APC announced a University of Illinois Department of Animal Sciences study finding that including plasma in extruded kibble supports canine gut health and key immune indicators, with shifts in fecal metabolite profiles suggesting a microbial impact. Gut health in dogs, largely determined by the balance of their gut microbiome, affects not only digestive function but also immune health, metabolism, and behavior.

The company said the research shows measurable changes in metabolites and microbiome-related markers when plasma is added to commercial-style dog diets, positioning the ingredient as a potential functional option for pet foods, treats, and supplements. According to a 2023 survey of U.S. pet owners reported in *Veterinary Practice News*, about 33% of dogs were reported to have experienced gut health issues in the previous 12 months, highlighting the importance of such research.

APC described the work as a collaboration with the University of Illinois Department of Animal Sciences and framed the results as consistent with earlier cross-species findings about plasma’s effects on gut health. “Across species we continue to see a consistent, positive effect on gut health,” said Joy Campbell, senior director of Global Pet Food Technical Service at APC.

In its announcement, APC highlighted the study’s observation of “linear effects tied to inclusion level” as evidence of commercial potential for pet food manufacturers, a point Campbell reiterated: “In this canine study we observed linear effects tied to inclusion level that demonstrate commercial potential in pet foods, functional treats, and supplements.” Common gut-supporting ingredients in dog food include fermentable fibers and prebiotics, which feed beneficial gut bacteria and improve stool quality, suggesting that plasma could complement existing formulations.

The company also characterized the metabolite changes as meaningful for gut microbial activity, noting “shifts in fecal metabolite profiles suggesting a microbial impact” on gut health. APC said the data link plasma inclusion in extruded diets to changes in metabolites and immune markers consistent with improved intestinal function. This potential impact is further emphasized by research showing that gut dysbiosis is linked to gastrointestinal diseases and altered metabolism.

The findings were summarized by the trade outlet PetfoodIndustry, which reported on APC’s announcement and the University of Illinois collaboration.

APC framed the research as part of a broader effort to position plasma as a functional ingredient for pet nutrition. Company statements emphasized both the microbiome-related metabolite shifts and immune-related signal changes observed in the canine study.

The University of Illinois Department of Animal Sciences is listed as the academic collaborator on the work. APC’s summary and the trade coverage together present the study as advancing understanding of how plasma inclusion in extruded kibble may affect gut microbial metabolism and selective immune indicators in adult dogs.

Joy Campbell called the results “positive and impactful,” saying, “We’re excited to see such positive and impactful results from this in species study.” That phrase featured in APC’s public messaging about the collaboration and its implications for product development.

APC’s announcement described the outcomes in terms of microbial and metabolic shifts rather than broad health claims, and the company highlighted potential product applications while pointing to the study results as supporting commercial exploration of plasma as a gut-health ingredient for dogs.

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Original reporting: view the original article.