The New Zealand Natural Pet Food Co. Freeze-Dried dog foods are considered a low risk food with a rating of 8.9/10. There are 7 recipes that average 50.6% protein and 9% carbohydrate as calculated.

However, it’s worth noting that some recipes (chicken and beef) include kale and apples. These are crops that are often high in pesticide/herbicide residues. However, when questioned about pesticide use, the company explained that their supplier is working towards organic certification. We therefore did not deduct safety points for these ingredients. 

There are 7 recipes that average 50.6% protein and 9% carbohydrate as calculated, which are good levels for a freeze-dried dog food. The Brushtail Recipe is considerably higher in carbs at 19%. That said, carbohydrates are obtained from fruits and vegetables as there are no added starches or grains that could raise insulin and cause obesity. The foods all have a lower percentage of fat than protein with the exception of one recipe. The Lamb Recipe has 42% fat which equals its protein content of 42%. Most fats, especially pork and poultry fats, are also high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can cause systemic, low-grade inflammation. 

Ingredient quality is lower in all recipes for the Manuka honey ingredient, which is viewed as a sugar. Admittedly, Manuka honey has benefits as an antibacterial and antimicrobial supplement and has other nutrients, but it’s not something that should be included in a dog’s food every day.  

There are also added vitamins or minerals in 4 of the recipes. These are minimal addititives but we prefer to see these come from whole food sources that include the full spectrum of cofactors, which makes them safe and bioavailable.  

These freeze-dried foods are minimally processed without heat, which preserves nutrients. This compares very favorably to ultra-processed foods like kibble where several stages of heating destroy active enzymes, vitamins, amino acids and phytonutrients. 

A concern with this food is the addition of coconut oil. This ingredient is rich in saturated fats and lauric acid, which some studies show can increase gut inflammation and permeability. It doesn’t cost points but it’s something to be aware of.

It’s not mentioned whether the hoki is wild caught or farmed. Wild caught fish is preferred as it’s more nutritious and has a better fatty acid balance. 

Lastly, the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids isn’t disclosed. This is a concern because AAFCO allows a very inflammatory level of 30:1.