What is Pork Meal In Dog Food?

When we think of pork, we imagine luscious pork chops covered in butter and parsley. But such a delicious protein is also beneficial for our doggos.

Pork meal in dog food is a common sight due to its palatability and nutritional value.

There have been several instances where pork meal is not preferred by dog owners due to its surrounding ambiguity. But we must gather all the related knowledge before coming to a concrete conclusion.

What is Pork Meal?

As per Wikipedia, Pork is the culinary name for the meat of a domestic pig. It is a highly digestible animal protein. As raw pork has more amount of water than protein, it is rendered and converted into pork meal.

Pork meal (also known as porcine meal) is rendered domestic pig meat that has been dried and ground up, and includes clean flesh, skin, and/or accompanying bone. A dry powdery substance obtained after processing domestic pig meat under high heat, and dehydrating them is called Pork Meal.

After the rendering process, the protein proportion increases, making it an ideal choice for canines. Pork meal is often added to their daily diet due to its enumerated health benefits.

Note: Find out how to determine ash content in dog food. Here you can read about what is ash in dog food and what are its benefits.

Pork Meal Vs. Raw Pork

Pet parents commit the mistake of giving raw pork to their dogs. There are innumerable reasons why you should avoid doing the same.

1. Parasite

In the past decades, pigs were highly susceptible to Trichinella. It was a type of worm that could cause trichinosis in humans as well as dogs.

As such a parasite can lead to a good deal of health problems, it is best to avoid giving raw pork to dogs.

When the raw pork is cooked at a high temperature (rendered), there is a momentous possibility of the parasite getting killed. Hence, it is better to opt for pork meals rather than giving raw pork to our dogs.

2. Immune System

Including raw pork in dog food can be dangerous. The infection of Trichinella parasite present in the muscles of pigs can cause considerable disease like-

• Vomiting
• Fever
• Lethargy
• Pain
• Body stiffness
• Upset stomach…and many more.

Such illnesses can weaken the immune system of your dog. Hence, it is better to opt for pork meal.

Read More: Best Dog Foods with Beef Meal | Best Dog Food with Lamb | Salmon Meal Dog Food for Your Pup

Analysis of Porcine Meal

The porcine meal can be used interchangeably with a pork meal. Basically, it is the protein residue that has been extracted through the rendering process. It comprises the following nutrients:

• 54% Protein
• 1% Phosphorous
• 25% Ash
• 6% Moisture
• 85% Pepsin Digestible Protein

As such a wide range of nutrients is available in pork meal, it is a must-have for every dog.

Benefits of Adding Pork Meal to Dog Food

Pork is an excellent choice for protein for dogs. Besides that, there are several advantages of adding pork meal in dog food:

1. Muscle Mass

Pork meal is filled with protein and amino acids. They help in building and maintaining muscle mass.

Along with that, it is also responsible for the smooth functioning of the cells.

2. Optimum Health

Pork is a distinguished source of Thiamine that is an essential vitamin for dogs. As they are unable to make it themselves, they rely on external sources i.e. pork meal.

In the absence of Thiamine, dogs could suffer from upset stomach, muscle weakness, and neurological issues. Moreover, it also helps in converting food into energy. As such an important vitamin is obtained from pork, it should be included in dog food.

3. Anti-Allergy

Several other protein sources like chicken or beef can cause an allergic reaction. Chicken is known to result in the inflammation of the gut in many dogs. Hence, vets often suggest pork as an alternative. It doesn’t result in any allergic reaction. If your dog is suffering from bloating, constipation, or loose stools, a pork meal is an impeccable option.

People also ask about why chicken meal in dog food. Here you can find all your answers related to chicken food for your dogs.

4. Nutritional Value

A pork meal has a favorable amino acid profile. It has a balanced ratio of saturated and unsaturated fats. It is also high in linoleic acid. Moreover, it is an excellent source of medium-chain fatty acids. To top it all, it is also known for providing vitamins and minerals. Hence, it has an unquestionable nutritional value that is highly effective for dogs.

Factors While Choosing Pork Meal in Dog Food

There have been several negative connotations regarding pork meal. To clear such second thoughts, it is necessary to choose the best pork meal for your dogs.

1. Manufacturing Country

As the name suggests, the pork meal contains pork. Such raw pork is often shipped from different countries like China. As little to nothing is known about the reliability of China’s livestock, it is better to avoid the pork imported from such countries.

Before buying a pork meal, call or email the pet food manufacturer about the country of origin of the ingredients. Yes, it might take a little extra time, but it is better to be safe than sorry when it comes to the health of our dogs.

2. Main Component

It is imperative for the main or the first component to be pork or pork meal. If it is mentioned as a meat meal, it is best to skip it. Dog food companies tend to increase the protein proportion by adding other plant-based protein sources. Therefore, it is important to keep an eye on the ingredient label to provide the best of the best to your dogs.

3. Chemical Ingredients

It is best to steer away from certain pork meals that have artificial colors, flavors, or any other chemical preservatives. These components not only compromise the integrity of the meal, but they can also endanger your dog’s health.

Read More: Can You Put Canola Oil in Dog Food | Is Turkey Meal Safe for My Dog | Can Dogs Eat Dried Alfalfa

Best Pork Meals in Dog Food

If you are still confused about the best pork meals in dog food, pay heeds to our top recommendations:

1. ENTRUST Adult Pork Meal & Barley

The ENTRUST Adult Pork Meal & Barley is known to provide all the necessary nutrients like amino acids, antioxidants, protein, etc. Along with that, it contains an added prebiotic that helps in maintaining the digestive tract for utmost digestibility and absorption. As it contains no wheat, corn, or soy, it is best for dogs who are allergic to such ingredients.

Note: Is corn gluten meal a by-product? If you have the same confusion then you can read about it here.

2. Eagle Pack Original Chicken Meal & Pork Meal

The Eagle Pack Original Chicken Meal & Pork Meal is specifically designed to maintain and support the dog’s health. It is the perfect blend of protein, carbs, and fats. This pork meal contains Glucosamine that enhances joint health. As it is made in the USA, the pork in question carries the utmost reliability.

FAQs About Pork Meal in Dog Food

Summing Up

We hope that this article has shattered all the myths surrounding pork meals. As there are diseases and parasites attached to raw pork, it is better to choose a safer side and go for pork meals in dog food.

Your dog needs protein to grow and lead a healthy life. It is your responsibility to give him/her the finest pork meals along with your love and comfort.

Read about different types of rendered animal ingredients used in the dog foods.

Also Read:

1. Is Duck Meal Good for Dogs
2. Dog Food Brands with Venison

References:

1. Pork meal – Wikipedia
2. Dog Food Myths and Facts – American Kennel Club
3. Digestibility and palatability of isolated porcine protein in dogs – Italian Journal of Animal Science