Insect Based Jerky Dog Treats

Cassava, Manioc, Yuca, Manihot Esculenta

Tapioca is a starch extracted from the root of the cassava plant, a tropical crop native to South America. As a plant-derived ingredient, its primary purpose in pet food is to provide a highly digestible source of carbohydrates and energy. Tapioca is used in its natural, processed form as a purified starch, not as whole cassava root, ensuring safety and digestibility.

Tapioca is included as a cost-effective carbohydrate source that provides energy and helps bind kibble, contributing to the desired texture and structure of the final product. Its neutral flavour and hypoallergenic properties also make it suitable for formulating diets for pets with sensitivities.

Hermetia Illucens Larvae, Hermetia Illucens Pupae, BSF Larvae, BSFL

Black Soldier Fly Larvae are the immature stage of the Hermetia illucens insect, originating from an animal source. They are primarily included in pet food as a novel, sustainable protein and fat source, rich in essential amino acids and beneficial fatty acids. Black Soldier Fly Larvae are used in their natural, whole form, providing a highly digestible and environmentally friendly ingredient for pets.

Black soldier fly larvae are included as a novel, sustainable protein and fat source, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional animal proteins. Their use also appeals to environmentally conscious consumers, supporting marketing claims of eco-friendly and innovative pet food formulations.

Aqua, Purified Water, Distilled Water, Deionised Water

Water is a vital ingredient sourced from natural origins and is essential for all living organisms. In pet food, water serves primarily to hydrate, aid in ingredient processing, and ensure proper texture and palatability. It is used in its natural, purified form, not chemically altered, to optimise moisture content and support the overall health and wellbeing of pets.

Water is included as a processing aid to facilitate mixing and extrusion during manufacturing. It also helps achieve the desired texture and moisture content in the final product.

Glycerol, 1,2,3-Propanetriol, E422, Propane-1,2,3-Triol

Glycerine is a colourless, odourless liquid derived from plant or animal fats. In pet food, it serves primarily as a humectant, helping to retain moisture and improve texture. Glycerine is not used in its natural, raw state but is refined and purified for food-grade applications to ensure safety and optimal absorption. It also aids in palatability and shelf-life extension.

Glycerine is included as a humectant to retain moisture and improve the texture of pet food products, helping to prevent them from drying out. It also acts as a mild sweetener to enhance palatability for pets.

Gelatin, E441, Hydrolysed Collagen, Collagen Hydrolysate

Gelatine is a protein derived from animal collagen, typically sourced from the skin, bones, and connective tissues of cattle or pigs. It serves as a gelling agent, providing structure and texture to pet foods while also contributing to protein content. Gelatine is not used in its raw animal form but is processed and purified to ensure safety, digestibility, and optimal functional performance.

Gelatine is included as a functional binding and gelling agent to improve the texture and cohesiveness of pet food products. It also serves as a cost-effective protein source that can enhance palatability.

Phosphatidylcholine, E322, Soybean Phospholipid, Egg Phospholipid

Lecithin is a naturally occurring compound derived from plant or animal sources, commonly soybeans or egg yolks. It serves as an emulsifier, helping to blend fats and water in pet food, thereby improving texture and nutrient absorption. Lecithin is not used in its raw form; instead, it is processed and purified to ensure safety, stability, and optimal functionality in pet nutrition.

Lecithin is included as an emulsifier to improve the texture and consistency of pet food, ensuring fats and water-based ingredients blend smoothly. It may also be used to enhance product stability and shelf life.

Antioxidant Agents, Free Radical Scavengers, E306, E321

Antioxidants are compounds sourced from both plant and synthetic origins, commonly added to pet food to protect fats and oils from oxidation, thereby preserving freshness and nutritional quality. Their primary function is to neutralise free radicals, supporting cellular health. Antioxidants are not used in their raw or isolated chemical state; instead, specific forms such as mixed tocopherols or ascorbate compounds are utilised for safety and efficacy.

Antioxidants are included to prevent the oxidation of fats and oils, thereby extending the product’s shelf life and maintaining nutritional quality. They also help preserve colour and flavour, supporting product stability and consumer appeal.

Pimaricin, E235, Streptomyces Natalensis

Natamycin is a naturally occurring antifungal compound derived from the bacterium *Streptomyces natalensis*. It is primarily utilised in pet food as a preservative to inhibit the growth of moulds and yeasts, thereby extending shelf life and maintaining product safety. Natamycin is not used in its raw microbial form; instead, it is purified and applied as a food-grade additive for optimal efficacy and safety.

Natamycin is included as a preservative to inhibit the growth of moulds and yeasts, thereby extending the product’s shelf life and maintaining quality during storage. Its use helps manufacturers ensure product stability without significantly altering flavour or appearance.