Why "Human-Grade" Isn't Just a Buzzword: What Pet Owners Need to Know
For those of us who call our cats and dogs our fur babies, the idea of feeding them anything less than the best is unthinkable. You scrutinize your own food labels, so why should your pet's treats be any different?
The truth is, most pet products fall under a category that uses safety standards dramatically lower than your own kitchen. But a few words—Human-Grade—can change everything.
What is "Feed Grade"? (The Industry Standard)
The vast majority of pet treats sold in stores are classified as Feed Grade. While not inherently bad, this standard operates under a very different set of rules than human food. In short, Feed Grade products are not legally fit for human consumption.
This means the ingredients are often sourced from materials deemed unfit for people, including meat from animals that are diseased, disabled, down, or deceased (often referred to as 4D meats). The manufacturing facilities and processes also do not have to meet the rigorous sanitary standards required for human food production.
The takeaway: A Feed Grade label means that while the food might be legally safe for animals, the quality, sourcing, and sanitation processes are significantly lower than what you accept for yourself and your family. This is the core of the feed grade vs human grade debate.
What is Truly "Human-Grade"? (The Gold Standard)
When a product is labeled Human-Grade, it’s a commitment to the highest level of pet treat quality. While this looks a little different for each ingredient, this term is regulated and one core thing must be true:
-
Human-Grade Ingredients: Every single ingredient in the final product must be fit for human consumption.
Essentially, if you could theoretically walk into our production facility and eat the ingredients we use (if cooked, where applicable), then it meets the Human-Grade standard. This level of transparency and quality control is what separates a premium product from the rest of the pack.
Why Human-Grade Quality Matters for Your Pet
Choosing human grade dog treats and cat treats isn't just about ethics; it's about genuine nutritional benefit, which is why your premium pet is worth the investment.
-
Purity for Sensitive Systems: For our finicky feline friends and pets with allergies, Human-Grade means a cleaner label. You avoid fillers, by-products, and questionable preservatives that can cause digestive issues and allergic reactions.
-
Nutrient Retention: When ingredients are sourced cleanly and processed carefully, their nutritional value is retained. This leads to higher digestibility and more readily available protein and vitamins, supporting the active life of your dog.
-
Peace of Mind: When you choose Human-Grade, you eliminate the worry. You know exactly what you are feeding your fur baby, allowing you to focus on the joy of treating them.
Our Promise: Human-Grade is the Only Grade
At Glitter and Grimalkins, Human-Grade is more than a certification; it's our mission. We believe that if a treat isn't clean enough for us, it's not good enough for our cats & dogs either.
That's why we meticulously choose organic and wild-caught ingredients and use gentle, low-temperature drying processes to lock in purity and flavor. We are committed to upholding the highest human grade pet food standards so you never have to guess about the quality of the food in the bowl.
Ready to Treat with Total Confidence?
See the difference! Shop our full line of Cat Treats & Dog Treats today!