Frequently Asked Questions

Freeze-dried pet food is made by a process called lyophilization, which removes nearly all the moisture while preserving the food's original nutrients, flavor, and aroma.

First, the ingredients (typically raw meat, organs, and some fruits and vegetables) are flash-frozen. Next, they are placed in a vacuum chamber where the frozen water transitions directly from a solid (ice) to a gas (vapor), a process called sublimation.

High Nutritional Value

The freeze-drying process uses minimal heat, which means that essential vitamins, minerals, and enzymes are not destroyed. This results in a product that is very close in nutritional value to fresh, raw food.




Long Shelf Life

Because almost all moisture is removed, freeze-dried food is shelf-stable and doesn't require refrigeration. This makes it easy to store and a great option for travel.



Highly Palatable

The process locks in the natural flavors and aromas of the ingredients, making it very appealing to even the pickiest of eaters.



Convenience

It offers the benefits of a raw diet without the mess or the need for freezer space. It's lightweight and easy to portion.




Easy to Digest

The minimal processing makes freeze-dried food gentle on a pet's digestive system, which can be beneficial for pets with sensitive stomachs.



Preparation is simple!

For a complete meal, we recommend rehydrating the food by adding warm water or bone broth. Simply add the liquid and let the food sit for a few minutes until it reaches a soft, palatable consistency. For snacks and treats, you can simply feed them dry straight from the bag!

While your pet's food remains raw (which preserves all its nutrients!), enacting an additional step like High-Pressure Processing (HPP) to inactivate potential pathogens like Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria ensures safety without using heat. This makes it a safer alternative to a fresh raw diet. Always follow proper food handling hygiene, just as you would with any raw meat product.

Yes!

Dehydration uses low heat to remove moisture, which can cause some nutrient loss.

Freeze-drying uses cold temperatures and a vacuum, which preserves more of the nutrients and enzymes.

Dehydrated food is typically denser and chewier, while freeze-dried food is light and airy.

No!

While we recommend our Meal products as full meals to offer your pet the highest quality of life, our freeze-dried food is an excellent meal topper!

Sprinkling some crumbled pieces over your pet's regular kibble or wet food can boost the nutritional value and make their meal more appealing, especially for picky eaters.

Absolutely!

Store freeze-dried food in its original, airtight packaging in a cool, dry place. Once the bag is opened, ensure it is properly sealed to prevent moisture from getting in, which could lead to spoilage. Refrigeration is not necessary unless otherwise specified on the packaging, but expect to consume it within 6 to 12 months after opening.

While our pet food Treats are supplementary, our Meal recipes are a complete and balanced diet; so long as the recipe you purchase matches the life-stage recommended for your pet!

Paw Preserve's freeze-dried pet foods are formulated to be complete and balanced; meeting the nutritional standards set by organizations like the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). Always check the product label to ensure it is intended as a complete meal, and not just a treat or a supplement.