Proper Storage of Pet Food
All pet foods, like human food, are susceptible to compromise if not handled and stored correctly. Pet
food manufacturers take many steps to ensure the products they produce leave their site in good
condition, once it has left their warehouses, it is important for owners to continue the safety mindset by
storing and handling the food safely.
- Check packaging before you leave the store, package should be clean and free of damage such as tears or holes
- There should be no signs of spillage or insect activity
- Any damage at the point of purchase should be reported to the retailer
- Pet Food is food, store dry food in a cool, dry location, avoid leaving bags in a garage on the floor or outside where insects have easy access to the food.
- Wash and dry storage containers thoroughly between bags of food and check for damage and insect activity.
- It is important to keep stored pet food out of reach of curious pets and children
- Avoid storing pet food near household cleaners or other toxic substances.
- Avoid humid environments where mould can develop.
- Ensure feeding bowls are clean before use and are cleaned after use.
- Always wash hands after handling pet food and food preparation surfaces are kept clean.
- Ensure food is not left in bowls uneaten for long periods especially fresh or chilled food.
- Store dry food in original bag if possible in a plastic or metal container with a lid
- Wet (canned) food remaining in a tin needs to be covered and refrigerated and discarded after 3 days.
- Fresh/chilled food also needs to be kept properly refrigerated according to the label/supplier guidelines
- It is important that you retain information regarding the batch number, best before /expiry date and the place of purchase for your pet food, this is important information to provide to manufacturers whenever you wish to report a problem with a food.
Pet food types range from raw fresh ingredients to processing dried kibble and retorted canned product.
Proper storage is important to help maintain the nutritional integrity of the food over the shelf life of the
food, whether that be a matter of days for fresh chilled product to months for dried and canned foods.
Proper storage also prevents pets from accessing their food outside of mealtimes. Overeating or eating
food not meant for the pet eating it can also contribute to conditions such as vomiting, diarrhoea or other
severe conditions and should be avoided.
A great way to ensure the best for your pet is to ensure their food is kept safe and secure and if there is a
problem that you can provide manufacturers with the information, they need to trace a product or batch.