The Argentine Balanced Food Market for Pets has been growing sustained in recent years, consolidating as a key sector within the mass consumption industry. This phenomenon responds to the growing humanization of pets and a greater awareness of the importance of adequate nutrition. According to a Kantar study, eight out of ten Argentines have pets in their homes, and balanced food represents 90% of the budget for their care. Given this reality, both national and multinational companies have developed a wide range of products that cover from economic options to premium and specialized lines.
Market growth is also reflected in the number of establishments dedicated to animal food development. According to official data, in Argentina there are around 1,400 companies in this area, of which 70% are small and medium industries, while 30% corresponded to large companies. Most are in the central region of the country, near the main grain production areas, which facilitates access to quality raw materials.
At the local level, companies such as Pilar Group (Gepsa), based in Córdoba, That manufactures pet foods in different categories and supplies not only the national market, but also Chile, Uruguay, Paraguay and Bolivia.
Another relevant company is Agroindustrias Baires, which with more than 20 years of experience specializes exclusively in the manufacture of pet balanced foods, with a strong presence in the national and international market, and produces brands such as Old Prince and Kongo, among others. The firm is based on operations in General Las Heras, Buenos Aireswhere it has a state -of -the -art productive plant that has a capacity of 18,000 tons per month.
Grupo Molino Chacabuco, is another large one in the agricultural sector. With more than 100 years of experience, the company is dedicated to preparing and marketing food for people (mainly flours) and for pets. He was born as a flour mill and then incorporated the business unit for pets. There it operates with the Raza, Mapu, Pampa and Gaucho brands, among others.
Meanwhile, Petfood Saladillo, located in the province of Buenos Aires, also adds to this group, offering a wide range of products that adapt to different nutritional needs, marketing brands such as Dog and Cat Selection. In turn, Nutribon, belonging to the Bongiovann GroupI, operates in Córdoba, and produces around 7,000 tons to the day of balanced food that markets with the Nutribon brand.
For its part, the multinational segment also has a solid presence in Argentina. Mars incorporated the sector with iconic brands such as Pedigree, Whiskas, Royal Canin and Eukanuba, while Nestlé Purina Petcare markets Dog Chow, Cat Chow, Pro Plan and Excellent, covering different segments of consumers.
Meanwhile, in addition to their own brands, many companies produce pet food under white brands, which are then marketed by supermarkets and large retail chains. These options also gained popularity by offering more accessible prices without neglecting quality. Food firms for pets and Baires Agroindustrias, for example, are distinguished in this segment, also adapting to the demands of an increasingly informed consumer.
The reality is that love for animals and the commitment of Argentine families with their well -being promoted the transformation of this industry. Currently, choosing a food for a dog or cat is not only a matter of price, but of quality, health and even individual pet preferences. The market continues to evolve, and with it, the options for each four -legged friend to receive the care it deserves.
Source: Ambito
