Animal Plasma and Spray Dried Animal Plasma in Dry Cat Food: Everything to Know

What is Animal Plasma?

Animal plasma is the liquid component of blood that remains after red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets are removed through centrifugation.

This protein-rich fluid, composed of essential compounds like albumin, globulin, and fibrinogen, has gained significant attention in the pet food industry, particularly in dry food formulations, due to its unique nutritional profile and functional properties.

Plasma, obtained from blood, is rich in beneficial proteins such as albumin and globulins. Due to its rich amino acid profile, plasma is a sustainable and valuable ingredient.

How is Animal Plasma Made for the Pet Food Industry?

The process of creating animal plasma for use in cat food involves several steps:

Collection and Processing

Animal plasma is obtained during the slaughter process of pigs and cattle. These animals are primarily processed for human consumption, and the plasma is a valuable by-product. After the animals are slaughtered, their blood is collected and immediately treated with an anticoagulant to prevent clotting. The blood is then centrifuged to separate the plasma from the cellular components (red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets).

Spray-Drying Technology

The liquid plasma undergoes spray drying, which is crucial for preserving its nutritional value. This process involves:

Atomization: The liquid plasma is sprayed into a fine mist.
Hot Air Exposure: The mist is exposed to hot air at temperatures typically above 80 °C.
Rapid Dehydration: The water content evaporates quickly, leaving behind dried plasma particles.
Collection: The dried particles are collected as a powder.

This technology is essential as it:

Maintains the solubility of the plasma
Preserves the nutritional value
Retains the nutritional qualities of the plasma protein
Eliminates potential pathogens, enhancing the safety of the final product

Why is Animal Plasma Used in Dry Cat Food?

Nutritional Benefits

Animal plasma is primarily valued for its high protein concentration and superior amino acid profile. Spray-dried animal plasma (SDAP) typically contains about 78% crude protein on a dry matter basis, making it an excellent protein source for cats. The amino acids in animal plasma support various aspects of cat health, including:

Tissue repair
Enzyme production
Hormone synthesis
Muscle development and maintenance
Skin and coat health

Palatability Enhancement

One primary reason for including animal plasma in dry food is its ability to improve palatability. Cats are known for their discerning tastes, and adding animal plasma can make dry kibbles more appealing, encouraging better food intake and apparent digestibility.

Nutritional Qualities: Animal plasma contains functional proteins that offer several benefits to cats:

Digestive System Support: One of the standout benefits of animal plasma is its support for the digestive system. The proteins in animal plasma promote healthy gut bacteria, which can help reduce the risk of digestive disorders. This is particularly important for cats, as a healthy digestive system ensures optimal nutrient absorption and overall health.

Anti-inflammatory: Animal plasma also boasts anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as arthritis and skin conditions. By mitigating inflammation, animal plasma helps maintain joint health and skin integrity, contributing to a cat’s overall quality of life.

Immune System Boost: Animal plasma contains bioactive components, including immunoglobulins and growth factors, that may enhance the immune system. Studies have shown that dietary plasma protein can attenuate the innate immunity response, potentially reducing inflammation and supporting overall health.

Sustainable Ingredient: Animal plasma is a co-product of meat production and is a sustainable ingredient in pet food manufacturing. Its use in dry food helps reduce waste and maximize the utilization of animal-derived products.

What is Spray-Dried Animal Plasma?

Spray-Dried Animal Plasma (SDAP) is a highly functional ingredient derived from animal blood and plays a significant role in dry cat food formulations. This protein-rich powder provides multiple benefits beyond its nutritional value, enhancing the texture, palatability, and overall quality of dry cat food.

Production Process

SDAP is produced through a sophisticated spray-drying technology:

Blood plasma is separated from whole blood through centrifugation.
The liquid plasma is then atomized into fine droplets.
These droplets are exposed to hot air, typically at temperatures above 80 °C.
The water content evaporates rapidly, leaving behind dried plasma particles.
The resulting powder is collected and packaged.

This process preserves the nutritional qualities of the dried plasma protein while ensuring microbiological safety.

Why is Spray-Dried Animal Plasma Used in Dry Cat Food?

Binder and Thickener

SDAP acts as a natural binder in dry cat food, helping to hold ingredients together. It also plays a crucial role in wet pet food formulations, enhancing texture and moisture retention.
It contributes to the structural integrity of kibbles, preventing them from crumbling easily.

