Global Animal Food Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2024 - 2030)

The animal feed market is segmented based on type, ingredients, and distribution channels, reflecting the diverse needs of different animals and consumer preferences. Poultry feed is the largest segment, driven by the global demand for chicken, eggs, and other poultry products. Poultry feed is designed to optimize growth and egg production, often containing a balanced mix of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Cattle feed is another significant segment, particularly for dairy and beef cattle. The focus in cattle feed is on improving milk production, meat quality, and overall livestock health. Aquaculture feed is a rapidly growing segment due to the increasing global consumption of fish and seafood. Specialized aquaculture feeds are designed to support the health and growth of fish, with formulations tailored for different species and life stages. Other animal food includes feed for smaller animals such as pets, horses, and exotic species, which often require more specialized formulations to meet nutritional needs.

The ingredients used in animal feed are varied and cater to different types of livestock. Cereal-based feeds, such as corn and wheat, are commonly used in poultry and cattle feed as a source of energy and fiber. Oilseed meal, including soymeal and canola meal, is a key source of protein in animal feed, particularly in poultry, cattle, and aquaculture formulations. These meals provide essential amino acids and help in muscle development and overall growth. Supplements are also added to animal feed to enhance nutritional value, improve digestibility, and support immune health. These include vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and probiotics, which help optimize animal health and productivity across all segments, including poultry, cattle, and aquaculture.

In terms of distribution channels, the market includes several routes for reaching consumers. Supermarkets and hypermarkets are key channels for reaching both commercial buyers and pet owners, especially in urban areas, where consumers can find a wide range of animal feed products. Convenience stores cater to consumers seeking quick purchases, often offering smaller packages of animal food for pets or small-scale livestock. The rise of e-commerce has significantly impacted the animal feed market, providing easy access for both consumers and businesses to purchase feed online, often with the convenience of home delivery. E-commerce has become especially popular in the pet food sector, as pet owners increasingly prefer shopping online for specialty products. Other distribution channels include specialized stores, farm supply stores, and agricultural cooperatives, which serve larger-scale animal production and farming needs. The variety in distribution channels reflects the growing demand for animal feed across different market segments and consumer groups.

Global Animal Food Segment Analysis

In this report, the Global Animal Food Market has been segmented by Type, Ingredients, Distribution Channel, and Geography.

Global Animal Food Market, Segmentation by Type

The Global Animal Food Market has been segmented by Type into Poultry Feed, Cattle Feed, Aquaculture Feed and Other Animal Food.

The Global Animal Food Market is categorized into four primary segments based on the type of feed: poultry feed, cattle feed, aquaculture feed, and other animal food. Poultry feed is the largest segment, driven by the increasing global consumption of poultry products such as chicken and eggs. As a key source of affordable protein, the demand for poultry has been growing rapidly, leading to a corresponding increase in the need for high-quality feed to ensure optimal health and productivity in poultry farming. Poultry feed formulations are designed to meet the nutritional needs of various poultry species, including broilers, layers, and turkeys, while also addressing specific requirements such as growth rate, egg production, and disease resistance.

Cattle feed is another significant segment in the animal food market. As global meat consumption continues to rise, particularly in developing regions, the demand for beef and dairy products is increasing, driving the need for cattle feed. Cattle feed includes specialized formulations for both beef cattle and dairy cattle, focusing on providing the necessary nutrients for optimal weight gain, milk production, and overall animal health. The formulation of cattle feed involves a balance of energy, protein, and other essential nutrients that promote the growth and productivity of livestock.

Aquaculture feed has also gained substantial traction in recent years, driven by the growing popularity of fish and seafood as a source of protein. The aquaculture industry is expanding to meet global food demand, particularly in countries with limited access to other forms of animal protein. Aquaculture feed is specifically formulated for various species of fish and other aquatic animals, including shrimp and mollusks, with formulations designed to enhance growth rates, improve health, and increase production efficiency. Other animal food includes feed for a wide range of animals such as swine, sheep, goats, and pets. This segment caters to the specialized nutritional needs of these animals, ensuring that they receive the right mix of ingredients for growth, health, and productivity

Global Animal Food Market, Segmentation by Ingredients

The Global Animal Food Market has been segmented by Ingredients into Cereal, Oilseed Meal and Supplements.

