The age-old adage that ‘pet trends follow human trends’ is never more evident than in the superfood space. We see this term “superfood” used across pet supplement and manufacturing categories from food to treats to supplements. In today’s discussion, we will dig into this term, understand what a superfood is, why it can be beneficial for pet health, and how it can add power to your brand.
It’s a bird. It’s a plane. It’s a Superfood? Superfoods are generally believed to be nutrient-rich foods that provide some significant health benefits. The FDA has not recognized superfoods as a category of foods, therefore there are no specific criteria a food must meet to be called a superfood. Popular ethos considers superfoods to be particularly nutrient dense, while be low in calories – however as we will see, that does not always hold true. When the term ‘superfood’ entered the mainstream lexicon, it seemed most associated with novel foods that were touted by celebrities: acai berry, goji berry, quinoa, nori, kefir, and on and on. But superfoods can just as easily be found in our local farmers’ markets, produce sections, and even the freezer aisle of our major grocery stores.
Is there really magic in superfoods? Why yes, there is! Superfoods by any definition (even for pets) contain high levels of beneficial nutrients relative to their fat and calorie content. As pet owners we strive to find the best nutrition for our pets while controlling unnecessary fat and calories. The American Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) has established feeding guidelines for dogs, cats, horses, and livestock animals. These guidelines, not unlike human nutritional guidelines, place emphasis on vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, proteins and fats. Many superfoods can be added to pets’ diets safely. Superfoods for dogs and cats should always come from whole food, minimally processed food sources.
Note: Avocados contain Persin, which is toxic to dogs and should be avoided.
Not all superfoods are from plants. Examples include:
As a brand owner, there are many opportunities to incorporate Superfoods into your private label pet supplement line up. Superfoods are harvested, dried and blended into power form for ease of incorporation into various formats. Ingredients should be tested at the raw material level for identification. Superfood ingredient powders blend readily into soft chew matrices, powders and granules.
Featuring sweet potato, pumpkin, apple, blueberries, kale, and spinach for added vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber.
Treat-training is based on food (treats) as the reward to reinforce desired behaviors. It is perhaps the most common training method—and works especially well with food-motivated dogs. Since this can involve giving several treats, Healthy Training Treats with added Superfoods become a truly functional treat. These training treats do more than help the dog sit, they support overall health, a strong immune system, and a healthy gut.
Featuring salmon oil, kale, quinoa, and apple for Omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and healthy protein.
These grain-free formulations are perfect for dogs predisposed to heart health challenges. Health-healthy salmon oil provides Omega-3 fatty acids, rich in EPA and DHA, known to support a strong cardiovascular system. Adding “treats with a purpose” to your private label pet supplement brand is a basket-building strategy that will result in incremental revenue.
The benefits of superfoods are evident for both people and pets. But that is only half the story. For businesses and brands, there is an advantage to be gained by adding Superfood ingredients to your product line up. The US market for human superfood powders is growing at a CAGR of 7.3% (Grand View Research), while the global Omega-3 pet supplement market is growing at a 10-year CAGR of 8% (Future Market Insights). The data suggests that there is headroom for additional brands and products featuring Superfoods in the private label pet supplement space.
“Superfoods” are nutrient‑dense foods or ingredients packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, essential fatty acids, or fiber that can boost health. For pets, that includes items like fatty fish (omega‑3s), berries, leafy greens, pumpkin, salmon oil, and other whole‑food ingredients shown to support skin, coat, digestion, immune, and joint health. [oai_citation:0‡Veterinary Care at Your Fingertips](https://www.petscare.com/news/post/superfoods-for-pets-guide?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
Often yes — many superfoods can be part of a daily routine, especially when used as supportive supplementation rather than bulk diet replacements. The key is moderation, proper portion sizes, and rotating foods to avoid overloading certain nutrients. [oai_citation:1‡All About Dog Food](https://www.allaboutdogfood.co.uk/articles/superfoods-for-dogs-what-to-add-to-your-dogs-diet?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
No. Superfoods or supplements should complement — not replace — a nutritionally balanced diet. Pets still need complete nutrition (proteins, fats, vitamins/minerals) appropriate for their species, life‑stage, and health status. Superfoods fill in nutritional gaps or offer targeted support (e.g. coat health, antioxidant boost), but shouldn’t be the primary meal. At Pet Tech Labs, we recommend rotating nutrient-dense ingredients like salmon oil and flaxseed to avoid overloading any one nutrient—especially in senior dogs.
Ingredients rich in omega‑3 fatty acids (like oily fish or salmon oil), antioxidants (berries, leafy greens), and vitamins/minerals known for skin & coat health (like vitamin E, zinc, biotin) tend to be most effective. Together they help support skin barrier function, coat shine, reduce inflammation, and maintain healthy shedding. (https://dulhamvetclinic.com/superfoods-for-dogs/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
Yes — not every “human superfood” is safe for pets, and some may cause digestive upset or nutrient imbalances when overused. Always introduce new ingredients gradually, monitor for reactions, and consult a veterinarian if your pet has preexisting conditions. [citation: All About Dog Food] (https://www.allaboutdogfood.co.uk/articles/superfoods-for-dogs-what-to-add-to-your-dogs-diet?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
They can provide added support. Nutrient-dense superfoods can help maintain joint health, coat and skin condition, digestion, immune function, and overall vitality — areas that often decline as pets age. That said, for senior pets it's especially important to use well‑formulated, vet‑approved supplements or foods.