More and more pet parents are choosing to make their own homemade treats for their furry friends. Not only is it often cheaper than buying treats at the pet store, but you can control exactly what ingredients go into the treats. Many pet owners prefer to use organic ingredients whenever possible for their homemade treats. But what exactly constitutes an organic ingredient, and why choose organic for pet treats? This article will explore the benefits of using organic ingredients, examine the environmental impact, and compare organic and non-organic options to help you make the best choice for your loved pets.

What Does Organic Mean?

The term "organic" refers to how ingredients are grown and processed. Organic crops must be grown without the use of most conventional pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, sewage sludge, genetically modified organisms, or ionizing radiation. Organic meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products come from animals that are given no antibiotics or growth hormones. Organic food is also processed without artificial ingredients, preservatives, or irradiation. 

In the United States, the USDA National Organic Program sets strict standards in order for farmers and processors to call their products organic. Farms and facilities must be certified organic annually by a USDA-accredited certifying agency. They are inspected regularly to ensure compliance with organic regulations. Foods that are certified organic are labeled with the USDA Organic seal.

 

 

              

 

Benefits of Organic Ingredients

So why go through all the trouble of choosing organic ingredients for your pet's homemade treats?

There are several important benefits:

Fewer pesticides - By choosing organic ingredients, you can limit your pet's exposure to toxic pesticides that may be used in conventionally-grown foods. Dogs and cats can be especially sensitive to pesticides since they lick their fur and paws, coming into contact with any residues. 

More nutrients - Organic crops are often shown to be higher in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals since the soil is richer in nutrients. This means organic ingredients may pack an extra nutritious punch for your pup.

No GMOs - Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are not allowed in organic products. While the effects of GMOs are still being researched, some pet parents feel more comfortable avoiding them. 

No hormones or antibiotics - Meat, eggs, and dairy must come from animals raised without the use of growth hormones or antibiotics in order to qualify as organic. This helps reduce antibiotic resistance.

Environmentally friendly - Organic farming practices help protect the environment by reducing pollution and conserving water and soil quality. Choosing organic is a more sustainable option.

Peace of mind - Using organic ingredients can give pet parents peace of mind that they are making the healthiest choice for their loved ones. Many report that their pets seem to find organic food more palatable too!

Best Organic Ingredients for Homemade Treats

When baking homemade goodies for your pup or feline, there are many great organic ingredients to choose from.

Here are some of the best options to look for:

Fruits and Vegetables

• Apples - An apple a day isn't just good for humans! Dogs love the sweet flavor of apples. Be sure to remove seeds and cores first, as they can be a choking hazard. Apples are high in vitamin C and fiber. However, cats don't have the same sweet taste receptors, so we can't really guess how apples taste to felines. Your cat may like the crunchy texture or coolness of the apple.

• Bananas - These potassium-rich fruits add moisture, binding, and palatability to homemade treats. Bananas are gentle on doggy tummies. Look for yellow spots on the peel for optimal ripeness. When adapting recipes for cats, reduce or omit sugary ingredients like bananas, honey or peanut butter.

• Blueberries - Packed with antioxidants, these “superfruits” are pint-sized powerhouses. The small size makes them a perfect add-in for treats or frozen into ice cubes. Strawberries are a favorite among cats and an excellent source of potassium and fiber. They are also rich in Vitamin C, B1, B6, antioxidants and folate. These tasty tiny red fruits can be a great boost for your cat's immunity.

• Carrots - Crunchy carrots are low calorie and low fat. They contain beta-carotene for healthy eyes and vitamin K for proper blood clotting. Shred or finely chop for treats.

• Pumpkin - Canned organic pumpkin is great for digestive health thanks to its high fiber and water content. Make sure no added sugars or spices are in the can.

• Sweet Potatoes - With lots of fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, and beta-carotene, sweet potatoes give treats an antioxidant boost. Simply dice or mash cooked sweet potatoes before mixing into dough.

Meats and Proteins

 

• Chicken - Shredded boneless, skinless chicken breast adds lean protein. Look for organic chicken certified free of hormones and antibiotics. Salmonella risk is low if cooked.

• Beef - Lean ground beef or beef liver provide iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. Check that the beef is organic and grass-fed for optimal quality. Cook thoroughly to kill bacteria before use.

• Turkey - Turkey breast is another lean protein source that many pets love. Make sure no artificial flavors or preservatives are added. Cook to safe temperatures.

