Essential Equipment Every Basenji Owner Needs to Have - Part VI, Food 2

The Difference between a meat meal and fresh meat

First, fresh meat is NOT raw meat and NOT fresh food.

Fresh meat in dog dry food refers to uncooked, unprocessed meat that not been turned into dehydrated or rendered into a meal. It typically includes skeletal muscle and may contain some natural fat, connective tissue, and moisture. It usually does not contained bones or other unknown "meat ingredients." Fresh meat is often used in high-quality kibbles.

The advantage of meat meal is its high-protein content, derived from cooked and dried animal parts, unlike fresh meat which contains around 70-80% water, leading to less protein potential* per weight. However, during the drying process, manufacturers often incorporate bones, various organs, and sometimes unidentified byproducts and "meat ingredients" that we are unaware of, which our dogs consume. Because fresh meat production does not rely on high-temperature grinding and drying, it reduces the likelihood of using unidentified byproducts and highly processed 'meat ingredients.

*Dried food has a higher percentage of digestible dried protein. However, fresh meat based foods contain a much higher percentage of real meat and far fewer fillers like rice and corn, which offer little nutritional value to dogs. In the end, this means the dog gets more protein from higher-quality sources.

In conclusion, I found that fresh meat-based food, which I will present soon, contains a higher actual protein percentage than most dry foods.

'Fresh meat' Kibble advantages

• The main advantage lies in the quality of ingredients and the gentler processing methods, which help retain more nutrients.

  fresh meat kibble starts with whole, fresh cuts of meat, where regular dry kibble often uses meat meal, which is rendered at high temperatures before even being .  Therefore, Fresh meat preserves more natural amino acids, making the protein more digestible and bioavailable for dogs.

• Fresh meat kibble is often cooked at lower temperatures to preserve nutrients and natural moisture, where Regular kibble undergoes high-heat extrusion, which can destroy delicate vitamins and proteins.

  Lower heat means better retention of natural proteins, fats, and vitamins.

• Fresh meat kibble usually has a higher percentage of real meat, while regular kibble may contain more plant-based fillers. Many standard kibbles rely on grain, corn, or legumes to increase protein levels. More real meat = higher-quality protein for muscle growth, energy, and overall health.

• Better Taste & Digestibility. Dogs often prefer the taste of fresh meat kibble since it retains more natural flavors. Higher-quality protein and fewer fillers make digestion easier and reduce bloating or gas.

• Fewer Artificial Additives. Fresh meat kibble brands often avoid artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives, while regular kibble may use them to enhance taste and shelf life. ewer artificial ingredients = healthier food for your dog.

Bottom Line

Fresh meat kibble offers better ingredient quality, improved digestion, and higher protein retention compared to standard dry kibble. While it may be slightly more expensive, the health benefits and nutrient absorption make it a superior choice for many dogs.

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