The Positive Impact of Sustainable Pet Food: How to keep your furry friend healthy and our planet happy
As a family business with strong values, integrity and higher animal welfare at the core of all we do, supply chain sustainability has always been at the top of our priority list. This ethos extends beyond our agricultural division and sits firmly at the forefront of our pet food business too.
Buitelaar are pet lovers through and through and understand the importance of traceability, quality ingredients and most importantly keeping our furry friends both happy and healthy, all whilst doing our bit for the environment.
Therefore, we consider opting for sustainable pet food as an essential aspect of responsible pet ownership. As pet owners, we have a duty to provide our 4-legged friends with nutrition that not only meets their dietary needs but also considers the impact it has on the environment. By choosing to buy sustainable pet food, we can deliver our pets high-quality nutrition, whilst reducing their overall carbon footprint (or should we say pawprint). To do this, we need to ensure that all ingredients sourced for dry, wet or raw dog food has very little impact on the ecosystem and nothing is wasted. We recycle leftovers from the human food chain (category 3 ABPs) and reduce disposal, providing tasty and nutritious dog friendly ingredients such as: pigs ears, turkey necking, carcass, liver and heart.
According to the FDIAF, category 3 ABPs (animal by products) are ideal pet food ingredients due to their high nutritional and energetic value and should be used in the best possible way to preserve resources. By using these types of ingredients in our pet’s food, we are reducing the impact on food waste, the availability of commodities and minimising the environmental footprint of producing foods specifically for use in pet food.
As well as being good for the environment, sourcing sustainable pet food provides numerous benefits to your puppy, adult dog and senior dog too. These include:
- Improved Nutritional Value: Sustainable pet food is often made with high-quality, nutrient-rich ingredients. It is free from artificial additives, fillers, and preservatives that can have a negative impact on your pet's health. By providing your pet with sustainable food, you ensure they receive the essential nutrients they need for optimal health and vitality.
- Allergy Management: Many pets suffer from food allergies or sensitivities, which can lead to digestive issues, skin problems, and discomfort. Sustainable pet food often avoids common allergens such as wheat, soy, and artificial ingredients, making it a suitable option for pets with dietary sensitivities.
- Healthy Weight Management: Obesity is a common problem amongst pets, leading to various health issues such as diabetes, joint problems, and reduced lifespan. Sustainable pet food focuses on providing balanced nutrition, portion control, and ingredients that promote healthy weight management. By feeding your pet sustainable food, you can help them maintain a healthy weight and prevent obesity-related health problems.
- Enhanced Digestive Health: The ingredients used in sustainable pet food are often more easily digestible for pets, reducing the risk of digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and diarrhoea. By promoting good digestive health, sustainable pet food helps your furry friend absorb essential nutrients and maintain a healthy gut.
As farmers ourselves, the Group’s ethos means we consistently place higher welfare at the forefront of every decision. Built on higher welfare values, our close relationships with our trusted partners ensure all Buitelaar Group sourced pet food originates directly from accredited farms and processors and is fully traceable. Our services include sourcing on demand, quality checks, foreign body removal, screenings, arranging veterinary documents and transportation.
For more information on how we can support you with sustainable pet food ingredients, feel free to email us by contacting us below. Alternatively, Buitelaar Foods will be attending Interzoo 2024. Meet the team in Hall 9 / Booth Number 9-409b.
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