OAKLAND, CALIF. — Seeking to meet the growing demand for fresh pet food, Petaluma, a plant-based dog nutrition brand, announced the launch of its new Whole Food Mixer — a “just-add-water” dehydrated fresh dog food designed to bring convenience to fresh pet food. 

Unlike conventional powder meal toppers that are limited to 10% of a dog’s daily calories, this complete formula can be used in any amount from a light topper to a complete meal while maintaining nutritional balance, according to Petaluma. 

“Most commercial toppers are formulated to provide only up to 10% of a dog’s total calories, like a treat or snack,” said Sarah Dodd, Ph.D., a board-certified nutritionist who formulated the product. “If you add more than the recommended allowance, it could lead to nutritional imbalance. We’ve created something entirely different — a product that maintains complete nutritional integrity regardless of how much you use.”

Whole Food Mixer once it's rehydrated and ready to eat

| Source: Petaluma

The shelf-stable formula features 67% organic, nutrient-dense ingredients like kale, spinach and antioxidant-rich fruits. It also incorporates organic rolled oats, barley and flax meal to provide essential nutrients while supporting digestive health. The formula also features human-grade organic textured soy protein to provide an amino acid profile, according to Petaluma. 

“Organic textured soy protein is a legume that offers a complete protein and amino acid profile,” Dodd said. “It’s low in fat, high in protein and fiber, with a long track record as a protein source for both dogs and humans.” 

Whole Food Mixer is a shelf-stable option for fresh dog food.

| Source: Petaluma

Whole Food Mixer undergoes a dehydration process in order to preserve the antioxidants and nutrients of the fruit and vegetable ingredients contained in each formula. 

“Fresh veggies and leafy greens have the highest level of antioxidants and micronutrients when not undergoing any heat processing,” Dodd added.

The product is designed to bring convenience and affordability to fresh pet food offerings, seeking to change the requirements that come with feeding fresh, such as cold storage and high prices. 

“When you buy fresh or frozen dog food, you’re essentially paying premium prices to ship water to your door — water that takes up valuable freezer space and adds unnecessary cost and environmental impact,” said Caroline Buck, co-founder of Petaluma. “The Whole Food Mixer flips that model on its head. Pet parents get fresh-food quality nutrition at canned food prices by simply adding water at home, while enjoying true convenience through shelf-stable storage and the freedom to feed however works best for their family.”

Read more about new pet food and treat products.