Hydrocolloids – Proven Solutions with Untapped Potential
During the conference, several presentations addressed new product ideas and alternative stabilizing systems. However, as Christian Köhler pointed out, real innovation in this field remains rare. Many proposed substitutes are promising in theory but not yet technically viable. What clearly emerged is that existing hydrocolloids remain irreplaceable for the foreseeable future.
This observation leads back to a key message that MBB has emphasized for years: it’s not about constantly searching for new substances, but rather about understanding existing hydrocolloids in depth. Their synergy, purity, and correct application. These materials, including Carrageenan, Guar Gum, Cassia Gum, and Locust Bean Gum, each have unique interactions that determine petfood texture, stability, and acceptance.
Christian stressed that true expertise means being able to speak with suppliers on equal footing, identifying deviations, and ensuring that the right material is used for the right purpose. In one case, for a potential new partner MBB helped to discover that what had been labeled “pure carrageenan” for years was in fact a changing premix containing Locust Bean Gum or Cassia Gum food or even feed grade. After a detailed analysis, it became clear that a minor formulation change had silently doubled the carrageenan dosage turning an apparent “price advantage” into a cost trap.
For MBB, these insights are more than a technical detail. They represent the difference between assumed knowledge and real control. Helping partners keep oversight and ensuring cost‑efficient, stable formulations. That’s what keeping your head clear for your core business truly means.
Artificial Intelligence – A New Way of Working, Not Just Another Tool
On the second day of the KIN Roundtable, Christian Köhler shifted perspectives and explored the role of AI in the petfood industry. His message was pragmatic and empowering: Start small, but start now.
Unlike traditional software, AI isn’t something you simply “use.” It’s a new way of thinking and working, one that requires daily practice and curiosity. By starting with small, tangible tasks like text structuring, supplier communication, data reviews, even brainstorming. Every company can build AI‑literacy step by step. The point is not to replace people but to enable faster, smarter decisions by combining human expertise with AI support.
In fact, MBB is already putting this philosophy into action. One managing director from a close partner company who attended an early AI workshop with Christian Köhler in 2025 recently said that “it literally changed my life.” He now uses AI to structure strategic thinking, process information, and prepare decisions much more efficiently. Tasks that used to take several days can now be completed in a single hour or even minutes. That’s the kind of transformation MBB wants to spark across the Petfood sector.
One Mission – Knowledge, Partnership and Focus
Hydrokolloids and AI might seem like two separate topics, but they represent the same mindset that defines MBB: anticipation, clarity, and partnership.
Both require deep understanding and a willingness to think ahead. Whether it’s about securing consistent raw material quality or introducing intelligent workflows, MBB supports partners who want to work smarter, not harder. Sharing knowledge openly, guiding partners through complex supply and technology questions, and developing solutions side by side that’s how MBB turns expertise into real value.
As Christian Köhler emphasized, “our mission ‘keep your head clear for your core business’ is not just a slogan it’s how we think and act every day.”
Turning Complexity into Clarity
The 5th KIN Roundtable Petfood once again proved that the industry’s future depends on two things: technical mastery and adaptive intelligence. Hydrokolloids remain the backbone of high‑quality wet pet food, while AI becomes the compass helping manufacturers and suppliers navigate the next decade.
By bridging both worlds, MBB stands out as a thought leader and reliable partner combining decades of product expertise with forward‑looking innovation.
If you attended the conference or are curious about how hydrocolloids and AI can benefit your business, get in touch with Christian Köhler. He will be happy to share insights, best practices, and ways to make your operations more resilient and future‑ready.
