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As a pet parent, navigating the complexities of food allergies or intolerances in dogs can be challenging. But there’s good news! Kangaroo dog food is becoming a game-changer for sensitive pets. Not your everyday ingredient, kangaroo meat is an untapped superfood in the pet food industry. Let’s explore the benefits of this exceptional protein source, its positive impact on the environment, and how to choose the best Kangaroo Dog Food for your furry companion.    Why Kangaroo Meat for Allergic Pets?    Unique Protein Source Kangaroo meat, a novel and eco-friendly protein, is gaining momentum in the pet food industry. It’s not only high in protein and low in fat but also packed with essential nutrients. Its uniqueness as a protein source reduces the risk of allergic reactions, as many pets have not been exposed to it like they have with more common proteins like chicken or beef.   Ideal Protein-Fat Balance Kangaroo meat isn’t just great for allergy concerns; it’s also perfect for weight management. Its high protein and low-fat content help keep your pet in great shape, which is crucial given the link between obesity and various illnesses in pets. Its low-fat content also has the added benefit of being easier to digest.    Nutrient-Rich: Beyond being allergy-friendly, kangaroo meat is a powerhouse of nutrients, offering iron, zinc, and other vital elements for your dog’s health. Choosing kangaroo meat means providing a nutritious, well-rounded diet for your pet.    Kangaroo Meat’s Sustainability  The eco-friendly aspect of kangaroo meat is worth highlighting:   Kangaroos are wild animals, so they don’t need additional land or resources for farming.  They efficiently convert native vegetation into meat, minimizing resource use.  Harvesting is regulated for population balance, ensuring eco-friendly sourcing.  They’re raised without routine antibiotics or hormones, offering a pure, additive-free meat.  Their high meat-to-bone ratio reduces processing waste  How to Choose the Right Kangaroo Dog Food  When selecting kangaroo dog food, consider:    Quality Ingredients Ensure kangaroo meat is the primary (first) ingredient, complemented by other high-quality, natural ingredients.    Avoid Artificial Additives & Allergens Opt for foods that are free from artificial ingredients, fillers, and preservatives. You will also want to look for foods that are free from common allergens like chicken or poultry, wheat, potatoes, corn, soy, and gluten.     Tailor To Your Pet’s Needs It is important to consider your dog’s age, breed, and activity level when selecting the right food.     Balanced Nutrition Ensure your dog food provides a well-rounded diet with all the essential vitamins and minerals and conforms to AAFCO standards for a complete and balanced diet.    Transparency Opt for companies with clear sourcing and production practices  Introducing Addiction’s Wild Kangaroo & Apples Dog Food:  If you’re convinced that kangaroo meat is a fantastic choice for your pet (and we bet you are!), consider introducing Addiction’s Wild Kangaroo & Apples into your pet’s diet. It’s a premium option that combines the benefits of kangaroo meat with the tastiness of apples. It’s a limited-ingredient diet, with wild Australian Kangaroo as the #1 ingredient. It also has Coconut oil for skin and coat health, and 0% chicken, potato, corn, and wheat! Truly crafted with a deep understanding of the unique needs of dogs with sensitivities, this premium formula offers a host of benefits that your furry friend will love.  Credits: @moxxi_theaussie on Instagram    Why Choose Wild Kangaroo & Apples for your dog?  Novel Protein Source At the heart of this exceptional dog food is wild kangaroo meat, a novel protein source that’s not only delicious but also gentle on sensitive tummies. Its uniqueness reduces the risk of triggering allergies, making it an excellent choice for dogs with dietary sensitivities. Additionally, it’s a limited ingredient diet, simplifying digestion and minimizing potential allergens.    Packed With Nutrition Addiction’s Wild Kangaroo & Apples Dog Food is more than just a protein source; it’s a well-balanced meal packed with essential nutrients. Packed with Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) to support lean muscle mass, Coconut oil for gentle digestion, Pectin in apples for vitality and digestive health, and B-Vitamins for growth and development, it’s a comprehensive nutritional package.     Grain-Free Formula For pets with grain sensitivities, this formula is a game-changer. It’s completely grain-free, reducing the chances of digestive issues and allergic reactions. This ensures that your dog can enjoy their meal without discomfort.    Supports Healthy Skin and Coat The rich nutrients in this dog food also contribute to a shiny coat and healthy skin, leaving your pet looking and feeling their best.    Suitable for All Dogs Our Wild Kangaroo & Apples Dog Food is suitable for dogs of life-stages, whether puppy, adult or senior, as well as dogs of all breeds and sizes.    Carefully Crafted, Thoughtfully Made Addiction takes pride in providing clear information about its ingredients and sourcing practices. We use real meats sourced from trusted New Zealand local farms, ensuring they are free from artificial growth hormones and antibiotics. Our high-quality traditional proteins are responsibly sourced and eco-friendly. Plus, we formulate our recipes to exceed the nutritional levels set by AAFCO, ensuring your pets receive the best nutrition possible.  TLDR: Kangaroo meat is an ideal solution for dogs with allergies or sensitivities, particularly to chicken. It offers hypoallergenic benefits, is lean and easy to digest, and is packed with vital nutrients, promoting overall health and well-being for pets with sensitive stomachs    Take Action Today:  Kangaroo dog food offers a sustainable, nutritious, and allergy-friendly option for your beloved pet. But, before making any dietary changes for your furry family member, we strongly urge you to consult with your veterinarian. Their expertise will ensure that the transition is smooth and tailored to your pet’s unique needs.  If you’re ready to make the Kangaroo food choice for your pet, Addiction’s Wild Kangaroo & Apples Dry Dog Food is an excellent option to explore. Make the switch by starting with our trial packs.

