Human-Grade vs Feed-Grade: Key Differences

Kristina Voltin
May 13
11 min read

Updated: Jun 8

When choosing pet food, the terms human-grade and feed-grade highlight critical differences in quality, safety, and nutrition. Here's what you need to know upfront:

Human-Grade Pet Food: Made with ingredients fit for human consumption, processed in USDA- and FDA-inspected facilities, and adheres to strict safety standards. Benefits include better nutrient absorption, less waste, and higher-quality proteins and produce.
Feed-Grade Pet Food: Uses lower-quality ingredients (e.g., meat byproducts, 4D meats), processed in facilities with less oversight, and meets basic standards for animal consumption. It's cheaper but less digestible and nutritious.

Quick Comparison

Aspect	Human-Grade	Feed-Grade
Ingredients	Human-edible, USDA-inspected meats	Byproducts, 4D meats, rendered materials
Manufacturing	Human food facilities, strict GMPs	Animal feed facilities, basic safety
Safety Testing	Rigorous pathogen and contaminant checks	Minimal testing, higher contamination risk
Nutritional Value	High bioavailability, better digestion	Basic nutrition, lower digestibility
Price	$5–$10 per pound	$1–$3 per pound

Bottom Line: Human-grade pet food offers better quality and safety but costs more. Feed-grade is budget-friendly but may compromise nutrition and safety.

Standards and Regulations

Human-Grade Standards

Human-grade pet food is held to the same strict standards as food made for human consumption. This means every ingredient and the final product must follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) outlined in 21 CFR 117 [5]. Here's what that entails:

Ingredients inspected by the USDA and processed in facilities licensed for human food production.
Handling, storage, and transportation that adhere to human food safety protocols.
Full traceability through detailed records and documentation.

Facilities producing human-grade pet food are regularly inspected by both the USDA and FDA to ensure they meet the rigorous standards required for human food manufacturing [4].

Feed-Grade Standards

Feed-grade pet food, while regulated by the FDA, follows guidelines specifically tailored for animal feed. These guidelines prioritize safety for animal consumption but allow for differences in ingredient quality and production methods. Feed-grade products can include lower-quality components, such as meat byproducts and rendered materials, and are made in facilities designed for animal feed production. These facilities typically face less frequent inspections and have more basic traceability requirements [3][4].

Aspect	Feed-Grade Requirements
Ingredients	May include meat byproducts and rendered materials
Facilities	Produced in animal feed facilities
Inspections	Less frequent FDA oversight
Documentation	Basic traceability requirements

Regulation Differences

The regulations governing human-grade and feed-grade pet foods lead to distinct differences in ingredients and manufacturing practices:

Ingredient RequirementsHuman-grade pet food uses ingredients fit for human consumption, such as whole muscle meats and fresh produce. In contrast, feed-grade pet foods may include lower-quality components like meat byproducts and animal digest [1].

Production StandardsThe manufacturing processes differ significantly, as shown below:

Standard Type	Human-Grade	Feed-Grade
Facility License	Human food production	Animal feed production
Quality Control	Comprehensive GMPs	Basic safety measures
Traceability	Complete documentation	Limited tracking
Inspection Frequency	Regular USDA/FDA visits	Less frequent oversight

AAFCO ComplianceBoth human-grade and feed-grade pet foods are formulated to meet AAFCO nutritional guidelines. However, human-grade products must also comply with additional safety and labeling standards for human food, whereas feed-grade products only need to meet animal feed standards [4][5].

These regulatory differences explain why human-grade pet food is associated with higher quality and stricter oversight. They shape the foundation for the manufacturing and nutritional contrasts between the two categories.

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Ingredients and Sources

Ingredient sourcing plays a major role in determining the quality of pet food, complementing the regulatory differences between human-grade and feed-grade products. The quality and origin of ingredients directly impact a pet food's nutritional value and how easily pets can digest it.

