Old Soul Functional Topper

Whole sardine is a small, oily fish sourced from marine environments and used in its natural, unprocessed form. As an animal-derived ingredient, it provides high-quality protein, essential omega-3 fatty acids, and vital micronutrients. The inclusion of whole sardine supports healthy skin, coat, and cognitive function in pets, while also delivering a natural source of calcium and phosphorus from edible bones.

Whole sardine is included as a nutrient-dense animal protein and omega-3 fatty acid source, supporting both the nutritional profile and marketing appeal of the product. Its use allows manufacturers to highlight a recognisable, high-quality ingredient that appeals to health-conscious consumers.

Sunflower seed meal is the protein-rich by-product remaining after oil has been extracted from sunflower seeds. In dog food manufacturing, it is used in its processed meal form rather than as whole seeds. It serves as a plant-based protein source and provides dietary fibre, essential amino acids, and some minerals. When included at appropriate levels, sunflower seed meal is safe for dogs and can contribute to a balanced diet, though excessive inclusion may reduce digestibility due to its fibre content.

Sunflower seed meal is included in dog food formulations primarily as a cost-effective plant protein source that helps manufacturers meet protein requirements while keeping production costs lower than using animal proteins alone. While it contributes some nutritional value, its use is often driven more by cost efficiency and availability than by specific health benefits for dogs.

Blueberry is a small, nutrient-rich fruit of plant origin, commonly sourced from the Vaccinium genus. It is included in pet food primarily for its antioxidant properties, supporting immune health and cellular protection. Blueberry is used in its natural, whole form, ensuring pets benefit from its full spectrum of vitamins, fibre, and phytonutrients as found in fresh fruit.

Blueberry is included as a label-friendly ingredient to appeal to health-conscious consumers, leveraging its reputation as a source of antioxidants. Its presence supports marketing claims of added nutritional benefits, though it is typically used in small quantities with minimal impact on the overall nutritional profile for pets.

Maitake mushroom is an edible fungus originating from the Grifola frondosa species, valued for its nutritional and functional properties. Sourced from plants, it is rich in beta-glucans, which support immune health and provide dietary fibre. Maitake mushroom is used in its natural, whole form in pet food, ensuring optimal nutrient availability and bioactive compound retention for health benefits.

Maitake mushroom is included as a label-friendly ingredient to appeal to health-conscious consumers, leveraging its reputation for potential immune-supporting properties. Its addition may also serve a marketing function by differentiating the product in a competitive market.

Chaga mushroom is a type of fungus, scientifically known as Inonotus obliquus, that grows primarily on birch trees. In dog food manufacturing, it is typically included as a dried powder or extract rather than in its raw form. Chaga mushroom is valued for its content of polysaccharides, antioxidants, and beta-glucans, which may support immune function in dogs. When used at appropriate levels, it is generally considered safe, though excessive amounts could potentially cause digestive upset.

Chaga mushroom is included in some Australian dog food formulations primarily for its perceived functional or health benefits, appealing to consumer demand for novel and premium ingredients, though robust evidence for its efficacy in dogs is limited and its inclusion may serve more as a marketing differentiator than a nutritional necessity.

Lion’s Mane Mushroom is a functional fungus sourced from the Hericium erinaceus species, valued for its unique bioactive compounds. Originating from the plant kingdom, it is included in pet food for its potential cognitive and immune-supporting properties. Lion’s Mane Mushroom is used in its natural, whole form, ensuring pets benefit from its full spectrum of naturally occurring nutrients and antioxidants.

Lion’s Mane Mushroom is included as a label-friendly ingredient to appeal to health-conscious consumers seeking functional or superfood additives in pet food. It may also be used for its perceived health benefits, supporting marketing claims without significantly impacting formulation cost or palatability.

Camu camu is a fruit derived from the Myrciaria dubia plant, notable for its exceptionally high vitamin C content. In dog food manufacturing, it is typically included as a dried powder or extract. Camu camu serves as a source of vitamin C and various phytonutrients, contributing to antioxidant support in canine diets. When used at appropriate levels, it is considered safe; excessive amounts may cause gastrointestinal upset.

Camu Camu is included in dog food formulations primarily as a natural source of vitamin C and antioxidants, offering a functional benefit for dogs while also allowing manufacturers to market the product as containing superfoods. Its use is more about product differentiation and perceived value than a nutritional necessity, as dogs can synthesise their own vitamin C.