Mechanical disease-sniffing device vs dogs

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A number of researchers from various universities have joined together to try and develop a mechanical device that can rival the scenting ability of dogs to detect diseases in people. No one denies that dogs have a remarkable ability to detect the early stages of disease in humans. But the cost of training the dog and the dog’s length of service makes using them expensive. If scientists can develop a device that can equal a dog’s nose it would reduce a lot of the cost.

What has proven elusive to scientists is that dogs can pick up connections that researchers cannot mimic in a machine. For example, some dogs that have been trained to detect one type of cancer will identify other types of cancer as well. When the researchers tried to determine what the dogs were detecting, they were not able to. The differences were not detectable by current tests. What complicates the problem is that the different cancers that were detected by the dogs do not have any biomolecular signatures in common. The dogs were able to generalize from one kind of cancer to be able to identify others.  

The detection system that has been developed is 200 times more sensitive than a dog’s nose but the machine cannot figure out the elusive patterns that the dog can, that allows the dog to detect various cancers. In other words, the machine cannot think and make the connections. Until the researches solve the mystery, the machine cannot replace the dog.

The important point for people who use dogs for scent detection work is that dogs are capable of analyzing scent in a much more complex way then they have been trained to do. The bottom line is that if your scent dog gives you an indication that does not make sense to you, trust your dog and look further.

A new cancer treatment for dogs and cats

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Researchers have found a new way to extend the life of terminally ill dogs who have cancer. This new form of chemoimmunotherapy repurposes stem cells that uses a non-viral gene delivery treatment instead of the usual virus treatment. The new method is safe has had great results.

The researchers treated 65 dogs and two cats who had either adenoma, lung metastasis or sarcoma. After three to eight weeks of treatment, 55 showed signs of positive response. Of that 14 had a full recovery. Two animals remained cancer free for at least 30 months and 46 enjoyed a good quality of life for 32 months. None of the animals treated had significant side effects.

The research team are conducting further studies and plan to research the possibility of using this treatment on humans.

Journal Reference:

  1. Yoon Khei Ho, Kin Man Loke, Jun Yung Woo, Yee Lin Lee, Heng-Phon Too. Cryopreservation does not change the performance and characteristics of allogenic mesenchymal stem cells highly over-expressing a cytoplasmic therapeutic transgene for cancer treatment. Stem Cell Research & Therapy, 2022; 13 (1) DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-03198-z

Cite This Page:

National University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine. “Novel cancer therapy extends lives of terminally ill dogs.” ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 30 January 2023. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2023/01/230130112405.htm>.

Sleep apnea in dogs

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Many people may not be aware that brachycephalic dogs breeds such as French Bulldogs, Pugs and other breeds with short, flat noses can suffer from sleep apnea. It has been found that these dogs suffer from disordered breathing that is similar to human obstructive sleep apnea which is caused by upper airway obstruction. The result is daytime fatigue and interruptions in sleep.

Researchers at the University of Helsinki Lung Insight group found that a neckband system that is used in people, was successful in determining if dogs suffered from sleep apnea.  

Their research showed that brachycephalic dogs snore and suffer from sleep disorders more than dogs with long snouts. Sleep apnea causes health issues in humans such as hypertension and cardiovascular disease. It affects the body’s immune system, hormone secretion and metabolism. Since dogs and humans share similar health issues, it is important to monitor your dog’s sleep habits and if you think that your dog has sleep apnea contact your veterinarian.   

Journal Reference:

  1. Iida Niinikoski, Sari‐Leena Himanen, Mirja Tenhunen, Liisa Lilja‐Maula, Minna M. Rajamäki. Description of a novel method for detection of sleep‐disordered breathing in brachycephalic dogs. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2023; DOI: 10.1111/jvim.16783

Cite This Page:

University of Helsinki. “A short snout predisposes dogs to sleep apnea.” ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 13 June 2023. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2023/06/230613110050.htm>.

Stress causes overeating in pets

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Researcher Sora Shin, an assistant professor at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech has discovered a molecule that triggers the need to eat high fat foods in mice 24 hours after being exposed stress in the form of the scent of cats.

This molecule is found in the hypothalamus section of the brain which is the part of the brain that is connected to changes in the brain that lead to emotional overeating.