  There’s no doubt about all the wonderful benefits that a vegetarian diet can offer to us humans. And because it is so healthy for us, you may have wondered if your dog can be a vegetarian too. What does it take for your dog to become a vegetarian? Read on to find out.    What a vegetarian diet means for dogs  A vegetarian diet, as described by the Vegetarian Society, is a kind of diet where one does not consume any animal meat (poultry, game, insects, fish, seafood), animal products (eggs, dairy), and of animal slaughter.   Although dogs do thrive on proteins from fully meat-based diets, dogs are actually omnivores. Their bodies can process nutrients and thrive from a variety of plant-based protein sources, like soy, legumes, nuts, seeds, kelp, and other protein-rich fruits and vegetables. It’s a matter of choosing the right fruits and vegetables to give your dogs a complete and well-balanced plant-based meal.    Why do dogs go vegetarian?  Aside from the health benefits, there are two more reasons why there are dog owners who go for vegetarian dog food. These are:  the dog owner’s ethical beliefs  dog food allergies  Food allergies in dogs happen when your dog’s immune system becomes hypersensitive to specific proteins found in his food. In a study, researchers found out that animal meat proteins are the most common food allergy triggers in dogs. Experts recommend removing these triggers from your dog’s diet and choosing ingredients that your dog isn’t sensitive to, like plant-based protein sources.   “Most of the time a dog has food allergy to meat protein such as beef, chicken, or one of the other common meat sources. Vegetarian diets may bring these food-allergic dogs relief from their skin allergies,” according to veterinarian Dr. Armaiti May in her article published in veganoutreach.org.    What’s in a vegetarian dog food  There are lots of fruits and vegetables that your dog can safely enjoy. But make sure that you talk to your veterinarian first as there are also fruits and vegetables that your dog should not eat. You can work with your vet to create a well-balanced and safe vegetarian meal plan for your dog.  Alternatively, you can buy readily available vegetarian dry dog food. Make sure you opt for ones that meet AAFCO’s nutritional requirements and standards and are enriched with the amino acid taurine to keep your dog’s heart healthy, like Addiction Foods’ Zen Vegetarian.   Zen Vegetarian is a holistic and hypoallergenic plant-based formula that is a perfect alternative to meat-based protein dog food. It is formulated with choice vegetable proteins freshly sourced and made in the cleanest country on earth to make pet food: New Zealand. This veterinarian-tested and -recommended formula has helped many dogs, with or without food allergies, to lead long and healthy lives.   Try a sample pack of Zen Vegetarian and other Addiction dog food products.  Like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram and TikTok for more pet health and nutrition updates.