Human-Grade Materials

Human-grade pet foods are made with ingredients that are handled and processed according to strict human food safety standards. Here's what sets these ingredients apart:

Component Type	Human-Grade Characteristics	Quality Standards
Proteins	USDA-inspected whole muscle meats	Approved for human consumption
Produce	Fresh fruits and vegetables	Sourced from the human food supply chain
Supplements	Human-edible vitamins and minerals	FDA-approved for human use
Storage	Temperature-controlled facilities	Managed under human food safety protocols

Feed-Grade Materials

Feed-grade ingredients, on the other hand, meet basic safety standards for animals but often include components that aren't suitable for human consumption. Here's how they differ:

Component Type	Feed-Grade Characteristics	Common Sources
Proteins	Meat byproducts and rendered materials	4D meats (dead, dying, diseased, disabled)
Produce	Lower-grade fruits and vegetables	Not part of the human food supply chain
Supplements	Feed-grade vitamins and minerals	Produced under less stringent quality standards
Storage	Warehousing requirements	Subject to less rigorous controls

Feed-grade products often use ingredients rejected from human food production due to quality issues or contamination. While these materials meet the minimum safety and nutritional standards for pets, they generally provide less nutrition and are harder for animals to digest [3].

The difference is especially clear when it comes to protein. Feed-grade pet foods frequently contain:

Meat byproducts from animals unsuitable for human consumption
Rendered materials processed under less strict conditions
Higher amounts of chemical preservatives
Binding agents not approved for human food
Lower-quality vitamins and minerals [5]

Although both human-grade and feed-grade pet foods must meet AAFCO nutritional guidelines, the higher-quality ingredients in human-grade options often result in better nutrient absorption and overall digestibility [1].

Manufacturing Standards

The way pet food is made significantly impacts its quality and safety, especially when comparing human-grade and feed-grade options. Beyond just ingredient quality, the production process itself plays a key role in determining whether a pet food qualifies as human-grade.

Human-Grade Production

Human-grade pet food is produced under strict FDA regulations, specifically 21 CFR 117, which ensures adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs). These practices are designed to uphold the highest levels of food safety and quality.

Production Requirement	Human-Grade Standards
Facility Certification	Certified for human food production
Temperature Control	Monitored 24/7 with detailed records
Sanitation Protocol	Equipment sanitized daily
Quality Testing	Extensive testing for every batch
Storage Requirements	Stored in climate-controlled, food-grade facilities

By definition, human-grade pet foods must meet the same manufacturing standards as food intended for human consumption [5].

Key features of human-grade production include:

Continuous temperature monitoring to ensure safety
Dedicated production lines to avoid cross-contamination
Full traceability for every ingredient used
Regular inspections by the USDA
Comprehensive testing for safety and nutritional content

Feed-Grade Production

On the other hand, feed-grade pet food is produced with fewer requirements, focusing primarily on basic safety standards for animals. These facilities operate under protocols designed specifically for animal feed, which are far less stringent than those for human-grade food.

Production Aspect	Feed-Grade Standards
Facility Requirements	Compliant with animal feed safety regulations
Quality Control	Limited to basic safety checks
Storage Conditions	Standard warehouse storage
Testing Protocol	Minimal batch testing
Equipment Standards	Designed for feed-grade production

Feed-grade facilities are characterized by:

Basic sanitation practices that meet minimum safety requirements
Standard storage conditions without climate control
Simplified production methods
Limited testing to ensure compliance with feed-grade regulations

Interestingly, research has shown that pets fed human-grade diets produce two to three times less fecal matter compared to those on feed-grade diets. This difference suggests better digestibility and nutrient absorption with human-grade food [1].

Brands like Loyal Saints highlight the benefits of human-grade production by using USDA-inspected facilities for processes like freeze-drying. This method helps retain the nutritional quality of premium ingredients throughout the manufacturing process.

Nutrition and Digestion

Studies reveal that the quality of ingredients and how they’re processed play a major role in digestion and nutrient absorption. As discussed earlier, the differences in ingredient sourcing and manufacturing methods significantly affect how well nutrients are absorbed and how the digestive system responds.

Human-Grade Results

When it comes to human-grade food, the benefits for digestion are clear. Using high-quality ingredients and minimal processing leads to better nutrient absorption and fewer digestive problems.

Digestive Factor	Impact of Human-Grade Food
Fecal Output	Produces 2–3x less waste [1]
Protein Quality	Higher bioavailability
Nutrient Retention	Preserves nutrients during processing
Digestive Issues	Fewer reported problems [1]

These foods often include fresh vegetables and fruits, which naturally provide fiber to support healthy digestion. Additionally, careful processing ensures that the nutritional value of the ingredients remains intact.

