEDIAF). These standards are important for manufacturers aiming to meet EU regulatory expectations for natural pet food labeling. Below, we outline FEDIAF’s criteria for using the term “natural” in pet food ingredients, processing methods, and nutrient additions.

1. How does FEDIAF define “natural” in the context of pet food ingredients?

According to FEDIAF, “natural” should refer only to pet food ingredients that:

Originate from Natural Sources: Derived exclusively from plants, animals, microorganisms, or minerals.
No Additives: Contain no added substances that alter their composition.
Limited Processing: Undergo minimal physical processing solely to make them suitable for pet food without altering their natural structure.

2. What processing methods are allowed under FEDIAF’s natural definition?

FEDIAF allows several non-chemical methods to process natural ingredients while preserving their original composition, including:

Physical Processing: Techniques such as freezing, concentration, drying, pasteurization, and smoking (without chemicals) are permitted as they retain the ingredient's natural integrity.
Microbial and Enzymatic Processing: Processes like natural fermentation, hydrolysis, or enzymatic reactions are acceptable as long as they don’t involve genetically modified organisms (GMOs) or synthetic chemicals.

3. Can synthetic vitamins and minerals be included in natural pet food?

Yes, FEDIAF permits the use of synthetic vitamins and minerals in natural pet food with the provision that an appropriate disclaimer is added. This flexibility allows pet food to meet nutritional standards while maintaining transparency for consumers about synthetic nutrient additions.

4.What are FEDIAF’s guidelines for a “complete and balanced” pet food?

Alongside its definition of natural ingredients, FEDIAF also provides nutrient profiles for dogs and cats. To be labeled “complete and balanced,” a pet food must meet these profiles, ensuring it supplies all essential nutrients for the pet’s health. This standard helps manufacturers create nutritionally adequate foods while adhering to the guidelines for natural labeling.

Comparison of FEDIAF and AAFCO Standards for “Natural” Ingredients

Criteria	FEDIAF Standards	AAFCO Standards
Source Requirements	Plant, animal, microorganism, or mineral; no added substances.	Plant, animal, or mined sources without synthetic additives.
Processing Methods	Freezing, drying, pasteurization, smoking (without chemicals); microbial and enzymatic processes.	Physical, heat, hydrolysis, and fermentation.
Synthetic Nutrients	Synthetic vitamins/minerals allowed with a disclaimer.	Similar allowance for synthetic vitamins/minerals.

For more guidance on ingredient sourcing and natural pet food formulations, explore Food Research Lab’s Pet Food Consulting Services. At FRL, we provide expertise in meeting both EU and U.S. regulatory standards, ensuring pet foods are both naturally sourced and nutritionally balanced.