From Lab to Bowl: Understanding Synthetic vs. Natural Pet Nutrition

We know you're all about giving your furry friend the absolute best, from top-notch food to those daily chewable supplements that promise to keep them in tip-top shape.

But what if we told you that despite your best efforts, you might actually be shortchanging your dog on the essential natural nutrients they need for a long and healthy life?

Let's break it down: there's a world of difference between the natural vitamins found in whole foods and the synthetic stuff that fills most pet foods and supplements.

When you're picking out what to feed your furry companion, it's crucial to think about what nutrients they're actually getting – or not getting – from their diet.

Taking a Closer Look at Pet Foods

Sure, those bags and cans of dog food might feature pictures of vibrant fruits and veggies, but the truth is, a lot of those natural nutrients are lost during the super-heating process of commercial pet food production. Even if the ingredients start wholesome, by the end of the cooking process, they're not as nutrient-rich as they should be.

High temperatures used during the processing of commercial pet foods, especially dry food, can destroy delicate vitamins and minerals, leaving behind a nutritionally depleted product that falls short of meeting your pet's needs.

But it's not just about what's lost during processing – it's also about what's added back in. Many pet food manufacturers rely on synthetic vitamins and minerals to fortify their products after processing.  It's a sneaky move that lets manufacturers slap "complete and balanced nutrition" on the label.

While these synthetic additives may meet the basic nutritional requirements set by regulatory agencies such as AAFCO, they lack the complexity and bioavailability of nutrients found in whole foods.

Let's Talk Synthetic Vitamins

So, what's the deal with synthetic vitamins? Well, they're basically lab-created versions of the real deal, lacking the nutrient complexity and absorption levels of vitamins found naturally in food.

And here's the kicker: synthetic vitamins can actually do more harm than good. Because they're not recognized or easily processed by your pet's body, they can build up over time, leading to serious health issues.

But it's not just about what synthetic vitamins lack – it's also about what they contain. Many synthetic vitamins are derived from petrochemicals, coal tar derivatives, and chemically processed sugar, which are not only unnatural but can also contain harmful contaminants.

Plus, the manufacturing process often involves harsh chemicals and solvents, leaving behind residues that can end up in your pet's food.

Choosing Wisely for Your Pet's Health

So, how can you tell if your pet's food or supplements are packed with synthetic vitamins & minerals?

Keep an eye out for ingredients ending in "ate" or "ide," and watch for the letters "dl" before any listed vitamins – those are usually synthetic. And don't be fooled by labels that scream "natural" – they can still contain mostly synthetic ingredients.

That's where Doggy Grub and Grinkles™ Superblends come in. Our all-natural pet food and supplements are the real deal, made from 100% fresh, human-grade ingredients and superfoods – no synthetic stuff here. Our Grinkles™ Superblends are chock-full of natural vitamins and minerals that your pet's body can actually use.

Not only are Doggy Grub and Grinkles a powerhouse of nutrients, but they also offer a host of health benefits for your pets. From promoting healthy skin and coats to easing joint pain, these food and supplements are a safe, natural way to keep your pet feeling their best.

So, when it comes to your pet's health, why settle for synthetic when you can go all-natural with Doggy Grub? 

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The Doggy Grub blog is dedicated to helping dogs and their owners achieve happier, healthier lives, changing the way we feed our dogs one bowl at a time! If you would like to know more about our fresh food head to Doggy Grub