Pet owners worldwide are increasingly realizing the importance of their furry companion’s diet on their overall health and longevity. This new consciousness is making many of them lean towards healthier, natural, and organic pet food options. Interestingly, the global organic pet food market was valued at USD 6.8 billion in 2020 and is projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.5% from 2021 to 2028.
With the countless organic pet food brands flooding the market, choosing the best for your pet can be overwhelming. This guide will delve in-depth into understanding organic pet food and discerning the best organic food options available for your beloved pet.
To make an informed decision, the first step would be to understand what organic pet food constitutes. According to the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), the term “organic” means the food or ingredient has been produced through approved methods that integrate cultural, biological, and mechanical practices fostering the cycling of resources, promote ecological balance, and conserve biodiversity.
Organic pet foods typically do not contain any genetically modified organisms (GMOs), synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, sewage sludge, irradiation, artificial colors, preservatives or flavors. Chicken, fish, beef, or vegetable ingredients of organic pet food are generally raised without antibiotics, synthetic hormones associated with health risks, or fed with animal byproducts.
The organic pet food revolution addresses several health issues in pets tied to their diet. A study in the Journal of American Veterinary Medical Association indicates a link between certain ingredients in traditional pet foods and health problems. These ingredients are genetically modified, heavily processed, low in nutritional value, and often contain artificial preservatives and coloring.
By contrast, organic pet foods provide wholesome nutrition to pets without exposing them to potentially harmful chemicals or additives. Feeding pets organic foods can improve their skin’s health, reduce allergic reactions, maintain a healthy weight, improve digestion, increase energy levels, and boost immunity.
Choosing organic pet foods is hard as the market is saturated with brands advertising their products as natural, holistic, or organic. However, these labels can be misleading, and not all of them meet the official standards for organic products.
When choosing organic pet foods, consider these tips:
1. Look for Certification: Reputable organic pet food brands usually have certifications from USDA’s National Organic Program (NOP), European Organic Certificates, or the Soil Association. This certification guarantees that the product contains at least 95% organic ingredients.
2. Check for By-products: Some pet food brands tend to include “by-product” ingredients, which are discarded leftovers from human food processing. Although these by-products are not necessarily harmful, they do not provide optimum nourishment.
3. Consider the Protein Source: Organic protein sources should be at the top of the ingredient list. Poultry, beef, or fish should be the first ingredient listed, signifying they are the main component.
The market is spilling with organic pet food brands, each with its benefits and drawbacks. Some of the top-rated organic pet food brands include Castor & Pollux Organix, which takes pride in USDA organic certification and free-range chicken as the first ingredient. Another favorite is Newman’s Own Organics, boasting a broad range of organic pet food products, including dry and canned options for dogs and cats.
The Honest Kitchen offers a different approach to organic pet food, providing dehydrated organic whole foods to which you add water. Lily’s Kitchen uses freshly prepared organic meat and fish in their pet food, making it a suitable option for pets who enjoy a wet food diet.
It should be remembered that every pet is unique, with their dietary needs and likes and dislikes. Therefore, what works for one pet might not work for another. It’s always advised to consult with a trusted veterinarian before making significant changes to your pet’s diet.
Over time, organic pet food has significantly shaken up the pet food industry, fuelled by the increasing desire of pet owners to provide healthier food options for their fur babies. The movement for organic pet foods will continue to grow as more pet owners recognize its advantages, from reducing environmental impact to improving pet health and longevity.
Opting for organic pet food ensures that your pets enjoy a balanced diet, free from potentially toxic chemicals and additives, ultimately leading to a healthier pet in the long run. Choosing organic pet food is about loving pets enough to invest in their health and longevity. It might take some time and research to find the best food appropriate for your pet, but with patience and perseverance, the reward can be a happier, healthier furry friend.
