About Purina
Purina is a global pet care and pet nutrition brand owned by Nestlé. It is one of the world’s largest and most recognized manufacturers of dog and cat food, producing a wide range of dry food, wet food, treats, and veterinary nutrition products. Founded in 1894 in St. Louis, Missouri, USA, Purina has over 130 years of experience in animal nutrition and is known for combining scientific research with pet care innovation. [1]
Overview
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Brand Name: Purina
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Founded: 1894
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Founder: William H. Danforth
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Headquarters: St. Louis, Missouri, United States
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Parent Company: Nestlé
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Industry: Pet Food and Pet Care
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Products: Dog food, cat food, pet treats, veterinary diets, nutritional supplements
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Markets: Available in more than 75 countries worldwide
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Slogan: “Your Pet, Our Passion.” [2]
History
Purina was founded by William H. Danforth in 1894 under the name Robinson-Danforth Commission Company, initially producing feed for farm animals. Danforth believed that high-quality nutrition could improve animal health and productivity. Over time, the company expanded into companion animal nutrition and adopted the Purina name, reflecting its emphasis on product quality and purity. [3]
Some major milestones include:
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1926: Established the industry’s first pet nutrition research center in Gray Summit, Missouri.
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1957: Introduced one of the first extruded dry kibble products, transforming commercial pet food production.
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1961: Became the first company to add taurine to dry cat food to support feline health.
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1993: Developed the Body Condition Score system, now widely used by veterinarians.
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1999: Created the world’s first Canine Reference Family DNA Distribution Center to support canine genetic research.
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2001: Acquired by Nestlé, leading to the creation of Nestlé Purina PetCare, combining Purina with Nestlé’s existing pet care brands.
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2018: Launched the Purina Institute to promote evidence-based nutritional education for veterinarians and pet professionals. [4]
Research and Innovation
Purina is recognized for its investment in scientific research. The company employs hundreds of specialists, including veterinarians, nutritionists, behaviorists, microbiologists, and food scientists, who conduct research on pet health, nutrition, digestion, aging, immunity, and disease management.
Notable research contributions include:
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Development of nutritionally balanced pet diets
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Early adoption of taurine supplementation for cats
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Research in nutrigenomics (nutrition and gene interaction)
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Specialized diets for kidney disease, diabetes, obesity, allergies, and digestive health
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Studies on probiotics, microbiome health, and immune support [5]
Product Portfolio
Purina markets numerous pet food brands across different price ranges and nutritional needs.
Dog Brands
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Purina Pro Plan
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Purina ONE
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Dog Chow
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Beneful
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Beggin’
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Busy Bone
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Dentalife
Cat Brands
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Fancy Feast
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Friskies
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Felix
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Purina ONE
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Pro Plan
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Beyond [6]
Veterinary Nutrition
Purina also develops prescription diets under the Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets range. These formulas are intended for pets with specific medical conditions, such as:
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Kidney disease
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Diabetes
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Gastrointestinal disorders
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Food allergies
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Obesity
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Urinary tract disease
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Liver disease
These diets are generally recommended under veterinary supervision. [7]
Global Presence
Purina products are sold in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa. The company operates research centers, manufacturing facilities, and distribution networks worldwide while adapting products to regional nutritional requirements and consumer preferences. [8]
Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility
Purina states that it focuses on:
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Responsible ingredient sourcing
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Reducing greenhouse gas emissions
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Improving recyclable packaging
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Supporting pet adoption initiatives
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Disaster relief for animals
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Veterinary education and research
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Community partnerships promoting responsible pet ownership [9]
Reputation
Purina is widely regarded as one of the leading science-based pet nutrition companies. Its products are commonly recommended by veterinarians, particularly the Pro Plan and Veterinary Diets lines, due to extensive nutritional research and feeding trials. As with many large pet food manufacturers, the company has also faced periodic public criticism and scrutiny over ingredients or product quality, though it maintains comprehensive quality-control programs and continues to invest heavily in research and product safety. [10]
Official Website
Purina Official Website
Nestlé Purina PetCare
