'Non-GMO' or 'Organic' Dog Food: Which Label Should I Go For?

The labels 'organic' and 'non-GMO' on dog food often leave dog parents pondering what they mean and which is better for their pups.

While both labels suggest a level of care in the food's production, they cover different aspects of its ingredients and how they were grown or raised.

This article aims to shed light on these labels to help you make the best choice for your dog's nutrition.

The 'Organic' and 'Non-GMO' Labels on Dog Food Are Similar

'Organic' and 'non-GMO' foods share numerous similarities in their labeling.

Often, the biggest hurdle for companies considering the USDA organic label is the cost associated with obtaining certification.

In contrast, achieving a non-GMO label involves almost identical steps that come at a lower certification cost.

This means that while the processes behind these labels are similar, the financial investment required can influence a company's decision to pursue one label over another.

The Meaning of the 'Organic' Label on Dog Food

The 'organic' label on dog food signifies that the product is made without genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and pesticides.

This label is one of the highest standards in dog food because it adheres to stringent regulations ensuring the health and safety of the food with minimal contaminants.

To earn this prestigious label, dog food manufacturers must follow a comprehensive process.

It starts with ensuring that all ingredients are grown and processed according to organic standards—no synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or GMOs.

The process extends to how the food is produced, handled, and processed, ensuring that every step meets organic integrity.

Although significant, the cost of obtaining organic certification is seen as a worthwhile investment for many companies aiming to provide the highest quality and safest food for pets.

Recognizing the financial challenges it may pose, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) reimburses up to 75% of the organic certification costs, making it more accessible for more brands to achieve this certification.

The timeline behind certified organic foods depends on several factors, including the size of the operation and the current compliance of their practices with organic standards. The process involves inspections and thorough reviews to ensure compliance with all organic regulations, from the initial application to the final approval.

5 Benefits of the 'Organic' Label on Dog Food Products

• Absence of Harmful Chemicals: Guarantees no synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or hormones are used, promoting a safer diet for your dog.
• Environmental Sustainability: Supports organic farming practices, reducing pollution and conserving water.
• Nutritional Quality: Often associated with higher nutritional value, as organic foods may contain more beneficial nutrients.
• Non-GMO: Ensures the ingredients are not genetically modified, offering a more natural diet for your dog.
• Animal Welfare: Organic certification typically involves higher standards for animal welfare, meaning ingredients come from animals treated ethically.

5 Limitations of the 'Organic' Label on Dog Food Products

• Cost: Organic dog food often costs more than non-organic options. The higher price is due to the stricter farming and production standards, making it less accessible for some pet owners.
• Not All Ingredients Are Organic: Dog food must contain at least 95% organic ingredients to be labeled as organic. This means up to 5% of the ingredients may not be organic.
• Nutritional Balance: Just because dog food is organic doesn't automatically make it nutritionally complete for all dogs. Pet owners must still ensure the food meets their dog's specific dietary needs.
• Limited Availability: Organic dog food options can be less widely available than conventional dog foods. This might make it harder for some dog parents to find the right type of food, especially in certain areas.
• Organic Does Not Mean GMO-Free: While most organic foods are GMO-free, the 'organic' label primarily focuses on farming practices like pesticide use and soil quality. To ensure a product is GMO-free, look for both 'organic' and 'non-GMO' labels.

Does 'Natural' Mean 'Organic'?

Seeing the word 'natural' on dog food labels might lead dog parents to believe they're choosing an organic product.

However, this isn't necessarily the case.

The term 'natural' on dog foods causes confusion because, in the United States, it doesn't carry a regulated definition the way 'organic' does.

This lack of regulation means that while 'natural' dog foods might not contain artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, it doesn't assure that the ingredients were grown or processed without synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or genetically modified organisms.

The Meaning of the 'Non-GMO' Label on Dog Food Products

The 'non-GMO' label on dog food means the product was made without using genetically modified organisms. This label is becoming increasingly valuable to dog parents who prefer to avoid GMOs in their pets' diets.

For dog food to earn the non-GMO label, the manufacturer must go through a verification process to prove that none of the ingredients have been genetically modified.

This involves rigorous testing and documentation of the entire supply chain, from the seed to the final product, to ensure that no GMOs are used at any point.