 The same molecule is found in people as well as animals. This discovery may lead to treatment methods that can help people who react to the emotionally driven need to overeat, even when they are not hungry.

Sue’s Note: There are many animals, particularly dogs and cats that tend to overeat which result in them becoming obese. Pet owners who have pets that have this problem should consider stress as a factor that causes their pets to overeat. First be sure that the family or friends are not over feeding the pets. If this is not the case the pet owner should evaluate the possibility that stress may be a cause. Since the study showed that the effects of stress can cause overeating 24 hours later, the pet owner should consider events that happened in the last 24 hours. An example would be someone or something that passes the pet’s home when the owner is not home that causes high stress in the pet. In situations where stress is a factor, reducing the amount of food that the pet has access to may cause a greater amount of stress. In this case over the counter calming remedies may help the pet. If not a visit to your veterinarian would be in order explaining to the veterinarian that you suspect stress is a cause of the overeating. Print a copy of the article in the link below to show your veterinarian if necessary.

Journal Reference:

  1. In-Jee You, Yeeun Bae, Alec R. Beck, Sora Shin. Lateral hypothalamic proenkephalin neurons drive threat-induced overeating associated with a negative emotional state. Nature Communications, 2023; 14 (1) DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42623-6

Cite This Page:

Virginia Tech. “Scientist discovers potential brain link between stress, emotional eating.” ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 27 November 2023. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2023/11/231127180702.htm>.

Unlock the Healing Power of Animal Companionship in Overcoming Addiction

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by guest blogger Cindy Aldridge

Embarking on the path to overcoming addiction, you might discover solace and support in unexpected places. Among these, the companionship of pets stands out as a source of unconditional love and understanding. These furry friends offer companionship and become critical pillars in the journey toward sobriety, providing a unique form of support that nurtures emotional and physical well-being. Susan Bulanda shares more:

Providing Companionship and Sense of Purpose

In the throes of addiction recovery, the presence of a pet can imbue your life with a newfound sense of purpose and belonging. The unconditional love and unwavering companionship pets offer can fill the void of loneliness, giving you a reason to push forward. 

Their dependence on you for care and affection instills a routine and responsibility that can be incredibly grounding. This bond is crucial to the recovery process, offering a comforting presence that reassures and motivates you to continue healing.

Navigating Through Inpatient Treatment

When grappling with the complexities of addiction recovery, acknowledging the potential for relapse becomes pivotal. In such instances, opting for inpatient treatment emerges as a decisive choice, offering a structured and supportive setting for individuals navigating the trials of recovery. While concerns about the expense of rehabilitation may arise, it’s reassuring that numerous treatment centers readily accept health insurance from major providers. 

Mitigating financial worries requires proactive engagement with insurance companies to ascertain the extent of coverage. Selecting the right inpatient facility involves a multifaceted approach; start with this list of best rehab centers in the US. Take into account accommodations, accreditations, treatment approaches, location, and the testimonials of former patients. 

In parallel to choosing a rehabilitation center, it’s crucial to ensure your pet’s well-being by arranging temporary housing. Research local pet boarding facilities or consider pet-sitting services that can offer personalized care in your absence. Engaging with a trusted provider early on will give you peace of mind, knowing your furry friend is in safe hands while you focus on your recovery.

Alleviating Stress Through Pet Interaction

Petting or simply being near an animal has been shown to reduce stress and significantly lower cortisol levels. This interaction promotes a sense of calm and well-being, which is particularly beneficial during the unpredictability of addiction recovery. 

The routine of caring for a pet provides a distraction from stressors and a way to channel energy positively. This natural form of stress relief can make a significant difference in managing recovery’s emotional ups and downs, offering a peaceful respite in moments of turmoil.

Overcoming Loneliness with the Company of Pets

The companionship of a pet combats the loneliness and isolation felt during addiction recovery, offering comfort and a sense of security that diminishes the risk of relapse. Their simple, unwavering support lightens the complexities in human relationships, making the path to sobriety feel less intimidating. This bond is a constant reminder that you are never truly alone in your journey toward healing.

Fostering Emotional Healing Through Pet Bonding

Pets provide a unique outlet for emotional expression, offering a safe space to express feelings without fear of judgment or reprisal. This aspect of pet ownership can be particularly therapeutic during addiction recovery, where emotional vulnerability is often a key part of the healing process. Caring for an animal can help redirect focus from personal struggles to the well-being of another, facilitating a form of emotional healing that is both subtle and profound.