If you’re looking for the ultimate source of protein and nutrition for your pet, New Zealand King Salmon should be at the top of your list. This isn’t just another type of fish—it’s the king of all salmon, sustainably raised in the pristine, untouched waters of New Zealand and known for its unmatched nutrient profile. Here’s why New Zealand King Salmon stands out from other salmon varieties, delivering superior health benefits for both pets and pet owners alike.    Highest Omega-3 Levels Among Salmon Species New Zealand King Salmon is celebrated for its exceptional nutrient profile, particularly for its Omega-3 fatty acid content. Among all salmon species, New Zealand King Salmon boasts the highest Omega-3 levels. These essential fatty acids play a crucial role in supporting heart, skin, and coat health, as well as brain and eye development in pets. For puppies and kittens, this extra boost in Omega-3s promotes optimal growth, while for senior pets, it helps with joint health and cognitive function. This nutrient-rich profile, supported by a carefully formulated diet, makes New Zealand King Salmon the premier choice for pets who deserve the very best .  Key Omega-3 Benefits for Pets:  Healthy Coat and Skin: Omega-3s contribute to a shiny, soft coat while reducing shedding and skin irritation.  Joint Support: Especially helpful for senior pets, Omega-3s improve joint mobility and reduce inflammation.  Brain Health: Omega-3s enhance cognitive function, promoting learning and memory in pets.      A Rare Choice, Farmed with Care Only 0.7% of the world’s salmon is King Salmon, which highlights its unique nutritional profile and the care required to farm it. This rarity is a testament to the quality and attention that go into New Zealand’s sustainable salmon farming. Low-density fish pens and extensive health monitoring allow each King Salmon to grow under optimal, stress-free conditions. Choosing New Zealand King Salmon for your pet means you’re providing a distinct, nutrient-rich protein that’s hard to find elsewhere and has been farmed with care and dedication .    Pristine Purity: Low in Contaminants, High in Safety New Zealand is known for its commitment to clean, sustainable aquaculture. New Zealand King Salmon is farmed in the country’s crystal-clear coastal waters, where strict biosecurity and environmental protocols ensure that contaminants like mercury, PCBs, and microplastics are virtually nonexistent. This means you’re giving your pet a clean, wholesome source of protein without the health risks associated with wild-caught fish .    Sustainability You Can Trust New Zealand’s salmon farming practices are among the most environmentally responsible in the world. All New Zealand salmon farms participate in the A+ Sustainable Management Programme, which prioritizes environmental health and public transparency. New Zealand is also the only country with a farmed salmon industry rated “Best Choice” by the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch program, underscoring its commitment to sustainability.  By choosing New Zealand King Salmon, you’re supporting aquaculture that actively protects marine ecosystems and minimizes environmental impact—so you can feel great about what you’re feeding your pet .      Superior Taste and Texture Pets can be picky, but the rich flavor, buttery texture, and vibrant color of New Zealand King Salmon make it a hit with both cats and dogs. Unlike other salmon varieties, which can be mealy or bland, King Salmon offers a distinct taste and texture that pets genuinely enjoy. Its high-fat content makes it softer and easier to digest, particularly for older pets or those with sensitive stomachs .    High-Quality Protein for Optimal Health Protein is essential to your pet’s health, and New Zealand King Salmon delivers an optimal balance of high-quality, easily digestible protein. This promotes lean muscle mass, supports growth and recovery, and provides the energy pets need to stay active. Thanks to a carefully designed diet tailored to each salmon’s nutritional needs, New Zealand King Salmon offers a complete amino acid profile, giving pets the protein quality they need at every life stage .      Innovative Farming Techniques for Healthier Fish New Zealand salmon farms use the latest technologies to keep their stock healthy and stress-free. Biomass cameras, for example, monitor fish health without needing to handle them, minimizing stress. Health checks are conducted by a dedicated Fish Health team, who ensure high standards of water quality and regularly clean nets to maintain a stable, oxygen-rich environment. This careful attention to health and comfort translates into a superior protein source for your pet .    Traceability from Ocean to Bowl Every step of the King Salmon’s journey—from egg to your pet’s bowl—is carefully tracked and verified. New Zealand King Salmon farms use advanced traceability systems to monitor each fish’s lifecycle, including its diet, growth, and health. This transparent process means pet owners can trust that they’re getting a safe, high-quality product that upholds the highest standards in aquaculture .  The Ultimate Choice for Pet Owners Who Want the Best  With its unmatched nutritional benefits, environmental integrity, superior taste, and safety standards, New Zealand King Salmon truly reigns supreme in pet nutrition. Choosing King Salmon means choosing better health, a better environment, and a better future for your pet.    Make the switch by starting with our trial packs: 1. Salmon Bleu for Dogs trial packs 2. Salmon Bleu for Puppies trial packs 3. Salmon Bleu for Cats trial packs 4. Wild Islands Pacific Catch for Dogs trial packs 5. Wild Islands Pacific Catch for Cats trial packs   For more insights, you can read more on Addiction Pet Foods blog about how not all salmon are created equal.   Sources  1. Seafood Watch, Monterey Bay Aquarium. Seafood Watch.  2. USDA FoodData Central. USDA FoodData Central.  3. New Zealand King Salmon. https://www.kingsalmon.co.nz/  4. New Zealand Sustainable Aquaculture. https://www.aplusaquaculture.nz/ 

Small dogs are very special due to their unique charm and delicate needs as compared to larger breeds. This is without a doubt...