The global animal food market is also segmented by ingredients, including cereals, oilseed meals, and supplements. Cereal ingredients, such as corn, wheat, and barley, serve as the primary energy sources in animal feed formulations. These grains are rich in carbohydrates and are essential in providing the energy needed for growth, development, and milk production in animals. Cereal-based ingredients are widely used in poultry, cattle, and other animal feeds due to their affordability and energy content. However, their nutritional profile often needs to be complemented by other ingredients, such as protein sources, to ensure a balanced diet for animals.

Oilseed meals, which are derived from soybeans, canola, sunflower, and other oilseeds, are another key ingredient in animal feed. These meals are rich in protein and essential fatty acids, making them ideal for providing the necessary nutrients for animal growth and development. Soybean meal, in particular, is one of the most commonly used protein sources in animal feed due to its high protein content and favorable amino acid profile. Oilseed meals are crucial for livestock such as poultry, cattle, and pigs, as they contribute to the protein intake required for muscle development, milk production, and overall health.

Supplements form the third category of ingredients used in animal feed, which includes vitamins, minerals, amino acids, enzymes, and probiotics. These supplements are added to enhance the nutritional value of animal feed, ensuring that animals receive a complete and balanced diet. Vitamins and minerals are particularly important for maintaining healthy bones, teeth, and immune systems, while amino acids are essential for muscle growth and tissue repair. Enzymes and probiotics play a role in improving digestibility and gut health, which can enhance the overall productivity and health of animals. The use of supplements in animal feed is becoming increasingly common as producers seek to optimize animal health and performance.

Global Animal Food Market, Segmentation by Distribution Channel

The Global Animal Food Market has been segmented by Distribution Channel into Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, E-Commerce and Others.

The distribution channels for animal food products play a critical role in how feed reaches end-users, including livestock farmers, pet owners, and feed manufacturers. Supermarkets and hypermarkets are one of the largest distribution channels for animal food, providing a wide range of products for consumers to choose from. These retail outlets offer convenience and accessibility for consumers looking to purchase both small and large quantities of animal food. The presence of animal food in supermarkets and hypermarkets has expanded significantly, as these stores cater to both pet owners and livestock farmers, making it easier for consumers to access quality feed for various animal types.

Convenience stores also serve as a distribution channel for animal food products, particularly in urban areas. These stores are typically smaller and cater to more immediate or smaller-scale needs for pet food or specific types of animal feed. While they may not offer the extensive range of products found in larger supermarkets, convenience stores provide a quick and accessible option for consumers who need to purchase animal food on short notice. The convenience and proximity of these stores make them a popular choice for pet owners, especially in metropolitan regions where consumers prefer ease of access.

E-commerce has become an increasingly important distribution channel for animal food in recent years. The rise of online shopping has made it easier for consumers to order animal food from the comfort of their homes, with a variety of delivery options available. E-commerce platforms allow consumers to access a broader range of products, often with detailed product descriptions, reviews, and recommendations, which can assist in making informed purchasing decisions. This trend is particularly beneficial for customers in rural or remote areas where access to physical stores may be limited. Additionally, the growth of e-commerce platforms allows manufacturers and retailers to reach new customer segments and expand their market presence, particularly through online subscription services and direct-to-consumer sales. Other distribution channels include direct sales through farmers’ cooperatives, feed dealers, and specialized online platforms that cater to the specific needs of livestock and pet owners. These alternative channels provide niche products and customized solutions for specific animal types and farming practices.

Global Animal Food Market, Segmentation by Geography

In this report, the Global Animal Food Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.

Global Animal Food Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2023

In 2023, the Asia-Pacific region emerged as the largest market for animal food, followed by Western Europe, which secured the position of the second-largest region in this sector. The animal food market report includes a comprehensive analysis of various regions, including Asia-Pacific, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, North America, South America, the Middle East, and Africa.

