What Does ‘Human-Grade’ Meat Mean?

The term "human-grade" is increasingly used in pet food marketing, suggesting superior quality. But what does "human-grade" meat actually mean in the context of formulating cat food? Keep reading to find out.

Regulatory Definition of Human-Grade Meat 

Human-grade meat is defined as meeting the safety standard for human consumption, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) (Pet Food Institute, 2019). In other words, the product is sourced, processed, and handled in facilities inspected for human food production in order to guarantee its safety from harmful contaminants, including bacteria and chemical residues that might prove harmful when consumed by humans. It is produced under full sanitary conditions- including transportation and storage, which is a step ahead of "feed-grade" meat that is usually subjected for pet food manufacture.

Top Benefits of Cat Foods Made with Human-Grade Meat 

Human grade meat is fresher and less processed, holding on to more natural nutrients which are important for cats—such as taurine which is key in the health of the heart and eyes. Fewer preservatives also mean fewer potentially harmful substances. It also has a few benefits on account of better quality and safety. The process applied reduces the likelihood of contamination by pathogens like Salmonella and E. coli. (Kondratowicz & Christodoulou, 2020). 

Nutritional Considerations and Misconceptions 

Although the use of human-grade meat is a good indicator of quality, it's important to take into consideration that in itself, it does not present a diet of balance and complete nutrition for cats. For example, taurine, an amino acid vital to maintain feline ocular and cardiac health, must be present in sufficient amounts in cat food (Case et al., 2011). Feeding a diet totally based on human-grade meat, without the proper amount of supplementation, can in fact lead to nutritional imbalances. Smylo's food  is minimally processed and has high quality human grade meat ensuring that dietary requirements are met and sufficient nutrients are made available to your feline companions.

In conclusion, the utilisation of human-grade meat in food for cats would mark at least a higher level of safety and quality, with potential health benefits to these carnivores. However, it is to be guaranteed that the diet as a whole is balanced and covers all nutritional needs. Therefore, consultation with a veterinarian is always recommended to guarantee the safety and nutritional adequacy of the cat's diet.

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References:

American Veterinary Medical Association. (2019). Safe handling tips for pet foods and treats. Retrieved from https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/safe-handling-tips-pet-foods-and-treats

Case, L. P., Daristotle, L., Hayek, M. G., & Raasch, M. F. (2011). Canine and Feline Nutrition: A Resource for Companion Animal Professionals (3rd ed.). Elsevier Health Sciences.

Kondratowicz, K., & Christodoulou, J. (2020). Human-grade pet foods: what does it really mean? Journal of Animal Nutrition, 5(3), 129-135.

Pet Food Institute. (2019). Understanding pet food: human-grade vs. feed-grade. Retrieved from https://www.petfoodinstitute.org/understanding-pet-food-human-grade-vs-feed-grade