The South American wet pet food market is expected to exceed USD 620 Million by 2025–2030, as pet owners increasingly seek higher-quality food options for their pets.
- Historical Period2019-2023
- Base Year2024
- Forecast Period2025-2030
- Largest MarketBrazil
- Fastest Market Colombia
- Market Difference(2025-2030) USD 620
- Format
Featured Companies
- 1. Unicharm Corporation
- 2. Mars Incorporated
- 3. Nestle SA
- 4. Colgate-Palmolive(International)
- 5. General mills Inc.
- 6. Mitsubishi Corporation
- More...
Wet Pet Food Market Analysis
The wet pet food market in South America is witnessing consistent growth, spurred by a rise in pet ownership, the humanization of pets, and an increased appetite for high-quality, nutritious pet food products. As more individuals in the region regard their pets as family, they are becoming more attentive to their pets’ diets, resulting in a movement towards premium and specialized wet pet food selections. This market growth is influenced by elements like urbanization, better economic conditions, and heightened awareness of pet health and wellness. Pet ownership levels are increasing throughout South America, particularly in nations such as Brazil, Argentina, and Chile, where homes increasingly bring dogs and cats into their families. The humanization trend where pets are treated as companions rather than mere animals—has spurred a surge in demand for nutritious and premium pet food products. In contrast to traditional dry kibble, wet pet food is seen as more appealing due to its greater moisture content, improved palatability, and nutritional advantages. As more pet owners pursue natural, grain-free, and protein-rich alternatives, wet pet food is emerging as the preferred option. The premiumization trend in pet food has gained traction in South America, notably among middle- and upper-class consumers. According to the research report, "South America Wet Pet Food Market Outlook, 2030," published by Bonafide Research, the South America Wet Pet Food Market market is anticipated to add to more than USD 620 Million by 2025–30. Numerous pet owners are now willing to spend on functional and specialized wet pet food that addresses specific dietary requirements, such as weight management, digestive health, and skin care. Furthermore, veterinarians and pet nutritionists increasingly endorse wet food for older pets and those with dental problems, thereby amplifying demand. Both local and international brands are adapting to this trend by launching high-protein, organic, and tailored wet pet food products. The distribution network in South America is also changing, with supermarkets, pet specialty shops, and online retail venues playing essential roles in market growth. While supermarkets remain the leading distribution channel, pet specialty stores and e-commerce platforms are expanding swiftly. The emergence of online pet food retailers is particularly prominent, with platforms like MercadoLibre and Amazon making premium and imported wet pet food brands more available to consumers. Subscription-based pet food services are also on the rise, providing pet owners with a convenient way to receive high-quality wet food at their homes. Sustainability and environmental issues are influencing the future of the wet pet food industry in South America. Numerous pet food producers are implementing eco-friendly packaging options, including recyclable pouches and biodegradable containers, to minimize environmental effects. Furthermore, there is an increasing demand for ethically sourced ingredients and alternative protein types, like insect-based or plant-based wet pet food varieties, to appeal to environmentally aware consumers.
