What goes on a dog’s plate? Here’s the test of dog salami!

Dog salamis are popular not only with dogs, but also with their owners, as they can be easily given as a reward snack and as a daily meal. The Supermint comparative study included products labeled as complete feed available in domestic stores, including various meat and animal derivative-based salamis, as well as versions that differ in content and flavor. A total of 12 dog salamis (nine domestically and three foreign-made) were examined by the experts, including feeds made using animal-based ingredients from beef, turkey, chicken and pork.

The designation “complete feed” means that the given food covers the dog’s daily nutritional needs on its own, and no other food needs to be added.

Nébih laboratory experts performed microbiological tests, heavy metal contamination checks, and the analytical components (crude protein, fat, fiber, ash, moisture content, macronutrients) and feed additives (micronutrients and vitamins) indicated on the label. It is reassuring that none of the products contained microbiological or heavy metal contamination exceeding the limit value that would endanger the health of dogs.

Regarding the quality indicators, it was found that the differences between the values ​​indicated on the label and those measured in the laboratory remained within the tolerance permitted by law and did not affect the quality or suitability of the products. However, the extent of the difference was taken into account by the experts when scoring the products, similarly to the results of the tests on the digestibility of protein. The examination of animal proteins ended with a satisfactory result: all the tested products contained the protein source indicated on the packaging. Therefore, no quality objections were raised in the case of any product.

The experts checked the presence of mandatory markings and basic product information on the packaging of dog salamis, which overall complied with the current domestic and EU regulations. The legibility of the information on the packaging of two products was not optimal, so the authority contacted the manufacturers concerned in order to improve it.

In the case of dog salamis, the popularity test could not be omitted. This time, expert and lay reviewers rated the products based on various customer criteria. The final ranking was based on the combined results of the popularity survey and laboratory tests. The top spot on the podium went to Real Nature Wilderness Best Turkey Junior, followed by Orlando Whole Dog Salami Beef in second place, and Real Nature Wilderness Best Beef Adult in third place.