The Science Behind Raw Nutrition
At Primal, we are relentless in our pursuit of the best nutrition for pets, so that they can have more time in their prime. As part of that mission, we have partnered with researchers at the University of Illinois on three peer-reviewed and published scientific studies to better understand the impact and effectiveness of raw nutrition compared to other commonly available pet foods. A summary of those research studies is below.
Study #1: Comparing the Amino Acid Digestibility of Different Primal Formats
Background: Our nutrition experts at Primal have worked hard to create a variety of different product formats to meet the unique needs of each pet and their parent(s). While we've long known that all our minimally processed raw diets are highly digestible, there is a lack of 3rd party research on the subject.
Purpose: This study sought to objectively evaluate and compare the amino acid digestibility of each of our Complete and Balanced recipe formats: Freeze-Dried Raw, Frozen Raw and Kibble in the Raw.
Results: All Primal recipe formats are highly digestible with regard to essential amino acids and there is no statistically significant difference in amino acid digestibility. Primal Kibble in the Raw, Freeze-Dried and Frozen Raw Recipes all provide the same high-quality nutritional benefits and digestibility, giving pet parents flexibility without compromise.
"The results of this study reflect our commitment to providing pets with the very best. No matter which Primal recipe you choose, you’ll be giving your pet highly digestible, high-quality nutrition."
-James Templeman, Ph.D., Director of Nutrition & Formulation at Primal
Link to Study: Journal of Animal Science, Volume 101, 2023
Study #2: Comparing Amino Acid Digestibility and Nutrient Retention of Minimally Processed Raw Diets vs. Other Formats
Purpose: An extension of Study #1, this study sought to objectively evaluate the amino acid digestibility and nutrient retention of our minimally processed raw recipes compared to other commercially available formats, such as traditional kibble or gently cooked recipes.
Results: Primal recipes were found to be more digestible than traditional extruded kibble. True metabolizable energy was also found to be higher in Primal's diets than highly processed traditional kibble and gently cooked products.
These results suggest our minimally processed raw nutrition delivers highly digestible amino acids and exceptional levels of metabolizable energy, more usable nutrients, supporting optimal nutrition and well-being.
"Greater metabolizable energy and highly digestible amino acids means your pet is getting more out of every bite of Primal." -James Templeman, Ph.D.
Link to Study: Journal of Animal Science, Volume 101, 2023
Study #3: Comparing Markers of Gut Health (fecal output and formation) in Minimally Processed Raw Diets vs. Other Formats
Purpose: This study sought to evaluate the overall diet digestibility of various pet food formats and the effect of feeding on blood and fecal parameters in healthy adult dogs. Similar to Study #2, this study looked at extruded (traditional) kibble, gently cooked, frozen raw, hybrid freeze-dried, and freeze-dried raw. Adult dogs consumed each diet for 35 days, and their blood/feces were collected.
Results: Traditional kibble had the highest fecal output of all the diets evaluated. Dogs fed minimally processed diets produced smaller, firmer stools compared to other commercially available formats - a sign of better gut health.
This research supports the idea that the way we process dog food matters for our pets. Less processing preserves nutrients and supports healthier digestion.
"Smaller, firmer stools not only make walks with your dog more pleasant but also are a clear indicator that your dog is digesting more of their food and absorbing more nutrients. This is crucial for supporting their overall health." -James Templeman, Ph.D.
Study Link: Translational Animal Science, Volume 8, 2024