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Market Drivers • Increasing Impact of Veterinary Recommendations:Veterinarians are significantly influencing the promotion of wet pet food, particularly for animals with dietary sensitivities, dental problems, or hydration issues. As pet owners become more aware of their pets' health, they are more frequently depending on veterinarian-recommended diets, resulting in a surge in demand for functional and therapeutic wet pet food options. This factor is particularly pronounced in urban regions, where veterinary care access is improving, and pet owners are more inclined to adhere to professional advice. • Increase in Dual-Income Families and Hectic Lifestyles:As an increasing number of households in South America have both partners employed full-time, the appetite for easy and ready-to-serve pet food alternatives is growing. Wet pet food, recognized for its excellent nutritional content and effortless portion management, is attractive to busy pet owners who prefer convenient feeding options. Furthermore, the growing trend towards single-person households in urban settings has resulted in increased rates of pet adoption, which further enhances the demand for high-quality, ready-to-serve pet meals. Market Challenges • Insufficient Cold Chain Infrastructure and Distribution Challenges:The distribution of wet pet food necessitates a well-coordinated supply chain, comprising temperature-regulated storage and transport to avert spoilage. However, in several South American nations, logistical issues such as inadequate road systems, subpar storage facilities, and elevated transportation expenses hinder the assurance of product freshness and accessibility, particularly in rural and isolated regions. These obstacles frequently result in higher costs and limited assortment, constraining market entry. • Rivalry from Homemade and Conventional Pet Diets:In numerous regions of South America, home-prepared pet meals and traditional feeding practices (such as table scraps and fresh meat) continue to be prevalent, particularly among lower- and middle-income families. Many pet owners view homemade food as a more cost-effective and natural choice compared to commercial wet pet food. Persuading these consumers to transition to packaged pet food necessitates awareness of the nutritional advantages and cost-effectiveness of wet pet food, which poses a challenge for market participants. Market Trends • Rise of Local and Regionally Inspired Pet Food Flavors:Pet food companies in South America are launching local flavors and ingredients that cater to regional consumer tastes. For instance, wet pet food products that feature locally sourced proteins like lamb, fish, and poultry are becoming more popular. The incorporation of traditional South American superfoods such as quinoa and chia seeds in pet food is emerging as a notable trend, as these ingredients are linked to enhanced nutrition and health benefits. • Increasing Appeal of Subscription-Based and Customized Pet Food Services:The expansion of e-commerce and direct-to-consumer approaches is driving the development of subscription-based pet food services in South America. Pet owners are progressively choosing tailored wet pet food solutions that meet their pets' particular dietary requirements. Online retailers and pet food companies are providing monthly subscription packages, custom portion options, and home delivery services, making wet pet food more accessible and convenient than ever.
Wet Pet Food Segmentation
| By Pet Type | Dogs | |
| Cats | ||
| Others (Ferrets, Rabbits, Reptiles, etc.) | ||
| By Source | Animal-based (Meat, Fish, Poultry) | |
| Plant-derivatives (Vegetables, Grains, Lentils, etc.) | ||
| Others(Insect Based, Synthetic) | ||
| By Price Range | Economy | |
| Premium | ||
| Super Premium & Organic | ||
| By Packaging Type | Cans | |
| Pouches | ||
| Trays & Tubs | ||
| Others (e.g., Eco-friendly Biodegradable Packaging, Refill Packs) | ||
| By Distribution Channel | Pet Specialty Stores | |
| Supermarkets/Hypermarkets | ||
| Convenience Stores | ||
| Online | ||
| Others (e.g., Veterinary Clinics, Direct-to-Consumer Subscription Services) | ||
| South America | Brazil | |
| Argentina | ||
| Colombia | ||
The swift increase in cat ownership throughout South America, along with the inclination towards wet food due to its hydration advantages, is fueling the growing need for wet cat food in the area. In recent years, there has been a notable surge in cat ownership across South America, especially in urban regions. Unlike canines, felines are better suited for living in apartments, which is becoming more prevalent due to rapid urban development. Numerous city residents prefer cats as they require less space, lower upkeep, and can be left alone for extended periods compared to dogs. As more individuals relocate to high-rise buildings and limited living areas, the allure of cat ownership has increased, enhancing the demand for specialized cat food, especially wet food. One of the primary factors for the growing