Phytogenics’ Role in Animal Wellness

The survey response underscores millennials’ interest in knowing how their food is grown and raised, and the importance of providing them with information. The benefits of feeding phytogenics to animals—including promoting animal gut health, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and being a proven performer in antibiotic-free production—make a compelling narrative.

Food is a form of social currency and millennials make buying decisions that provide them with satisfaction or a feeling of superiority. Nearly two-thirds (62 percent) of millennial foodies say knowing that animals were fed completely natural phytogenics would make them feel great about their food choices. More than half (55 percent) say they would choose meat and poultry raised with phytogenics to reflect their concern about the environment, animal welfare, and natural ingredients.

The survey aimed to measure whether millennial foodies’ preference for meat and poultry raised with phytogenics would influence their purchase decision. If given the opportunity, six out of 10 (59 percent) millennial foodies “would choose meat and poultry raised with phytogenics.”

Several label claims for a brand of chicken or pork were shown to be influential for this segment. Ranking most influential was “fed a special diet that improves overall wellness and strengthens immune system.” Though, “fed a diet of natural ingredients that actually reduces greenhouse gas emissions by animals” and “leaves no harmful residues” also were influential.

A Natural Choice

Consumers want to know how their food is grown and raised. They want options in their grocery store or local restaurants that align with their values.

While natural, no antibiotics ever, sustainable, and humanely raised protein products prevail, animal nutrition will continue to adapt and offer those choices to the market. Phytogenic feed additives are a natural option to successfully raise animals that meet consumer-driven market demands and their benefits are proven to connect with audiences from farm to fork.

Millennials’ interest in animal well-being and the environment beckons producers and food companies to tell an authentic story with a deep level of transparency. It’s simple enough to talk about ingredients found on a common kitchen spice rack.

Pusey and Adams are Delacon animal nutrition specialists who customize phytogenic solutions for poultry and livestock producer customers in North America. Reach them at [email protected] and [email protected].