The Plant-Based Path: Why the Evidence is Clear—But the Industry Isn’t Ready for It

As the evidence continues to mount, one thing is becoming increasingly clear: vegan/plant-based diets for dogs can support health, vitality, and longevity.

A 2023 meta-analysis of 16 studies examining vegan diets in dogs and cats concluded that these diets are often associated with equal or better health outcomes compared to conventional meat-based diets.

And now, in a historic shift, the British Veterinary Association (BVA)—married to Big Pet Food: Mars, and therefore, once firmly against vegan diets for dogs—has ended its opposition. This move reflects a growing recognition within the international veterinary community that these diets, when properly formulated, can be both ethical and effective.

But here’s the problem: Big Pet Food doesn’t want you to know that.

Despite mounting scientific support and thousands of healthy, thriving dogs fed plant-based diets, most major pet food corporations continue to promote the narrative that vegan diets are “dangerous” or “untested.” Why? Because funding large-scale, long-term studies on plant-based nutrition for dogs could mean one thing—they’d risk proving their own products inferior.

And that’s a threat to their shareholders.

Unlike independent companies like Virchew, which are built around transparency, integrity, and decades of sustainable, plant-based diet nutrition research, these corporations have billions invested in meat-based formulations. Supporting studies that could undermine their core business model isn’t just inconvenient—it’s potentially catastrophic for their bottom line.

The truth deserves to be heard.

That’s why we’re committed to continuing our plant-based and sustainable research, sharing the latest science, and delivering food that supports happy skin, healthy tummies, and vibrant energy—without compromise.

The tide is turning. The only question now is: will the industry catch up or fess up, or keep hiding behind outdated narratives? 

Not on our dime or time and we'll do our best to ensure it's not on yours, or compromises your dog's health.

If you want the truth, call us. Visit us. Text us. Email us. Canada, 🍁 we're here for it.

Having said all of this, “Have you ever seen ONE study that proves dogs cannot thrive on a plant-based diet?”

👉 Want to dig deeper into the evidence and science behind plant-based nutrition for dogs? 

Explore our extensive research blog posts here: 

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