Understanding What You Feed Your Pet

When it comes to choosing the right food for your dog or cat, it can be overwhelming to sort through marketing claims, ingredients, and industry jargon. One of the most common questions pet owners ask is: 

What’s the difference between human-grade and feed-grade pet food? 

In this article, we’ll explain: 

  • What “human-grade” and “feed-grade” mean 

  • How they’re regulated 

  • The pros and cons of each 

  • How to make the best decision for your pet 

 

What Is Human-Grade Pet Food?

Human-grade pet food is made using ingredients and production processes that meet the same standards required for food meant for human consumption. 

According to AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials):

To legally claim a product is “human-grade,” every ingredient and every step of production must meet human food safety standards, including: 

  • USDA-inspected ingredients 

  • Manufacturing in facilities licensed to produce human food 

  • Clear traceability and sanitation protocols 

Potential benefits may include: 

  • More transparency around sourcing and preparation 

  • Ingredient quality consistent with human food production 

  • Clean labeling with fewer artificial additives 

However, human-grade pet food is often more expensive, and not all pets require this level of formulation for good health. 

 

What Is Feed-Grade Pet Food?

Feed-grade refers to ingredients that are legally approved for animal consumption but do not meet human food safety standards. 

Commonly used in most commercial pet foods, feed-grade ingredients may include: 

  • Rendered meat meals (from various animal parts) 

  • Ingredients processed in facilities not licensed for human food 

  • Certain preservatives or additives allowed in animal feed 

Feed-grade pet foods are typically: 

  • More affordable and widely available 

  • Designed to meet AAFCO nutritional standards 

  • Subject to industry oversight and regular safety testing 

However, ingredient labeling may be less specific, and quality can vary significantly between brands. 

 

Comparison: Human-Grade vs Feed-Grade

Factor Human-Grade Feed-Grade
Ingredient Standards Meets human food safety regulations Meets animal feed standards - AAFCO
Facility Requirements Made in USDA/FDA-inspected facilities May be rendered or processed in feed-only plants
Label Transparency Often more detailed and specific May use generalized terms (e.g. “meat meal”)
Price Generally higher Typically more cost-effective
Availability Growing but limited Widely available

Both types of pet food can meet basic nutritional requirements, but differences in processing and ingredient sourcing may affect digestibility, palatability, or alignment with personal values. 

 

Why Ingredient Quality Matters

The type of food you choose — raw, kibble, cooked, human-grade, or feed-grade — can impact your pet’s: 

  • Digestive health 

  • Allergy response 

  • Energy levels 

  • Coat condition 

Some pets thrive on more basic formulations, while others benefit from higher-quality, minimally processed ingredients — especially pets with sensitivities or specific health needs. 

 

Making the Right Choice for Your Pet

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Here are a few factors to consider: 

  • Your budget: Human-grade foods can cost more, but some pet owners see it as an investment in long-term health. 

  • Your pet’s health: Pets with allergies, sensitivities, or chronic conditions may respond better to simpler, cleaner diets. 

  • Your values: If sourcing transparency and food safety are important to you, human-grade foods may align better with your standards. 

  • Your vet’s input: Always consult with your veterinarian before making major dietary changes. 

 

How Sam’s Cats and Dogs Supports Your Choice

At Sam’s Cats and Dogs, we believe in helping pet owners make informed, thoughtful decisions. That’s why we offer a curated selection of: 

  • Human-grade raw and gently cooked foods 

  • Feed-grade kibble and canned options that meet AAFCO guidelines 

  • Transparent labeling and staff guidance to help you navigate your options 

We’re not here to push one product — we’re here to help you find what works best for your pet. 

 

Information Empowers Better Pet Nutrition

Choosing between human-grade and feed-grade pet food depends on your priorities, your pet’s health needs, and your budget. Both types have their place — and understanding the difference helps you make the best choice for your furry friend. 

Have questions? Stop by Sam’s Cats and Dogs or message us online — our team is happy to help guide you through it. 

➡️ www.samscatsanddogs.com