dsm-firmenich has announced the opening of a new pet-only premix facility in Tonganoxie, KS. The new location features fully automated micro-ingredient additions and fully traceable batch assembly. From basic nutrition to sophisticated functional formulations on par with human supplements, the facility, NextGen Tonganoxie, can meet the pet food industry’s emerging demands.

The facility will be able to blend the company’s own specialty ingredients with those sourced from third parties, giving its customers the flexibility they need to support the nutritional needs of pets in North America.

The opening marks a milestone in the company’s growing pet food portfolio, following the launch of its European facility in Haag, Austria, earlier this year. The two sites are dedicated exclusively to pet food, and are completely separate from any animal feed lines.

The new facility has already created 20 new jobs, with about 30 expected once full production is reached.

Enhanced Safety and Accuracy Through Automation

At NextGen Tonganoxie, the company uses an Amabox containerized transport system, ensuring 100% micro-ingredient additions to premixes are fully traceable, removing the risk of human errors such as adding the wrong component to a premix, a common cause of pet food recalls.

The system’s containerized design prevents contamination between production lines while delivering precision that’s both faster and more accurate than manual processes, the company reported.

The facility also features advanced blending technology, allowing for precise integration of high-sensitivity macronutrients like vitamins, carotenoids, omega-3s, trace minerals, vegetable and fruit powders, and microbiome solutions.

“Just as pet parents go to extraordinary lengths to ensure their companions receive only the best, we’ve gone the extra mile to ensure that every aspect of our new, strategically located facility reflects the mindfulness, protection, and uncompromising standards they demand and deserve,” said Rishabh Pande, global VP of pet food. “With complete dedication to pet food, we’re setting a new standard for safety, quality and the well-being of pets everywhere. Whether you’re developing essential nutrition or premium pet food with added health claims, our team is here to help you exceed expectations.”