Insulated Shipping Boxes: How to Keep Pet Food Fresh and Secure

Everybody wants the best for their furry friends. And pet food brands want to ensure that they give their customers the best. 

According to Statista, more than half of UK households owned at least one pet in 2021/22, dogs and cats were the most common household pets in that year, with an estimated 13 million dogs and 12 million cats living in homes. The pet food market is an evergreen and evolving market that has amounted to US $7.47 bn in 2024. And the market is expected to grow annually by 2.64% (CAGR 2024-2028). 

As the number of pet owners grows, there has been an increasing interest in pet nutrition. Owners are less interested in canned and dry pet food, switching to fresher more nutritious alternatives like fresh pet food options including meat and vegetables. 

Several factors contribute to the growing popularity of fresh pet food, including health benefits, increased awareness among pet owners, and advancements in pet food manufacturing and delivery.

 

Health Benefits

Nutritional Value

If we’re so concerned about our own health, shouldn’t we be concerned our pet’s health too? Fresh pet food is often touted for its superior nutritional value compared to traditional kibble and canned foods. These foods are typically made with whole ingredients like fresh meats, vegetables, and fruits, providing a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients. 

• High Protein Content: Fresh pet foods generally contain higher levels of protein from real meat sources, which are crucial for muscle development and overall health in pets. 

• Essential Vitamins and Minerals: Fresh vegetables and fruits included in these diets offer vitamins and minerals that support immune function, digestion, and skin and coat health. 
• Better Digestibility: Fresh pet food is often easier to digest, reducing the risk of gastrointestinal issues and improving nutrient absorption.
  

 

Improved Health Outcomes

Pet owners who switch to fresh pet food often report noticeable improvements in their pets’ health and well-being. Benefits can include shinier coats, increased energy levels, better weight management, and fewer allergies and digestive problems. 

• Weight Management: Fresh pet foods typically have fewer fillers and additives, which can help prevent obesity and promote a healthy weight. 

• Allergy Reduction: Many fresh pet foods are free from common allergens like grains, artificial colors, and preservatives, making them suitable for pets with food sensitivities.

 

Increased Awareness Among Pet Owners

Humanisation of Pets

Pets are increasingly being viewed as family members, leading owners to seek out higher-quality, human-grade food options for their furry companions. This humanisation trend has driven demand for pet foods that mirror the quality and ingredients found in human diets. 

• Transparency: Pet owners are more informed and demand transparency about what goes into their pets’ food. Fresh pet food brands often provide detailed ingredient lists and sourcing information. 

• Personalised Nutrition: There is a growing interest in personalised nutrition plans tailored to a pet’s specific needs, such as age, breed, and health conditions. 

 

Advancements in Pet Food Manufacturing and Deliver

Improved Production Methods

Advancements in pet food manufacturing have made it possible to produce high-quality fresh pet food that retains its nutritional value and taste. 

• Cold-Pressing and Freeze-Drying: Techniques like cold-pressing and freeze-drying help preserve the nutritional integrity of the ingredients without the need for artificial preservatives. 

• Sustainable Sourcing: Many fresh pet food companies focus on sustainable and ethically sourced ingredients, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers. 

 

Convenience of Home Delivery Services

The convenience of home delivery services has also contributed to the rise in popularity of fresh pet food. Subscription-based models and direct-to-consumer delivery options make it easier for pet owners to provide fresh meals regularly without the hassle of frequent shopping trips. 

• Customised Meal Plans: Many fresh pet food brands offer customised meal plans based on a pet’s unique dietary needs, delivered right to the owner’s doorstep. 

• Ease of Storage and Feeding: Pre-portioned packages make storage and feeding convenient, ensuring pets receive the right amount of food with minimal effort. 

 

Shipping Fresh Pet Food

When it comes to shipping pet food for our furry loved ones, maintaining freshness and preventing contamination is important. This is where many pet food brands face unique challenges in ensuring that their products reach consumers in optimal condition. Factors like temperature control, contamination prevention, and regulatory compliance are critical in this regard. Hydropac’s innovative insulated shipping boxes, complemented by their advanced ice packs, provide a comprehensive solution to these challenges.  

 

Key Requirements for Safe Pet Food Shipping

Temperature Control

One of the most significant challenges in shipping pet food is maintaining the correct temperature. Fresh and raw pet foods are particularly sensitive to temperature fluctuations. If pet food gets too warm, it can spoil, lose nutritional value, or become unsafe for consumption.  

Contamination Prevention

Pet food must remain free from contaminants throughout the shipping process. Contamination can occur due to exposure to bacteria, mold, or other pathogens. Ensuring that pet food is transported in a clean, secure environment is crucial to the safety and well-being of our pets. 

