Julia Guazzelli Pezzali

Dr. Julia Guazzelli Pezzali is an Assistant Professor and Director of the Pet Food Program at Kansas State University's Department of Grain Science and Industry. Her expertise spans pet food processing technologies, companion animal nutrition, and protein metabolism. She holds a BS in Veterinary Medicine from the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, MS from Kansas State University, and a PhD from the University of Guelph.

• Bachelor’s in Veterinary Medicine (Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul)
• MS in Animal Science (Kansas State University)
• PhD in Animal Biosciences (University of Guelph)

Her research focuses on developing sustainable pet food ingredients and processing methods to enhance companion animal health. Key areas include alternative protein sources, extrusion technology impacts, and nutritional strategies for cats/dogs. Recent work explores insect meals, microgreens, and herbal additives in pet diets.

Publications emphasize amino acid metabolism in cats, mycotoxin risks in pea-based dog foods, and iodine clearance in cats post-imaging. Her work bridges basic science (e.g., isotope dilution protocols) and applied solutions for the pet food industry.

As Pet Food Program Director, she advances educational and research initiatives in pet nutrition and processing innovation.