Kibble vs Cold Pressed Dog Food: what’s the difference
When it comes to feeding our dogs, the variety of food options available can feel overwhelming. Two popular choices that often come up in discussions are traditional kibble and cold-pressed dog food. While both options provide convenience and balanced nutrition, they differ significantly in their processing methods, nutritional retention, and potential benefits for your dog. In this blog, we'll delve into the differences between kibble and cold-pressed dog food, helping you make an informed decision based on your dog's needs.
What is Kibble?
Kibble is one of the most common types of dog food available on the market. It is typically made through a process called extrusion. During extrusion, ingredients such as meat meal, grains, vegetables, and supplements are mixed into a dough, which is then cooked at high temperatures and high pressures. The dough is forced through a machine to create the familiar small, dry pellets we know as kibble.
Key Aspects of Kibble Processing:
High-Temperature Cooking: Ingredients are exposed to temperatures of around 90-200°C.
Pressure Extrusion: The dough is subjected to intense pressure to shape and cook the food.
Drying Process: After extrusion, kibble is dried to reduce moisture content and extend shelf life.
Coating: Once dried, kibble is often coated with fats, oils, and vitamins and minerals
While extrusion effectively kills bacteria and ensures a long shelf life, the high temperatures can also degrade heat-sensitive nutrients such as certain vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids.
What is Cold-Pressed Dog Food?
Cold-pressed dog food is a relatively newer option that has been gaining popularity among pet owners seeking minimally processed diets. Ingredients are ground and mixed together before being pressed into pellets at much lower temperatures, usually below 80°C.
Key Aspects of Cold-Pressed Processing:
Low-Temperature Cooking: Ingredients are processed at temperatures below 80°C.
Gentle Pressure: The mixture is pressed into shape without the extreme pressures seen in extrusion.
Minimal Nutrient Loss: The lower temperatures help preserve heat-sensitive nutrients, vitamins, and enzymes.
Natural Oils Intact: Fats and oils are less likely to break down during processing, maintaining their natural benefits.
Cold-pressed food is often considered more nutrient-dense and closer to a dog's natural diet because of this gentler preparation process.
Nutritional Differences
One of the most significant differences between kibble and cold-pressed dog food lies in the nutritional value retained after processing:
Kibble: While kibble offers convenience and balanced nutrition, the high-temperature processing can lead to nutrient loss. To compensate, manufacturers often add synthetic vitamins and minerals back into the food after cooking. Whilst there is no reason to suggest why synthetic vitamins and minerals are any less effective than those that come from whole foods it’s important to buy kibble from a reputable company that tests their food and quality regularly and are AAFCO and FEDIAF regulated
Cold-Pressed Food: Cold-pressed food retains more natural nutrients due to the low-temperature processing. However, most cold pressed foods will still add in a vitamin and mineral premix to keep costs lower for owners rather than adding in fresh foods to balance.
Shelf Life and Storage
Kibble generally has a longer shelf life than cold-pressed food due to its lower moisture content and preservatives. This makes it a practical choice for owners who buy in bulk or need a food option with long-lasting freshness.
Cold-pressed food, while still shelf-stable, usually has a shorter shelf life. It is essential to store it properly in a cool, dry place and use it within the recommended timeframe to prevent spoilage.
Which Option is Best for Your Dog?
The choice between kibble and cold-pressed dog food depends on your dog's specific needs, your lifestyle, and your priorities:
Kibble Might Be Better If:
You need a cost-effective option.
Long shelf life and easy storage are important.
You need a specialised diet such as a hydrolysed food
Cold-Pressed Might Be Better If:
You prioritise nutrient retention and minimal processing.
You're looking for a diet closer to raw but can’t feed raw
Final Thoughts
Both kibble and cold-pressed dog food have their advantages and potential drawbacks. Kibble offers convenience, affordability, and a long shelf life, while cold-pressed food focuses on preserving natural nutrients and supporting optimal digestion.
Understanding the processing differences is key to making an informed choice. If you're still unsure, consult a canine nutritionist to tailor a diet plan that suits your dog's unique needs. After all, every dog deserves a diet that supports their health, happiness, and tail-wagging vitality.