Opportunities in K-Pet Food Exports – Jay Lee’s U.S. Report (121)
- nofearljc
- Mar 27
- 2 min read
Opportunities for K-Pet Food Exports – Jay Lee’s U.S. Report (121)
A recession-resistant industry with an import market worth 2.5 trillion KRW
HACCP-level hygiene and record-keeping required, along with English packaging design
Meat-based products need special approval—safety, cost-effectiveness, and trust are key
By Lee Jong-chan, CEO of J&B Food Consulting
Recently, I’ve been receiving increasing inquiries about exporting pet food to the U.S. Just as K-Food has gained immense popularity, Korean pet food is also making its way into the U.S. market.
As of 2023, the U.S. pet food market is valued at approximately $58 billion (KRW 75 trillion), with an annual growth rate of 5.8%. Among this, about $2 billion (KRW 2.5 trillion) worth of dog and cat food is imported from overseas. The top three exporting countries to the U.S. are Canada, Thailand, and China. With the increasing recognition of K-Food, we can expect K-Pet Food to gain traction as well.
A Growing and Resilient Market
Approximately 70% of American households own a pet, reflecting the country's deep-rooted love for animals. Many restaurants allow pets, and service animals are permitted anywhere. As a pet owner myself, I spare no expense when it comes to food, treats, or grooming for my dog. Given that pet ownership is higher among the middle and upper classes, the pet food industry is relatively recession-proof.
The range of pet species in the U.S. is extensive, including dogs, cats, reptiles, birds, fish, rabbits, and hamsters. Each pet type has a wide variety of food and treats, leading to the rise of large specialty pet stores that rival supermarkets in size.
Consumers scrutinize pet food ingredients just like they do with human food. Many prefer organic, non-GMO, plant-based, or seasonal ingredients, treating their pets like family members. There is also a growing demand for premium pet food products, especially among young consumers who prioritize their pets' health and wellness.
Key Considerations for U.S. Pet Food Exports
To successfully export pet food to the U.S., several factors must be considered:
English Packaging and Design
Many Korean food exports use simple English stickers for required nutritional information.
However, pet food targeting the mainstream U.S. market should have fully designed English packaging to appeal to American consumers.
Regulatory Compliance
The U.S. Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) has introduced preventive control regulations for pet food.
Pet food manufacturers must meet HACCP-level hygiene standards, conduct hazard analysis, implement preventive controls, and maintain detailed records.
Meat-Based Products Require USDA Approval
Meat-containing pet food needs special approval from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Korean beef and pork exports are restricted, meaning certain meat-based pet food products cannot be exported.
Building Trust and Market Penetration
Many small and medium-sized businesses are using Amazon and other platforms for exports.
However, foreign pet food brands struggle with credibility in the U.S. market.
Safety, functionality, uniqueness, and premium quality are more important than just price.
Combining quality assurance and affordability will be key to establishing K-Pet Food as a competitive brand.
With the right strategies, we can anticipate a Korean wave (Hallyu) in the pet food industry as well.
Feel free to contact us
jay@jnbfoodconsulting.com or 714-873-5566
저작권자 © 식품음료신문 무단전재 및 재배포 금지
출처 : 식품음료신문(http://www.thinkfood.co.kr)
Comments