popularity of wet cat food is its benefits for hydration. Cats naturally possess a low thirst response and frequently do not consume enough water, which may result in kidney complications and urinary tract issues. Veterinarians and pet nutritionists advocate for wet food for cats since it assists in maintaining their hydration levels, decreasing the likelihood of such health problems. With rising awareness regarding cat health, more owners are opting for wet food instead of dry kibble to ensure their pets have sufficient moisture in their diet. Further, cats are recognized for being discerning eaters, and the strong scent, soft consistency, and rich tastes of wet food make it more attractive to felines. Numerous pet owners note that their cats favor wet food over dry varieties, resulting in a transition toward premium, protein-rich, and grain-free wet cat food choices. As the trend of pet humanization and premiumization persists in South America, the fastest-growing category in the wet pet food market is still cat food, with both local and global brands launching new flavors and formulations to satisfy the increasing demand. The escalating demand for sustainable, hypoallergenic, and plant-based pet food alternatives is fueling the swift expansion of plant-derived wet pet food in South America. In recent years, pet owners in South America have become increasingly aware of sustainability and environmental impact, resulting in a transition toward alternative protein sources in pet food. Conventional animal-based proteins such as beef and chicken possess a larger carbon footprint, and as consumers grow more eco-aware, they are investigating plant-based wet pet food options that are seen as more sustainable and ethically responsible. This movement reflects the surge in plant-based diets among humans, as many pet owners search for vegetarian or flexitarian options for their pets too. Moreover, food allergies and sensitivities in pets are gaining more recognition, leading pet owners to pursue hypoallergenic, grain-free, and meat-free alternatives. Some pets suffer from digestive complications, skin problems, or intolerances related to animal-based proteins, and plant-based wet food options featuring lentils, chickpeas, quinoa, and sweet potatoes offer a healthier and gentler choice. This has resulted in heightened interest in functional plant-derived pet foods that deliver crucial nutrients without provoking allergic reactions. Economic considerations are also playing a role in the expansion of plant-derived wet pet food. South America boasts a robust agricultural sector, generating substantial quantities of grains, legumes, and vegetables, making it more economical for pet food producers to acquire local plant-based ingredients rather than depending on costly imported animal proteins. As inflation and price sensitivity persist as issues for numerous pet owners, plant-based wet pet food is emerging as a more affordable option that does not compromise on nutritional quality. Furthermore, the emergence of pet food brands advocating for natural, organic, and vegan formulations has increased the diversity of plant-based wet pet food available in the market. Companies are emphasizing innovative recipes that combine vegetables, grains, and legumes with essential amino acids to formulate balanced diets that address the nutritional needs of pets. As consumer preferences continue to lean towards sustainable and health-conscious options, plant-derivative wet pet food is rapidly becoming the fastest-growing category in the South American pet food market. The increasing trend of pet humanization, along with heightened awareness of superior nutrition, is propelling the swift expansion of the super-premium and organic wet pet food category in South America. In recent times, pet owners in South America have started regarding their pets as family members, resulting in a transition towards premium-quality pet food with exceptional ingredients. The appetite for organic, natural, and ethically sourced wet pet food is rising as consumers grow more informed about the advantages of providing their pets with high-protein, preservative-free, and grain-free diets. This trend is particularly pronounced among wealthy and urban pet owners, who are prepared to invest more in premium pet food that claims to deliver improved health benefits. Organic pet food is becoming increasingly favored due to its perceived health advantages, such as mitigating the risk of allergies, digestive problems, and obesity. Numerous pet owners now look for hormone-free, antibiotic-free, and non-GMO ingredients, akin to their own dietary choices. Consequently, wet pet food brands are launching organic-certified formulations with natural meat, vegetables, and superfoods to meet the demands of this expanding segment. This transformation coincides with the growing consumer inclination towards clean-label products, where clarity in sourcing and ingredient quality plays an essential role in purchasing decisions. Furthermore, increasing disposable incomes in nations