Could your pet's food be spoiled? Learn how to identify it

Share this page

Has your pet ever suddenly refused a meal, even if it was a kibble they love? This could be a sign that the dry food is no longer in good condition. The expiration date can guide you, but the way you store it is crucial to ensure it stays fresh and safe.

How to tell if the kibble has gone bad
 If the food has a strange or unpleasant smell, it’s a sign of spoilage. Your pet, with its keen sense of smell, will detect this faster than you.
 If you find evidence of pests, such as ants or rodent droppings, discard the food immediately — even if it is still within the expiration date.
 Also pay attention to your dog’s or cat’s behavior: if they sniff the food longer, eat without enthusiasm, or refuse it, it may indicate changes in taste and smell.
It’s important to remember that refusal doesn’t necessarily mean the food is spoiled — it could also be related to individual factors of your pet.

Proper storage of dry food
The best way to store kibble is to keep it in the original packaging, in a cool, dry place, protected from sunlight and temperature changes.
Many people don’t realize this, but pet food packaging is carefully designed and is one of the most expensive parts of production. Its purpose is to protect the kibble, preventing fat migration and oxidation — two of the main causes of changes in smell, taste, and quality.
If you want to use a container, place the entire bag inside without transferring the kibble. This avoids exposing it to air and external odors. Bags without a resealable closure should be folded tightly and secured with a clip.

Extra tip: reduce the air inside the bag whenever possible — oxygen contact speeds up spoilage and can cause changes in the smell and taste of the food.

Risks of giving spoiled dry food
Over time and with exposure to air, the fat in the kibble oxidizes and alters the food’s quality. In addition to an unpleasant taste, this process can cause digestive issues and reduce the nutritional value of the food.

In summary, keeping dry food well stored and paying attention to signs of spoilage is essential to ensure your furry friend always has safe, nutritious, and high-quality meals.

More articles of interest