The animal food market encompasses a wide range of products, including fish food, livestock feed, poultry feed, bird feed, earthworm food, rabbit food, and other specialty animal food. The values reported in the market represent 'factory gate' values, reflecting the price of goods sold by manufacturers to other entities, such as wholesalers, distributors, and retailers, or directly to end customers. These values also include related services sold by manufacturers.

Market revenue is defined as the income generated by organizations from the sale of goods and/or services within a specific market and geography, expressed in USD unless otherwise stated. The revenue figures for a given geography reflect the consumption values generated within that area, regardless of where the products are produced. These revenues exclude any resales that occur along the supply chain, whether within the same product category or in combination with other products.

This animal food research report is part of a broader series of reports by The Business Research Company, offering valuable insights into the animal food industry. The report includes data on global market size, regional market shares, leading competitors, detailed market segments, key trends, opportunities, and additional information to support businesses in navigating and succeeding in the animal food market. With a detailed analysis of both the current state and future outlook of the industry, this report provides a thorough understanding of the market’s dynamics and growth potential.

This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Animal Food Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.

Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis

Drivers:

• Increasing Global Meat Consumption
• Rising Awareness of Animal Health and Nutrition
• Technological Advancements in Animal Feed Production

• Growing Demand for Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Animal Food Products: The growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly animal food products represents a key driver in the global animal food market. Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the environmental impact of traditional agricultural practices and are pushing for more sustainable and ethical sourcing of animal feed. This shift is driven by concerns over the ecological footprint of livestock farming, including land use, water consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions. As a result, there is an increasing demand for animal food products that are produced using sustainable practices and materials.

  The trend toward sustainability in animal feed involves several key areas of focus. One major factor is the use of alternative, environmentally friendly ingredients in feed formulations. For instance, using insect-based proteins, algae, or other novel feed ingredients reduces the reliance on traditional grains and oilseeds, which often require significant amounts of land, water, and pesticides. These alternative ingredients not only offer a lower environmental impact but can also provide a more efficient source of nutrition for livestock. Moreover, sustainable animal feed also includes the use of locally sourced materials to minimize transportation-related emissions, and a greater emphasis on circular farming practices that reduce waste and promote resource efficiency.

  Another important aspect of the sustainability movement in the animal food market is the development of feed that promotes the health and welfare of animals. High-quality feed that is tailored to the nutritional needs of different species can reduce the need for antibiotics and other chemical treatments, which in turn minimizes the environmental impact of animal farming. Additionally, sustainable animal feed supports more ethical farming practices by improving the overall health of livestock, reducing disease transmission, and enhancing the productivity and longevity of animals.

  As demand for eco-friendly products increases, stakeholders in the animal food market are focusing on developing new technologies, processes, and partnerships to meet consumer expectations. Companies are investing in research and development to create innovative solutions that balance animal nutrition with environmental stewardship. This includes collaborating with experts in agriculture, biology, and environmental science to find ways to reduce waste, enhance feed efficiency, and lower the carbon footprint of animal feed production.

  The shift towards sustainable and eco-friendly animal food products is expected to continue gaining momentum as consumers demand more environmentally conscious options. The growth of this trend presents a substantial opportunity for market players to capitalize on the demand for sustainable feed solutions, helping to ensure the long-term viability of the animal food market while reducing its environmental impact.

Restraints:

• High Raw Material Costs
• Regulatory Challenges and Compliance
• Fluctuating Supply of Key Ingredients

• Competition from Plant-Based Alternatives: One of the most significant restraints affecting the global animal food market is the increasing competition from plant-based alternatives. As consumer preferences shift toward more plant-based diets, both for health and ethical reasons, plant-based food products are gaining traction in the market. This trend has led to a rise in the popularity of plant-based proteins and plant-based foods, not only for human consumption but also in the animal feed sector.

  The demand for plant-based alternatives in animal feed is driven by several factors. Firstly, plant-based protein sources such as soy, pea, and lentil protein are often seen as more sustainable and environmentally friendly than traditional animal-based feed ingredients. These plant-based options require less land, water, and energy to produce, which aligns with the growing focus on sustainable practices in the agricultural and livestock industries. Additionally, plant-based alternatives are often viewed as a healthier option for animals, particularly as they can reduce the risks associated with the spread of diseases that are common in intensive animal farming systems.