Dogs with dietary sensitivities require careful attention to their diet to manage their health effectively. While many pet owners are familiar with the trials of allergies and intolerances, understanding the deeper implications and the proactive steps that can be taken to alleviate these issues is crucial.  The Downside of Dietary Sensitivities  Dogs with dietary sensitivities often suffer from a range of symptoms, from gastrointestinal upset like vomiting and diarrhea to more chronic conditions such as itchy skin and poor coat quality. These issues can lead to discomfort and, in some cases, more severe health complications if not managed properly. Moreover, finding the right diet for a dog with food sensitivities can be time-consuming and frustrating. It often involves a process of elimination, trying various foods to identify which ingredients trigger adverse reactions.  Proactive Steps for Managing Dietary Sensitivities  Limited Ingredient Diets (LID): Opting for dog foods with limited ingredients can significantly reduce the risk of an allergic reaction. These diets are formulated with fewer components, which helps isolate and eliminate allergens more effectively.  Novel Protein Sources: Introducing novel proteins that your dog has never eaten before can help circumvent food allergies. Proteins like rabbit, venison, or fish are less likely to cause an allergic reaction compared to more common proteins like chicken or beef.  Regular Veterinary Visits: Regular check-ups with your vet can help you manage your dog's dietary sensitivities more effectively. Vets can provide valuable insights and suggest specific diets that are better suited to your dog’s unique health needs.  Hydration and Nutrition: Ensuring your dog is well-hydrated and receives a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients is vital. This helps maintain their overall health and strengthens their ability to cope with allergies and sensitivities.  Educate Yourself: Understanding the ingredients and their sources in your dog's food is crucial. Opt for brands that are transparent about their ingredients and sourcing practices, ensuring high-quality and safe consumption for your pet.  Exploring Addiction's Specialized Diets for Dogs with Dietary Sensitivities  In addition to understanding and managing dietary sensitivities, selecting the right food tailored for sensitive dogs is crucial. Addiction Pet Foods offers a range of specialized diets designed to cater to dogs with dietary sensitivities. Each formula is crafted to provide unique benefits and support overall health, ensuring that sensitive dogs can enjoy delicious, nutritious meals without discomfort.  Wild Kangaroo & Apples Wild Kangaroo & Apples features wild-caught kangaroo from Australia, another novel protein that is ideal for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies to more common proteins. The inclusion of apples provides a natural source of fiber and antioxidants, aiding in digestion and promoting overall health.  This diet is grain-free, focusing on high-quality ingredients, free from common allergens such as chicken or poultry, wheat, potatoes, corn, soy, and gluten to minimize the risk of allergic reactions while ensuring a tasty mealtime experience.  Zen Vegetarian Zen Vegetarian is crafted for dogs who require a meat-free diet or those with sensitivities to animal proteins. This vegetarian formula includes a blend of peas, kelp, and canola oil, providing a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients like omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coat, and amino acids for overall health. Formulated by a veterinarian and a clinical nutritionist, Zen Vegetarian is ideal for dogs with skin and digestive sensitivities. It’s 100% free-from animal proteins and is made with choice vegetables, essential vitamins, and Chelated Minerals. This holistic vegetarian formula is rich in all the dietary protein dogs need for optimal nutrition. It’s also enriched with Coconut Oil and Omega-3 fatty acids from Flaxseeds to promote healthy skin and coat. It's an excellent option for pet owners looking for alternative protein sources due to allergies or ethical preferences.  Viva La Venison Viva La Venison is a premium protein diet made from free-range New Zealand venison, known for being highly digestible and low in fat. This recipe is particularly beneficial for dogs with sensitivities as venison is a novel protein, which reduces the risk of allergic reactions. Robust and earthy in flavor, Venison is low in cholesterol and high in protein, making this one of the healthiest protein sources for your dog’s dietary needs, rich in omega fatty acids, it helps maintain healthy skin and coat, supporting overall wellness in dogs that may struggle with common food allergies.  Conclusion  While dietary sensitivities in dogs pose a challenge, understanding and addressing these issues proactively can lead to a happier, healthier life for your pet. By choosing the right food, monitoring their health regularly, and making informed dietary choices, you can significantly alleviate the discomfort associated with food sensitivities.  For pet owners dealing with these challenges, exploring tailored solutions such as Addiction’s range of products designed for sensitive dogs can be a beneficial step. These products often incorporate novel proteins and limited ingredients to meet the needs of sensitive pets, providing a practical and effective diet option. 

