Can dry dog food go bad?
After the recent spell of scorching weather, we thought it was a suitable time to share some information on how hot weather can affect your dry dog food and whether it can cause dry dog food to go bad.
Unlike wet food, kibble does not require refrigeration and it is less likely to spoil than fresh food.
But it is not invincible!
Despite being a dry food, all kibble has a percentage of fat content. Higher temperatures can cause this fat to begin to oxidize and deteriorate which means it may shrink and dry up.
Not only that, but it will also lose some key nutrients meaning they will not be getting all the essential Omega fatty acids.
Things to look out for:
- The presence of mould
- A change in the odour
- Excessively dry or crumbly
- Their reluctance or refusal to eat it
Spoiled dry food can cause stomach upset and they may experience vomiting or diarrhoea.
If the dry food has begun to grow bacteria, this can cause more serious problems like food poisoning, which will cause severe diarrhoea, vomiting, dizziness, lethargy, and abdominal pain.
Dry dog food is best stored in a cool dry place, away from any sources of heat and somewhere no hotter than 26(ºC).
Some owners leave it in the bag – this is one of the best ways to keep it fresh as those bags are specifically designed to do so!
Others use airtight plastic or wooden storage containers/food bins.
If you are using a container, avoid refilling it before it is completely empty. Leftover food at the bottom will eventually deteriorate and could then contaminate the newer food you are pouring on top!
It is best to clean the container/food bin every time it is empty.
Most dry dog foods will last up to 18 months after manufacturing. So storing your food properly will preserve its freshness for as long as possible.
If you have any questions or to discuss how our food could potentially help your dog, please get in touch.
