Raw and Alternative Pet Food: Formulation and Safety

Raw, freeze-dried, and other alternative pet foods are growing. Formulators need to consider safety, labeling, and nutritional adequacy.

Safety first

Raw and minimally processed products carry different microbial and handling risks. Formulation and process controls should be designed with safety in mind; some markets have specific requirements.

Nutritional adequacy

Alternative products may still need to meet AAFCO or FEDIAF profiles if you make “complete and balanced” claims. Tracking ingredients and nutrients in formulation software helps.

Compliance and documentation

Keeping formulations, safety controls, and test results in one place supports both compliance and quality. Mix Lab AI’s pet food vertical can support these workflows.