Pet parents want the best for their furry companions, from high-quality food to safe, nutritious treats. But with so many pet products on the market, it can be difficult to decipher what certain labels really mean. One term that stands out is “human-grade.” But what does it actually mean for pet treats, and why does it matter for your dog’s health?
At Zora’s Best Friendz, we believe that pets deserve the same high standards we hold for our own food. That’s why we use only 100% human-grade ingredients in our freeze-dried beef liver treats. But not all brands can say the same. Understanding what “human-grade” really means can help pet owners make better choices for their beloved companions.
Defining "Human-Grade"
The term "human-grade" refers to pet food and treats that meet the same safety and quality standards as food intended for people. To be labeled human-grade, every ingredient and every step of the manufacturing process must adhere to the strict guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for human consumption.
This includes:
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Sourcing only human-grade ingredients – No “pet-grade” or feed-grade meats.
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Processing in a USDA-inspected facility – Using the same hygiene and safety protocols as human food production.
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Strict quality control – Ensuring no contamination, fillers, or harmful additives.
Many pet food brands claim to use high-quality ingredients, but unless they explicitly state “human-grade” and meet these standards, their products are often made from lower-quality pet-grade ingredients that would never be approved for human consumption.
How "Pet-Grade" Differs from Human-Grade
Most commercial pet foods and treats use "pet-grade" (also called "feed-grade") ingredients, which means they do not have to meet the same rigorous quality controls as human food. Pet-grade ingredients may include:
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Meat by-products – Low-quality animal parts such as bones, organs, and rendered meat.
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4D meats – Sourced from dead, dying, diseased, or disabled animals, which are deemed unfit for human consumption.
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Chemical preservatives and artificial additives – Used to extend shelf life but can negatively impact a pet’s health.
While pet-grade products can legally be sold for animal consumption, they often lack the nutritional value and safety standards that human-grade products offer.
Why Human-Grade Matters for Your Dog’s Health
Feeding your dog human-grade treats and food can have significant health benefits, including:
1. Higher Nutritional Value
Human-grade pet treats retain more of their natural nutrients, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins that support overall health. For example, Zora’s Best Friendz freeze-dried beef liver treats are rich in iron, B vitamins, and amino acids, which help boost your dog’s immune system, energy levels, and muscle health.
2. Safer and Cleaner Ingredients
Because human-grade ingredients must meet stringent safety standards, they are free from contaminants, artificial chemicals, and unnecessary fillers that are often found in pet-grade products. This means fewer health risks, such as digestive issues or allergic reactions.
3. Better Taste and Digestibility
Dogs naturally prefer the taste of fresh, high-quality meat over processed by-products. Human-grade treats retain their natural flavors and aromas, making them more palatable and easier to digest for dogs of all ages.
4. No Hidden Fillers or By-Products
Many pet-grade products contain cheap fillers like corn, soy, and artificial flavors to cut costs, providing little to no nutritional value. Human-grade treats, like those from Zora’s Best Friendz, are made with pure, single-ingredient proteins, ensuring every bite is packed with real nutrition.
The Zora’s Best Friendz Commitment to Human-Grade Nutrition
At Zora’s Best Friendz, we believe your pet deserves the best—which is why we:
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Use 100% human-grade beef liver in every batch.
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Process our treats in a USDA-inspected facility to ensure cleanliness and quality.
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Never use chemical preservatives, artificial flavors, or fillers.
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Gently cook and freeze-dry our treats to lock in nutrients and flavor.
How to Choose Human-Grade Treats for Your Dog
Not all pet brands that claim to be “high-quality” actually meet human-grade standards. When shopping for treats, look for these key indicators:
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“100% Human-Grade” Label – Ensure both ingredients and processing meet human food standards.
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Transparent Ingredient List – Look for single-source, real ingredients with no additives.
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Manufacturing Transparency – Trust brands that openly share their sourcing and processing methods.
Give Your Dog the Best—Choose Zora’s Best Friendz
Your pet deserves safe, nutritious, and delicious treats made with the same care and quality as human food. At Zora’s Best Friendz, we provide 100% human-grade, freeze-dried beef liver treats that support your dog’s health with clean, natural nutrition.
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No fillers. No chemicals. Just real, human-grade goodness.
Make the switch today—shop now at www.zorasbest.com or find us on Amazon!
