Dogs are often considered as carnivores, but they can also thrive on a plant-based or insect-based diet. In fact, insect-based foods could offer several advantages over traditional meat sources for dogs, primarily related to environmental sustainability, nutritional value, and potential allergen reduction.
Insects are more eco-friendly than livestock
One of the main reasons why insect-based foods could be better for dogs than meat is that insects have a much smaller environmental footprint compared to traditional livestock. Insects require significantly less land, water, and feed to produce the same amount of protein. Insect farming also produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions and requires less deforestation, making it a more sustainable option.
According to a study by the University of Edinburgh, replacing half of the meat in pet food with insects could save up to 25% of the land used for pet food production. This could free up more land for human food production or wildlife conservation.
Insects are rich in protein and other nutrients
Another reason why insect-based foods could be better for dogs than meat is that insects are rich in protein and contain essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that are important for a dog’s diet. They can provide a well-balanced nutritional profile that is similar to traditional meat sources.
For example, black soldier fly larvae, which are commonly used in insect-based pet food, contain about 40% protein, 30% fat, and 10% calcium. They also have high levels of iron, zinc, and B vitamins. Crickets, another popular insect for pet food, contain about 60% protein, 15% fat, and 5% fiber. They also have high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, and vitamin B12.
Insects are hypoallergenic and safe for dogs
A third reason why insect-based foods could be better for dogs than meat is that insects are hypoallergenic and safe for dogs. This means that insects can be used as an alternative protein source for dogs that have allergies or intolerances to soy, chicken, pork, or beef. Since insects are genetically distinct from mammals, they might not trigger the same allergic reactions that some dogs experience with traditional meats.
Insect protein foods also have higher digestion rates as they contain less ash content than any other animal-derived protein. Insects are also less likely to carry zoonotic diseases that can be transmitted to dogs and humans.
Insects are humane and ethical for dogs
A fourth reason why insect-based foods could be better for dogs than meat is that insects are humane and ethical for dogs. Insects are typically raised under more humane conditions compared to some intensive livestock farming practices. Additionally, concerns about animal welfare and the treatment of livestock can be minimized when using insects as a protein source.
Insects are also more natural and compatible with dogs’ evolutionary history. Dogs have been eating insects for thousands of years as part of their ancestral diet. Insects can provide dogs with a variety of flavors and textures that can stimulate their senses and appetite.
Insect-based foods are gaining popularity among pet owners
The global market for insect-based pet food is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 24% from 2020 to 2027, reaching $1.3 billion by 2027. This is driven by the increasing demand for sustainable and alternative protein sources for pets, as well as the rising awareness of the health and environmental benefits of insect-based foods.
Several pet food brands have launched their own insect-based products in recent years, such as Nestle’s Purina Beyond Nature’s Protein, Mars’ Lovebug, Jiminy’s, Yora, and Entoma. These brands claim that their products are not only good for pets, but also good for the planet.