Promoting Physical Health and Activity

Engaging in physical activities with a pet, such as walking or playing, strengthens your bond and promotes your own physical health. This routine encourages regular exercise, which is an essential component of a healthy recovery process. The physical benefits of activity and the emotional support of pet companionship contribute to a holistic approach to overcoming addiction, enhancing mental and physical resilience.

Encouraging Mindfulness and Presence

Caring for a pet requires mindfulness and presence which can be incredibly beneficial during addiction recovery. This responsibility encourages you to live in the moment, focusing on your pet’s needs rather than dwelling on past mistakes or future anxieties. This mindfulness practice fosters a sense of peace and connection, grounding you in the present and supporting a more mindful, purposeful approach to recovery.

In the challenging journey of overcoming addiction, the companionship of pets offers a powerful source of healing and support. Beyond mere companionship, they provide love, purpose, and a unique form of unconditional support that can significantly impact your recovery process. As you navigate the path to sobriety, consider embracing the therapeutic power of pets to find strength, resilience, and comfort in their presence.

Tips on How to Juggle Looking After Your Faithful, Furry Friend While Tending to Your Business

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by Guest Blogger Cindy Aldridge

Congratulations, you”ve got a new pet! But there’s one small problem, you’re starting a new business at the same time and have no choice but to bring him along with you in the beginning.

Certainly, this could prove to be immensely challenging if you don’t have a plan of action to help guide you on the right path. Today, A Blog by Susan Bulanda looks at some tips to help you juggle the roles of pet owner and owner without losing the reins of them both.

Choose the Best Structure for Your Business

This is one of the first things to consider when including your pet in your new business venture. It is important to decide what business you want to start. A limited liability company (LLC) is a great option for new business owners who are looking for a bit more

flexibility in the start-up phase. LLCs have other advantages as well, including tax benefits, less paperwork to file, and limited liability. Also, be sure what the different regulations are regarding filing an LLC, as these may differ from other states.

You’ll also need to plan a marketing campaign, too, notes i7 Marketing. Spreading the word via social media is a great way to start, but you should also invest in some old-fashioned approaches like business cards. And if you’re on a tight budget, you can use a business card design tool and take advantage of the free templates.

Upgrade Your Marketing Game

Even in the digital age, the value of tangible marketing tools like business cards remains significant. They are a physical extension of your brand and an essential part of your overall marketing strategy. Business cards offer a personal touch in a digital world, providing a direct and memorable way to share your contact information and reinforce your brand identity.

Design a Standout Logo

A logo is more than just a pretty image. Entrepreneurship in a Box points out that it is the cornerstone of your visual identity, and it should be designed with care and purpose. A well-designed logo can communicate your brand values and give customers a positive impression of your business. It can also help you to stand out from the competition and attract new customers. Investing in a professional logo is an essential part of any good marketing strategy, and it can pay off in a big way over time.

Create a Pet-Friendly Routine

Pets, more specifically dogs, tend to thrive on routine, especially when trained to follow through on a specific set of orders. So, if you intend to bring your pet with you to work daily, making small changes to accommodate your pet and familiarizing your pet with these changes could be the ice-breaker your pet needs to grow fond of his new home away from home. Also, you could consider buying them some new toys and treats to make them more comfortable.

Make Them Feel Welcome and at Home

One way to make your pet feel more at home in your new office is to make them feel as much at home as possible. Therefore, you should ideally bring along with you his favorite bed, toy, feeding, and water bowl so that he gets to know that this new space is his space, too. If you’re a tenant, consider looking for a place that offers more pet-friendly accommodations or amenities.

Some apartment complexes even offer dog washing stations and green areas specifically for pets. Keep an eye out for new potential places where you and your pet can be more comfortable.

Get Assistance

Perhaps your pet is a little rambunctious, and you envision needing assistance from professionals to help your pet get used to his new surroundings. For example, your pet may be a bit apprehensive around new people. Or perhaps, he requires a little more training on the potty-training side of things. Enrolling your pet in a pet training school could help your pet cope better with these issues. Be sure to only use a trainer who uses positive training techniques.

