# Palatability Testing of Spray-Dried Animal Plasma-Infused Dog Foods and Treats
###### Abstract  
The global pet food market is expanding rapidly, and there is a growing interest in sustainable, high-quality ingredients. Spray-dried animal plasma (SDAP), a protein-rich by-product with immune-boosting properties, is gaining attention as a potential additive. This study aimed to evaluate the palatability of dog products containing SDAP. Three types of canine products (dry food, wet food, and treats) with varying concentrations of SDAP (0%, 1%, 2%, and 4%) were tested. The study used a two-bowl preference method involving 20 dogs of different breeds, ages, and weights. Results indicated that a 2% SDAP concentration significantly increased the palatability of each dog food compared to control diets without SDAP, while higher concentrations (4%) negatively impacted it. For dry food and treats, the inclusion of 1% SDAP showed marginal effects on palatability. Statistical analyses revealed no significant correlation between the dogs' sex or product type and their preference for SDAP-containing products (\(p>0.05\)). This preliminary research supports the inclusion of SDAP in dog foods, particularly at optimal levels (2%), to enhance palatability and meet the nutritional needs of dogs while addressing sustainability in pet food production. spray-dried porcine plasma; canine diet; dry food; wet food; palatability; two-bowl preference test; pet food; additives; sustainability +
Footnote †: journal: Medical  
properties, thereby enhancing animal growth and immune response [9]. In animal nutrition, it is used in powdered form, processed using spray drying to preserve its functional properties [10]. As facultative carnivores, dogs require animal-derived ingredients to optimally fulfill their species-specific nutritional requirements [11]. Consequently, the incorporation of SDAP into commercial dog food can serve as a suitable and beneficial animal protein source, meeting the increasing demand for ingredients aligned with pets' natural dietary needs [12]. SDAP stands out for its high protein content, estimated at approximately 75% [11; 13]. SDAP can be used for several purposes in pet food production. Particularly in wet food formulations characterized by high moisture and fat levels susceptible to particle separation, SDAP serves primarily as an emulsifier and binding agent, commonly referred to as a \"binder\" [12]. Its role in this context enhances water retention, texture, juiciness, and the overall homogeneity of the final product [14; 15; 16], while in dry and extruded pet food, the technological potential of SDAP remains relatively unexplored [17], despite the widespread utilization of emulsifiers and binders to enhance kibble properties. Likewise, the application of SDAP in treats and snacks has not been thoroughly investigated, although it is reasonable to anticipate that it possesses properties comparable to other types of animal products. In recent years, SDAP has emerged as a promising additive in the formulation of canine diets due to its palatability-enhancing properties and nutritional benefits [18; 19]. Palatability, which measures food intake and indicates acceptance or preference over other options [20], plays a critical role in the acceptance and consumption of commercial pet foods by dogs. Unlike humans, dogs consume their daily nutritional requirements from a single food source, making proper palatability assessment essential to ensure that pets consume their entire meal and meet their daily nutritional requirements without rejection [21]. Palatability testing is critical in the manufacture of commercial pet foods, providing a key indicator to evaluate the ingredients used and their palatability to dogs in the finished product. Whether a dog will eat a food containing a particular additive also influences the choice of the owner, who must be convinced that the food tastes good or they will abandon the purchase [20]. In addition, optimal palatability not only increases the nutritional intake of dogs but also contributes to their overall well-being and satisfaction.