As the global leader in food cutting technology, Urschel now brings its expertise in precision cutting to the rapidly expanding pet food industry. Today’s pet owners are driving demand for healthier, fresher options – and processors are turning to Urschel’s proven technology to meet that need.
Fresh vegetables such as sweet potatoes are now commonly reduced into – dices, strips, or slices to create freeze-dried and dehydrated dog treats. Fruit and vegetable reductions are also being blended into both meat- and plant-based pet food recipes, reflecting the same quality and variety found in human food products.
Urschel equipment is also used to dice or reduce fish, poultry, and meat for freeze-dried snacks. Cooked whole-muscle or processed meats can be shredded to create premium wet foods for cats and dogs. Many paté-style products, as well as the base materials for kibble and extruded foods, are first processed on the Comitrol Processor line, which delivers ultra-fine particle size reductions. These ingredients are then extruded and finished on Urschel dicers – such as the M VersaPro (MVP), M6, DiversaCut 2110A, or Affinity Dicer – to achieve precise, consistent cuts.
Urschel dicers are also relied on to size-reduce extruded ropes, pet snacks, and jerky-style products to exact customer specifications.
Precision Solutions for Hard to Process Pet Foods
Cutting performance can vary widely depending on product temperature and texture. Hard-frozen meats, such as liver or lung prepared for freeze-drying, can be difficult to process and may increase wear on knives or belts. Conversely, extruded products are typically cut at higher temperatures, presenting a different set of challenges.
At Heat and Control, we work closely with processors to understand their unique products and desired results – whether that means a clean dice, a specific shred size, or a particular particle texture. Once the most suitable Urschel solution is identified, customers can schedule a free test cut to trial their products under real processing conditions. Testing is available in person, via live stream, or by video.
In a recent trial, one customer noted testing their products confirmed it could handle their unique processing challenges. “The opportunity to test my products was invaluable,” they said. “It gave me the confidence to make the purchase – I was so impressed I placed an order the same day.”
Urschel continues to refine its machinery and components to meet the unique challenges of both human and pet food processors. Purpose-built heavy-duty (HD) knives and belts, along with advanced designs in the DiversaCut 2110A, Affinity, and Affinity Integra/Integra-D Dicers, deliver unmatched reliability, precision, and ease of maintenance. Whether processing fresh vegetables, meats, or extruded products, Urschel machines offer versatile solutions that consistently meet the demands of today’s evolving food markets.
For processors in Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, Heat and Control is the exclusive distributor of Urschel products, providing expert guidance, test-cut services, and support to help you select the right equipment for your operation. For more information get in touch via info@heatandcontrol.com or www.heatandcontrol.com
