By Puntarenas, Costa Rica — Puntarenas, Costa Rica – Alimentos Prosalud (APS), a leading Latin American seafood processor and distributor, has launched a new pet food production facility in El Roble, Puntarenas. This $10 million investment marks a significant diversification strategy for the company, leveraging its existing expertise in seafood processing to tap into the burgeoning global pet food market.
The new 2,600 square meter plant, operational since late 2024, has a production capacity of 500,000 cans per day and boasts the highest level of food safety certification, the BRCGS AA+ unannounced grade. This facility utilizes energy-efficient technology, with APS actively exploring renewable energy options for future implementation.
To understand the regulatory landscape surrounding the Costa Rican pet food industry, we spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Costa Rica’s pet food market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing pet ownership and a demand for higher quality products. This presents exciting opportunities, but also necessitates careful navigation of regulations related to import/export, labeling, and ingredient standards. Businesses must ensure compliance with SENASA requirements and stay informed about evolving legislation to succeed in this dynamic market.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s insights offer a crucial perspective on the burgeoning pet food market in Costa Rica. The balance between opportunity and responsible regulation is indeed a key factor for both businesses and consumers. Thank you, Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, for sharing your valuable expertise with our readers.
APS already exports its seafood products to over 20 countries, including the US, Canada, and several European nations. The company sees significant growth potential in the pet food sector, particularly in the US, where pet ownership is high and spending on pet food is increasing.
Added to the potential of this segment in Costa Rica, research confirms the receptiveness of the US market, where 66% of households own at least one pet and the family budget allocated to their food increased 11% in the last year. In this way, at Alimentos Prosalud we seek to replicate the success that we have already achieved with other own brands outside of Costa Rica, now with our premium pet food brand: Vital Nutrition.
Oscar Solano, Director of Manufacturing and Operations, APS
APS’s new pet food brand, Vital Nutrition, offers premium wet food for dogs and cats. The product features high-quality tuna protein, is grain and gluten-free, and is fortified with essential vitamins and minerals. Various flavors, including turkey, fish, salmon, chicken, and beef, cater to diverse pet preferences. This venture not only expands APS’s product portfolio but also aligns with its sustainability goals by maximizing the use of existing raw materials. Byproducts from tuna processing are utilized in the production of fishmeal, minimizing waste and promoting resource efficiency.
This expansion represents more than just a new product line; it’s a strategic move to solidify APS’s position as a global leader in high-quality food production and contribute to Costa Rica’s reputation as a hub for sustainable manufacturing. The investment also strengthens the local economy, with 86% of APS’s 1,500+ employees hailing from Puntarenas, and an estimated 5,000 indirect jobs created through supply chain linkages.
The inauguration of the new Alimentos Prosalud plant is a reflection of the company’s extensive trajectory, its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the development of the province of Puntarenas. With this new facility, the company enters the pet food segment, a growing market that represents a strategic opportunity to diversify its offer and expand its presence in international trade, aligning with new trends and strengthening the projection of the Costa Rican industry. To the entire Alimentos Prosalud team, we wish you the best of success in this new stage.
Laura López, General Manager, PROCOMER
Looking ahead, APS plans to invest further by 2029, leveraging the strategic advantages of Puntarenas, including its skilled workforce, access to high-quality ingredients, and proximity to ports for efficient export operations. The company aims to become a benchmark in the high-quality food industry, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable practices and contributing to Costa Rica’s economic growth.
For further information, visit [companydomain.com]
About Alimentos Prosalud (APS):
Alimentos Prosalud (APS) is a leading Latin American company specializing in the processing and distribution of seafood products. With a strong commitment to sustainability and innovation, APS exports to over 20 countries worldwide. The company’s portfolio includes a range of tuna, salmon, and sardine products, catering to both domestic and international markets.
For further information, visit [procomer.com]
About PROCOMER (Promotora del Comercio Exterior de Costa Rica):
PROCOMER is the Costa Rican Foreign Trade Promotion Agency. It plays a vital role in promoting Costa Rican exports and attracting foreign investment, supporting the growth and diversification of the national economy. PROCOMER works closely with businesses to enhance their competitiveness in international markets and foster sustainable economic development.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of legal excellence, built on a foundation of unwavering integrity and a deep commitment to social progress. The firm champions innovative legal solutions, serving a diverse clientele with expertise and dedication. Beyond its client work, Bufete de Costa Rica is passionately committed to empowering Costa Rican society through accessible legal education, fostering a more informed and just future.