like Brazil, Argentina, and Chile have enabled more pet owners to afford luxury pet food options. The impact of global pet food trends, combined with social media and digital marketing initiatives, has further intensified the demand for premium, boutique-style wet pet food brands that present distinctive recipes and exotic components. The growth of specialty pet stores, veterinary clinics, and online vendors has also contributed to making super-premium and organic wet pet food more widely available. As this market continues to progress, brands concentrating on organic, holistic, and ultra-premium formulations are experiencing the swiftest growth in South America’s wet pet food category. The rising consumer interest in sustainable and eco-friendly pet food packaging is fueling the swift adoption of eco-friendly biodegradable packaging and refill packs in South America. Recently, environmental issues have emerged as a significant factor impacting consumer buying choices, particularly in countries like Brazil, Chile, and Argentina, where sustainability initiatives are gaining traction. As plastic waste becomes an escalating problem, consumers are actively looking for eco-friendly alternatives, including biodegradable, compostable, and recyclable packaging. Pet food brands are reacting by creating sustainable wet food packaging solutions, such as plant-based biodegradable trays, recyclable cans, and refillable pouches, which considerably decrease plastic waste. Refill packs are also becoming more popular as affordable and waste-reducing options. Rather than buying new containers with each purchase, pet owners can now opt for bulk wet food refills, which reduce packaging waste while providing a more budget-friendly choice compared to single-use containers. This aligns with the growing consciousness of zero-waste lifestyles and circular economy initiatives, especially in urban areas where eco-aware consumers influence market developments. Government policies in South America are also contributing to the transition towards sustainable packaging. Numerous countries have implemented regulations and incentives to cut down plastic waste, motivating companies to shift to environmentally sustainable packaging solutions. Pet food brands that adopt these changes not only comply with regulations but also boost their brand image by appealing to eco-conscious pet owners. Moreover, global pet food companies entering South America are embedding sustainability within their branding approaches, prompting local competitors to embrace similar strategies. As the demand for eco-friendly packaging options keeps rising, wet pet food brands focusing on biodegradable, compostable, and refill-pack innovations are witnessing the fastest growth in the South American pet food sector. The swift growth of e-commerce, paired with rising digital adoption and shopping behaviors driven by convenience, is propelling the rapid rise of online wet pet food sales in South America. In recent years, South America has undergone a digital transformation, with an increasing number of consumers transitioning towards online shopping for pet products, including wet pet food. The rise of internet accessibility, smartphone usage, and digital payment methods has simplified the process for pet owners to access a diverse range of pet food brands from the comfort of their homes. Countries such as Brazil, Argentina, and Chile have witnessed a substantial increase in online retail platforms, encompassing global leaders like Amazon and MercadoLibre, along with local e-commerce stores focused on pet products. A primary factor driving the transition to online sales is convenience. Numerous consumers favor home delivery services in order to avoid traveling to physical pet stores, particularly in busy urban settings where shopping trips can be lengthy. Subscription-based services have also become popular, providing pet owners with auto-replenishment options that guarantee they will not run out of food. This is especially advantageous for wet pet food, which requires frequent purchases due to its shorter shelf life compared to dry kibble. Moreover, online retailers frequently offer superior discounts, promotions, and a wider selection of products in comparison to physical stores. Many e-commerce platforms utilize AI-driven recommendations and tailored shopping experiences, enabling pet owners to discover specialized wet pet food suited to their pet’s dietary requirements. This level of personalization and accessibility has led to the growing inclination towards purchasing pet food online rather than through traditional retail channels. The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic also intensified e-commerce expansion in South America, as lockdowns and movement restrictions compelled consumers to seek out digital shopping alternatives. Even after the restrictions were lifted, a significant number of pet owners persisted in favoring online purchases, establishing e-commerce as the fastest-growing distribution channel for wet pet food in South America.
