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- Description
Deliver superior raw nutrition through butcher cut duck protein with whole prey ingredients including organs, providing complete and balanced nutrition in a convenient freeze-dried format designed for dogs of all life stages.
Ingredient Authority
Vital Essentials Freeze-Dried Raw Duck features responsibly sourced, humanely harvested whole animal nutrition. The first four ingredients—Duck, Duck Gizzard, Duck Liver, and Herring Oil—establish a protein-forward foundation built on whole prey principles. Duck provides a novel protein source ideal for dogs with common protein sensitivities to chicken or beef. Organ meats including gizzard and liver deliver concentrated nutrition with naturally occurring vitamins A, D, E, K, B-complex, iron, zinc, and essential amino acids. Herring oil contributes omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) for skin, coat, and cognitive support. This grain-free formula contains no artificial preservatives, relying on mixed tocopherols (vitamin E) for natural preservation. Fortified with chelated minerals for optimal bioavailability.
Nutritional Breakdown
Each serving delivers exceptional nutrient density with minimum 45% crude protein and minimum 24% crude fat, providing concentrated nutrition that supports lean muscle development and sustained energy. Maximum 5% crude fiber and 8% moisture create a nutrient-dense profile with 4272 kcal/kg (254 kcal/cup). The freeze-drying process preserves raw nutrition, enzymes, and amino acids while eliminating moisture for shelf stability. Whole prey nutrition from muscle meat and organs provides the complete spectrum of naturally occurring vitamins and minerals, supporting digestive health, oral health, immune function, and overall vitality.
Life Stage & Breed Clarity
Formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for all life stages. Suitable for puppies, adults, and senior dogs across all breed sizes. The mini nib format accommodates small and large breeds alike, with easy portion control and rapid rehydration. Novel duck protein makes this formula particularly suitable for dogs with food sensitivities or those requiring protein rotation.
Functional Positioning
The grain-free, whole prey approach delivers ancestral nutrition aligned with canine biology. Freeze-dried raw processing preserves the nutritional integrity of raw feeding while providing shelf-stable convenience without refrigeration. Butcher cut protein with organs supplies naturally occurring nutrients often absent in muscle-meat-only formulas. The mini nib format offers versatility—serve dry, rehydrate with water or bone broth, or use as a high-protein topper. Duck serves as a novel protein alternative for dogs with sensitivities to conventional proteins.
Feeding Guidance
Feed according to your dog's weight and activity level, using the caloric content of 254 kcal/cup as a guide. Can be served dry, lightly rehydrated, or fully reconstituted. When introducing freeze-dried raw, gradually transition over 7-10 days by mixing increasing amounts with current food. Always provide access to clean, fresh water. Store in a cool, dry place in original packaging or airtight container. No refrigeration required.
Key Benefits
- Butcher cut duck with whole prey organs for complete nutrition
- Minimum 45% crude protein and 24% fat for superior energy
- Novel protein ideal for dogs with food sensitivities
- Freeze-dried raw preserves nutrients, enzymes, and amino acids
- Grain-free formula with no artificial preservatives
- Complete and balanced for all life stages per AAFCO standards
- Responsibly sourced and humanely harvested
- Shelf-stable convenience with no refrigeration required
Vital Essentials delivers the nutritional benefits of raw feeding through responsibly sourced whole prey ingredients and advanced freeze-drying technology, supporting optimal health and vitality at every life stage.
Product Specifications
Commercial
- Brand: Vital Essentials
- Product Line: Freeze-Dried Raw
- Formula: Duck Entree Mini Nibs
- Barcode: 840199680092
- SKU: S002980B002392P000068V001
Physical
- Package Weight: 3.5 lbs
- Format: Freeze-dried raw mini nibs
- Texture: Small, bite-sized pieces
Functional
- Life Stage: All life stages (puppy, adult, senior)
- Breed Size: All breeds
- Primary Protein: Duck (novel protein)
- Whole Prey Ingredients: Duck gizzard, duck liver
- Grain Status: Grain-free
- Crude Protein (min): 45%
- Crude Fat (min): 24%
- Crude Fiber (max): 5%
- Moisture (max): 8%
- Caloric Content: 4272 kcal/kg | 254 kcal/cup
- AAFCO Compliance: Formulated to meet AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for all life stages
Operational
- Storage: Store in cool, dry place; no refrigeration required
- Requires Shipping: Yes
- Product Type: Freeze Dried Raw
