For many pet parents, choosing pet food means trusting the labels and manufacturers, hoping that they’re providing what’s best for our furry family members. Unfortunately, this trust has often been misused, with many pet foods containing low-quality fillers and animal by-products that offer minimal nutritional value. This has contributed to increased chronic health issues and shorter lifespans in pets. Here’s what you need to know to make informed decisions about your pet’s diet.

What Are Animal By-Products?

Animal by-products are parts of an animal left over after the meat intended for human consumption is removed. This can include anything from organs, blood, and bones to parts like feet, beaks, and even feathers. While some by-products like liver, kidney, and heart can be nutrient-rich if sourced ethically, other components (like feathers and beaks) are essentially filler with little to no nutritional benefit.

The Problem with Processing

The way by-products are handled can significantly impact their quality. In some cases, they come from animals raised in overcrowded, stressful environments, leading to elevated cortisol levels in the meat, which can negatively impact pets consuming it. Additionally, some processing facilities may lack proper sanitation and refrigeration, rendering the by-products unfit for human consumption—yet they are still legally permitted in pet food.

Lack of Transparency and Misleading Labels

Pet food labels often lack transparency, making it challenging to know exactly what’s inside. Some labels will list "meat meal" or "animal by-product meal" without specifying the source, which can include anything from roadkill to diseased livestock. Without clear sourcing, it’s hard to know the nutritional quality or safety of these ingredients.

Even when by-products are named, the quality can still be questionable. By-products could be sourced from animals fed GMO diets or exposed to harmful substances, posing health risks to your pets. Unfortunately, unclear labeling makes it difficult for pet owners to identify allergens or low-quality ingredients in their pet’s food.

Why Source and Quality Matter

High-quality pet food should come from animals raised in humane, sustainable environments, with a diet that closely matches their natural needs. Sourcing ingredients from farms that emphasize ethical practices ensures that the meat is nutrient-rich and less likely to contain harmful stress hormones. In contrast, meat from animals raised in overcrowded or unsanitary conditions is often nutrient-poor and high in cortisol, which can negatively impact your pet’s health.

Processing Methods Impact Nutrient Retention

The method used to process pet food also affects the nutritional value. Ingredients that are minimally processed or freeze-dried retain more of their vitamins and enzymes, essential for optimal pet health. By contrast, highly processed foods can contain acrylamides and advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), which result from reactions between amino acids and sugars at high temperatures. These compounds can lead to inflammation and oxidative stress, potentially harming your pet’s health in the long run.

Making Healthier Choices for Your Pet

Understanding what’s in your pet’s food is essential to supporting their long-term health. By choosing brands that prioritize transparency, ethically sourced ingredients, and minimal processing, you can reduce the risk of chronic health issues and improve your pet’s quality of life. At Odyssey Pets, we’re committed to offering quality products with clear labeling and nutrient-rich ingredients to keep your pets healthy and thriving.