We at Sweet Licks Barkery care about you and your pets. This is why we first lightly-bake our treats before freeze drying them.
What are the main reasons why freeze drying is superior to dehydrated dog treats?
Freeze-dried dog treats are considered superior to dehydrated dog treats for several key reasons:
Nutrient Retention: Freeze drying preserves a higher percentage of the original nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and enzymes, compared to dehydration. This is because the process involves minimal heat exposure, which can degrade some nutrients. While we do bake our treats, they are lightly baked to minimize impact while maintaining safety standards.
Flavor and Texture: Freeze-dried treats generally retain more of the original flavor and texture of the ingredients compared to dehydrated treats. This can make them more appealing to dogs.
Rehydration: Freeze-dried treats can be easily rehydrated with water or other liquids, making them versatile for use as food toppers or for dogs with dental issues.
Shelf Life: While both freeze-dried and dehydrated treats have a long shelf life, freeze-dried treats have a longer shelf life due to the even lower moisture content.
Minimal Processing: Both freeze drying and dehydration involve minimal processing compared to other treat manufacturing methods. However, freeze drying is considered even less invasive, further preserving the natural qualities of the ingredients.
Why is freeze dried raw meat bad for canines and humans?
Freeze-dried “raw” meat can be problematic for both canines and humans due to the potential presence of harmful bacteria and parasites. We are not against use of raw meat, but for our treats, we choose to lightly-bake first to help with consistency and texture of our treats while still retaining nutrients. Remember it is always best practice to wash your hands after handling of any food derived product. Here are some key risks for raw meat:
For Canines:
Bacterial contamination: Raw meat, even when freeze-dried, can harbor bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria, which can cause foodborne illnesses in dogs. Symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and lethargy. In severe cases, these infections can be fatal, especially in puppies, senior dogs, or dogs with weakened immune systems.
Parasites: Raw meat can also contain parasites like Toxoplasma gondii, which can cause toxoplasmosis, a potentially serious disease in dogs. Symptoms can include fever, muscle weakness, seizures, and neurological problems.
For Humans:
Cross-contamination: Handling freeze-dried raw meat can lead to cross-contamination of kitchen surfaces,utensils, and hands, potentially spreading harmful bacteria to other foods or people. This is especially concerning for young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with compromised immune systems, who are more susceptible to foodborne illnesses.
Zoonotic diseases: Some bacteria and parasites found in raw meat, like Salmonella and Toxoplasma gondii, can be transmitted from animals to humans, causing zoonotic diseases. These diseases can range from mild gastrointestinal upset to more serious complications like neurological problems or even miscarriages for pregnant women.
Important Considerations:
Sourcing and handling: The safety of freeze-dried raw meat depends largely on the quality of the sourcing and handling practices.
Consult your veterinarian: Before feeding your dog any raw meat products, consult your veterinarian. They can advise you on the potential risks and benefits, and help you make informed decisions about your dog's diet.