Decoding “Human Grade” Pet Food: What Every Pet Owner Should Know
As more pet owners seek to provide their pets with the same nutrition they enjoy themselves, the market has seen a rise in “human grade” pet foods. However, the term “human grade” can often be misleading. Understanding its implications can help you make informed choices for your furry family members.
What Does “Human Grade” Really Mean?
The term “human grade” specifically pertains to pet food and does not guarantee that these products are significantly safer or healthier for your pets. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), foods intended for human consumption are simply labeled as “edible.” For a product to be classified as edible, it must remain within the human food supply and comply with stringent regulations set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The Legal Landscape of “Human Grade” Pet Food
For many years, there was no formal definition of “human grade” concerning pet food. However, in recent years, the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) defined it as a product where “every ingredient and the resulting products are stored, handled, processed, and transported in a manner that is consistent and compliant with regulations for human edible foods.” This means that such foods originate from licensed human food facilities.
Are “Human Grade” Foods Truly Better?
Despite the rigorous standards governing “human grade” pet food, it does not necessarily equate to higher nutritional value for your pet. For instance, chicken used in pet food often originates from the same birds that provide chicken for grocery stores. While the premium cuts of meat are destined for human consumption, the remaining parts, such as necks and organs, are typically repurposed for pet food. Once these are processed in a pet food factory, they no longer qualify as edible for people, regardless of their initial quality.
Additionally, the same corn utilized in various “non-human grade” pet foods can also be found in the tortilla chips on your kitchen shelf. Therefore, the classification of “human grade” does not inherently indicate higher quality ingredients.
Understanding Nutritional Standards
The designation of “human grade” is also unrelated to the nutritional adequacy of the food. AAFCO maintains the same nutritional standards for all pet foods, meaning a human grade pet food could provide the same nutrient content as traditional options. The primary distinction may lie in the facility where the food is produced. However, high standards exist in certain pet food plants, while some human food facilities might barely meet the minimum requirements.
Cooking for Your Pet: A Potential Alternative
If you are considering alternatives to commercial “human grade” pet food, preparing homemade meals for your pet is an option. For insights into how to cook for your pet, be sure to explore our additional resources on home-cooking.
The Bottom Line: What Pet Owners Should Focus On
Purchasing “human grade” pet food does not guarantee a healthier or superior quality food for your beloved pet. Instead, it is essential to concentrate on objective criteria that identify pet foods rich in high-quality ingredients and stringent quality control measures. Look for brands equipped with nutritional expertise, as these are the key factors that contribute to your pet’s overall health and well-being.