Even in our cozy homes, where sunlight streams through windows onto comfy cushions, our pet cats retain a hint of their wild ancestry. They playfully chase toys, watch birds, and exhibit instinctual behaviors. Though domesticated, their primal instincts persist, reminding us of their natural essence. The Importance of Nurturing Your Cat's Wildness Cats, despite their adaptation to indoor living, possess instincts honed over millennia. These instincts, such as hunting, exploring, and playing, are not just remnants of a wild past but are essential for their physical and mental health. It's crucial, therefore, to engage these instincts to ensure our cats lead fulfilling lives. One fundamental way to connect our pets with their inherent nature is through their diet. In the wild, a cat's diet is a diverse affair, rich in proteins and hydration, elements often diluted in conventional cat foods. The Quest for a Natural Diet The journey to mimic the natural diet of wild cats for our indoor companions is fraught with compromises. Traditional cat foods, while convenient, frequently fall short of replicating the rich, varied diet a cat would experience in the wild. This discrepancy can lead to nutritional gaps and a longing in our cats that goes beyond the physical—a yearning for the essence of the wild that their nature demands. Unleash the Wild: Introducing WILD ISLANDS CANNED CAT FOOD  In the heart of New Zealand, a revolution in feline nutrition is brewing, and it's time your cat took a walk on the wild side. Addiction Pet Foods proudly unveils its latest innovation – WILD ISLANDS CANNED CAT FOOD – a culinary masterpiece designed to satisfy the most primal cravings of your beloved feline, while providing unparalleled nutrition and health benefits. We’ve taken our beloved dry food recipes and translated them into wet can equivalents. Savagely Satisfying: A Meaty Revolution Imagine a feline feast that's 93% meat – a dream come true for your carnivorous companion. WILD ISLANDS CAT IN CANS delivers this with every can, ensuring a high-protein diet that mirrors the natural eating habits of wild cats. This savagely satisfying meal not only tantalizes the taste buds but also fuels their adventurous spirit. Wildly Nutritious: The Power of Meat and Organ Meat Going beyond conventional cat food, WILD ISLANDS CANNED CAT FOOD incorporates both meat and organ meat, offering a nutrient-dense meal that supports optimal health. This combination ensures your cat benefits from a variety of essential nutrients naturally found in these sources, promoting everything from a healthy heart to a vibrant coat. Naturally Fortifying: The Essence of New Zealand Infused with the natural wonders of New Zealand, this diet features immunity-boosting Green-Lipped Mussels, Manuka Honey, and Kiwifruit. Each ingredient is chosen for its health benefits; from supporting joint health and offering antibacterial properties to providing a wealth of vitamins and antioxidants. This naturally fortifying formula ensures your cat's diet is as robust as their spirit.  Added Water Intake: Hydrate the Natural Way Understanding the natural aversion cats have to water, WILD ISLANDS CANNED CAT FOOD is designed to increase hydration with every bite. This thoughtful addition supports kidney health and overall well-being, ensuring your cat stays as hydrated as they are nourished. The Addiction Difference: Where Nutrition Meets Nature Choosing WILD ISLANDS CANNED CAT FOOD isn't just about feeding your cat; it's about embracing a philosophy that values the balance between nature and nutrition. It's about giving your cat a taste of the wild that their instincts crave while ensuring they receive the care and nutrition they need to thrive in today's world. While our beloved cats may not roam wild anymore, we can still bring out their untamed side at home. Our new offering isn't just cat food—it's a way to embrace their natural spirit. And, as always, it comes with the trusted Addiction Pet Food quality you know and love. Unleash the untamed flavors of WILD ISLANDS CANNED CAT FOOD, available from your favourite pet specialty stores: Pet Direct - https://tinyurl.com/WICC-PetDirect Pet Stock - https://tinyurl.com/WICC-PetStock Pet Central - https://tinyurl.com/WICC-PetCentral

How ultrahigh proteins support your cat’s muscle development and let them experience the best adventures Cats are naturally agile and playful creatures, often indulging in all kinds of outdoor adventures. Whether it’s scaling a high fence, bounding across rooftops, or simply pouncing on an unsuspecting toy, a cat’s muscular system is critical to these endeavors. Recent research suggests that a diet rich in ultrahigh proteins can aid in superior muscle development, enabling our feline friends to engage in an even wider range of activities.  THE SCIENCE BEHIND PROTEIN AND MUSCLE DEVELOPMENT IN CATS  The bodies of cats, like all animals, are built and repaired using protein. However, felines have a higher protein requirement than many other mammals. They use it as a primary energy source, and it’s essential for maintaining their muscle mass.  When a cat consumes protein, its body breaks it down into amino acids, which are then used to create new proteins that contribute to muscle growth and repair. If a cat’s diet is deficient in protein, it can lead to loss of muscle mass and decrease their physical capabilities.  