In the world of pet nutrition, changes in ingredients and recipes can have significant implications for both pet owners and their furry companions. Recently, Mars Incorporated, a major player in the pet food industry, acquired Akana, a well-known brand cherished by many pet owners for its quality and ethos. This acquisition has brought about several noteworthy alterations to Akana’s recipes, sparking discussions among consumers. View My Full Video Review Akana, once a niche brand celebrated for its commitment to quality ingredients and the “whole prey ratio” philosophy, has undergone transformations since its acquisition by Mars Incorporated. These changes, particularly in its classic range, have stirred debate among consumers regarding ingredient quality and the brand’s shift towards a more mainstream approach. Changes in Recipes One of the most notable changes introduced by Mars Incorporated is the adjustment of Akana’s recipes. Previously, Akana emphasized the inclusion of diverse ingredients such as fresh meats, organs, and specific components to mimic the natural diet of dogs. However, the new recipes exhibit a simplification and standardization, with a focus on mainstream ingredients. For example, in the popular Akana Prairie Poultry recipe, fresh chicken has been introduced as the primary ingredient, replacing chicken meal. While this change may appeal to some consumers seeking freshness, it also signifies a departure from the brand’s original emphasis on whole prey ratios and varied protein sources. Similarly, the Akana Wild Coast and Red Meat recipes have undergone similar alterations, with a reduction in unique ingredients and a shift towards more common fillers like pearl barley. These changes reflect a strategic move towards streamlining production and catering to mass consumer preferences. Implications for Consumers The changes in Akana’s recipes have elicited varied responses from consumers. Mass consumers may welcome the introduction of fresh meats as the first ingredient, perceiving it as a sign of improved quality. Moreover, the brand’s increased availability due to Mars’s distribution capabilities may enhance its accessibility for pet owners worldwide. Conversely, purist consumers, who prioritize ingredient quality and adherence to the whole prey ratio concept, may view the alterations with skepticism. The absence of certain components like organs and the inclusion of high-glycemic fillers such as pearl barley may raise concerns about nutritional adequacy and departure from the brand’s original values. Buy on Amazon Conclusion The evolution of Akana under the ownership of Mars Incorporated highlights the complexities of balancing commercial interests with maintaining brand integrity. While the changes may broaden the brand’s reach and appeal to a larger consumer base, they also raise questions about ingredient quality and alignment with the brand’s founding principles. Ultimately, whether to continue feeding Akana to their pets remains a personal decision for consumers. Understanding these changes and their implications empowers pet owners to make informed choices that prioritize the health and well-being of their furry companions. 🐶 A Final Note 🐶 The Pet Foods Review doesn't take money, gifts, or anything else to give good reviews. But we do get a referral fee from online stores (like Chewy or Amazon) and from sellers of fresh pet food when people click from our site to theirs. This helps us keep our blog free. Thanks for helping out! For more information, please visit our Disclaimer and Disclosure page. Sharing is caring! Share on Facebook Share on Pinterest Share on X (Twitter) Share on WhatsApp Sam M. Hi! I'm Sam, the founder of PetFoodsReview.com, I created PetFoodsReview.com to help pets live healthier through better food. I combine my love for animals and research to guide pet owners in choosing the right meals for their pets. Start Making Your Own Pet Food Today! Are you Looking for nutritious pet meals? Get instant access to easy-to-make and affordable recipes. Plus get new recipes delivered right to your inbox. DOWNLOAD By subscribing, you agree to get emails from me, I'll respect your privacy and you can unsubscribe any time. Keep Reading Explore more → Barking Heads Dog Food Review 2024 Barking Heads is a well-known brand in the UK, offering a variety of dog food recipes. But is it worth the hype? Let's dive into our review and find out. Legacy Dog Food Full Review 2024 Today, we delve into the world of pet nutrition with a critical eye on Legacy Dog Food by Horizon, a brand worth exploring for your furry companion's diet. Can Dogs eat Cheetos? We often feed the foods we eat to our pets. But are these human food good for your dogs to consume? Most of the time we crave for cheese puffs like Cheetos...