Texture Maintenance

The proteins in SDAP help maintain the desired texture of dry cat food during processing and storage.
It helps create a consistent mouthfeel that cats find appealing.

Moisture Control

SDAP has excellent water-binding properties, which help control moisture levels in dry cat food.
This function is crucial for maintaining kibble crunchiness and preventing spoilage.

Palatability Enhancement:

Studies have shown that adding SDAP can significantly improve the palatability of dry cat food.
Its unique flavor profile encourages cats to eat, which is particularly beneficial for finicky eaters.

Nutritional Contribution:

SDAP is a high-quality protein source with a superior amino acid profile.
It provides essential amino acids that support various aspects of feline health, including muscle maintenance and immune function.

Impact on Overall Quality

The inclusion of SDAP in dry cat food contributes to its overall quality in several ways:

Consistency: Helps maintain uniform kibble size and shape throughout production.
Shelf Life: Its moisture-controlling properties contribute to extended shelf life.
Nutrient Retention: SDAP's binding properties can help retain other nutrients within the kibble structure.
Digestibility: Research indicates that diets containing SDAP exhibit higher apparent nutrient digestibility than those without it.

Is Animal Plasma Safe for Cats?

The safety of animal plasma in kibbles has been extensively studied, and research generally supports its use as a safe and beneficial ingredient in dry food. The protein-rich compounds found in animal plasma, such as albumin and globulin, contribute to its high nutritional value and safety profile. However, as with any ingredient, there are considerations.

Safety Profile: Animal plasma, particularly in its spray-dried form (SDAP), is safe for cats when properly processed and incorporated into balanced diets. Several factors contribute to its safety profile:

Processing Methods: Spray drying (SD) technology produces SDAP by applying high temperatures that effectively eliminate potential pathogens. This process ensures the microbiological safety of the final product.

Additional Safety Measures: To further ensure safety and quality:

A minimum post-drying storage period of 14 days at 20 °C is often implemented.
Some manufacturers incorporate additional biosafety measures, such as UV-C irradiation, which has been shown to inactivate certain viruses in liquid plasma before spray-drying.

Quality Control: SDAP undergoes rigorous quality control to ensure it meets standards for pet food. This includes testing for nutritional content, microbial contamination, and potential contaminants.

Regulatory Oversight

Various authorities regulate the use of animal plasma in pet food:

The FDA regulates pet food ingredients, including animal plasma, under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act). While pet food ingredients generally don’t need pre-market approval, they must be safe, produced under sanitary conditions, and truthfully labeled. This ensures that all pet food components, such as animal plasma, meet safety standards before reaching consumers.

In the European Union, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) evaluates the safety of animal feed components, including blood products. Although animal plasma isn’t specifically highlighted for pet food, EFSA’s assessments of animal feed generally influence standards across animal food products, including pet food, ensuring that ingredients like animal plasma are evaluated for safety and health impacts.

The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) also sets nutritional guidelines for ingredients used in pet food. While AAFCO doesn’t directly regulate pet food, it provides definitions and standards that help guide manufacturers, ensuring that ingredients like animal plasma meet industry-wide expectations for safety and animal nutrition.

Potential Risks and Considerations

While generally safe, there are some considerations regarding the use of animal plasma in dry cat foods:

Allergies: As with any protein source, some cats may develop allergies to animal plasma. However, allergic reactions to animal plasma are rare compared with more common allergens such as fish or chicken.

Source and Quality: The safety of animal plasma can be influenced by its source and processing quality. Reputable pet food manufacturers source animal plasma from regulated facilities and implement strict quality-control measures.

Balanced Diet: Animal plasma should be used in balanced diets. Excessive use of any ingredient, including animal plasma, could lead to nutritional imbalances.

Research Support: Several studies have demonstrated the safety and health benefits of animal plasma in cat diets. Research in animal nutrition has shown that dietary plasma proteins can positively affect intestinal health and immune function in various animal species, including cats.

Why is Pork Plasma Commonly Used in Cat Food?

Pork plasma, a type of animal plasma, is commonly used in cat food for its unique nutritional profile and practical advantages. Here's an exploration of why pork plasma is a frequent choice for cat food manufacturers:

Nutritional Profile: Pork plasma is rich in high-quality proteins and offers a superior amino acid profile, making it an excellent ingredient for cat nutrition.

Protein Content: Spray-dried porcine plasma (SDPP) typically contains approximately 78% crude protein on a dry-matter basis, providing a concentrated source of essential amino acids.