Improve Your Skills

Balancing the demands of running a business and caring for a pet can be challenging, but pursuing a cybersecurity degree online can be a strategic move to help your business grow while managing these responsibilities. With a cybersecurity degree, you’ll gain valuable knowledge in protecting your business’s computers and network systems, a crucial aspect in 0today’s digital world.

The convenience of online learning means you can acquire this vital skill set without having to sacrifice time spent on your business or neglect the needs of your pet. All-online classes offer the flexibility to learn at your own pace and schedule, allowing you to be present at home for your pet. This approach not only ensures your business is fortified against digital threats but also provides the peace of mind that comes with being able to take care of your pet’s needs throughout the day.

Make Use of Pet-Friendly Gadgets

Suppose you need something to keep your pet busy while you get to work on building your business from the ground up. There are plenty of pet-friendly gadgets that can help you keep an eye on your pet while you’re busy working, and you can even interact with them when you have a free moment in your busy day. Before investing in any new pet gadgets, be sure to seek out products that have been reviewed by veterinary professionals first.

Make Some Time for Them in Your Day

You’re probably going to feel pulled in every direction when starting your new business (at least in the beginning). And this probably won’t leave much time for downtime. But it is vital that you make time for your pet every day, and taking them for a walk around the block is sure to make their day, as well as get them more acquainted with their new role as your office companion at work.

Find the Right Balance for You and Your Pet

Taking your pet along with you on your new business venture is sure to be an enlightening experience as you bond with your pet on a whole other level. But as stressful as it might be in the beginning, working with formation services and getting your rambunctious pet some training can make things easier. It’s also sure to be comforting as you get the privilege of having your pet by your side through all the ups and downs of your new journey.

Susan Bulanda is the author of nine books including Faithful Friends: The Never-Before-Told Stories of Pets during the Holocaust which won the prestigious Maxwell Award by the Dog Writers Association of America for being first in its category (2013) and numerous additional awards. Visit her online today! http://www.sbulanda.com

A successful program to help shelter dogs find homes

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In previous studies researchers found that taking shelter dogs out of the shelter for a day or keeping them overnight at someone’s home significantly reduced the dog’s stress level. However, a new study conducted by a team at Virginia Tech’s College of Agriculture and Live Sciences found that by implementing shorter-term fostering programs made a big difference in adoptions by increasing the number of dogs adopted.

The study analyzed 51 animal shelters in the United States that included 1,955 dogs that received the fostering program as well as 25,946 dogs that were in shelters and were used as a comparison. The study lasted for four years and typically dogs in the program were adopted within ten days after partaking in the fostering program.

“We saw that the majority of people adopting the dogs weren’t the caregivers that were taking the dogs on outings or letting them stay in their homes. These dogs were being seen in the community, meeting new people, and caregivers were sharing their stories. This increased exposure likely helped the dogs find their adopters.”

An adopted and beloved dog

Sue’s Note: It might help your local shelter if you go to the report, print it and give it to your local shelter. You can organize a group of people to implement the short-term foster program to help the shelter.

Journal Reference:

  1. Lisa M. Gunter, Emily M. Blade, Rachel J. Gilchrist, Betsy J. Nixon, Jenifer L. Reed, Joanna M. Platzer, Ingrid C. Wurpts, Erica N. Feuerbacher, Clive D. L. Wynne. The Influence of Brief Outing and Temporary Fostering Programs on Shelter Dog Welfare. Animals, 2023; 13 (22): 3528 DOI: 10.3390/ani13223528

Cite This Page:

Virginia Tech. “Researchers discover way to boost shelter dog adoptions.” ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 15 November 2023. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2023/11/231115133200.htm>.

Diseases in small vs large dogs

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Researchers at the University of Washington in the US, studied the difference between diseases in large and small dogs. Although small dogs tend to live longer than large dogs, small vs large dogs do not differ in the amount of health conditions that they get, but they do differ in the types of health conditions.

The study compared 25,000 dogs of 238 different breeds. Although they did find trends, the researchers stressed that the study does not confirm any causal relationship between a dog’s size, age and disease.

They found that large dogs are more likely to develop cancer, bone-related disease, gastrointestinal problems, ear/nose/throat issues, neurological and endocrine conditions and infectious diseases. Smaller dogs were more likely to have ocular, cardiac, liver/pancreas and respiratory diseases. Both large and small breeds experienced kidney/urinary disease.

