Page 85 - FoodFocusThailand No.242 June 2026

This stage also allows for the incorporation of essential • Humectants play a crucial role in reducing water activity
nutrients that cannot withstand the high temperatures of (a ) to below 0.6 which effectively inhibits the growth of
w
extrusion. The product is then cooled and subjected to microorganisms. In addition, they help maintain the product’s
inspection and quality control procedures according to moisture over an extended period. Commonly used humectants
established standards before proceeding to packaging. One include sugars, concentrated syrups, salt, and polyhydric
of the key advantages of extrusion technology is its ability alcohols such as propylene glycol and glycerol.
to create a porous texture within the kibble, which directly • Food Preservation Agents: Soft kibble products contain
influences the product’s texture and density. In addition, the relatively high moisture levels, making them more susceptible
process reduces the moisture content of the food to below to microbial and mold growth. Preservatives used in pet food
14%, enabling a longer shelf life while effectively preserving can generally be classified into two categories:
product quality. - Food-Grade Acids such as phosphoric acid and lactic
acid, which are typically added at 1–2% of the formula to control
Soft Kibble Innovation: the product’s pH within the range of 4.0–5.5.
A New Alternative for Senior Pets - Mold Inhibitors including potassium sorbate, calcium
Semi-moist pet food, commonly known as “soft kibble,” propionate, sorbic acid, propionic acid, methylparaben, sodium
also utilizes the extrusion process, similar to dry pet food benzoate, and pimaricin. These compounds are generally
production. However, the key difference lies in the use used at levels of 0.01–0.2% of the formula to maximize mold
of lower processing temperatures and pressures. During prevention efficiency.
production, temperatures are typically controlled within the
range of 90–130°C, with pressures between 20–40 bar. Nutritional Advantages of Soft Kibble Pet Food
These conditions result in a softer texture and a residual 1. Preservation of Nutritional Value: The production
moisture content of approximately 25–30%, giving soft kibble process of soft kibble is more effective at preserving
a shorter shelf life compared to conventional dry pet food. nutritional value, particularly heat-sensitive nutrients such as
In terms of formulation, soft kibble is generally designed high-quality animal proteins and hydrolyzed proteins, which
with relatively low fiber content while incorporating higher provide balanced essential amino acids necessary for pets.
levels of easily digestible carbohydrates or sugars. These proteins help improve protein digestibility while also
In addition, high-quality meat ingredients are carefully enhancing the palatability of the product. Another important
selected as the primary components of the formula. These group of nutrients is vitamins and minerals. Compared to
characteristics contribute to a product that is highly palatable conventional dry kibble, which may experience vitamin losses
and especially aromatic, making it particularly appealing to of approximately 15–20% during high-temperature and high-
picky eaters and senior pets. pressure processing—and losses as high as 80% for vitamins
A, E, and C—soft kibble production technology helps minimize
Key Strategies for these losses and better preserve the product’s overall nutritional
Extending Soft Kibble Shelf life value. As a result, pets receive more complete and nutritionally
Although soft kibble technology offers advantages in terms appropriate nourishment to support their physiological needs.
of texture and palatability, it also presents preservation 2. Superior Palatability: With its soft and easy-to-chew
challenges from an industrial perspective. Since the texture, soft kibble is particularly suitable for pets with dental
production process typically involves lower temperatures health issues. In addition, the formulation can accommodate
and pressures, combined with the product’s high moisture higher proportions of meat-based protein ingredients, naturally
content, soft kibble is more susceptible to quality deterioration enhancing both aroma and flavor. This superior palatability
caused by the growth of microorganisms and mold compared is considered one of the key advantages of soft kibble over
to conventional dry pet food. As a result, extending shelf life conventional dry pet food.
and maintaining product quality require certain food additives From the information above, it is evident that soft kibble pet
that play a crucial role in preservation. Examples include: food offers a wide range of advantages, including enhanced
nutritional value, improved texture, and superior palatability.
These benefits allow manufacturers to effectively differentiate
their products in the highly competitive pet food market.
However, one crucial aspect that both pet food producers
and pet owners should not overlook is selecting pet food that
is appropriate for the animal’s species, age, and physical
condition, while also taking the pet’s living environment into
consideration. This helps ensure that pets maintain optimal
health and receive the proper nutritional support suited to each
stage of their lives.

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