  Despite the benefits of plant-based alternatives, they also pose a challenge to the traditional animal food market. The growth of plant-based alternatives threatens to disrupt the demand for conventional animal feed, particularly as plant-based diets for livestock are gaining popularity. This shift may lead to a reduction in demand for certain types of animal-based feed ingredients, such as fishmeal and animal protein, which have traditionally been used in animal feed formulations.

  The cost competitiveness of plant-based alternatives can create additional challenges for the animal food market. While plant-based feed ingredients may be more sustainable, they can also be more expensive to source, particularly if they require specialized production methods or long supply chains. These cost pressures can limit the profitability of companies operating in the animal food market, particularly in regions where price sensitivity is high.

  In response to the competition from plant-based alternatives, stakeholders in the animal food market are investing in research to improve the efficiency and sustainability of animal feed production. This includes exploring ways to incorporate plant-based ingredients into traditional feed formulations while maintaining nutritional quality and reducing costs. As plant-based alternatives continue to evolve, the animal food market will need to adapt in order to remain competitive, striking a balance between sustainability, cost, and animal nutrition.

Opportunities:

• Growth in Emerging Markets
• Adoption of Precision Feeding Technologies
• Shift Towards Natural and Organic Feed

• Expanding E-Commerce Platforms for Animal Food: The expansion of e-commerce platforms for animal food presents a significant opportunity in the global animal food market. The rise of digital technology has revolutionized the way consumers shop for food and other essentials, and the animal food industry is no exception. E-commerce platforms provide convenience, accessibility, and a wider range of products, which are increasingly appealing to pet owners and livestock farmers alike. The ability to shop for animal food online offers several advantages, particularly in terms of convenience, product selection, and delivery options.

  For pet owners, e-commerce platforms allow easy access to a wide variety of pet food products, often with detailed product descriptions, reviews, and recommendations. Consumers can quickly compare different brands and types of food based on their pets' specific needs, making informed decisions more accessible. Similarly, for livestock farmers, online platforms offer the ability to order bulk quantities of specialized animal feed, ensuring that they can maintain a consistent supply of quality nutrition for their animals.

  One of the key drivers of the growth of e-commerce in the animal food market is the increasing use of mobile devices and the internet for shopping. Consumers, especially younger generations, are increasingly comfortable making purchases online, and this trend is expected to continue. The convenience of online shopping is particularly appealing for consumers in rural areas who may have limited access to traditional retail outlets. Moreover, e-commerce platforms often provide competitive pricing, promotions, and subscriptions, which can be attractive to consumers looking to save on animal food costs.

  E-commerce also opens up new opportunities for market expansion. Companies in the animal food market can reach new customer segments by expanding their online presence. This can be especially beneficial for smaller brands that may not have the resources to establish a strong presence in physical retail stores. Additionally, online platforms enable companies to collect valuable data about consumer preferences and trends, which can inform future product development and marketing strategies.

  The expanding e-commerce market offers significant opportunities for the global animal food market. As consumers continue to shift toward online shopping for their pet and livestock needs, companies can capitalize on this growing trend by enhancing their online presence and providing tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of their customers. This shift toward digital platforms is set to redefine the future of the animal food industry, with new avenues for growth and consumer engagement emerging in the years to come.

Key players in Global Animal Food Market include,

• Cargill Incorporated
• New Hope Liuhe Co. Ltd.
• Charoen Pokphand Foods PCL
• Bunge Limited; Mitsui
• CJ Cheiljedang Corp
• Land O'Lakes Inc.
• ForFarmers NV
• Japfa Ltd.
• Tate & Lyle
• Mars Petcare Inc.
• Nestlé Purina PetCare
• ADM Animal Nutrition Inc.
• Ainsworth Pet Nutrition LLC
• Alphia; Hill's Pet Nutrition Inc.
• Diamond Pet Foods
• Blue Buffalo Co.Ltd.
• Spectrum Brands Inc.

In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:

• Company Overview and Product Portfolio
• Key Developments
• Financial Overview
• Strategies
• Company SWOT Analysis