What Does “Organic” Pet Food Really Mean?

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

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While organic food can be healthier for your pet, the term actually refers to how the food is processed.  The USDA has strict standards that manufacturers must comply with in order to bear this label.  These are just a few of the many standards a food product needs to meet in order to be labelled as USDA certified organic.

USDA’s National Organic Program Standards:

• No fertilizers and pesticides
• No irradiation
• Outdoor access for livestock
• No antibiotics
• No growth hormones
• No animal byproducts used as food for animals

Many pet foods market themselves as organic without bearing the USDA label.  If you want to make sure that your pet food is meeting these standards, the USDA label is the only valid certification.  All of the ingredients in food products that are labeled “100% organic” must comply with the USDA’s standards, while 95% of ingredients must comply in those labeled “organic.”  Foods that are labeled as “made with organic ingredients” must contain at least 70% organic ingredients. 

While pet food is not necessarily healthier because it is labeled as organic, it will contain fewer suspect ingredients.  Many pet owners feel that this is a better option for their pet.  Just make sure that you read the label to make sure that you are getting a good nutritional value!

Learn more about USDA organic standards here.  You can also contact our office for more information on the types of pet food your furry friend should be eating.