• Eggs - Highly digestible eggs are rich in protein and biotin for skin and coat health. Choose certified organic, pasture-raised eggs when possible.

• Peanut butter - Smear a dollop inside treats or freeze with bananas for a cool chew. Opt for no sugar added organic peanut butter. Check for xylitol in the ingredients as it's toxic. Cats require much less carbohydrates and have a lower sweet taste preference.

Grains

 

• Oats - Whole rolled oats provide soluble fiber to support digestion and heart health. They also add great texture and binding to treats. Just be sure to cook any oat-based treats thoroughly.

When making treats for your cats the portion size should be smaller of their diet than in dogs' treats. Cats have lower carbohydrate needs.

• Barley - This grain supplies B vitamins, manganese, and selenium. Barley's mild flavor and digestibility make it a good choice for sensitive tummies. Prior cooking helps improve bioavailability. 

• Quinoa - Quinoa is a complete protein containing all essential amino acids. It offers magnesium, iron, and fiber too. Quinoa flour works well in dog treat recipes.

• Brown rice - Whole grain brown rice adds healthy carbohydrates, B vitamins and fiber. Look for organic brown rice grown without pesticides. Well-cooked rice is easy to digest.

Oils

 

• Coconut Oil - With antiviral and antifungal properties, coconut oil keeps immune systems strong. It improves energy and skin/coat condition. Start with small amounts as too much fat can cause diarrhea.

• Flaxseed Oil - Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, flaxseed oil helps fight inflammation and support the heart, brain, skin, and joints. It has a mild nutty flavor pets enjoy.

• Olive Oil - For a healthy plant-based fat, olive oil provides monounsaturated fatty acids and vitamin E. The grassy, fruity flavor combines well with many foods. Go for organic extra virgin olive oil.

Seasonings

 

• Cinnamon - This warming spice is rich in antioxidants and fights bad breath germs. Use sparingly as too much cinnamon can irritate their digestive systems.  

• Turmeric - Curcumin in turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties and helps neutralize free radicals. It may support joint health and benefit skin conditions.

• Ginger - Ginger can calm nauseous tummies and support healthy digestion. It adds zing to treats! Use freshly grated or ground organic ginger.

• Unsweetened Applesauce - Replace fat or eggs in recipes with applesauce to cut calories without losing moistness. It also contains fiber and vitamin C. Just confirm no sugar is added.

• Brewer’s Yeast - Sprinkling a little brewer's yeast adds B vitamins while boosting skin/coat condition. Studies show it may deter fleas too. A little goes a long way due to the bitter taste.

The Environmental Impact of Organic Superfood Farming

One of the main motivators for choosing organic ingredients is reducing your environmental footprint. Conventional farming often relies heavily on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides derived from fossil fuels. These chemicals can deplete soil nutrients, pollute water supplies, and harm vital pollinator species like bees over time. Organic farming aims to work in harmony with nature rather than fighting against it.

Here’s how organic superfood farming helps the planet:

Promotes Biodiversity

Organic fields must include biodiversity buffers where native wildflowers, grasses, and shrubs are allowed to grow naturally. This provides habitat for beneficial insects and wildlife. Intermixed plantings also improve pollination.

Builds Healthy Soil

Natural compost, cover crops, and crop rotation techniques are used to increase soil organic matter. This retains water and nutrients better while reducing soil erosion. Organic fields have been found to have significantly higher soil quality.

Conserves Water 

By building soil structure, organic farming helps soil retain more moisture. This reduces the need for irrigation while improving water filtration to prevent runoff.

Captures Carbon

Enhanced soil health also allows soil to sequester more carbon from the atmosphere. Organic farming methods can help fight climate change through carbon capture and storage.

No Toxic Runoff

Without synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, organic farming avoids hazardous chemical runoff that can contaminate rivers, lakes, and oceans. This protects drinking water safety and delicate marine ecosystems.

More and more pet parents are choosing to make their own homemade treats for their furry friends. Not only is it often cheaper than buying treats at the pet store, but you can control exactly what ingredients go into the treats. Many pet owners prefer to use organic ingredients whenever possible for their homemade treats. But what exactly constitutes an organic ingredient, and why choose organic for pet treats? This article will explore the benefits of using organic ingredients, examine the environmental impact, and compare organic and non-organic options to help you make the best choice for your loved pets.

