PURINA, a leading pet food company, and the Salzburg-based start-up FERAGEN, specializing in animal genetics, aim to further leverage the potential of genetics through their collaboration to help dog breeders, veterinarians, and dog owners promote the long-term health of their beloved pets.
The collaboration between the two companies began in 2022 when the Salzburg company participated in PURINA's international start-up accelerator program "UNLEASHED" and ultimately succeeded in securing a position. Alongside four other European companies, FERAGEN stood out among 150 competitors from a total of 28 countries. "UNLEASHED" is the first European funding program for start-ups in the pet industry.
During the initial phase of getting to know each other, both companies had the opportunity to engage in intensive discussions and share their visions for animal health. These valuable conversations and the shared enthusiasm for innovative approaches prompted both companies to continue their collaboration beyond the original goals. In the next phase of their partnership, they will work on projects to specifically and comprehensively support breeders and pet owners.
"The improvement of pet health is a central concern for us at PURINA. A balanced diet plays an essential role for animals as well. With FERAGEN as a partner, we can collaborate even more closely with breeders, veterinarians, and pet owners through their expertise in genetics and unlock new possibilities to enhance the health of their animals," emphasizes Marius Baumeister, Business Executive Officer of Nestlé PURINA Austria.
Mag. Dr. Anja Geretschläger, CEO and founder of FERAGEN, states: "Our vision is to create the foundation for healthy and diverse dog breeding through state-of-the-art genetic analyses. Responsibility and scientific knowledge are key to the well-being of animals." "With our DogMatching platform and international database, we have created a groundbreaking solution that connects breeders and clubs worldwide. This enables them to develop sustainable breeding strategies and ensure healthy offspring – an important step towards reducing animal suffering," adds Michael Geretschläger, CEO and founder of FERAGEN.
Dog Breeders Rely on FERAGEN's Expertise
The Salzburg start-up specializes in genetic analyses such as genetic diversity analysis and DLA typing (Dog Leukocyte Antigen). These analyses allow breeders to reduce inbreeding, plan genetically diverse litters, and sustainably minimize the risk of hereditary diseases.
With the DogMatching platform, an innovative tool for genetic partner selection, FERAGEN provides a means to base breeding decisions on scientifically sound data. This not only optimizes the health of the offspring but also preserves genetic diversity in the long run.
Balanced Nutrition Essential for Animal Health
Balance in nutrition is crucial for animals as well. The products of PURINA PRO PLAN have been specially developed and scientifically tested to ensure an optimal composition of all essential nutrients tailored to the respective life stage or health situation. The range includes formulations to support natural defenses, dietetic complete feeds, as well as nutrition for supporting brain function, sensitive skin, and digestion. Thus, PURINA PRO PLAN offers a product that meets the specific needs of nearly all dog types in many life stages.
About PURINA
PURINA believes that people and pets are simply happier together. For this reason, the company has been committed for over 125 years to enriching the lives of pets and the people who love them. PURINA's portfolio includes many well-known and popular pet food brands, including FELIX®, PURINA ONE®, GOURMET®, and PRO PLAN®. PURINA is dedicated to pets, people, and the planet beyond the bowl. As part of its renewed PURINA commitment in 2022, the company has set ambitious goals to promote pet adoption and responsible pet ownership, support the health of people in difficult life situations, and advance the regeneration of soil and marine ecosystems.
For more information: https://www.purina.at/unser-engagement.
About FERAGEN
FERAGEN is an internationally active innovation leader in the field of genetic diagnostics for animals, particularly in dog breeding. Based in Salzburg, FERAGEN offers scientifically sound solutions for planning healthy and genetically diverse animal populations to breeders, pet owners, veterinarians, and clubs worldwide. FERAGEN impresses with its scientific expertise, tailored services, and individual consulting. The company focuses on the highest quality standards, precision, and user-friendliness to provide breeders with the greatest possible value. This combination makes FERAGEN an indispensable partner for responsible and sustainable dog breeding worldwide.
About Unleashed
Unleashed is the first European funding program for start-ups in the pet sector. Founded in 2019, the program targets start-ups with innovative products and business models that enrich the lives of pets and the people who love them. The business ideas ranged from cell-based fish to services that connect pet owners with local pet sitters. Thanks to the support provided through the program and collaboration with PURINA's expert teams, the founders were able to unlock new growth areas for their companies and celebrate sustainable successes.
More information can be found at www.unleashedbypurina.com.
About Nestlé
Nestlé is the world's largest food and beverage company with operations in 186 countries. Around 276,000 employees work every day around the globe to enhance quality of life and contribute to a healthier future. Nestlé offers a wide range of products and services for people and pets in all life stages. This includes over 2,000 brands from global icons like NESCAFÉ and NESPRESSO to innovations in the Health Science sector. Creating shared value is at the core of Nestlé's purpose: because good food is the key to a better life for everyone.
Nestlé's headquarters is in Vevey, where the company was founded nearly 160 years ago in Switzerland. Nestlé in Austria, headquartered in Vienna, has around 700 employees at 21 locations and has been in operation since 1879. Key brands include NESPRESSO, FELIX, NESCAFÉ, NESCAFÉ DOLCE GUSTO, MAGGI, PURINA, BEBA, KITKAT, THOMY, SMARTIES, GARDEN GOURMET, NESQUIK, and PURE ENCAPSULATIONS.