The so-called frontline products were the first industrialized foods to reach the Brazilian market in the 1970s. Enduring as they may be, these foods still retain the same old features: minimum nutrient levels, low-cost and low-quality ingredients, inconsistent formulation (meaning unavailable items or items sold at higher prices may be replaced by other ingredients of similar quality, which may cause diarrhea and/or maldigestion) and plant-based sources of protein and fat.

Frontline products are marketed primarily through non-specialized sales channels (such as supermarkets) at very affordable prices. However, these are low nutrient density foods with low satiating power. Therefore, large amounts must be consumed in order to achieve satiety and obtain minimum amounts of nutrients, leading to a poor cost-benefit relationship.

In the 1980s, more elaborated products, the so-called Premium foods, were introduced. These foods have higher levels of nutrients relative to frontline products, are more palatable (more tasteful) and are made with higher quality control and more carefully selected raw materials. Still, the same nutritional philosophy applies: inconsistent formulation and use of plant-based ingredients for the most part. They also contain compounds such as artificial “food” coloring and flavoring agents and are shaped exclusively to please pet owners, with no added nutritional value.

Super Premium foods date from the 1990s and were first introduced in the Brazilian market by PremieRpet®. These foods reflect the most recent nutritional developments and are made with modern manufacturing technology. They incorporate high-quality ingredients and nutritional supplements in order to enhance the quality of life and extend the life span of pets. Super Premium foods are marketed primarily through specialized sales channels (veterinary practices, pet shops and pet food retailers), have higher nutritional value derived from high-quality ingredients and are aimed at enhancing animal performance at different stages of life. Super Premium foods combine high digestibility and high energy density to deliver high-quality nutrition with lower food intake, and therefore provide a better cost-benefit relationship. They also reduce the risk nutritional disease development as animals grow and age.

Did you know?

Super Premium foods have higher levels of nutrients. They not only meet minimum nutritional requirements established by the NRC (National Research Council) and the AAFCO (American Feed Control Officials) but also satisfy the demands imposed by reproduction, training and recovery from illness . Optimal nutrient levels must be balanced between minimum and maximum levels established by the AAFCO. Such levels are based on in vivo studies aimed at determining the best nutrition for optimal coat quality and muscle development, and in particular for optimal reproductive performance and immune response.