Abstract: Processes are provided that yield high molecular weight collagen without enzymatic or chemical treatment, preserving triple helical content of native collagen. Processing conditions and energy input on animal tissue supply streams can be controlled to obtain collagen compositions with desirable yields and properties, including ratios of denatured and nondenatured collagen with reduced processing time and higher mass throughput.

Abstract: The present invention is direct to an co-fruit pulp based edible composition in winch an agricultural fruit byproduct base material, in conjunction with a hydrocolloid, is treated with pressure and/or heat to form an edible composition that is dimen-mortally stable, ambient stable for at least 9 months, has a moisture content greater than 50 wt. %, has a pH less than 4.5, has a water activity greater than 0.5, is commercially sterile, is free of artificial flavors and/or artificial colors, has a solids content greater than 10 wt. %, and does not exhibit syneresis or exhibits syneresis. Alternatively, the base material contains an edible fruit and/or vegetable and/or nut byproduct alone or in combination with the co-fruit pulp. Also provided is a method for preparation of the edible composition.

Abstract: The present invention is direct to an co-fruit pulp based edible composition in which an agricultural fruit byproduct base material, in conjunction with a hydrocolloid, is treated with pressure and/or heat to form an edible composition that is dimensionally stable, ambient stable for at least 9 months, has a moisture content greater than 50 wt. %, has a pH less than 4.5, has a water activity greater than 0.5, is commercially sterile, is free of artificial flavors and/or artificial colors, has a solids content greater than 10 wt. %, and does not exhibit syneresis or exhibits syneresis. Alternatively, the base material contains an edible fruit and/or vegetable and/or nut byproduct alone or in combination with the co-fruit pulp. Also provided is a method for preparation of the edible composition.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for producing multiple extruded products having different characteristics from the extruded stream of a single main extruder are provided. A satellite extruder assembly is removably attached to a main extruder allowing for the production of a plurality of different extrusion products from a single stream from one main extruder that is divided into multiple streams channeled to a plurality of satellite extruders. Each of the extruders may be operated at different temperature, pressure, moisture and shear conditions. Additional components may be selectively added to one or more of the material streams.

Abstract: An edible pet chew is disclosed that is comprised of fibrous protein, water absorbing polymer, plasticizer and water. The pet chew provides excellent textural properties and improved solubility in the stomach and intestinal environment for improved pet safety.

Abstract: An edible pet chew is disclosed that is comprised of fibrous protein, water absorbing polymer, plasticizer, water, and a combination of anthocyanins and turmeric. The pet chew provides excellent textural properties and improved solubility in the stomach and intestinal environment for improved pet safety.

Abstract: The present invention is direct to an co-fruit pulp based edible composition in which an agricultural fruit byproduct base material, in conjunction with a hydrocolloid, is treated with pressure and/or heat to form an edible composition that is dimensionally stable, ambient stable for at least 9 months, has a moisture content greater than 50 wt. %, has a pH less than 4.5, has a water activity greater than 0.5, is commercially sterile, is free of artificial flavors and/or artificial colors, has a solids content greater than 10 wt. %, and does not exhibit syneresis or exhibits syneresis. Alternatively, the base material contains an edible fruit and/or vegetable and/or nut byproduct alone or in combination with the co-fruit pulp. Also provided is a method for preparation of the edible composition.

Abstract: Cat food products are provided. The cat food product may comprise a single sealed container comprising 10 g to 40 g of a complete and balanced semi-moist or wet cat food, or may comprise a plurality of such sealed containers. Methods of providing a cat food are also provided and comprise filling a container with from 10 g to 40 g of a complete and balanced semi-moist or wet cat food and sealing the container.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for producing multiple extruded products having different characteristics from the extruded stream of a single main extruder are provided. A satellite extruder assembly is removably attached to a main extruder allowing for the production of a plurality of different extrusion products from a single stream from one main extruder that is divided into multiple streams channeled to a plurality of satellite extruders. Each of the extruders may be operated at different temperature, pressure, moisture and shear conditions. Additional components may be selectively added to one or more of the material streams.

Abstract: Methods are provided for designing an oral dog product that is safe and functionally effective for a class of dogs. A product is formulated and/or shaped based on biometric analysis of the capabilities of the class of dogs.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an energy bar having a mean hedonic score for consumer acceptability of at least about 5.2. Preferably, the energy bar is either a grain based energy bar or a chewy energy bar.

Abstract: An edible pet chew is disclosed that is comprised of fibrous protein, water absorbing polymer, plasticizer and water. The pet chew provides excellent textural properties and improved solubility in the stomach and intestinal environment for improved pet safety.

Abstract: In order to provide a comprehensive pet health and nutrition feeding plan for a pet, the pet's condition is assessed using a predetermined assessment scheme. A diet suited for the pet's condition is determined using an analysis procedure or algorithm established for the assessment scheme. The assessment scheme takes into account feeding preferences of the pet's owner. A feeding plan is selected according to the determined diet, the feeding preferences, and budget considerations, if any, of the owner. Optionally, the owner may conveniently obtain the combination of foods/treats/supplements/pharmaceuticals in the selected feeding plan at a predetermined location, which is informed of the pet's feeding plan in advance of the arrival of the pet's owner.

Abstract: In order to improve or manage a pet's wellness and health, and promote longevity and a healthy vitality, the pet's condition is assessed. A recommended diet regimen is determined that takes into account the pet's breed type(s), genetic predisposition to a disease or disorder, lifestyle, and pet feeding preferences of the pet's owner. The owner is provided with at least one option that satisfies the recommended diet regimen.

Abstract: A dog chew made of extruded, edible material has a brush-shaped head at one end and a tail at the other. The brush-shaped head and tail are connected to the head by a shaft. The brush-shaped head is provided with segments (for example six segments) with spaces between the segments adapted to be more easily manipulated in a dog's mouth, so that smaller pieces break off when a dog bites and chews the article. Thus, the brush-shaped head may contain individual segments having an elliptical cross section, so that a dog's tooth can work between the individual segments or “bristles.” Elsewhere on the profile of the dog chew, stepped surfaces are avoided in favor of smooth, rounded surfaces, so that the dog chew is more easily handled in the dog's mouth and has an aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Abstract: A pet food packages of pet food package is chosen for visual appeal. The package includes a tray and a film that retains loose components of the pet food in a specified and consistent arrangement by vacuum conditions.