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Wet Pet Food Market Regional Insights
Brazil's robust culture of pet ownership, an evolving pet food sector, and a rising demand for high-quality pet nutrition have established it as the foremost market for wet pet food in South America. Brazil possesses one of the largest pet populations worldwide, with countless pet owners who regard their pets as family members. The nation has experienced notable growth in pet adoption, especially in urban centers where pets, particularly dogs and cats, are viewed as vital companions. This has led to a pronounced demand for high-quality pet food, with wet pet food becoming favored due to its health advantages, taste appeal, and nutritional benefits when contrasted with conventional dry kibble. The Brazilian pet food sector is well-established, bolstered by both domestic producers and global brands increasing their footprint in the nation. Prominent pet food enterprises, including Nestlé Purina, Royal Canin, and Mars Petcare, have made substantial investments in Brazil, launching new wet pet food options with tailored formulations catering to various pet requirements. Moreover, Brazil's agricultural assets ensure easy access to raw materials, such as meat, fish, and plant-based components, facilitating local production to flourish and satisfy the rising demand. Another significant aspect propelling Brazil’s supremacy in the wet pet food market is the escalating disposable income and premiumization trend. As a growing number of Brazilian pet owners become conscious of the advantages of high-quality, grain-free, and organic wet pet food, they are ready to invest more in their pets’ nutrition. Veterinarians and pet nutrition experts are advocating for wet food for hydration and health benefits, which further enhances its appeal. Moreover, Brazil boasts a strong e-commerce landscape and a network of pet specialty stores, rendering wet pet food readily available to consumers nationwide. With a flourishing pet culture, an expanding pet food sector, and an increasing consumer shift toward premium nutrition, Brazil continues to be the unquestioned leader in the South American wet pet food market.
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Companies Mentioned
- Unicharm Corporation
- Mars Incorporated
- Nestle SA
- Colgate-Palmolive(International)
- General mills Inc.
- Mitsubishi Corporation
- Maruha Nichiro Corporation
- Farmina Pet Foods
Table of Contents
- 1. Executive Summary
- 2. Market Dynamics
- 2.1. Market Drivers & Opportunities
- 2.2. Market Restraints & Challenges
- 2.3. Market Trends
- 2.3.1. XXXX
- 2.3.2. XXXX
- 2.3.3. XXXX
- 2.3.4. XXXX
- 2.3.5. XXXX
- 2.4. Supply chain Analysis
- 2.5. Policy & Regulatory Framework
- 2.6. Industry Experts Views
- 3. Research Methodology
- 3.1. Secondary Research
- 3.2. Primary Data Collection
- 3.3. Market Formation & Validation
- 3.4. Report Writing, Quality Check & Delivery
- 4. Market Structure
- 4.1. Market Considerate
- 4.2. Assumptions
- 4.3. Limitations
- 4.4. Abbreviations
- 4.5. Sources
- 4.6. Definitions
- 5. Economic /Demographic Snapshot
- 6. South America Wet Pet Food Market Outlook
- 6.1. Market Size By Value
- 6.2. Market Share By Country
- 6.3. Market Size and Forecast, By Pet Type
- 6.4. Market Size and Forecast, By Source
- 6.5. Market Size and Forecast, By Price Range
- 6.6. Market Size and Forecast, By Distribution Channel
- 6.7. Brazil Wet Pet Food Market Outlook
- 6.7.1. Market Size by Value
- 6.7.2. Market Size and Forecast By Pet Type
- 6.7.3. Market Size and Forecast By Price Range
- 6.7.4. Market Size and Forecast By Distribution Channel
- 6.8. Argentina Wet Pet Food Market Outlook
- 6.8.1. Market Size by Value
- 6.8.2. Market Size and Forecast By Pet Type
- 6.8.3. Market Size and Forecast By Price Range
- 6.8.4. Market Size and Forecast By Distribution Channel
- 6.9. Colombia Wet Pet Food Market Outlook
- 6.9.1. Market Size by Value
- 6.9.2. Market Size and Forecast By Pet Type
- 6.9.3. Market Size and Forecast By Price Range
- 6.9.4. Market Size and Forecast By Distribution Channel
- 7. Competitive Landscape
- 7.1. Competitive Dashboard
- 7.2. Business Strategies Adopted by Key Players
- 7.3. Key Players Market Positioning Matrix
- 7.4. Porter's Five Forces
- 7.5. Company Profile
- 7.5.1. Mars, Incorporated
- 7.5.1.1. Company Snapshot
- 7.5.1.2. Company Overview
- 7.5.1.3. Financial Highlights
- 7.5.1.4. Geographic Insights
- 7.5.1.5. Business Segment & Performance
- 7.5.1.6. Product Portfolio
- 7.5.1.7. Key Executives
- 7.5.1.8. Strategic Moves & Developments
- 7.5.2. Nestlé S.A.
- 7.5.3. Colgate-Palmolive Company
- 7.5.4. Unicharm Corporation
- 7.5.5. General Mills Inc.
- 7.5.6. Farmina Pet Foods
- 7.5.7. Mitsubishi Corporation
- 7.5.8. Maruha Nichiro Corporation
- 8. Strategic Recommendations
- 9. Annexure
- 9.1. FAQ`s
- 9.2. Notes
- 9.3. Related Reports
- 10. Disclaimer
Table 2: Influencing Factors for Wet Pet Food Market, 2024
Table 3: Top 10 Counties Economic Snapshot 2022
Table 4: Economic Snapshot of Other Prominent Countries 2022
Table 5: Average Exchange Rates for Converting Foreign Currencies into U.S. Dollars
Table 6: South America Wet Pet Food Market Size and Forecast, By Pet Type (2019 to 2030F) (In USD Billion)
Table 7: South America Wet Pet Food Market Size and Forecast, By Source (2019 to 2030F) (In USD Billion)
Table 8: South America Wet Pet Food Market Size and Forecast, By Price Range (2019 to 2030F) (In USD Billion)
Table 9: South America Wet Pet Food Market Size and Forecast, By Distribution Channel (2019 to 2030F) (In USD Billion)
Table 10: Brazil Wet Pet Food Market Size and Forecast By Pet Type (2019 to 2030F) (In USD Billion)
Table 11: Brazil Wet Pet Food Market Size and Forecast By Price Range (2019 to 2030F) (In USD Billion)
Table 12: Brazil Wet Pet Food Market Size and Forecast By Distribution Channel (2019 to 2030F) (In USD Billion)
Table 13: Argentina Wet Pet Food Market Size and Forecast By Pet Type (2019 to 2030F) (In USD Billion)
Table 14: Argentina Wet Pet Food Market Size and Forecast By Price Range (2019 to 2030F) (In USD Billion)
Table 15: Argentina Wet Pet Food Market Size and Forecast By Distribution Channel (2019 to 2030F) (In USD Billion)
Table 16: Colombia Wet Pet Food Market Size and Forecast By Pet Type (2019 to 2030F) (In USD Billion)
Table 17: Colombia Wet Pet Food Market Size and Forecast By Price Range (2019 to 2030F) (In USD Billion)
Table 18: Colombia Wet Pet Food Market Size and Forecast By Distribution Channel (2019 to 2030F) (In USD Billion)
Table 19: Competitive Dashboard of top 5 players, 2024
Figure 2: Market attractiveness Index, By Region 2030
Figure 3: Market attractiveness Index, By Segment 2030
Figure 4: South America Wet Pet Food Market Size By Value (2019, 2024 & 2030F) (in USD Billion)
Figure 5: South America Wet Pet Food Market Share By Country (2024)
Figure 6: Brazil Wet Pet Food Market Size By Value (2019, 2024 & 2030F) (in USD Billion)
Figure 7: Argentina Wet Pet Food Market Size By Value (2019, 2024 & 2030F) (in USD Billion)
Figure 8: Colombia Wet Pet Food Market Size By Value (2019, 2024 & 2030F) (in USD Billion)
Figure 9: Porter's Five Forces of Global Wet Pet Food Market
Wet Pet Food Market Research FAQs
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South America Wet Pet Food Market Outlook, 2030
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