Feed-Grade Results

Feed-grade pet foods, on the other hand, tend to have lower digestibility. This is due to several factors that can negatively affect nutrient absorption:

Challenge	Effect on Digestion
Protein Sources	Lower quality from meat byproducts [1]
Processing Methods	Over-processing that depletes nutrients
Chemical Content	Increased additives that hinder digestion [1]
Nutrient Availability	Reduced bioavailability from inferior ingredients

Feed-grade products often use heavily processed meat byproducts and lower-quality proteins, which result in less effective nutrient absorption [1]. They may also contain higher levels of chemicals or pesticides, which can disrupt normal digestion.

Veterinarians are increasingly recommending human-grade pet foods, especially for animals with sensitive stomachs or specific dietary needs, as they offer better digestion and nutrient absorption [4].

Safety Standards

When it comes to pet food, safety standards are the ultimate measure separating human‐grade products from feed‐grade options. Human‐grade pet foods undergo more thorough testing and stricter quality control, ensuring a higher level of safety and dependability compared to feed‐grade alternatives.

Human‐Grade Testing

Human‐grade pet food must meet the same rigorous FDA regulations as food intended for people, following Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMPs) outlined in 21 CFR 117. The testing protocols are extensive and include:

Pathogen Testing: Every batch is tested with a zero-tolerance policy for Salmonella.
Heavy Metal Screening: Continuous monitoring ensures levels stay at or below 0.5 ppm.
Environmental Monitoring: Daily checks are conducted under standards identical to human food facilities.
Temperature Control: Production temperatures are meticulously tracked and documented.
Foreign Material Detection: X-ray and metal detection systems thoroughly examine all production batches.

Additionally, every ingredient is tested for pathogens, pesticide residues, heavy metals, mycotoxins, and nutritional composition. Dedicated equipment and processing lines are used to avoid cross-contamination, ensuring the integrity of the product.

Feed‐Grade Testing

Feed‐grade pet foods, on the other hand, are subject to less stringent safety measures. These protocols are designed for animal feed, not human consumption, which allows for higher contamination thresholds and less frequent testing. For example:

Contaminant	Allowance	Impact
Mycotoxins	Higher tolerance	Increased risk of contamination
Bacterial Count	Limited testing	Higher pathogen potential
Heavy Metals	Up to 2 ppm allowed	Greater toxicity risk
Preservatives	Higher concentrations	Potential health concerns
Rendered Materials	Permitted	May contain medication residues

Feed‐grade pet foods can legally include ingredients from animals deemed unfit for human consumption, such as 4D meats (dead, dying, diseased, or disabled animals) and rendered byproducts. In fact, FDA testing revealed that about 23% of feed‐grade pet foods contained pentobarbital, a chemical used for euthanasia [1].

Recall procedures for feed‐grade products are also less rigorous. These recalls often take longer to implement, with weaker consumer notification practices compared to human‐grade recalls [5]. These differences highlight the safety and reliability gaps between the two categories of pet food.

Price Comparison

When it comes to pet food, pricing is another key factor that sets human-grade and feed-grade options apart. The cost differences stem from variations in ingredient quality, production methods, and regulatory requirements.

Human-Grade Pricing

Human-grade pet food comes with a higher price tag, reflecting its top-tier ingredients and rigorous manufacturing standards. In the U.S., these products typically cost between $5 and $10 per pound. Interestingly, studies indicate that pets fed human-grade diets produce two to three times less waste compared to those on feed-grade diets [1]. This is because better nutrient absorption often means pets require smaller portions.

Feed-Grade Pricing

Feed-grade pet food is the more budget-friendly option, usually priced between $1 and $3 per pound. The lower costs are largely due to:

Less strict ingredient sourcing
Reduced production expenses
Simpler testing requirements
High-efficiency mass production

You’ll often find feed-grade pet food in supermarkets and big-box stores. Thanks to economies of scale, streamlined distribution, and lower storage costs, these products maintain competitive pricing. At $1–$3 per pound, feed-grade options reflect their more economical manufacturing processes and ingredient standards [1].

Loyal Saints Quality Standards

Loyal Saints sets itself apart by adhering to rigorous practices that prioritize pet health and nutrition. With a focus on human-grade standards, the company demonstrates a strong commitment to quality control and carefully selected ingredients, ensuring every product meets the highest expectations.

