Have you heard the term "human grade" in relation to pet food?
Lately, it seems everyone in the pet community is talking about it!
But despite the term “human grade” being a somewhat trendy term nowadays, how much do you actually know about:
- What human grade pet food is?
- The top benefits of human grade pet food?
- How to read a pet food label?
Today at The Paw Grocer, our pet nutrition experts go over everything pet parents should know about human grade food and treats. In fact, our very own Bikkie range and freeze dried treats are both made from 100% human grade ingredients - yum!
So, without further ado…
Let’s find out why human grade pet food is the “paw-some” choice.
What is Human Grade Pet Food?
There is a lot of jargon in the commercial pet food industry.
Luckily, the definition of “human grade pet food” is easy to understand. Basically, it means the food is held to the same high-level standards as human food. Let’s break it down:
- All ingredients are 100% human edible
- Food is made in facilities with enhanced safety standards (vs. a pet food factory)
- Manufacturing and packaging meet human guidelines
Alternatively, non-human grade pet food is called “feed grade.”
And as you are about to discover, there is a BIG difference in the quality of which food type ends up in your fur baby's tummy!
Top 5 Benefits of Feeding Human Grade Food
There is a lot to love about switching to human grade food.
For example, in countries like Australia (where human grade food is strictly regulated) your fluffy friend will enjoy the following 5 benefits.
- High-Quality Ingredients
First, human grade food contains higher quality ingredients. This includes whole foods such as meat, fruits, and vegetables that undergo minimal processing. As a result, each serving is packed with dense nutrients and zero fillers, low-quality animal by-products, rotten, spoiled, or decaying ingredients, etc.
- No Harmful Artificial Preservatives
Secondly, human grade pet food isn’t just the better option – it’s also safer.
Non-human grade foods rely upon artificial preservatives. For instance, Ethoxyquin and Butylated Hydroxyanisole. Many such preservatives have been linked to cancer as well as liver and kidney damage. Even more concerning? Toxic substances such as fertilizers and soaps have been found in pet grade dog foods.
Yikes!
- Better Protein Sources from Organs and Whole Muscle
Next, let’s talk about meat.
All dogs need protein to be healthy. Yet not all protein sources are equal. Human grade dog food and treats are a fantastic choice because they use “real” whole meats like beef, chicken, organs, and whole muscle.
Alternatively, non-human grade food is made from ground up meat meal.
This includes parts of animals that would NEVER be permitted for human consumption because it is:
- Sourced from sick, dying, or dead animals
- Contains slaughterhouse waste
- Often mixed with bones, feathers, hair, hooves, etc.
- Full of antibiotics
- Good for Digestion
Looking for another reason to consider human grade dog food and treats?
Your fur baby's stomach will thank you! Animals with sensitive stomachs enjoy the high fibre content of whole fruits and veggies. Plus, higher-quality protein means less tummy troubles and stinky poops.
It’s a win-win situation!
- Essential Fatty Acids Add a Shine to Coats
Lastly, animals suffering from dull coats and dry skin will love human grade food. Since it is made with better ingredients, essential fatty acids are more likely to be present. For example, Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids naturally occurring in organ meats, fish oils, eggs, whole grains, etc.
The end result?
A healthy and shiny coat.
Final Thoughts
For these reasons, The Paw Grocer is proud to offer human grade treats which are biologically appropriate for both. Whether it’s Freeze Dried Cat Treats, delicious Peanut Butter Bikkie Treats, or any of our other bestsellers, there is something for all.
To browse The Paw Grocer store, visit: www.thepawgrocer.com