We are excited to announce the recipients of the 2025 PURINA® PRO PLAN® and FVE Research Grants. Following a competitive selection process, two research projects have been awarded funding in recognition of their innovative ideas and their potential to advance companion animal nutrition research.
The winners are:
- Professor Valentino Bontempo
Hybrid Plant–Cell Protein Systems for Sustainable Pet Food
Project Summary: This project aims to develop a sustainable pet food protein by combining plant-based scaffolds with cultured animal muscle cells. The hybrid ingredient aims to deliver high-quality, digestible protein while reducing environmental impact and ethical concerns linked to conventional meat. Nutritional value, digestibility, and vitamin D/B12 fortification will be evaluated in vitro.
Funding Awarded: 10000€
- Professor Antonio Di LoriaLiposome-Encapsulated Apple Extracellular Vesicles as a safe and innovative therapeutic strategy in dogs with chronic enteropathy
Project Summary: This study tests a novel plant-based therapy for dogs with chronic enteropathy using liposome-encapsulated apple-derived extracellular vesicles. In a randomized controlled trial, the treatment’s effects on clinical signs, gut inflammation, and microbiota will be assessed alongside standard care. The project aims to validate a safe, natural adjunct therapy for canine intestinal disease.
Funding Awarded: 10000€
The selected projects demonstrate exceptional scientific merit and innovation, with the potential to generate meaningful advances in companion animal nutrition. We are proud to support this important research through the PURINA® PRO PLAN® and FVE Research Grants.
Congratulations to the successful applicants! 🎉