Freshpet Reported Strong Second Quarter Sales
The company saw net sales reach $305.6 million during Q2 2026.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Pets — General
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In Q2 2026, Freshpet generated $305.6 million in net sales, marking a 15.5% increase. The company significantly outperformed the broader dog food market, which saw a slight decline of 0.2% over the past year.
Why it matters
The steady rise in Freshpet sales reflects the growing consumer trend of pet humanization. This shift continues to drive demand for refrigerated and frozen pet food alternatives despite broader economic pressures on pet owners.
Freshpet recorded an adjusted gross margin of 48.6% and adjusted EBITDA of $52.2 million during the second quarter. Meanwhile, a 2026 survey indicated that 64% of U.S. pet owners avoid fresh diets specifically due to cost.
The players
Freshpet
This company manufactures refrigerated and frozen pet food products distributed through branded units in retail stores.
The details
Freshpet attributed its performance to the strength of its business model, which utilizes branded refrigerators in retail stores. Sales growth was primarily fueled by a 15.7% increase in product volume across its refrigerated and frozen product lines.
Timeline
Freshpet reported its financial results for Q2 2026.
A survey regarding pet food costs was conducted in 2026.
Culture Shift
The success of fresh pet food reflects a broader societal movement toward pet humanization, where animals are increasingly treated as family members deserving of higher-quality nutrition. This shift moves the industry away from traditional dry kibble toward refrigerator-based product models.
Consumers may notice expanded availability of Freshpet refrigerators in local retailers as the company continues to push volume growth. However, shoppers should remain aware that high price points remain a primary barrier for many households, with cost cited as a concern by most owners.
The takeaway
Freshpet continues to capture market share by positioning its products as a premium, refrigerated alternative to traditional options. Owners interested in these diets should evaluate their monthly budget, as cost remains the primary hurdle for the majority of the pet-owning population.
Further reading
Learn more about evolving dietary trends in the Pets — General section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The South African.
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