A diet rich in ultrahigh proteins provides all the essential amino acids needed for muscle synthesis. As obligate carnivores, cats have evolved to extract these necessary proteins from meat. Thus, ensuring that your cat’s diet includes ample meat-based protein is crucial to supporting their muscle growth and maintaining their athletic abilities. BOOSTING CAT’S ADVENTURES WITH ULTRAHIGH PROTEINS  OUTDOOR EXPLORATION Cats with strong, healthy muscles can enjoy more outdoor adventures, such as climbing trees, chasing birds, or prowling around the neighborhood. Their increased muscle strength and endurance can also contribute to improved balance and agility, making their outdoor escapades safer.  INTERACTIVE PLAY Cats with well-developed muscles can indulge in more interactive play sessions with their owners. A game of chase or fetch with a favourite toy can be a great way to keep your cat engaged and active. Plus, this playtime also strengthens the bond between pet and owner.  AGILITY TRAINING More and more cat owners are getting their pets involved in agility training. With improved muscle strength from a high protein diet, cats can enjoy activities like jumping through hoops, navigating tunnels, or balancing on beams.  INDOOR ADVENTURES Even indoor cats can benefit from a protein-rich diet. It aids in jumping onto high shelves, scampering across your apartment, or simply keeping up with their daily routine of exploring every nook and cranny of their indoor world. HEALTHY AGING Finally, older cats also benefit from ultrahigh proteins. It helps maintain their muscle mass as they age, allowing them to stay active and continue enjoying their favourite activities for longer.   To ensure that your feline friend experiences the best adventures, consider incorporating an ultrahigh protein diet into their routine.   If you’re looking for an ultrahigh protein diet for your cat, try Wild Islands for Cats. A whole prey-inspired diet with meat and organ meat as the first 5-6 ingredients  Ultrahigh protein up to 42%   New Zealand Immune Boost Blend with Green-lipped Mussels, manukha Honey and kiwifruit  Made with premium New Zealand proteins such as Venison, Salmon, Lamb, Beef, and Chicken Duck and Turkey  However, always remember that any changes to your pet’s diet should be discussed with a vet to ensure it’s balanced and suitable for your cat’s specific needs. With the right nutrition and plenty of fun-filled activities, your cat can lead a healthy, happy, and adventurous life.

Left and right, retailers and consumers are bombarded by what is tagged as the ‘best nutrition’ for pets. And yet little has been discussed about the potential dangers of over-nutrition, and how ‘truly appropriate’ pet food has become.  Given the continuing rise in the number of obese pets – a trend likely influenced by the premiumization and humanization of the pet food industry – manufacturers need to understand the potential dangers of over-nutrition, safety and sustainability of their brands.   They will need to do this in order to truly resonate with emerging consumers, such as millennial households, who are willing to spend more for their pets. OBESITY, PET FOOD AND OVERALL HEALTH CONCERNS  There are many common health issues linked to improper nutrition among pets: pancreatitis, bladder stones, heart disease and diarrhea; but none is as pressing as obesity among dogs and cats.   Obesity is a nutritional disease of pets having excessive body fat. In obese pets, more than one area of the body is affected by excessive body fat. These may include their bones and joints, their digestive organs, and in some cases, even the organs responsible for breathing.  In recent years, veterinarians have seen a steady rise in cases of obesity among pets. Sadly, many have tried demonizing pet food as the common culprit for this unprecedented outbreak. And although this notion is more misguiding than it should be disconcerting, manufacturers must nonetheless undertake toward a deeper understanding of how their brands contribute to better nutrition while upholding the highest standards and efficiency in manufacturing.   Doing so can also mean deep-diving into prevailing issues such as the dangers of high-meat formulation, market education on how to appropriately feed pet food, and sustainability across one’s entire supply chain. Each of these issues merit further discourse so that in the end, both manufacturers and their end-users benefit from a better understanding of these concerns.   At the onset, the health, safety and well-being of pets is a responsibility that most owners are expected to take seriously, and yet manufacturers must also understand that their brands need to echo such a commitment in order to satisfy retailers and consumers in the long run.  SUSTAINABILITY, CLEAN LABELS AND EMERGING CONSUMERS  According to a recent paper by a leading micro biologist, dogs and cats are living longer and are better fed than they’ve ever been, and as such, their quality of life is now highly dependent on having a good balanced nutritional diet, coupled with a reduced incidence of diseases and their ability to maintain an active life.  This in mind, manufacturers are called upon to understand how they can sustain such a commitment to pets and pet owners, while promoting ‘clean’ businesses. Couple this with the growing millennial consumers that account for $67 billion of the pet industry, and manufacturers are faced with what could be a 180-degree turn for how they should be doing business in order to remain relevant to consumers in the coming years.  For the most part, manufacturers need to be more cautious of their entire process, to ensure that pets get the most nutrition out of their food, while giving retailers and consumers their peace of mind amidst concerns about sustainability and safety. 