Ingredient Selection

Loyal Saints takes ingredient sourcing seriously, working only with certified U.S. suppliers who meet stringent criteria. Their process includes:

Thorough supplier evaluations to ensure reliability and compliance
Comprehensive batch testing to detect contaminants and pathogens
Detailed nutritional analysis to confirm optimal composition
Complete traceability for every ingredient used

Nutritional Standards

Once ingredients are sourced, Loyal Saints develops formulas that go beyond standard nutritional requirements. Their approach prioritizes:

Premium proteins with superior bioavailability compared to feed-grade options [1]
Balanced recipes designed to provide complete nutrition for pets at all life stages
Nutrients from whole food sources, avoiding synthetic additives
Improved digestibility, promoting better nutrient absorption

Quality Control

All Loyal Saints products are crafted in FDA-inspected facilities approved for human food production, following strict Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) [5]. Their multi-step quality control process ensures safety and consistency:

Testing Phase	Quality Measures
Pre-production	Screening raw ingredients and testing for pathogens
Manufacturing	Monitoring processes and maintaining temperature control
Post-production	Conducting nutritional analysis and verifying shelf stability
Third-party	Independent lab testing and veterinary reviews

A veterinary advisory board oversees the development and testing of every product. Loyal Saints also uses a freeze-drying process to maintain nutritional integrity while eliminating harmful pathogens. This method avoids the nutrient loss often associated with high-heat processing, ensuring each batch meets their strict standards for quality and safety.

Summary

Human-grade pet foods are held to strict FDA and USDA standards under 21 CFR 117 [2], ensuring top-tier ingredient quality, safety, and nutritional value. These regulations set human-grade options apart from feed-grade alternatives by requiring higher quality control, better ingredient sourcing, and enhanced nutritional benefits.

The nutritional advantages are just as striking. Pets on human-grade diets experience improved nutrient absorption and digestibility, which often translates to less waste production [1]. This is largely due to the inclusion of high-quality, human-edible ingredients like premium proteins and fresh produce.

Here’s a quick comparison of the key differences:

Aspect	Human-Grade	Feed-Grade
Ingredient Quality	Human-edible, premium ingredients	May include byproducts and lower-quality materials
Manufacturing	Facilities meeting human food standards	Produced under basic animal feed standards
Safety Testing	Rigorous pathogen testing and quality control	Less stringent safety protocols
Nutritional Value	Higher bioavailability and digestibility	Meets only basic nutritional requirements
Regulatory Oversight	FDA and USDA human food standards	Less strict FDA and AAFCO guidelines

Although human-grade pet foods are often more expensive, the higher safety standards and improved digestibility make the cost worthwhile [1]. These practices ensure consistent safety and nutrition, emphasizing why human-grade ingredients are a smart choice for promoting your pet's health.

FAQs

What are the health benefits of feeding my pet human-grade food instead of feed-grade food?

Feeding your pet human-grade food comes with a host of health perks thanks to its higher quality and stricter safety standards. It not only supports overall health but also encourages the development of strong, lean muscles. Plus, by skipping the low-quality fillers and additives often found in feed-grade options, it can help reduce allergy issues.

What sets human-grade food apart is its use of natural, high-quality ingredients and precisely balanced recipes. These features can lead to better digestion and increased energy levels, no matter your pet's age. Choosing this type of food is a simple way to put their health and happiness first.

What makes human-grade pet food safer and more reliable for your pet?

When it comes to human-grade pet food, the standards are just as high as those for the food we eat. Every ingredient used must be safe for human consumption, and the production takes place in facilities that comply with strict FDA and USDA regulations.

This level of care means better-quality ingredients, cleaner manufacturing processes, and a lower chance of contamination. Opting for human-grade pet food shows a commitment to your pet’s health and overall well-being.

Why is human-grade pet food more expensive than feed-grade, and is it worth the higher price?

Human-grade pet food tends to cost more because it meets stricter standards for ingredient quality, safety, and production. The ingredients used are the same quality as those approved for human consumption, meaning they undergo thorough inspections and must comply with higher cleanliness and safety requirements. On top of that, the facilities producing human-grade pet food often follow tighter protocols, which also adds to the overall expense.

That higher price tag often reflects the benefits it brings. Human-grade pet food is packed with high-quality proteins and avoids fillers or artificial additives, offering better nutrition that can support your pet’s health, energy levels, and even lifespan. For pet owners who value natural, premium ingredients and balanced nutrition, choosing human-grade food can feel like a worthwhile investment.