“For many types of conditions — including cancer, ocular, cardiac, orthopedic, and ear/nose/throat conditions — different dog sizes were associated with differing patterns of risk over the course of a dog’s lifespan.

The results held up even after the researchers statistically accounted for the dogs’ sex, where they lived, and whether they were purebred or mixed-breed.”

Journal Reference:

  1. Yunbi Nam, Michelle White, Elinor K. Karlsson, Kate E. Creevy, Daniel E. L. Promislow, Robyn L. McClelland. Dog size and patterns of disease history across the canine age spectrum: Results from the Dog Aging Project. PLOS ONE, 2024; 19 (1): e0295840 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0295840

Cite This Page:

PLOS. “Big dogs versus small dogs: Which sizes face higher risks of which diseases?.” ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 17 January 2024. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2024/01/240117141009.htm>.

Sue’s Note: This information can be used to help dog owners test their dogs for the diseases that they are most likely to get. Your veterinarian can help you keep abreast of potential diseases. This study did not track the illnesses/diseases that are predominant in specific breeds of dogs. It is important to know this information about your dog. For example, certain large breeds are more prone to develop hip dysplasia.

Nurture Your Senior Pet with These Essential Care Strategies

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by guest blogger Cindy Aldridge

As your furry companion advances into their senior years, adapting your care approach becomes crucial for their well-being. This stage in their life calls for special attention to health, comfort, and happiness. This detailed guide, courtesy of Susan Bulanda, covers essential strategies to ensure your aging pet enjoys their later years to the fullest.  

Maximize Health with Regular Veterinary Check-Ups

Regular veterinary visits are crucial for senior pets. These appointments allow for early detection of common age-related issues such as arthritis, kidney problems, and vision loss. Timely intervention can significantly improve your pet’s quality of life. Additionally, veterinarians can offer advice on diet and exercise tailored to your senior pet’s specific needs, ensuring they remain healthy and active.

Safeguard Your Pet in the Great Outdoors

Creating a safe outdoor environment is essential for the well-being of senior pets. Installing a robust fence prevents your pet from wandering off and keeps unwanted animals out. Also, consider adding ramps for easy access, which are especially beneficial for pets with mobility issues. 

It’s also wise to document any improvements made to your outdoor space. If you plan to sell your home, taking before-and-after photos and retaining receipts can help demonstrate the added value these enhancements bring to your property. Keeping a close eye on your pet when they are outdoors is crucial too, as older pets may not be as alert to potential dangers, heightening their risk of accidents or getting lost.

Prioritize Dental Health

Effective dental care is a cornerstone of senior pet health. In addition to brushing and dental treats, regular professional cleanings can prevent serious dental issues. Neglecting dental health can lead to complications like heart disease or infections. Integrating dental care into your routine demonstrates your commitment to their overall health.

Maintain Grooming and Hygiene

Grooming is crucial for aesthetics and maintaining your senior pet’s health. Regular grooming sessions allow for the early detection of lumps, bumps, or skin conditions, which are more prevalent in older pets. It also serves as a bonding activity, offering comfort and reassurance. 

Further, these sessions are essential for ensuring your pet’s coat remains free from parasites and matting, which can cause discomfort and skin issues. Grooming is also a great time to check the flexibility and condition of your pet’s skin, which can indicate their overall health.

Ensure Adequate Hydration

Maintaining proper hydration is crucial in supporting kidney function and preventing urinary tract issues in senior pets. Placing multiple water bowls around your home encourages them to drink regularly. Regularly checking these bowls ensures they always have access to fresh water. 

A pet fountain can further encourage drinking by providing a continuous flow of fresh water, making it more appealing. Additionally, monitoring your pet’s water intake can indicate their overall health and alert you to potential issues.

Image via Freepik 

Stimulate Their Minds

Cognitive health is as crucial as physical health in senior pets. Engaging them in regular mental exercises can help delay the onset of cognitive dysfunction, similar to dementia in humans. Training sessions, learning new tricks, or engaging in scent games help keep their minds active and alert. 

These activities stimulate their brains and strengthen their bond with them. Consistent mental stimulation can also help maintain their senses and reflexes, which are vital for their overall well-being and quality of life.

