South Africa sets Guinness World Record
A new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title for the largest donation of pet food in a 24-hour period was set at the Bloemfontein Show by Petshop Science and Montego Pet Nutrition.
Fuelled by strong public support at this popular agricultural and entertainment event in Bloemfontein, they collected 67,200 kg of pet food, surpassing the previous record of 36,750 kg set in the United States in 2023.
The record attempt took place from Friday, May 1, at 5:00 PM to Saturday, May 2, at 5:00 PM, during which GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS officials verified each donation and independently observed the process before confirming the final total.
The brands said that all donations collected will be distributed to eight registered animal welfare organisations in the Free State, with additional allocations to shelters in other provinces.
“It shows what is possible when people rally behind a cause. A record is one thing, but what matters is where this food is going and the difference it will make,” said Petshop Science General Manager Trevor Paxton.
“This record gave us an opportunity to shine a light on the extraordinary dedication of the people who run our animal rescues,” said Montego Pet Nutrition Managing Director Johan van Jaarsveld.
“We are proud of what this partnership with Petshop Science achieved and equally committed to the long-term work that continues beyond it,” he said.
In addition to the record amount, Petshop Science donated R3.3 million worth of pet food and accessories to 35 animal welfare organisations across South Africa in the past financial year.
Since its launch in 2021, Petshop Science has expanded to 174 stores nationwide, growing its presence across all nine provinces, including through its partnership with Sixty60.
Petshop Science
Petshop Science, owned and founded by Shoprite Group, was launched by Checkers in 2021 and offers private-label pet food for dogs and cats.
“Our private label food range offers premium, balanced nutrition for dogs and cats, made with natural ingredients that are designed to support pets’ long-term health,” said the brand.
According to Checkers, it is the first South African supermarket to launch a pet shop with a large selection of products at supermarket prices.
“We saw a gap in the market when it came to pet care, and following the great customer response to the first Petshop Science, we’ve been hard at work rolling out more specialist pet shops,” said Checkers COO Willem Hunlun.
“Our aim has always been to bring customers everything their four-legged companions could want and need at supermarket prices,” he said.
Petshop Science has a pet food range, which is reportedly vet-endorsed, nutritionist-approved, with added dietary fibre, prebiotics and probiotics.
In November 2025, Petshop Science released a new range of pet food, developed “in consultation with veterinarians and animal nutritionists and offers complete, balanced meals made with natural ingredients.”
The brand’s pet food, which is locally made, is packaged in “100% recyclable bags.”
Petshop Science offers a variety of dog food, including options for puppies, small- to medium-breed adults, large-breed adults, and seniors.
For cats, Petshop Science offers kitten and adult options, both of which comprise over 30% protein.
“We want to ensure that premium, nutritionally balanced food is no longer a luxury, but a standard of care that every pet can enjoy,” said Paxton.
“By offering high-quality, locally produced pet food at accessible prices in 100% recyclable packaging, our new range delivers exceptional value to pet families,” he said.
Paxton said that the new range supports local economies, reduces environmental impact, and prioritises the health and happiness of household pets.
Photos of Petshop Science
Loading ...