Insights to Study, Understand and Manage Extruded Dry Pet Food Palatability

Simple Summary Palatability is a pivotal aspect in the fast-growing pet food industry, particularly for dry pet food, which is generally less appealing to pets than wet pet food. As such, research is being conducted to gain a deeper understanding of the acceptability and preference of dry pet food among pets, as well as the impact of the manufacturing process and ingredients used. This review discusses the importance of palatability in feeding companion animals, the various ways of assessing acceptance and preference, and the potential influence of both internal and external factors on the palatability of products. Additionally, knowledge on common and novel ingredients as well as process parameters is presented, with the aim to offer a better understanding of palatability management.Abstract Pet food production is a fast-growing industry. While extruded dry pet food is the favored pet food due to its convenience of use, it may have poorer palatability than other pet foods such as wet pet foods. However, palatability plays a pivotal role in meeting nutritional requirements or providing therapeutic benefits in cats and dogs, as it ensures food acceptance. Thus, both academics and manufacturers conduct routine palatability tests to assess acceptance and preference of products among pets, alongside sensory analyses involving human panels. Palatability is greatly influenced by species-specific and environmental factors in cats and dogs. The review will hence present the current knowledge on palatability assessment and animal food perception; it will then aim to explore strategies for effectively managing palatability in dry pet food by examining the impact of key ingredients and process parameters on the finished product's palatability. Moreover, the demands and needs for sustainable and healthier products as well as supply constraints present novel challenges and opportunities for academics and manufacturers.