 

What Does Organic Mean?

 

The term "organic" refers to how ingredients are grown and processed. Organic crops must be grown without the use of most conventional pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, sewage sludge, genetically modified organisms, or ionizing radiation. Organic meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products come from animals that are given no antibiotics or growth hormones. Organic food is also processed without artificial ingredients, preservatives, or irradiation. 

 

In the United States, the USDA National Organic Program sets strict standards in order for farmers and processors to call their products organic. Farms and facilities must be certified organic annually by a USDA-accredited certifying agency. They are inspected regularly to ensure compliance with organic regulations. Foods that are certified organic are labeled with the USDA Organic seal.

 

Benefits of Organic Ingredients

 

So why go through all the trouble of choosing organic ingredients for your pet's homemade treats?

 

There are several important benefits:

 

• Fewer pesticides - By choosing organic ingredients, you can limit your pet's exposure to toxic pesticides that may be used in conventionally-grown foods. Dogs and cats can be especially sensitive to pesticides since they lick their fur and paws, coming into contact with any residues. 

• More nutrients - Organic crops are often shown to be higher in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals since the soil is richer in nutrients. This means organic ingredients may pack an extra nutritious punch for your pup.

• No GMOs - Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are not allowed in organic products. While the effects of GMOs are still being researched, some pet parents feel more comfortable avoiding them. 

• No hormones or antibiotics - Meat, eggs, and dairy must come from animals raised without the use of growth hormones or antibiotics in order to qualify as organic. This helps reduce antibiotic resistance.

• Environmentally friendly - Organic farming practices help protect the environment by reducing pollution and conserving water and soil quality. Choosing organic is a more sustainable option.

• Peace of mind - Using organic ingredients can give pet parents peace of mind that they are making the healthiest choice for their loved ones. Many report that their pets seem to find organic food more palatable too!

 

Best Organic Ingredients for Homemade Treats

When baking homemade goodies for your pup or feline, there are many great organic ingredients to choose from. Here are some of the best options to look for:

 

Fruits and Vegetables

• Apples - An apple a day isn't just good for humans! Dogs love the sweet flavor of apples. Be sure to remove seeds and cores first, as they can be a choking hazard. Apples are high in vitamin C and fiber. However, cats don't have the same sweet taste receptors, so we can't really guess how apples taste to felines. Your cat may like the crunchy texture or coolness of the apple.

• Bananas - These potassium-rich fruits add moisture, binding, and palatability to homemade treats. Bananas are gentle on doggy tummies. Look for yellow spots on the peel for optimal ripeness. When adapting recipes for cats, reduce or omit sugary ingredients like bananas, honey or peanut butter.

• Blueberries - Packed with antioxidants, these “superfruits” are pint-sized powerhouses. The small size makes them a perfect add-in for treats or frozen into ice cubes. Strawberries are a favorite among cats and an excellent source of potassium and fiber. They are also rich in Vitamin C, B1, B6, antioxidants and folate. These tasty tiny red fruits can be a great boost for your cat's immunity.

• Carrots - Crunchy carrots are low calorie and low fat. They contain beta-carotene for healthy eyes and vitamin K for proper blood clotting. Shred or finely chop for treats.

• Pumpkin - Canned organic pumpkin is great for digestive health thanks to its high fiber and water content. Make sure no added sugars or spices are in the can.

• Sweet Potatoes - With lots of fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, and beta-carotene, sweet potatoes give treats an antioxidant boost. Simply dice or mash cooked sweet potatoes before mixing into dough.

Meats and Proteins

• Chicken - Shredded boneless, skinless chicken breast adds lean protein. Look for organic chicken certified free of hormones and antibiotics. Salmonella risk is low if cooked.

• Beef - Lean ground beef or beef liver provide iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. Check that the beef is organic and grass-fed for optimal quality. Cook thoroughly to kill bacteria before use.

• Turkey - Turkey breast is another lean protein source that many pets love. Make sure no artificial flavors or preservatives are added. Cook to safe temperatures.

• Eggs - Highly digestible eggs are rich in protein and biotin for skin and coat health. Choose certified organic, pasture-raised eggs when possible.

• Peanut butter - Smear a dollop inside treats or freeze with bananas for a cool chew. Opt for no sugar added organic peanut butter. Check for xylitol in the ingredients as it's toxic. Cats require much less carbohydrates and have a lower sweet taste preference.

