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Feeding and Storage

FEEDING & STORAGE

Safe Handling, Feeding, & Storage Guidelines For Raw Pet Food

Keep your pet’s meals fresh, safe, and nutritionally optimized with proper handling and storage practices.

At Ancestral Raw Nutrition, our meals are produced in small batches using responsibly sourced ingredients and frozen immediately to help preserve freshness and quality. Because raw pet food is minimally processed, proper handling and storage are important.

SAFE HANDLING GUIDELINES

Raw pet food should be handled with the same care and sanitation practices as raw meat intended for household handling.

We Recommend:

✔ Wash hands thoroughly before and after handling raw pet food

✔ Clean and sanitize bowls, utensils, cutting boards, and surfaces after each feeding

✔ Keep raw meals separated from human food when possible

✔ Store products frozen until ready to thaw and serve

✔ Refrigerate thawed meals immediately

✔ Discard uneaten raw food left at room temperature for extended periods

STORAGE GUIDELINES

Frozen Storage

Store raw meals frozen at 0°F (-18°C) or below until ready to use.

When properly stored frozen, products maintain their best quality for several months.

Refrigerator Storage

Once thawed, raw meals should remain refrigerated.

Recommended Use Time:

  • Ground blends: 2–4 days refrigerated

  • Whole prey items: 2–3 days refrigerated

  • Dehydrated treats: Store in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight

Always use clean and pet-designated utensils and reseal products properly after each feeding.

THAWING INSTRUCTIONS

Best Method

Place frozen meals in the refrigerator overnight to thaw slowly.

Faster Thawing Option

For quicker thawing:

  • Place sealed package in cold water

  • Change water periodically

  • Do not use hot water

IMPORTANT

Avoid thawing raw meals at room temperature for prolonged periods.

SHIPPING & DELIVERY INFORMATION

Our frozen meals are packed with insulated packaging and dry ice to help maintain product integrity during transit.

Because dry ice naturally evaporates during shipping, some products may arrive partially thawed but still cold to the touch.

This is normal and generally safe for refreezing if handled promptly.

UPON DELIVERY

✔ Open shipments immediately upon arrival

✔ Transfer products directly into the freezer

✔ Refreeze meals the same day if still cool or partially frozen

✔ Contact us immediately if you have concerns about your shipment

FEEDING GUIDELINES

Every pet is unique. Feeding amounts may vary depending on:

  • Activity level

  • Age

  • Metabolism

  • Breed

  • Body condition

  • Health goals

GENERAL DAILY FEEDING GUIDELINES

Adult Dogs

Typically 2–3% of ideal body weight daily.

Puppies

Typically 5–10% of body weight daily depending on age and growth stage.

Adult Cats

Typically 2–4% of ideal body weight daily.

Kittens

Feed multiple smaller meals daily to support healthy growth.

TRANSITIONING TO RAW

When introducing raw feeding for the first time, gradual transition is often recommended.

Transition Example:

Days 1–2

75% current food / 25% raw

Days 3–4

50% current food / 50% raw

Days 5–6

25% current food / 75% raw

Day 7+

100% raw feeding

Some pets may transition faster or slower depending on sensitivity and digestive history.

COMMON QUESTIONS

Is it normal for stools to change?

Yes. Mild stool changes may occur during transition as your pet adjusts to a fresh food diet.

Can meals be refrozen?

Meals that arrive cool or partially frozen are typically safe to refreeze promptly.

Should I microwave raw meals?

We do not recommend microwaving raw meals, as uneven heating may alter texture and nutritional integrity.

Can I feed meals cold?

Some sensitive pets may prefer meals slightly warmed to near room temperature after transitioning.

BEGINNER FEEDING TIPS

✔ Start with simpler, leaner proteins when transitioning (fine grind pucks)

✔ Introduce new proteins gradually

✔ Rotate proteins over time for variety

✔ Monitor stool quality and body condition regularly

✔ Feed consistent meal portions during transition

WHY PET PARENTS CHOOSE ANCESTRAL RAW NUTRITION

✔ Small-batch production

✔ PMR-inspired feeding philosophy

✔ Responsibly sourced meats

✔ Frozen fresh for quality

✔ No synthetic fillers or oils

✔ Species-appropriate nutrition

NEED HELP?

Our team is here to help support your raw feeding journey.

Helpful Resources

IMPORTANT NOTICE

This information is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet’s individual dietary needs, especially for pets with pre-existing health conditions.

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