Global Wet Pet Foods Market to Reach US$36.0 Billion by 2030
The global market for Wet Pet Foods estimated at US$27.5 Billion in the year 2023, is expected to reach US$36.0 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 3.9% over the analysis period 2023-2030. Animal-based Food, one of the segments analyzed in the report, is expected to record a 4.2% CAGR and reach US$20.5 Billion by the end of the analysis period. Growth in the Plant Derivative Food segment is estimated at 3.7% CAGR over the analysis period.
The U.S. Market is Estimated at US$7.2 Billion While China is Forecast to Grow at 3.8% CAGR
The Wet Pet Foods market in the U.S. is estimated at US$7.2 Billion in the year 2023. China, the world`s second largest economy, is forecast to reach a projected market size of US$5.8 Billion by the year 2030 trailing a CAGR of 3.8% over the analysis period 2023-2030. Among the other noteworthy geographic markets are Japan and Canada, each forecast to grow at a CAGR of 3.7% and 3.3% respectively over the analysis period. Within Europe, Germany is forecast to grow at approximately 3.5% CAGR.
What Is Wet Pet Food and Why Is It Gaining Popularity Among Pet Owners?
Wet pet food is a type of pet nutrition product that contains high moisture content, typically 70% to 85%, and is formulated to provide balanced nutrition for pets such as dogs and cats. Packaged in cans, pouches, or trays, wet pet food is highly palatable, easy to digest, and rich in flavor, which makes it particularly appealing to pets. The product is favored by pet owners for its moisture content, which can help with hydration, especially in pets that don’t drink enough water. Additionally, wet pet food often contains higher protein levels and fewer carbohydrates than dry food, making it a more nutritious choice for certain pets, such as those with specific dietary needs or medical conditions. As the humanization of pets continues to rise, pet owners are increasingly seeking premium, healthy, and convenient food options, driving the popularity of wet pet food.
How Are Premiumization and Ingredient Transparency Shaping the Wet Pet Food Market?
One of the dominant trends in the wet pet food market is the shift toward premiumization, driven by pet owners’ desire to provide high-quality nutrition to their pets. Consumers are increasingly demanding products that use high-quality, human-grade ingredients without artificial additives, preservatives, or fillers. This has led to a surge in demand for wet pet foods made with real meats, organic vegetables, and limited ingredient formulas that cater to pets with sensitivities or allergies. Ingredient transparency is another key factor, with pet owners seeking detailed information about the sourcing, processing, and nutritional content of the food they provide. Many brands are responding by offering clean-label products, which clearly list all ingredients and their benefits. Furthermore, eco-conscious consumers are pushing for sustainable packaging and ethically sourced ingredients, reflecting broader consumer trends towards health and environmental responsibility in the pet food industry.
How Are Health Trends and Veterinary Recommendations Influencing the Wet Pet Food Market?
As pet health awareness grows, veterinary recommendations play an increasingly important role in shaping the wet pet food market. Veterinarians often recommend wet food for pets that have difficulty chewing dry kibble, suffer from urinary tract issues, or require specific dietary considerations, such as higher protein or moisture intake. This medical guidance has significantly influenced pet owner purchasing decisions. Additionally, trends in pet obesity management, weight control, and specialized diets for aging pets have contributed to the rising demand for wet pet foods, which can offer more tailored nutritional profiles. The rise in pet illnesses such as diabetes, renal disease, and food allergies has led to an increase in the production of wet food formulas designed to address these health concerns, aligning with the growing demand for functional and therapeutic pet foods.
What Is Fueling the Growth of the Wet Pet Food Market?
The growth in the wet pet food market is driven by several factors, including changing consumer preferences, increased pet ownership, and the rising demand for premium, high-nutrition pet food. The trend toward pet humanization, where pets are treated as family members, has fueled demand for premium products, including gourmet and specialized wet foods. Health-conscious consumers are seeking higher-quality, nutritionally dense food options for their pets, leading to a rise in demand for wet foods that offer superior ingredients and clear health benefits. Additionally, the global increase in pet ownership, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic, has contributed to market expansion as more households invest in premium pet care products. Growing awareness of pet health and nutrition, along with the influence of veterinary advice, continues to drive the popularity of wet pet foods, particularly for pets with specific dietary needs. Furthermore, innovations in packaging, such as resealable pouches and eco-friendly containers, are also helping to boost the market as consumers look for both convenience and sustainability in their purchasing choices.
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