Grains

• Oats - Whole rolled oats provide soluble fiber to support digestion and heart health. They also add great texture and binding to treats. Just be sure to cook any oat-based treats thoroughly.

 

When making treats for your cats the portion size should be smaller of their diet than in dogs' treats. Cats have lower carbohydrate needs.

 

• Barley - This grain supplies B vitamins, manganese, and selenium. Barley's mild flavor and digestibility make it a good choice for sensitive tummies. Prior cooking helps improve bioavailability. 

• Quinoa - Quinoa is a complete protein containing all essential amino acids. It offers magnesium, iron, and fiber too. Quinoa flour works well in dog treat recipes.

• Brown rice - Whole grain brown rice adds healthy carbohydrates, B vitamins and fiber. Look for organic brown rice grown without pesticides. Well-cooked rice is easy to digest.

Oils

• Coconut Oil - With antiviral and antifungal properties, coconut oil keeps immune systems strong. It improves energy and skin/coat condition. Start with small amounts as too much fat can cause diarrhea.

• Flaxseed Oil - Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, flaxseed oil helps fight inflammation and support the heart, brain, skin, and joints. It has a mild nutty flavor pets enjoy.

• Olive Oil - For a healthy plant-based fat, olive oil provides monounsaturated fatty acids and vitamin E. The grassy, fruity flavor combines well with many foods. Go for organic extra virgin olive oil.

Seasonings

• Cinnamon - This warming spice is rich in antioxidants and fights bad breath germs. Use sparingly as too much cinnamon can irritate their digestive systems.  

• Turmeric - Curcumin in turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties and helps neutralize free radicals. It may support joint health and benefit skin conditions.

• Ginger - Ginger can calm nauseous tummies and support healthy digestion. It adds zing to treats! Use freshly grated or ground organic ginger.

• Unsweetened Applesauce - Replace fat or eggs in recipes with applesauce to cut calories without losing moistness. It also contains fiber and vitamin C. Just confirm no sugar is added.

• Brewer’s Yeast - Sprinkling a little brewer's yeast adds B vitamins while boosting skin/coat condition. Studies show it may deter fleas too. A little goes a long way due to the bitter taste.

 

The Environmental Impact of Organic Superfood Farming

 

One of the main motivators for choosing organic ingredients is reducing your environmental footprint. Conventional farming often relies heavily on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides derived from fossil fuels. These chemicals can deplete soil nutrients, pollute water supplies, and harm vital pollinator species like bees over time. Organic farming aims to work in harmony with nature rather than fighting against it. Here’s how organic superfood farming helps the planet:

 

Promotes Biodiversity

Organic fields must include biodiversity buffers where native wildflowers, grasses, and shrubs are allowed to grow naturally. This provides habitat for beneficial insects and wildlife. Intermixed plantings also improve pollination.

 

Builds Healthy Soil

Natural compost, cover crops, and crop rotation techniques are used to increase soil organic matter. This retains water and nutrients better while reducing soil erosion. Organic fields have been found to have significantly higher soil quality.

 

Conserves Water 

By building soil structure, organic farming helps soil retain more moisture. This reduces the need for irrigation while improving water filtration to prevent runoff.

 

Captures Carbon

Enhanced soil health also allows soil to sequester more carbon from the atmosphere. Organic farming methods can help fight climate change through carbon capture and storage.

 

No Toxic Runoff

Without synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, organic farming avoids hazardous chemical runoff that can contaminate rivers, lakes, and oceans. This protects drinking water safety and delicate marine ecosystems.

 

Supports Pollinators

The flowers and diverse plantings of organic farms provide forage and habitat for threatened bee populations as well as butterflies, bats, and birds that serve as pollinators.

 

It’s clear that choosing organic superfood ingredients like fruits, vegetables, grains, and proteins that are grown using sustainable practices can benefit the health of the planet as well as our four-legged best friends. By supporting organic farmers, our dollars also encourage more Earth-friendly agriculture.

The flowers and diverse plantings of organic farms provide forage and habitat for threatened bee populations as well as butterflies, bats, and birds that serve as pollinators.

It’s clear that choosing organic superfood ingredients like fruits, vegetables, grains, and proteins that are grown using sustainable practices can benefit the health of the planet as well as our four-legged best friends. By supporting organic farmers, our dollars also encourage more Earth-friendly agriculture.