Amino Acid Composition: The amino acid profile of pork plasma closely matches the nutritional requirements of cats. It's particularly rich in essential amino acids like lysine and threonine, which are crucial for feline health.

Nutritional Qualities: Pork plasma contains functional proteins that offer several benefits.

Digestive System Support: Studies have shown that diets containing spray-dried animal plasma exhibit higher apparent nutrient digestibility than those without it.

Immune System Boost: The bioactive components in pork plasma, including immunoglobulins, may enhance the immune system function in cats.

Palatability Enhancement: Pork plasma is known to improve the palatability of dry cat foods. A study published in the Journal of Animal Science demonstrated that adding spray-dried porcine plasma significantly increased cat food intake.

Availability and Cost-Effectiveness: As a co-product of the pork industry, pork plasma is readily available in many regions where pork production is significant. This availability often makes it a cost-effective ingredient for pet food manufacturers.

Processing Advantages: The spray-drying process used to produce SDPP helps preserve its nutritional and nutritional qualities while ensuring microbiological safety. This makes it a convenient and safe ingredient for cat food production.

Sustainability: Using pork plasma in cat food supports sustainable practices by maximizing the use of animal-derived products from the meat industry and reducing waste.

What are the Nutritional Benefits of Animal Plasma for Cats?

Animal plasma, particularly in its spray-dried form (SDAP), offers a range of nutritional health benefits that contribute significantly to felines. Its unique composition makes it a valuable ingredient in cat food, supporting various aspects of a cat’s physiology.

High-Quality Protein Source

Animal plasma is renowned for its high protein content and superior amino acid profile:

Protein Concentration: SDAP typically contains approximately 78% crude protein on a dry-matter basis.
Biological Value: The proteins in animal plasma have high biological value, meaning they are easily digestible and well-utilized by the feline body.

Essential Amino Acids

Animal plasma provides a complete array of important amino acids crucial for cat health:

Taurine: An essential amino acid for cats, supporting heart health, vision, and reproduction.
Arginine: Vital for ammonia detoxification in cats.
Lysine: Important for growth, muscle development, and immune function.
Methionine: Supports urinary tract health and coat condition.

Digestive Health Support

The functional proteins in animal plasma contribute to digestive health:

Improved Nutrient Digestibility: Studies have shown that diets containing SDAP exhibit higher apparent nutrient digestibility than those without it.
Intestinal Health: Animal plasma may help maintain intestinal barrier integrity, potentially reducing inflammation and supporting overall gut health.

Immune System Enhancement

Animal plasma contains bioactive components that support the immune system:

Immunoglobulins: These proteins help modulate the immune response and may provide passive immunity.
Growth Factors: In animal plasma, these can support cellular repair and regeneration.

Overall Well-being

The nutritional profile of animal plasma contributes to various aspects of feline well-being:

Muscle Maintenance: The high-quality proteins support lean muscle mass, which is especially important for adult and senior cats.
Skin and Coat Health: The balanced amino acid profile contributes to healthy skin and a shiny coat.
Energy Support: As a digestible protein source, animal plasma provides energy for daily activities.

Palatability Enhancement: While not strictly a nutritional benefit, the palatability-enhancing properties of animal plasma can indirectly support nutrition:

Increased Food Intake: By making food more appealing, animal plasma can encourage consistent eating habits, ensuring cats receive adequate nutrition.

Should I feed my cat dry food that contains blood plasma or SDAP?

When considering cat food products containing animal plasma:

Consult Your Veterinarian: Discuss your cat’s specific nutritional needs, especially if they have health conditions or dietary restrictions.

Read Labels Carefully: Look for “spray-dried animal plasma” or “SDAP” in the ingredient list. Ensure it’s part of a balanced formula.

Consider Your Cat’s Life Stage: SDAP may be particularly beneficial for kittens, senior cats, or those recovering from illness due to its high digestibility and potential immune-supporting properties.

Observe Your Cat’s Response: When introducing food containing animal plasma, monitor your cat’s appetite, digestion, and overall health.

Balance with Other Ingredients: Ensure the food provides a complete and balanced diet, with animal plasma complementing other high-quality ingredients.

Quality Matters: Choose reputable brands that source ingredients responsibly and adhere to strict quality-control standards.

Additional FAQ

Is Blood Plasma a by-product?

Blood plasma is classified as a by-product in pet food ingredients because it's not part of the primary meat cuts for human consumption. Instead, it's a component derived from animal blood, typically collected during the meat process. Key points:

Blood plasma is obtained as a secondary product during meat processing.
It's separated from the main meat products intended for human consumption.
The use of blood plasma in pet food allows for the efficient utilization of animal resources.

