A Peek Behind the Bowl

How Our Recipes Come to Life

At Pup Kitchen, creating new dog food recipes is an art form that requires precision, patience, and a deep understanding of canine nutrition. Our process is meticulous because we are committed to producing only the highest quality, healthiest meals for your beloved pets.

Recipe Development

The journey of a new Pup Kitchen recipe begins with a thoughtful selection of ingredients. We consider several factors: the availability of raw ingredients year-round and whether they are beneficial for a dog's health. We prioritize ingredients that are not only nutritious but also sustainably sourced to ensure consistency in quality and supply.

Cooking and Testing

Once we decide on the ingredients, the real kitchen work begins. We typically cook a recipe ten or more times, making adjustments along the way. This iterative process helps us perfect the flavor and nutritional profile of the meal. During these trial phases, our own dogs, as well as family and friends' dogs, serve as our taste testers. Their reactions are crucial; they help us gauge palatability and digestibility.

Lab Testing and Compliance

When we believe a recipe is just right, we don’t stop there. We cook it several more times to solidify a repeatable process, ensuring that each batch we produce matches the high standards of the last. The final test batch is then sent to a laboratory to analyze its nutrient content and ensure compliance with the AAFCO's nutritional profiles for maintenance.

Regulatory Approval

Following successful lab tests, we compile the results and our proposed labeling for submission to state regulatory bodies in both Illinois and Missouri. Gaining this approval is essential to guarantee that our labels accurately reflect the food's content and that the food is safe for your pet.

Bringing New Recipes to Market

The entire process, from the initial concept to when a recipe can be sold, typically spans about three months. It involves extensive testing, numerous trials, and significant investment in ensuring safety and compliance. This meticulous approach underscores why creating new recipes is not just a matter of culinary creativity but a comprehensive commitment to quality and safety.

We value customer feedback and are always excited to explore new recipe ideas. However, as you can see, developing these recipes is a complex and time-consuming endeavor. We appreciate your understanding and patience as we strive to expand our offerings thoughtfully and responsibly.

More About Pup Kitchen

  • Recipe Overview

    We prepare and package all of our food on-site in Edwardsville. We don’t utilize third-party manufacturing, processing, or packaging. Your meals are completely handmade and prepared with love!

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  • Real Ingredients

    We offer six recipes with wholesome ingredients you recognize and can see in the food. Each ingredient serves a purpose, and no additives or preservatives are used.

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  • Happy Paw-stomers

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