Olives have a long history of use in healthy human foods and a short history as treats fed to cats in social media videos. While online claims that olives affect cats like catnip may not have scientific backing, olive extract holds potential as a novel ingredient for cat food. Researchers with Kemin Industries evaluated how olive extract influenced cats’ voluntary intake of kibble. They published their research in the journal Pets.
The scientists used gas chromatography and mass spectrometry to analyze the olive extract, identifying 27 volatile compounds. These compounds produced an earthy, fruity, and herbal aroma profile, several of which overlapped with those found in olives, olive oil and even catnip. The olive extract used in the study was supplied by PhenoFarm of Italy. The palatants, one dry and one liquid, were formulated with varying olive extract inclusion levels, ranging from 15 to 150 ppm in the liquid format and 50 to 600 ppm in the dry format.
To assess palatability, the researchers conducted two-day, two-bowl feeding trials with 20 adult cats. Intake ratio, first approach and first choice were used to compare olive extract-containing diets to a control kibble. Liquid palatants were tested on a kibble base from Diamond Maintenance Cat, while dry palatants were applied to Evolve Chicken & Rice kibble from Sunshine Mills.
- No negative impact on consumption: Across all variations, cats consumed olive extract diets at levels statistically similar to controls.
- Single significant preference: The only statistically significant preference was seen at 200 ppm olive extract applied via dry palatant. All other inclusion levels did not differ significantly from control diets.
- Safe inclusion thresholds: Olive extracts could be included at up to 150 ppm in liquid and 600 ppm in dry palatant applications without deterring cat food consumption.
Pet food formulation with olive extract
Although olive extract includes bitter compounds, neither appeared to negatively affect acceptance at the tested concentrations. Differences in palatant format, base kibble type and fat content may have influenced how olive extract’s aroma and flavor profile were perceived by the cats.
While findings suggest that olive extract can be incorporated into feline diets, the study’s authors recommended longer-term studies to evaluate sustained acceptance and potential health effects.
For pet food manufacturers seeking novel functional ingredients with consumer appeal, olive extract may offer an opportunity to introduce a plant-based additive that complements wellness-positioned formulations. While OE alone may not enhance palatability, it can be used without compromising it.
As consumer focus on pet health grows, olive extract could play a role as a novel ingredient.