The majority of our pet food comes from a by-product of meat and fish, which when you take into account that an estimated 49% of adults in the UK owns a pet, is an incredible amount. The production of this pet food has a significant impact on our environment, as does the production of meat based human food, through the excess use of land, the amount of water it consumes and the pollution that is emitted through the manufacturing process. It is not necessarily good for our pets either.
In recent years there is certainly more of an interest in giving our pets healthier and more natural foods, with a requirement for high quality ingredients and high grade meats. And as we search for new ways to reduce our carbon footprint, it makes sense to target the pet food industry in order to see more planet saving results.
This is where insect based dog foods come in.
Countries such as Mexico, China, Thailand and Ghana have recognised the benefits of eating insects for many years, with humans enjoying them as well as pets. Elsewhere in the world however, people think of it as being unpleasant and unnecessary. But could they be wrong?
Insect based dog foods are not just made up of insects. They are blended with other healthy ingredients that will offer a well-rounded, balanced diet. Fresh vegetables and natural oils are often included in an a insect based recipe, offering a wealth of flavour and goodness that works with the protein to ensure a well-rounded diet.
Yes it has. Many vets would say that good insect protein is better than quality steak, containing plenty of goodness that has not been tainted by additives and preservatives.
The British Veterinary Association recognises the importance and the potential of using insect protein as an alternative to traditional meat products, as a way of offering a more sustainable source of pet food. They believe that it is an excellent source of healthy protein, that has many benefits for the long term health of our dogs.
Even though it may take you a while to get used to the idea of giving your dogs insect based food, you may be more open to the idea once you know how many health benefits are attached to it.
Insects have a smaller footprint on the environment, as they require less space for breeding and do not need the same amount of resources that are required when dealing with meat. These are some of the main environmental benefits;
One of the main drawbacks of an insect based diet is that the foods currently on the market are more expensive. As demand grows for this type of diet this is sure to change, as there will be more varieties to choose from.
The other downside is public opinion. We may be used to feeding our pets with meats of all kinds, but insects can be seen as a new and strange choice. Even though humans in other countries sometimes treat them as delicacies, for the main part they are still seen as unusual. As people learn more about it, the choice will make more sense, helping any stigma to disappear.
Browse our current range of insect based dog foods and start seeing the benefits for yourself.
Sources
