5 Scientific Reasons Why Fresh Food is Better for Pets

By Elizabeth Kowalski, CVT, FFCP

Selecting the right food for your pet is crucial. Proper nutrition drives optimal health, but the wrong food can have a lasting impact. The many pet food options in formulation, flavor, and type can leave shoppers overwhelmed and confused. How can one possibly sort through all the marketing hype?
 

While no diet can meet every pet’s needs, studies show that fresh, human-grade foods provide significant benefits compared with traditional processed pet foods. Here are five science-backed reasons why fresh pet food is better for your furry pal and how to switch them to a healthier diet.  

 

What is fresh pet food?

Many different pet food forms are available and choosing one can be overwhelming. Here’s a quick overview of common options, including fresh food:

- Dry pet food: Kibble is processed, shelf-stable, convenient, and crunchy. However, kibble may contain preservatives and additives to prevent spoilage and improve flavor. 

- Canned pet food: Shelf-stable cans and pouches contain high-moisture food that must be refrigerated after opening. Canned food is often more palatable with fewer additives, and may be healthier than kibble for pets who drink little water.

- Fresh pet food: Fresh diets are commercially prepared with whole food ingredients, and then gently cooked. They aren’t processed or shelf-stable, so must be refrigerated or frozen. 

- Home-cooked food: Homemade pet foods are those that pet owners make at home with fresh ingredients under the guidance of a veterinary nutritionist. Home-cooked food can help pets who have multiple health issues and can’t eat other diets. 

- Dehydrated pet food: Dehydrated foods contain similar ingredients to fresh diets, but are dehydrated or freeze-dried to maintain freshness and shelf-stability. They are convenient options, but must be rehydrated before serving.

- Raw pet food: Feeding raw meat and bones can be beneficial, but this may not be the right option for all pets. Always consult a vet before choosing a raw diet.

Science-backed reasons to choose fresh pet food

Fresh food is an excellent choice for pet owners looking to upgrade from kibble or canned diets and feed their pet whole, healthy foods. Here are five scientific reasons to try a fresh diet. 

1. High digestibility

A University of Illinois study found that human-grade, fresh dog food is significantly more digestible than processed kibble. Your pet’s body more efficiently absorbs the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients in highly digestible foods with whole-food ingredients, which benefits puppies, kittens, adults, and senior pets alike. 

2. Less pet waste

As a natural consequence of increased digestibility, fresh pet food can result in less waste. A Journal of Animal Science study showed that dogs fed a fresh, human-grade diet produced up to two-thirds less fecal matter than those who ate kibble. Fresh food’s minimal processing helps your pet’s body use more food and expel less, which results in smaller, more compact, firmer stools—and easier cleanup. 

3. Reduced exposure to harmful compounds

Processed pet foods may contain advanced glycation end products (A.G.E.s), which are harmful compounds formed during high-heat cooking methods, such as those that make kibble. According to Virginia Commonwealth University research, A.G.E.s are linked to inflammation and other chronic health issues, like cancer. Fresh, cooked pet food is prepared at lower temperatures, reducing the risk of these end products affecting your pet’s health. 

4. Better skin and coat health

Fresh foods may contain higher levels of essential fatty acids (e.g., omega-3, omega-6), which help maintain a healthy skin barrier and counteract systemic inflammation in healthy pets and pets with skin allergies. Many kibbles have adequate fatty acid levels, but fats in kibble-style food inevitably degrade or oxidize. According to Pet Food Processing, the more fatty acids in a kibble, the faster it will break down especially if stored improperly.  Fresh pet foods use lower cooking temperatures and cold storage techniques that may preserve these ingredients better. If you notice dry, flaky skin or increased shedding, try switching to a fresh diet.

5. Customized nutrition

Every pet is an individual with variable nutritional needs based on age, breed, activity level, genetics, and health history. Fresh food diets may be made according to a specific recipe, although companies like WAB allow you to customize a fresh food diet for your pet. If your furry pal struggles with weight management, food sensitivities, or poor digestion, a customized veterinarian-recommended diet could also be the solution.

Making the switch to fresh pet food

Before switching your pet to a fresh-food diet, you must find a reputable dog food or cat food manufacturer. In Singapore, pet food makers must obtain licensing from the Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS) and follow strict guidelines regarding food safety, labeling, ingredient sourcing, and nutritional content. Purchase pet foods only from licensed manufacturers for peace of mind. 

Next, consult your veterinarian to determine your pet’s nutritional needs and set guidelines that will help you find a new food that meets those needs. Then, ensure you introduce the food you have chosen gradually to avoid an upset stomach. Mix the new food with your pet's current diet, adding more each day over one to two weeks until you are feeding your pet only the new food.

Switching to fresh, cooked food supports your dog’s health and happiness and—according to science—may provide some pets with better nutrition than kibble diets. Choosing a fresh diet is an investment in your furry pal’s long-term health. Contact us to learn more about alternative and fresh pet food diets and make the switch to watch your dog thrive.