Brazil: Nestle opens R$2.5 billion pet food factory

Nestle Purina, the pet care division of the Swiss food and drink giant, has inaugurated its largest-ever investment in Brazil with the opening of a new wet pet food factory in Vargeao, Santa Catarina.

The BRL 2.5 billion ($470 million) facility is designed to significantly expand the company’s production of wet food for cats and dogs, nearly doubling its local capacity in the category. Equipped with next-generation production lines, the site incorporates advanced technologies including artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and Internet of Things (IoT) solutions for real-time monitoring and digital traceability. It is also the first Purina factory in Latin America to operate on 100% renewable thermal and electrical energy, utilizing a biomass-powered boiler.

Marcelo Melchior, CEO of Nestle Brazil, stated: “The new Vargeão plant strengthens our global strategy to expand premium wet pet food, offering a variety of textures and sensory experiences that elevate great nutrition for dogs and cats. This investment reflects our commitment to innovation, the well-being of pets, and Brazil as one of the most strategic markets”.

The facility, which has created 140 permanent jobs, will serve as a strategic export hub for South America, with initial shipments already directed to Chile. Brazil currently represents the world’s second-largest pet food market, with an estimated population of 110 million pets.

Source: Nestle / Nutrition Insight / PetfoodIndustry / Click Oil and Gas