Muenster Milling, a venerable name in the pet food industry, is set to launch its cutting-edge freeze-dried pet food facility, spanning over 120,000 square feet and equipped with more than 20 freeze dryers and automated machinery. Jim Holdrieth, CEO of Muenster Milling, hailed the facility as a comprehensive hub for brands and retailers to materialize their innovation pipelines.
“Freeze-dried pet food has emerged as a top choice among pet owners seeking premium, nutritious options for their beloved companions,” stated Holdrieth. He emphasized the versatility of freeze-dried products, ranging from complete meals to functional treats, with the category witnessing remarkable growth, amounting to $1 billion in sales and experiencing double-digit volume growth in 2023 alone.
Under Holdrieth’s leadership, Muenster Milling has been at the forefront of meeting the escalating demand for high-quality pet nutrition. The company’s commitment to innovation is underscored by its investment in a “made in Texas” ethos, with the new facility poised to expand the production of freeze-dried offerings, including complete meals, functional treats, and single-ingredient options.
Furthermore, Muenster Milling’s vertically integrated facility integrates raw meat processing capabilities and automated mixing and blending equipment, facilitating the creation of pioneering products such as “Kibble Plus” and “Freeze Dried Plus,” which blend freeze-dried proteins with kibble and vegetables.
Highlighting the company’s dedication to excellence, Muenster Milling has bolstered its research and development (R&D) and quality infrastructure to deliver unparalleled pet food products. With in-house R&D capabilities, the company can tailor formulations and develop products tailored to the specific needs of customers.
Muenster Milling, based in Muenster, Texas, has been a cornerstone of the pet food landscape since 1932. The company gained international attention in 2020 when Mitch Felderhoff, a fourth-generation owner, undertook a unique challenge, consuming only Muenster Milling’s dog food for 30 days, showcasing the quality and nutritional value of their products. This initiative not only led to increased sales but also spurred global interest in their offerings.
The company’s trajectory towards growth was further propelled by its acquisition by Kainos Capital in 2021, in collaboration with family owners Mitch and Chad Felderhoff. The infusion of resources and expertise enabled Muenster Milling to expand its manufacturing capabilities and enhance its product portfolio.
The appointment of Jim Holdrieth as CEO in late 2023 marked a pivotal moment for Muenster Milling. With over three decades of manufacturing experience, Holdrieth is poised to lead the company’s evolution into a market leader in the freeze-dried pet food segment.
Looking ahead, Holdrieth expressed confidence in Muenster Milling’s future, affirming the company’s commitment to its legacy while embracing transformation and innovation. As consumer preferences continue to shift towards premium pet nutrition, Muenster Milling remains steadfast in its mission to deliver superior products that cater to the evolving needs of pets and their owners.
