ARTICLE Alternative Proteins Magazine April 2024 39 particularly attractive because of their high protein content associated with low ash levels, less than 5%. PET FOOD NEEDS TO INCLUDE MINIMAL ASH AS MINERALS ARE NECESSARY FOR PET HEALTH Despite its link to low-value materials, don’t write off ash just yet. Essential minerals play an important role in pet health. Dogs and cats actually require roughly about 2% ash in their diet to meet their mineral needs. Essential minerals are found in all food ingredients. In commercial pet food, they can be supplemented via specialized ingredients to provide a complete and balanced nutritional profile. For dogs and cats, these essential minerals can be divided into two separate categories: macrominerals needed in large amounts and trace minerals in very small quantities4. Both support a range of body functions that help pets remain healthy, active and strong. For instance, they promote bone development, nerve and muscle function, balancing of fluid in cells, thyroid function, skin and coat maintenance and red blood cell production. Pet food products should contain a healthy amount of minerals to avoid medical concerns. It is important to have a balanced intake of minerals. Minerals need to be included in the right quantities - specified by the nutrient profiles and intake guidelines from public pet food organizations like the AAFCO or the FEDIAF - in the diet of cats and dogs to promote health and wellbeing of animals. The AAFCO specifications indirectly restrict ash by setting limits on calcium and phosphorus levels and their ratio. THE INTERESTING MINERAL PROFILE OF MEALWORMS Sprÿng mealworm products are particularly attractive because they have a high protein concentration, combined with the sought-after low in ash content that meets the nutritional needs of both dogs and cats. Compared to equivalently qualitative animal 314
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTUxNjkxNQ==