Pet Food Processing - May 2024 - 30

FOOD SAFETY
A combination of sensory evaluation and chemical analysis
can help pet food manufacturers identify early signs
of oxidation. Together, these methods can detect changes
in appearance, flavor and odor, as well as measure levels of
primary and secondary oxidation products.
" To detect early signs of oxidation, pet food and ingredients
are often tested for chemical signs of oxidation, such
as peroxide values or aldehyde formation. Along with visual
and sensory observations, these can serve as important
tools for ensuring quality of raw materials and achievement
of desired shelf life, " Mann said.
" Monitoring different parameters such as primary and
Oxidation can
affect the flavor,
texture, aroma
and even the
nutritional quality
of pet food.
Corbion
When it comes to health risks, oxidation can lead to the
formation of harmful compounds such as free radicals and
peroxides. These compounds can damage cells, tissues and
organs, leading to inflammation, oxidative stress and even
chronic diseases.
" When pet food is exposed to oxygen and light, lipid
radicals and lipid-peroxide radicals (missing hydrogen)
form; they are highly reactive and toxic when our endogenous
system is insufficient to protonate them, " explained
Michael A. Rogers, Ph.D., professor, department of food
science, University of Guelph, Ontario. " Once this reaction
is initiated, it propagates spontaneously, producing more
radicals and lipid hydroperoxides. As more radicals form,
other molecules have hydrogen extracted, such as proteins,
DNA and RNA, which leads to carcinogenic mutations
over the long term. Therefore, radicals themselves are
toxic. Additionally, the lipid-hydroperoxides decompose
into fragments of lipids (shorter fatty acids, aliphatic molecules,
alcohols, aldehydes and ketones), each with potential
health effects. "
Early detection and preventive measures
In order to effectively tackle oxidation, it's essential for pet
food processors to understand the factors that contribute to
the process and how to prevent it.
" Oxidation is a complicated and irreversible process
that can be influenced by many factors, such as temperature,
humidity, light, oxygen, metals and enzymes, " said Jim
Mann, global platform manager of antioxidants and food
safety, Kemin Industries, Des Moines, Iowa. " The rate and
extent of oxidation can vary depending on the type, quality
and composition of pet food ingredients, as well as the
processing, formulation, packaging, storage and handling
conditions. Therefore, it is important to monitor for early
signs of oxidation in pet food products. "
30 PET FOOD PROCESSING | May 2024 | www.petfoodprocessing.net
secondary oxidation products will help to identify the stage
of oxidation, " Farshi added. " Identifying the early stages of
oxidation in pet food products requires a comprehensive
understanding of the subtle changes that occur as a result of
chemical reactions. These changes may manifest as alterations
in color; changes in odor, such as the emergence of
rancid or stale smells; and modifications in texture. "
Aside from monitoring and early detection, processors
can also implement various strategies and technologies to
combat oxidation.
" Innovative strategies to address oxidation in pet food
formulations involve capitalizing on the effectiveness of
natural antioxidants, " Farshi said. " These antioxidants, derived
from various sources such as plant extracts, herbs
and spices, possess inherent properties that can help mitigate
the detrimental effects of oxidation on pet food quality
and safety. "
Extending the shelf life of pet
food while maintaining its nutritional
value and palatability is a key
objective and challenge for pet food
manufacturers, as it can ensure the
wellbeing of the pets. "
Jim Mann, Kemin Industries
" Antioxidants are well-known substances that can inhibit
or delay the oxidation process by scavenging free radicals
that are generated during the oxidation process, " Mann
added. " As consumer demand for natural and label-friendly
ingredients has grown, there is significant focus on innovation
with natural antioxidants. The drive for sustainability
is pushing companies to look at how they produce natural
antioxidants, finding more sustainable solutions to improve
them, or even to replace synthetic antioxidants. "
Packaging materials also play a crucial role in preventing
oxidation. Oxygen barriers, such as nitrogen flushing
and barrier films, can help reduce the amount of oxygen
that comes into contact with the product. Additionally,
light-blocking materials can prevent harmful UV rays from
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