Aderência às legislações vigentes por parte das empresas de alimentação natural para cães e gatos

Abstract

The humanization of pets has intensified in recent years, this phenomenon has generated an increase in demand for natural foods by dog and cat owners and heated up the pet food market. As a result, there are numerous natural food manufacturers that need information to produce safe foods that meet the requirements of animals. The objective of this dissertation was to collect data and develop technical, simple and objective technical products on regulations, legislation and Good Manufacturing and Food Handling Practices. The study was divided into three stages: (i) development of a virtual questionnaire aimed at natural food manufacturing establishments (homemade); (ii) application of the questionnaire for data collection; (iv) development of technological orienting technical products. The virtual questionnaire was sent to 21 establishments. Ten responses were obtained from the questionnaire, with 90% of establishments selling natural food cooked and frozen. Only 30% of establishments have a technical manager (RT) or advisor for food production. Opportunities for action in this sector can be seen, which is lacking in professionals and adequate technical information. Technological orienting technical products were developed, being: (a) two e-books addressing the following topics: (1) “Why invest in natural food for dogs and cats?”, and (2) “Importance of Good Handling Practices Food in the diet of dogs and cats”; (b) digital platform where content interactivity with the insertion of videos was sought; and (c) profile on social media (Instagram) for dissemination of content and dissemination of consultancy and/or advisory services.