Review of Pet Food Packaging in the US Market: Future Direction Towards Innovation and Sustainability

The pet food packaging industry is experiencing robust growth driven by increased pet ownership and consumer demand for premium products. This surge presents opportunities and challenges, particularly concerning sustainability and environmental stewardship. This paper reviews recent innovations, challenges, and future trajectories in pet food packaging within the US market, emphasizing sustainable practices aligned with the UN's 2030 Agenda. Key findings highlight the critical role of packaging in preserving product quality, ensuring consumer appeal, and meeting regulatory standards. Furthermore, the study explores emerging trends such as eco-friendly materials, recyclable packaging, and minimalist designs aimed at reducing environmental impact. The analysis underscores the importance of adopting sustainable solutions to mitigate the environmental footprint associated with packaging materials and processes. The paper concludes by outlining future directions for research and development to foster innovation and drive positive change in the pet food packaging industry, facilitating informed decision-making towards a more sustainable future.