Pet owners have relied on commercially produced kibble and canned food to nourish their furry companions for decades. While these options offer convenience and nutrition, a growing number of pet parents are seeking something different- food that wouldn't look out of place on their dinner plates.
Enter the booming trend of human-grade pet food.
Unlike traditional pet food, human-grade options are made with ingredients that meet the same quality standards as food intended for human consumption. It means using whole foods and fresh meat sources and avoiding byproducts, artificial flavours, and preservatives. While there's no legal definition of "human-grade" for pet food yet, the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) sets nutritional guidelines for pet food, and human-grade companies strive to exceed those standards.
The human-grade pet food market remains fuelled by several factors. Pet owners view their pets as family members, and with that comes a desire to provide them with the best possible nutrition. Concerns about the quality of ingredients in traditional pet food with a growing awareness of human dietary trends like organic and whole foods drive the demand for human-grade options.
Proponents of human-grade pet food believe it offers several benefits over traditional options.
Whole, fresh ingredients are unchallenging for pets to digest, potentially leading to fewer digestive issues and better nutrient absorption.
The higher-quality ingredients in human-grade food may contribute to a shinier coat and healthier skin for your pet.
Increase Energy Levels. Fresh, whole foods often provide more natural energy for your pet compared to processed kibble.
Since human-grade food tends to avoid common allergens like grains and fillers, it might be a better option for pets with sensitivities.
While human-grade food offers potential benefits, it also comes with challenges.
Due tothe use of premium ingredients and smaller production runs, human-grade pet food is significantly more expensive than traditional options.
Human-grade pet food is not yet widely available and may require ordering online or finding speciality stores.
Many human-grade pet foods are fresh and require refrigeration or freezing, unlike shelf-stable kibble.
As mentioned earlier, the term "human-grade" is not legally defined in the context of pet food. While some human-grade brands achieve human-consumption-level standards for ingredients, pet owners must be diligent in researching the specific practices of each company.
The human-grade pet food market is still in its early stages, but it's experiencing significant growth. As pet owners become more invested in their pets' well-being and prioritise whole-food diets, this market will likely continue to expand. As the industry evolves, clearer regulations and labelling standards could help ensure transparency and consumer confidence.
The decision to switch to human-grade pet food is a personal one. While the potential benefits are attractive, it's crucial to weigh the costs, availability, and storage considerations. Consulting with your veterinarian remains essential to ensure you choose a food that meets your pet's specific dietary needs.
However, one thing is clear: the rise of human-grade pet food reflects a growing trend towards pet wellness and a deeper bond between humans and their furry companions.
