More and more manufacturers of animal health products are relying on palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) as a functional ingredient. This naturally occurring fatty acid compound is gaining importance, particularly in pet food for dogs and cats, because it possesses anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties while also exhibiting a very good safety profile.
For manufacturers of pet food, supplements, or veterinary medicines, PEA therefore offers an exciting active ingredient concept – for joint health as well as for skin, the nervous system, and general well-being.
What is PEA?
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is an endogenously occurring fatty acid amide compound produced in the bodies of humans and animals. It belongs to the N-acylethanolamine family and acts primarily by activating the PPAR-α receptor, which plays an important role in regulating inflammatory processes.
PEA is frequently produced by the body as a natural protective response to inflammation, pain, or cellular stress. In chronic situations, however, this endogenous production does not always seem to be sufficient – which is why additional supplementation can be beneficial.
Applications of PEA in Dogs and Cats
Joint Health and Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is one of the most common chronic diseases in older dogs and cats. PEA can play a supportive role in reducing pain and inflammation.
Studies show that PEA can: reduce inflammatory processes in joints, positively influence pain and mobility, and combine well with other joint supplements such as glucosamine, chondroitin, or omega-3 fatty acids.
Skin Health and Allergies
PEA acts on mast cells, which play a central role in allergic reactions. This makes the active ingredient particularly interesting for:
atopic dermatitis, chronic itching (pruritus), and inflammatory skin diseases.
In veterinary medicine, PEA is therefore increasingly used as an ingredient in dermatology products for pets.
Neurological Support
Because PEA also possesses neuroprotective properties, it is being investigated in research related to neurological problems, for example:
Nerve pain, degenerative diseases of the nervous system, age-related cognitive changes in dogs
Scientific studies on PEA
A 2017 meta-analysis (Gabrielsson et al., Pain) showed that PEA in various formulations provides significant pain relief in chronic pain patients – without serious side effects.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28727699/
A 2013 double-blind study (Keppel Hesselink et al., Pain Physician) with patients with sciatica pain demonstrated a significant improvement in symptoms by taking PEA for eight weeks.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23166447/
Comparison of different PEA forms
"Standard" PEA
usually >10–50 µm (crystalline powder)
- lipophilic and water-insoluble; soluble in organic solvents and oils
- easy to manufacture, usually a cost-effective raw material
- smaller surface area → slower dissolution in the gastrointestinal tract; potentially lower bioavailability; may exhibit lower dispersibility in formulations
micronized PEA
approx. 6–10 µm
- lipophilic and water-insoluble, but larger specific surface area → better dispersion
- improved wettability and dissolution in the gastrointestinal tract; higher potential bioavailability than standard PEA; well-suited for capsules, tablets, or powder formulations
- higher production costs than standard PEA; Processing can be more dust-intensive
Ultramicronized PEA
<6 µm
- Lipophilic and water-insoluble, very high specific surface area; better distribution in matrices or carriers
- Maximum surface area → faster dissolution and absorption possible; good homogeneity in formulations; frequently used in clinical studies
- Technically more complex production (e.g., jet milling); higher raw material costs; fine particles can place increased demands on handling and dust control
Fun Fact
PEA was discovered in egg yolk in the 1950s – and was underestimated for a long time. Only modern research has revealed that the body produces increased amounts of PEA during inflammation – as a natural protective mechanism. However, in chronic inflammation, this mechanism no longer seems to function sufficiently, which is why supplemental PEA intake can be therapeutically helpful.
Our Products
We offer several PEA particle sizes. Please contact us for your non-binding offer.
Caution: PEA is classified as a hazardous substance because it is a flammable and irritating chemical that can be harmful when inhaled or upon skin contact, and it also poses risks to the environment.
Disclaimer
For legal reasons, we would like to point out that some of the above statements require further research and studies to scientifically prove them. Therefore, not all statements can currently be accepted by conventional medicine.
The information contained in this article regarding legal regulations, approvals, and possible uses of raw materials is based on careful research and our current state of knowledge (as of July 2025). However, we assume no liability for the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information.
The legal framework for food and food supplements is subject to constant change. Therefore, the manufacturer or distributor is always responsible for checking the applicable regulations, EU regulations, and approval lists for the use of raw materials and health-related claims.
In case of legal uncertainty, we recommend consulting legal experts or the relevant authorities.