Big Idea Ventures, a global investment leader in the food-tech, agri-tech, and materials science sectors, in partnership with Mars Petcare, a global leader in veterinary care, nutrition, and breakthrough programs in diagnostics, wearable health monitoring, DNA testing, and pet welfare, announced the launch of the Next Generation Pet Food Program. 

The pilot initiative, in collaboration with AAK, a multi-oil ingredient house specializing in plant-based vegetable oils and fats, and Bühler, a global technology partner for the food, feed, and mobility industries, aims to drive innovation in pet food and engage with the start-up ecosystem to develop more sustainable solutions. The program is looking for start-ups working on sustainable protein and fat that can support pathways to reducing carbon emissions in pet food production. This includes novel ingredients and trailblazing processing technologies, such as upcycling food waste and innovative extraction methods.

“This initiative aims to highlight the exciting opportunity for developing sustainable pet food products. It represents a significant step forward in fostering innovative, eco-friendly solutions within the pet food industry,” said Andrew Ive, founder and managing general partner of Big Idea Ventures.

Elise Malandain, vice president of R&D, Mars Petcare, said, “At Mars Petcare, our purpose is: A better world for pets. This program aligns perfectly with our commitment to sustainability and innovation, and we are excited to collaborate with start-ups that share our vision,” said

Start-ups will be chosen based on their innovative solutions, production volume capability, potential to reduce the carbon footprint of pet food products, and willingness to collaborate with partners. While APAC-based start-ups are preferred, companies from all geographies are encouraged to apply. 

“Ensuring a sustainable source of pet nutrition requires new ideas, technologies, and innovative practices. Collaborative innovation between industry leaders like Mars Petcare and Big Idea Ventures attracts start-ups from both within and beyond the pet care sector, supporting them in scaling their solutions to enhance the sustainability of pet nutrition. We are eager to see the innovative solutions that will emerge from this program,” said Dr Ian Roberts, chief technology officer at Bühler.