“Safe” generally means “free from harm or risk.”
When you hear the word “safe,” it likely brings to mind a sense of security, protection, and freedom from harm. It’s a comforting concept, especially when it comes to what we feed our pets. But the way we define “safe” in pet food isn’t as straightforward as it seems.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) maintains a zero-tolerance policy for certain bacteria in ready-to-eat (RTE) pet foods. This policy is designed to prevent any risk to pets and their human companions by eradicating all traces of potential pathogens from food before it reaches the bowl.
But here’s the twist: achieving that kind of sterility requires harsh processing methods that also destroy the good bacteria and nutrients that pets need to thrive. Zero tolerance for bad bacteria also results in zero tolerance for good bacteria.
We have to ask ourselves: If the pet food is free from all bacteria and consequently is depleted of vital nutrients, is it truly free from harm? Depletion of vital nutrients and good bacteria can harm the balance in the pets’ system and lead to weakened immunity over time. Thus a food that is “safe” to eat may not be the healthiest choice for your pet.
To truly be “free from harm or risk” the food should be free from pathogens that pose a health risk but still contain the nutrients and good bacteria that promote a healthy gut and immune system.
Click here to read more on food safety vs. nutritional value in pet food.
Pathogens Defined