Regulatory Compliance

Different regions have stringent regulations regarding the transport of pet food. Compliance with these regulations ensures that pet food is safe for consumption and avoids potential legal issues. Since 2020, there have been more than 20 reports or recalls of pet food and RMBD in the EU because of the detection of pathogens. 

Environmental Sustainability

Consumers and businesses alike are increasingly concerned with the environmental impact of packaging. Sustainable packaging solutions are not just a trend but a necessity to reduce waste and carbon footprints. Studies have shown that 75% of consumers prefer products with environmentally friendly packaging. 

How Does Hydropac Provide a Safe Shipping Solution For Your Fresh Pet Food?

Hydropac offers a range of insulated shipping boxes designed to address the specific challenges of transporting pet food. These products are engineered to maintain temperature, prevent contamination, and comply with regulatory standards. 

EnviroCool

EnviroCool is an innovative product that combines high-performance insulation with eco-friendly materials. Crafted from natural plant-based FSC paper, EnviroCool is 100% recyclable and offers a sustainable solution for temperature-controlled packaging. 

• Sustainability: Made from recyclable materials, EnviroCool minimises environmental impact, aligning with the growing demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions. According to a recent survey, 81% of consumers feel strongly that companies should help improve the environment. 

• Temperature Control: EnviroCool maintains consistent temperatures, ensuring pet food remains fresh during transit. It’s designed to keep products cool, even in varying external temperatures. Maintains the chilled cold chain (+2- to +8) for a minimum of 24hrs, tested using extreme temperature profiles of a constant 30 degrees Celsius. 

• Customisable: The product can be tailored to specific shipping needs, ensuring that pet food of various types and quantities is adequately protected. 

 

Freshpac Polystyrene Boxes

Freshpac Polystyrene Boxes are robust and reliable for shipping temperature-sensitive goods like pet food. 

• Insulation: Polystyrene provides excellent insulation, keeping pet food at the desired temperature for extended periods. 

• Durability: These boxes are designed to withstand the rigoUrs of shipping, protecting against physical damage. 

• Hygiene: The material is easy to clean and resistant to moisture, reducing the risk of contamination. In a study, polystyrene was found to be 99.9% effective in preventing microbial growth. 

• Certified food contact safe: EPS boxes are certified food safe, are watertight and, as they are produced from 98% air and only 2% Styrene, they are an environmentally friendly way of maintaining the cold chain. 

• Versatility: Suitable for a range of pet food products, from dry kibble to fresh and raw varieties. 

 

RecycleAir System for Chilled Goods

RecycleAir is a system designed for the chilled transport of goods, utilising a combination of insulation and air circulation to maintain temperature. 

• Temperature Stability: RecycleAir maintains a stable temperature within the shipping box, ensuring that pet food remains fresh and safe. Data shows that maintaining a stable temperature can extend the shelf life of pet food by up to 30%. 

• Eco-Friendly: The system uses recyclable materials, contributing to a reduction in waste. 

• Enhanced Protection: By circulating cold air within the box, RecycleAir ensures that all parts of the shipment are uniformly cooled. 

 

Creating a Complete Cold Chain Packaging Solution

Hydropac’s insulated shipping boxes are complemented by their range of ice packs, creating a comprehensive solution for pet food transport. The combination of robust insulation and effective cooling ensures that pet food remains fresh and uncontaminated from the moment it leaves the manufacturer to when it reaches the consumer. 

  

EasiFreeze, HydroFreeze, and HydroFreeze+

• EasiFreeze: Designed to hold a shipping temperature of -16°C, EasiFreeze is a safe alternative to dry ice. It is ideal for frozen pet food shipments, eliminating the hazards associated with carbon dioxide handling and disposal. 

• HydroFreeze:  HydroFreeze reaches a cooling temperature of -21°C, ensuring that products remain frozen and fresh. 

• HydroFreeze+: Offers enhanced cooling performance for extra demanding shipments, ensuring even the most temperature-sensitive items remain secure. 

By integrating these ice packs with their insulated shipping boxes, Hydropac provides a tailored solution that meets the unique needs of pet food brands. 

 From the eco-friendly Envirocool to the sturdy Freshpac Polystyrene Boxes and the versatile RecycleAir System, Hydropac offers an unbeatable lineup for pet food transport. These products are more than just containers—they’re the ultimate guardians of your pet food, keeping it cool, fresh, and safe. 

Discover Hydropac’s insulated shipping solutions and keep your products cool, fresh, and fabulous all the way to their destination. Your pets (and your bottom line) will thank you!