Why are we adding algae to some of our meals?
We’re always looking for ways to make our recipes even more nutritious. We’ve chosen to include algae in our Chicken You Out, Pork This Way, Gobble Gobble Turkey and Pork of the Town meals because it provides a reliable, consistent, and sustainable source of omega-3s, adding an extra splash of goodness to their bowl.
What kind of algae is it?
Microalgae is the original source of omega-3s in the ocean. Fish only contain omega-3s because they eat microalgae. That means we can go straight to the source, so no fish needed, meaning it is an incredibly sustainable, low-carbon ingredient.
The ingredient is actually 'grown' through fermentation in a controlled environment - specifically, in a closed, fermentation tank, not in the ocean.
The algae is then gently dried to form a golden powder, which we add to our meals.
Benefits of algae include:
Targeted Nutrition for Your Dog
Algae is the original source of EPA and DHA, the omega-3 fatty acids that offer a wide range of health benefits for dogs. Not only do they support brain development and immune health, but they also help maintain healthy skin and a shiny coat and have great anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation linked to illness.
Fish obtain their omega-3s by consuming algae, making algae the direct and natural source of these beneficial fatty acids. By adding algae to our recipes, we’re able to deliver EPA and DHA in a more consistent, reliable, and sustainable way without compromising on the nutritional benefits.
Good for Dogs, Better for the Planet
We’ve carefully selected algae as a sustainable, plant-based source of omega-3s. It provides all the benefits of traditional fish oil, is grown sustainably, and offers a consistent, high-quality source of omega-3s, making it great for dogs and better for the planet.
Why Omega-3s Are Great for Your Dog
Shiny Coat & Healthy Skin: Omega-3s help reduce inflammation, so itchy skin can be less of a worry and that coat stays soft and glossy.
Brain Boost: DHA, a key omega-3, helps keep your dog’s brain sharp and supports healthy cognitive development.
Happy Eyes: DHA is an important part of the retina. Omega-3s help keep eyes healthy by reducing inflammation and supporting healing.
Gut & Weight Support: Omega-3s can help regulate metabolism and keep the digestive system happy by soothing inflammation and supporting a balanced gut.
Strong Immune System: These fatty acids support immune cell function, reduce chronic inflammation, and boost antioxidant activity to help your dog stay healthy.
Before launching our updated recipes, we put it to the ultimate test: our Tastemakers. We sent samples to our community of Tastemakers, pet parents and their dogs to see if our new addition of algae hit the mark.
📣 Average enjoyment: 4.7 out of 5
📣 88% of dogs ate it all in one sitting
📣 86% of dogs licked the bowl clean
What the Humans are Saying:
My 2 dogs ate these new recipes with their usual enthusiasm.They are always excited at mealtimes with Butternut (which hasn’t always been the way with previous kibble foods) and clean out their bowls thoroughly. These new recipes were received enthusiastically and were enjoyed by both.
- Sally, with Sofie and Stanley 🐾
I tried the food with two of my dogs and I honestly don’t think they had any preference. They liked both meals equally.
- Jenny, with Nellie, Daphne & Ernie 🐾
Quality You Can Trust
We want every Butternut meal to be as delicious and nutritious as our dogs expect. Before we introduce any changes like adding algae as a source of omega-3s, we go through a thorough testing process to make sure tails are still wagging.
🔍 Nutritional Checks: Every updated recipe is analysed in the lab to confirm it meets FEDIAF standards and remains fully complete and balanced for your dog’s needs.
👅 Taste Trials: We share small batches of the updated recipe with our Tastemakers to see how well it goes down. Back in our kitchen, we also run regular taste panels with both dogs and humans to make sure the flavours, texture, and aroma hit the mark.
🌱 Environmentally Friendly: By choosing plant-based Omega-3s, you are helping to reduce the carbon footprint of your dog's bowl without sacrificing their health.
FAQ’s
Is algae safe for dogs?
Yes! We use a specific, high-quality algae grown in a controlled, clean environment. It is one of the safest and most reliable sources of Omega-3s available.
Do I need to transition my dog to the new recipe?
No transition is necessary. Your pup can dive straight into their new, algae-enriched meals immediately.