While the term "by-product" is sometimes perceived negatively, it's important to note that blood plasma can be a valuable ingredient in dry cat food. It provides a high-quality source of protein and other nutrients that contribute to a cat's diet.

Is Spray-Dried Animal Plasma a by-product?

Yes, Spray-Dried Animal Plasma (SDAP) is classified as a co-product or by-product obtained during the processing of animals for human consumption. It is derived from animal blood collected during the meat process.

Key characteristics of SDAP as a by-product:

Origin: SDAP is a secondary product obtained from the meat industry, specifically from pork and beef processing.
Processing: The plasma is separated from whole blood and then spray-dried to create a powder form, which maintains its nutritional and nutritional qualities.
Utilization: By using SDAP in pet food, the animal food industry makes efficient use of resources that would otherwise be discarded, contributing to sustainability in food production.

Despite its classification as a by-product, SDAP is considered a high-quality ingredient in pet food:

It has high nutritional value, containing various proteins, amino acids, and other beneficial compounds.
SDAP demonstrates functional properties such as binding, emulsifying, and water retention, which are valuable in pet food production.
It has shown potential health benefits for pets, including effects on intestinal health, immunity, and palatability.

Is animal plasma suitable for cats with specific health conditions?

Animal plasma is generally safe for most cats, but its suitability may vary for those with specific health conditions. Cats with kidney disease might need to limit their protein intake, which could affect the appropriateness of foods containing animal plasma. If you're unsure - consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new ingredient into a cat's diet with health issues.

How does animal plasma compare to other protein sources in cat food?

Animal plasma is a high-quality protein source with a rich amino acid content, containing about 78% crude protein on a dry matter basis. Compared to some other protein sources, it offers excellent digestibility and bioavailability. While it's difficult to compare without specific data directly, animal plasma is generally considered a valuable protein source due to its nutritional profile and functional properties.

Using animal plasma in pet food is generally considered environmentally friendly as it utilizes a by-product of the meat industry that might otherwise go to waste. This practice contributes to sustainable resource use by maximizing the utilization of animal-derived products. However, the overall environmental impact would depend on individual manufacturers' specific production and processing methods.

Can animal plasma in cat food cause allergic reactions?

While allergic reactions to animal plasma are possible, they are relatively rare compared to more common allergens like fish or chicken[1]. As with any protein source, some cats may develop sensitivities. If you suspect your cat has an allergy, it is important to work with a veterinarian to identify the specific allergen and adjust the diet accordingly.

How does the inclusion of animal plasma affect the cost of cat food?

Animal plasma is a by-product of the meat industry, so it's often a cost-effective ingredient for pet food manufacturers. The impact on the final product's price would depend on various factors, including the amount used, processing costs, and the overall formulation of the cat food.

How long has animal plasma been used in cat food, and what led to its inclusion?

Animal plasma has gained significant attention in the pet food industry due to its unique nutritional profile and functional properties. Research demonstrating its benefits in terms of nutritional value, palatability enhancement, and potential positive effects on digestive and immune health in cats likely drove the inclusion of animal plasma.

Are there any specific breeds of cats that benefit more from animal plasma in their diet?

No specific breeds are identified as benefiting more from animal plasma. The ingredient benefits all cats, especially those needing immune or digestive support.

Can animal plasma cause any digestive issues or intolerances in cats?

Animal plasma is generally well-tolerated and may improve digestibility. However, as with any ingredient, individual cats may have sensitivities.

How does the protein from animal plasma compare to other protein sources, like chicken or fish, regarding cat digestibility?

Animal plasma offers high digestibility, sometimes outperforming animal proteins like fish or chicken due to its specific amino acid profile and functional proteins.

How can I tell if my cat is allergic to animal plasma?

Allergies to animal plasma are rare, but symptoms like vomiting or itchy skin could indicate a reaction. If needed, consult a veterinarian for allergy testing.

Can animal plasma in dry food affect hydration levels due to its moisture-binding properties?

SDAP’s water-holding capacity can maintain moisture levels in pet food, potentially indirectly aiding hydration, but it should not replace direct hydration sources like water.

Is there a difference in nutritional benefits between plasma derived from pork versus other animals, like beef or poultry?

Pork plasma is commonly used due to its amino acid profile and palatability, though all sources generally offer similar protein and immune benefits.