When palatability is non-negotiable, the bitterness of standard protein additives becomes a real formulation challenge. When specialist pet food producer Vobra needed a plant-based protein their cats and dogs would actually choose, they asked Avebe for help. ProtaSTAR^® proved to be the ingredient that ticked every box. Discover how our high-purity potato protein became a cornerstone of Vobra’s product range.

Vobra Special Petfoods was founded in 1932 and has nearly a century of experience in producing pet food. They have developed into an important international player in the market and supply both their own brands and private label applications. Harold Tiekstra, Account Manager Feed and Pet Food: “The first order was placed with Avebe in 2003. Vobra returned in 2005 and they been a regular and very satisfied customer since 2007.”

Vobra is a real family business. It’s a company rich in history that is still experiencing fast growth. They stand for premium quality and high-quality products. “That’s something that suits Avebe well,” Harold indicates. “The trust in each other also contributes to a pleasant collaboration. We are very transparent and open to each other, and that works. We keep each other informed of current developments, which allows us to consult each other and adjust course, if necessary. I think it’s very important to listen carefully to them, to hear what their needs are and to be able to respond to this from within Avebe. We are their only supplier of potato protein, which is quite unique. The only time Vobra collaborated with another supplier was in 2018, when we could deliver less due to drought. Such mutual trust adds to job satisfaction.”

Vobra is very satisfied with the use of ProtaSTAR^® in their pet food, mainly because of its good quality. This makes ProtaSTAR^® very suitable for use in Vobra’s specialist food products, such as veterinary and vegetarian food. In the future, Vobra may also want to use other Avebe products in their production process. Harold: “So there are certainly developments. I’m in regular contact with both Vobra’s Purchasing and Research & Development departments and the first tests with other products of us are underway. For example, they are looking at the possibilities that potato starch offer to improve their food products. Avebe and Vobra are destined to take many great steps together!”