Is fresh dog food safe?

If you’re thinking about switching your dog to a fresh food diet, you might be asking yourself: “Is fresh dog food safe?” It’s a smart question, because feeding fresh food contains perishable ingredients that require proper handling and storage.

The short answer: Yes, fresh dog food is safe when it’s made, stored, and served correctly. Ollie, takes a closer look at whether fresh dog food is safe and what you should know before making the switch.

Understanding Fresh Dog Food Safety

Fresh dog food generally refers to recipes made with meat, vegetables and other whole-food ingredients that are minimally processed and free from artificial preservatives. Unlike shelf-stable kibble, fresh food is perishable and requires proper handling and storage.

Fresh food can be either gently cooked or raw. Cooked fresh food is prepared using heat to reduce harmful bacteria while retaining many of its nutrients. Raw diets, on the other hand, skip the cooking step, which can increase the risk of contamination for both dogs and humans. 

Common Safety Concerns with Fresh Dog Food

When people worry about fresh dog food safety, they’re usually thinking about:

• Bacterial contamination: Raw diets can carry pathogens such as salmonella or listeria. Proper cooking and handling can reduce the risk of contamination.
• Nutrient imbalances: Homemade fresh meals without expert guidance may lack essential vitamins and minerals, which can lead to long-term health issues.
• Spoilage: Because fresh food doesn’t contain artificial preservatives, it needs proper storage to prevent spoilage.

How to Store and Serve Fresh Dog Food Safely

Fresh dog food is perishable, so proper storage is key:

• Keep frozen until you’re ready to thaw.
• Refrigerate after defrosting and use within 4 days.
• Wash hands, utensils, and bowls after handling.
• Don’t leave food out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Following these simple steps ensures your dog’s food stays safe and tasty from the first bite to the last.  

Signs Fresh Dog Food Has Gone Bad

Even with the best handling, food can spoil if it’s left out too long or stored improperly. Watch for these warning signs:

• Sour or rancid smell
• Slimy or sticky texture
• Discoloration or visible mold
• Your dog is refusing to eat it

When in doubt, throw it out; your pup’s health is worth more than taking a chance.

So, is fresh dog food safe? Yes, fresh dog food is safe when it is prepared, handled and stored properly.  Whether the food is cooked or raw, following proper food-safety practices is important.

FAQ: Fresh Dog Food Safety

Is fresh dog food safer than kibble? 

Fresh food and kibble can both be safe when made properly, handled and stored. The main safety considerations depend on how the food is made and handled.  

Can fresh dog food make dogs sick? 

It can if the food is raw, contaminated or improperly stored. 

How long does fresh dog food last in the fridge? 

Fresh dog food should be refrigerated after thawing and used within the recommended timeframe.

This story was produced by Ollie and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.