Pistachio Shell as Potential Functional Ingredient for Animal Feed

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) view antioxidants as additives to feed ingredients that prevent spoilage by oxidation, while promoting animal gut benefits. It is well known that pistachio shells, as well as other pistachio-derived co-products, contain a large amount of fiber, and our work has demonstrated that it also contains a high level of polyphenols. Those properties make pistachio shells a great multifunctional additive and/ or a substitute ingredient in animal feeds. In collaboration with both academic and industrial partners, we are investigating the potential use of pistachio shell powder for animal feed, including fish, pigs and companion animals.

In 2024, the first batch of pet food was tested and approved by cats and dogs. Hill's Pet Nutrition completed animal studies in 2025, with data analysis completed in 2026. Additional animal studies, including pigs and fish, were completed at partnering universities including the University of Illinois and the University of Idaho. The FDA approved pistachio shell powder as a functional ingredient in pig and fish food in 2026. Looking forward, initial revenues are expected from the commercial sale of pistachio powder in 2027-28. 

See the roadmap below for a more in-depth look at the Pistachio problem-solving process.