New Zealand company Animals Like Us aims to revolutionise pet food with a ‘raw made easy’ range, now available in supermarkets.
“As humans, we tend to eat pretty well these days. We know the role good nutrition plays in our lives, but what about our pets? They like to eat well too – like us”, explains Animals Like Us Chairman and founder of Icebreaker, Jeremy Moon.
“I founded Icebreaker when I realised the outdoor industry was based on plastic dressed up as technology. We found a better solution in nature with New Zealand merino. We founded Animals Like Us on the same principles. This is real, natural food in response to an industry dominated by cheap carbs wrapped in flavouring”.
Focusing initially on dogs, and with cat food on the horizon, Animals Like Us identified the benefits of raw feeding in the way that it closely mirrors the natural world. But the team wanted to make it safe and convenient for both pets and owners, so their version is ‘raw made easy’; the messier elements are freeze-dried to ensure maximum nutritional value with minimum fuss. Co-founder and CEO Rob Achten, also formerly of Icebreaker, describes it as a “world first, here in New Zealand”.
“It’s now easy to add raw food to your dog’s diet safely without the mess. We have combined whole chunks of nutrient-rich freeze-dried meat – wagyu beef heart, liver, and tripe – with high protein meat and vege bites. It’s a combination we haven’t seen anywhere else in the world. And it’s ethically and sustainably sourced and manufactured in Hawke’s Bay.” This is a big shift: according to Achten, “until now, over 90% of supermarket pet food has been produced offshore”. For Achten, who lives on an orchard in Hawke’s Bay, it’s proof that big industry changes can take place close to home.
The company is also committed to minimising its environmental impact, using soft plastic packaging that is recyclable at supermarket-based collection points around New Zealand.
As dog owners themselves, the Animals Like Us team founded the business because of the bond they share with their pets. The team believes that they’re a lot like us. They need love and proper nutrition. And, when we look after our pets, they like us.
Animals Like Us Raw Blend dog food including Grass-fed Beef & Wagyu Beef heart, Cage free Chicken & King Salmon, and Grass-fed Lamb & Venison, is available in North Island New World and Farro supermarkets now.
For more information visit www.animalslikeus.com