Create a Comfortable Environment

Adapting your home to suit your senior pet’s needs is vital to their comfort. This includes providing orthopedic bedding to support their joints, ensuring easy access to their favorite spots, and maintaining a consistent indoor temperature. Remember that their tolerance for extreme weather conditions diminishes with age, so keeping them comfortable shows your deep understanding and care.

Wrapping Up

Caring for a senior pet means adapting to their changing needs with empathy and understanding. By focusing on these essential care strategies, you can ensure that your beloved companion enjoys their golden years in comfort and happiness. 

Your commitment to their well-being reflects the depth of your bond, making every moment you share even more precious. Remember that the love and care you provide during these years are invaluable, creating a nurturing environment for your senior pet to thrive.

Researchers study why honey production is low

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Bees are critical for the production of the food that we eat. Fruit growers depend on honey bees to pollinate their trees. The same is true for those farmers who grow our food crops. Without bees there would be a shortage of food. Bees need the honey that they produce to survive when there are no flowering plants to feed them. Therefore, lower honey production not only affects people, but also the bees.

Gabriela Quinlan, the lead author on the study and a National Science Foundation (NSF) postdoctoral research fellow in Penn State’s Department of Entomology and Center for Pollinator Research has researched why honey production in the US has been dropping.

After studying five decades of data, the researchers narrowed down the main causes of lowering honey production. Not surprising they found a number of contributing factors:

         The use of herbicides, killing weeds that provide pollen for the bees

         Land use – fewer land conservation programs

         Weather changes that are not normal for the area

         Soil productivity

The importance of soil productivity was one of the surprising discoveries. Soil productivity includes the nutrients in the soil, the soil temperature, texture and structure which all contribute to how productive the soils are for plants, thus the flowering plants that bees need. Soil productivity also includes how suitable different areas are for growing pollinators. The study showed that in both warm and cool regions honey production was higher when there were productive soils.

Sue’s Note: What can each of us do to help the bees? Even if you live in the city or suburban/urban areas, locate planters on a deck or window with flowers that will feed the bees. Do not kill dandelions in the early spring, they are one of the first flowers that are available for bees to feed on after a long cold spell. Do not use herbicides, enrich your soil to help beneficial plants grow and plant a bee friendly garden. You will also attract hummingbirds that need to feed after traveling on their migration route. After the flowers die, leave the dead flowers in the garden, song birds will eat the seeds in the winter.  

Journal Reference:

  1. Gabriela M Quinlan, David A W Miller, Christina M Grozinger. Examining spatial and temporal drivers of pollinator nutritional resources: evidence from five decades of honey bee colony productivity data. Environmental Research Letters, 2023; 18 (11): 114018 DOI: 10.1088/1748-9326/acff0c

Cite This Page:

Penn State. “Why are bees making less honey? Study reveals clues in five decades of data.” ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 4 January 2024. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2024/01/240104121845.htm>.

Black soldier flies used as meat protein

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Tyson foods has partnered with Protix, a Netherlands-based insect ingredients maker to use black flies as a protein source for its pet, poultry and fish food. Tyson is planning to build a US insect ingredients maker facility to raise and use Black Soldier Flies.

The company takes animal waste and uses it to feed the flies and then processes the flies for animal food. While the Springdale, Arkansas Tyson facility does not make pet food, it sells animal fats, hides, and inedible proteins that are used in pet food.

Recently, Mars Pet Care produces and sells cat food made entirely of bugs.  

https://www.lovebugpetfood.com/ Mars Pet Care

According to the report, “Those flies are not going into human food, at this point. Today, we’re focused on more of [an] ingredient application with insect protein than we are a consumer application,” said John R. Tyson, chief financial officer of Tyson Foods.”

Note that the quote states, “at this point.” Does that mean in the future Tyson will include flies in food for human consumption?

Sue’s Note: The Latin name for black soldier flies is: Hermetia illucens, be sure to read the ingredients of the food that you buy. Also, people around the world for thousands of years have eaten various bugs as part of their diet. Even the Bible notes that John the Baptist lived on locust and honey when he lived in the wilderness. Matthew 3:4

https://www.cnn.com/2023/10/20/business/tyson-insect-ingredients/index.html#:~:text=Tyson%20Foods%2C%20one%20of%20the,is%20investing%20in%20insect%20protein&text=Tyson%2C%20a%20major%20US%20producer,Netherlands%2Dbased%20insect%20ingredients%20maker.