The digestive power of hydrolyzed proteins

January 08 2026 - Blog

As pet parents are increasingly aware of the importance of gut health, the demand for highly digestible pet food rises. To meet market expectations, formulators need protein sources that support optimal absorption. One solution is the use of hydrolyzed proteins. By offering a level of nutritional efficiency that traditional protein sources cannot always match, hydrolysates help create diets that are easier to digest and better tolerated.

The power of hydrolysis

Hydrolysis is the process of breaking proteins down into smaller peptides and free amino acids. It is a form of pre-digestion that helps pets absorb nutrients more easily. Although commonly applied to animal proteins such as meat and fish, the same process can also be used for other protein sources, including plant-based and insect proteins. 

By reducing the size and complexity of protein molecules, hydrolysis lowers the digestive effort required and increases the availability of essential amino acids. This makes hydrolyzed proteins exceptionally well suited for pets with sensitive or aging digestive systems. Because the nutrients are already partially broken down, they pass through the digestive tract more efficiently, supporting better nutrient uptake and overall gut health. 

Why hydrolysis stands out for enhanced digestibility

Hydrolysis is not the only way to enhance the digestibility of pet food. Techniques such as low-temperature drying or gentle rendering can also help preserve protein quality and reduce the strain on the digestive system. However, these methods are less effective and can’t be used to create a hypo-allergenic protein. 

Hydrolysis offers a far more efficient route. It enables producers to consistently create highly digestible proteins, while maintaining control over nutrient availability and product quality.

Finding the right balance

Not all hydrolysates offer the same nutritional benefits. Factors such as the degree of hydrolysis, the quality of the raw material, and the exact process conditions determine how effectively nutrients are released and absorbed. Even small differences in the peptide profile can influence digestibility, tolerance and performance. Process control is therefore critical.  

If too much hydrolysate is used, amino acids may be absorbed faster than the rest of the diet can support. This can lead to digestive discomfort or an imbalance in nutrient uptake. Therefore, the key is to combine hydrolyzed proteins with the right mix of fibres, carbohydrates, and other protein sources to keep the overall formulation in balance.

Hydrolysis of tomorrow

As processing technologies continue to evolve, formulators will be able to fine-tune hydrolysis with even greater precision. Emerging enzyme technologies might allow for more targeted breakdown of specific peptide bonds, offering improved control over digestibility, palatability, and functionality. At the same time, future developments in drying and powder handling may help create ingredients that behave more consistently in industrial settings. 

For pet food manufacturers, the next steps probably lies in combining future technological improvements with a deeper understanding of peptide profiles and their nutritional impact. Hydrolyzed proteins will likely continue to play an important role in diets that require high digestibility, balanced nutrition and reliable performance. Especially as pets live longer, diets become more specialized and owners increasingly expect high-quality, well-tolerated ingredients.

Want to know more about hydrolyzed proteins?
Read our white paper ‘Hydrolyzed proteins: Breaking down the science behind digestible, hypoallergenic pet food ingredients’. I am more than happy to learn your questions or thoughts.