The benefits of consuming plant foods are well known and have been ascribed, at least in part, to the antioxidant compounds present in plants. These unique natural molecules have been associated with counteracting the risk of heart disease, cancer, cataracts, and many other degenerative diseases of aging. Indeed, the health benefits of plant extracts have long been of interest to researchers and consumers alike and many labels such as “natural”, “plant based”  “with natural plant extracts” are found on the labels of many different types of consumer products on the supermarket shelf.  For centuries, civilizations have used herbs and spices for preserving and enhancing their foods, as well as treating many ailments. In the modern food industry, plant extracts such as rosemary extract, sage extract, and green tea extract form the basis of natural food preservation in a variety of products.  However, some of these natural antioxidants, rosemary extract and green tea extract in particular are currently receiving considerable attention in human and animal nutrition because of the potential dual role of being able to preserve food and provide an antioxidant benefit to the animal.    WHAT IS OXIDATION AND WHY DOES IT MATTER The oxidation of food products involves the addition of an oxygen atom or the removal of a hydrogen atom from the different chemical molecules found in food. Two principal types of oxidation that contribute to food deterioration are lipid auto-oxidation and enzyme-catalyzed oxidation. Lipid oxidation generally leads to off flavors associated with rancidity whilst enzyme-catalyzed oxidation tends to cause browning type reactions. Protein oxidation can also occur in food and this is an area of growing interest. Autooxidation in food occurs when free radicals initiate oxidation of lipids within the food matrix, a process usually mediated by light, heat trace metals etc. Factors that are particularly important when determining the oxidative risk of a given diet include processing conditions, ingredients, and raw material quality.  The early steps of oxidation include the generation of reactive peroxyl radicals. These peroxyl molecules initiate a chain reaction in other molecules, resulting in hydroperoxides and more lipid free radicals. The cycle repeats until the supply of unsaturated lipids is exhausted. This cycle is called autooxidation. Measuring hydroperoxides in a material is a common measure of early autooxidation.  Hydroperoxides are colorless and odorless but they can interact with a large number of molecules in the living body and in foods. Foods and pet food hydroperoxides cause changes in texture, functionality, nutritive value, and integrity. In the body, hydroperoxides can result in lipid membrane damage, damage to organelles, and nucleic acid peroxidation. (Quiles JL et al, 2002, Bakala H et al, 2003 ).  The secondary products of oxidation are no less harmful and result in the off aromas and colour changes in foods that are usually described as rancidity but also lead to the destruction of nutrients. Further many of these secondary products are themselves highly reactive. Malonaldehyde, for example, can interact with proteins, amino acids, amines and DNA in living tissues, thus oxidation of food also has negative biological effects (Indart A et al, 2002).  Oxidation in biological systems occurs as a natural consequence of cell metabolism (McCord JM, 2000). Health problems occur when there is an imbalance between the amount of oxidation and antioxidant capacity of the living system (Gate L et al, 1999). Excessive levels of oxygen radical species, particularly hydroxyl radicals can lead to lipid cell membranes undergoing oxidation and generating lipid peroxides and reactive oxygen species (ROS). The interaction of these molecules with other lipids, proteins and DNA are responsible for changes in membrane integrity, protein cross-linking, function, and transport, and importantly DNA mutations. Hence the use of antioxidants in foods may not only control oxidation in food but in addition, by reducing the exogenous oxidative load, may influence the primary causes of atherosclerosis, cancer, and other degenerative disorders (Krzanowski JJ. 1991, Barren et al, 2003, Gate et al, 1999,  Schwedhelm E et al, 2003). This may be why humans and pets prefer fresh tasting food and generally avoid rancid foods, it is nature’s way of protecting us!   WHAT ARE ANTIOXIDANTS?  Antioxidants are chain-breaking molecules. They can react with harmful peroxyl radicals, in foods and in living tissue, to form stable complexes and stabilize free radicals to prevent initiation or continuation of auto-oxidation. They also act as oxygen scavengers and chelators to reduce the likelihood of auto-oxidation occurring. All antioxidants ultimately are only able to meet a limited chemical demand and thus require good surface area coverage to ensure contact with radical species and to be effective In foods, oxidation is slowed through the addition of chemical antioxidants. In the human body, protection is provided by vitamins such as Vitamin E, C, and A, as well as enzymatic antioxidants like superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase (Crawford DR & Davies KJ., 1994).   ROSEMARY EXTRACT: AN HERB THAT PACKS A POWERFUL PUNCH Rosmarinus Officinalis L., or rosemary for short, is best known for its spice and flavoring qualities. However, rosemary has particularly high antioxidant activity in its ground and extracted form and this is what makes it so interesting to researchers in food and in living tissue. Carnosol and carnosic acid make up about 15% of the extracted form and account for almost 90% of its activity (Auromo et al, 1992). Rosmarinic acid is also an important antioxidant component and is associated with many of the positive biological impacts of rosemary. Other major constituents include urosolic acid, oleanolic acid and betulinic acid. These are not particularly strong antioxidants, but they may contribute to the anticarcinogenic properties of rosemary.  