If someone asked you why you choose organic foods over highly processed foods, what would you say? Better nutrition? Rich in nutrients? Less exposure to pesticides? Fresher food? Better for the environment?
All of these factors are true, so does the same hold true when you feed your pets fresh food versus commercial kibble? According to research, yes!
Commercial kibble has been the mainstay of pet food for decades. Purina began experimenting with extrusion in the 1950s and developed the first kibble in 1956. Extrusion is a method of mass-producing shelf-stable foods by mixing wet and dry ingredients. This mixture is then fed through a machine where it is subject to extreme heat and pressure. It is then fed through a die-cutting machine to form the kibble we all recognize today.
Here’s the main problem with extrusion: high heat. The high heat the food is subjected to strips it of nutrients, vitamins, and moisture. The food then has to have flavor, nutrients, and vitamins added back into it. Sounds a little illogical, doesn’t it?
You wouldn’t eat something that sounds that unappetizing, would you? So, why would you expect your beloved pet to want to eat kibble day in and day out, for their entire life? Fresh food, that is minimally cooked and processed, is much healthier, and more mouth-watering, than dry cereal-like kibble any day!
What exactly is fresh food when it comes to feeding your pet? Fresh food diets include a species-appropriate raw diet or minimally cooked food. Both categories rely on fresh meat, which includes organ and muscle meat, as well as bone. Pet safe fruits and vegetables are also vital to fresh pet food. Dairy products, like yogurt, cottage cheese, or organic eggs with the shells are also included. Essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids are also usually added for optimal health.
Research shows the many benefits for our pets if they eat a fresh food diet. Healthier skin, fewer allergies, more energy, shinier coats, better digestion, easier weight management, fewer trips to the vet, and a healthier, higher quality of life. Plus, fresh food always tastes better!
Are you curious? Do you want to know more? In our next article, we’ll explore species-appropriate raw diets and what that exactly means for you and your pet.
Until then, keep thinking fresh!
