British pet food brand THE PACK and German biotech company MicroHarvest have introduced a new dog treat featuring microbial protein. The product, called Gut Bites, is made using a fermentation process that transforms agricultural side-streams into a sustainable, high-quality protein.
Turning waste into protein
MicroHarvest’s proprietary microbial protein is produced through fermentation, utilizing agricultural byproducts and requiring no additional farmland, pesticides, or fertilizers. The company claims that this method significantly reduces the carbon footprint of protein production, making it more than 90% lower than beef and considerably more sustainable than plant-based protein options.
Gut Bites represent one of the first commercially available dog treats in the UK to contain microbial protein. THE PACK, a brand known for creating plant-based, allergy-friendly pet food, has incorporated MicroHarvest’s protein into its formulation to offer a healthier and more digestible option for dogs with food intolerances.
“We’ve always been open to next-generation ingredients, and MicroHarvest’s microbial protein stood out as a game-changer”
Damien Clarkson, Managing Director of Prefera Pet Food UK, which operates THE PACK after its recent acquisition, commented on the collaboration: “Our community of dog owners often tells us they struggle with picky eaters and pets with allergies or sensitive stomachs. Gut Bites is our answer: a delicious, functional treat that’s also allergy-friendly. We’ve always been open to next-generation ingredients, and MicroHarvest’s microbial protein stood out as a game-changer.”
Pet preferences lean toward microbial
Recent palatability trials conducted by MicroHarvest found that both cats and dogs preferred the company’s microbial protein to a control food. The tests, which involved an MPX-based kibble made in collaboration with a Portuguese animal nutrition company, revealed that 68% of cats and 58% of small dogs chose the MPX protein over a commercially available reference formula.
A 2024 consumer study conducted with Wageningen University also showed a positive response from pet owners. The study revealed that 77.2% of UK and German dog owners would consider buying dog treats containing microbial protein, and 78.4% would consider purchasing complete dog food with the ingredient.
This partnership builds on MicroHarvest’s previous success in Germany, where the company worked with VEGDOG to create the first European dog treat using microbial protein.
Katelijne Bekers, CEO of MicroHarvest, noted, “36% of British households own a dog, and the UK pet food market is valued at approximately £3.9 billion annually. This collaboration is about proving that microbial protein isn’t just a sustainable solution, but also one that dogs enjoy.”