Rosemary extract has been demonstrated to be a highly effective antioxidant in many food systems, particularly in unsaturated fats and oils. Common applications include the use of rosemary extract to reduce lipid oxidation and maintain colour of fresh chilled meats during storage including steak, beef patties, sausages and turkey, preserving unsaturated fats and oils such as vegetable and fish and for speciality process applications such as freeze drying. Rosemary extract  is also used successfully to extend the shelf-life of dry petfood and other extruded food products and may be more effective than other natural alternatives in range of applications due to its ability to function over a wide temperature range.   REMARKABLE ROSEMARY In addition to its efficacy as a food antioxidant, rosemary also appears to have very important biological properties that may benefit cardiovascular health, hepatic function inflammatory pathologies such as arthritis, bone health and may even play a prevention role in the development of certain cancers.    CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH Atherosclerosis is a progressive disease that results in the hardening and narrowing of arteries and compromised cardiovascular function. Atherosclerosis involves the deposition of endogenous oxidized low-density lipoproteins (LDL) in the endothelial layer of the arterial wall.  Carnasol, carnosic acid, and rosemarinic acid, all active constituents of rosemary extract showed a dose-dependent inhibition of LDL oxidation in human aortic endothelial cells (Frankel et al, 1997). This suggests that the same molecules responsible for physical activity also play an important physiological role (Zeng et al, 2001).   INFLAMMATORY PATHOLOGIES Reactive oxygen species (ROS) as well as reactive nitrogen species (RNS) can damage basic articular constituents and lead to the clinical expression of the inflammatory arthritis. Carnosol and carnosic acid, both active constituents of rosemary extract, can scavenge hydroxyl radicals in vivo (Auroma et al, 1996)and may have an application in inflammatory pathologies such as arthritis. HEPATIC FUNCTION The liver plays an important role in detoxification. If the capacity to detoxify is compromised, disease can result. Rosemary extract appears to function as an antioxidant and as an enhancer of the activities of glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and quinine reductase, key enzymes important in liver detoxification. There is now a body of literature suggesting a role for rosemary extract in liver function as an antioxidant protecting against inflammation and necrosis after hepatic damage, a detoxifying agent and as a chemopreventive agent.)   CANCER  Exposure of cells to exogenous or endogenous mutagens or carcinogens results in DNA damage, mutagenesis and tumour promotion.  The potential antimutagenic properties of rosemary were initially examined because reactive oxygen species (ROS) are known to be involved in cancer development. In a study by Minnunni et al, rosemary extract inhibited mutagenicity in a dose dependant manner in the AMES test with the bacterial tester strain Salmonella typhimurium TA102, a strain particularly susceptible to damage by reactive oxygen species. Further, this effect was achieved with a concentration 10 times lower than necessary for ascorbic acid (vitamin C).(Minnunni M et al, 1992).  There are now many studies evaluating rosemary extract in various stages of carcinogenesis. Further, rosemary components may be effective protectors against a wide range of carcinogens, making them a promising candidate in a chemoprotective program.   BONE HEALTH Osteoclast differentiation is inhibited by rosmarinic acid through quenching of ROS (Omori et al., 2015). In addition, rosmarinic acid impairs the formation of advanced glycosylation products, which may include a reduction in glycosylation of bone scaffolding proteins. It is hypothesized that this process of bone scaffolding glycosylation contributes to reduced bone strength seen in patients with diabetes, though further study is needed (Ou et al., 2017). Rutin, a polyphenol found in rosemary, thyme, cinnamon, cumin, and bay leaf, inhibits osteoclast formation through reduction of ROS and inhibition of RANKL signalling (Kyung et al., 2008). In ovariectomized mice, treatment with rutin prevents bone loss and stimulates increased bone mineral density (Wang et al., 2017). These and potentially other polyphenols in herbs and spices show promise for bone health in vitro and in animal studies. The observed benefits of dietary patterns such as the Mediterranean diet with regard to bone health may be partially due to its high herb and spice content (Byberg et al., 2016)   PLANT POWER Plant extracts such as rosemary extract possess unique and potent physical and biological properties. Rosemary extract in particular, in addition to its excellent properties as a food antioxidant, it may also have a positive impact on cardiovascular health, liver function, progression of inflammatory based diseases such as arthritis, and even the development of cancer. In the future, many more plant extracts used in food may also prove to have functional health benefits.  The addition of antioxidants for both freshness and biological benefits represents a new era in the design of functional foods. Freshness never felt better! 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