The cost of obtaining non-GMO certification varies based on the size of the company and the complexity of its products. While it may not be as costly as the organic certification, it still requires a significant investment in time and money.

The timeline for achieving the non-GMO certification also depends on several factors, including the readiness of the company's supply chain to meet non-GMO standards and the efficiency of the certification process. It can take several months to complete the necessary steps, which include submitting detailed documentation and undergoing inspections.

5 Benefits of the 'Non-GMO' Label on Dog Food Products

• Safety: Reduces the risk of exposure to potentially harmful genetic modifications in your dog's diet.
• Health: Supports overall health and well-being by providing more natural, wholesome ingredients.
• Environmental Responsibility: Encourages sustainable farming practices that are better for the environment.
• Transparency: Offers clear information about your dog's food ingredients, allowing for informed choices.
• Quality Ingredients: Often associated with higher quality and less processed ingredients for your dog's nutrition.

4 Limitations of the 'Non-GMO' Label on Dog Food Products

• Does Not Guarantee Organic: 'Non-GMO' does not mean the product is organic. Non-GMO products can still use pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, which are prohibited in organic farming.
• Nutritional Quality Not Assured: This label focuses solely on the genetic modification aspect and does not address the food's overall nutritional quality or health benefits.
• Limited Scope: The 'non-GMO' label applies to the genetic makeup of the ingredients but doesn't cover other aspects of food production, such as manufacturing processes or the use of additives and preservatives.
• Environmental Impact: While avoiding GMOs might be a preference for some, the label doesn't necessarily reflect the manufacturer's environmental practices. It doesn't guarantee that the product is more environmentally friendly than others.

How Volhard Dog Nutrition Helps Budget-Conscious Dog Parents Save Up

We at Volhard understand that obtaining 'non-GMO' and 'organic' labels for dog food can increase production costs, which might worry budget-conscious dog parents.

That's why we've found ways to offset these costs through our raw feeding cost breakdown, ultimately saving money for dog parents:

• Bulk Purchases: By buying in bulk, Volhard reduces the cost per serving of its high-quality, organic, non-GMO ingredients. These savings are passed on to the dog owners, making it more affordable to feed your dog a healthier diet.
• Reduced Veterinary Bills: Feeding your dog a balanced, natural diet will lead to fewer health issues and, consequently, less money spent on veterinary visits. This proactive approach to health care will result in significant savings over time.
• Longevity and Quality of Life: A healthier diet contributes to a longer, more vibrant life for your dog—more years of companionship without the financial and emotional strain of chronic health problems.
• Portion Control: Volhard's feeding guidelines help dog parents feed the correct amount, preventing overfeeding. This not only keeps your dog in optimal health but also ensures that every bag of food lasts longer, saving money.
• DIY Supplements: Volhard encourages the use of everyday, natural foods as supplements, which can be more cost-effective than purchasing commercial dog supplements. For example, adding a raw egg or some sardines to your dog's meal will boost nutrition without breaking the bank.

Feeding Your Furry Friend the Best: Decoding Organic vs. Non-GMO Dog Foods

Understanding the differences between 'organic' and 'non-GMO' labels on dog foods is key for dog parents who prioritize their pets' health and nutrition.

While the 'organic' certification ensures that food is produced without synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or GMOs and adheres to animal welfare standards, 'non-GMO' simply guarantees that the ingredients used were not genetically modified without covering other aspects of production.

For those seeking dog foods that meet the highest quality standards, Volhard Dog Nutrition stands out by following these stringent guidelines in its products.

We're renowned for our high-quality dog food, prioritizing top-notch ingredients by avoiding vegetables from China.

We also offer a wide array of products tailored to meet the nutritional needs of dogs at every life stage.

Our commitment to excellence is echoed in the positive reviews from dog owners, who report significant health and vitality improvements in their pets!

Choosing the right label depends on your specific concerns and values for your pet's diet, but knowing the distinction helps make informed decisions for your furry friend's well-being.

For more advice on dog nutrition, health, and training, make sure that you contact us and check out our blog!

Volhard Dog Nutrition and its expert nutritionists are now offering online consultations to help more dog parents discover why and how to feed their dogs the healthiest of foods!

Speaking to a Volhard nutritionist will help you understand the inseparable relationship between healthy food, a healthy body, and a healthy mind.

If you want to contact one of our Volhard nutritionists, don't hesitate to access our consultation page!

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