Recalls: Blue Buffalo has had several recalls in the past, including one in 2010 for excess levels of vitamin D and another in 2016 for potential contamination with mold. This can be a concern for pet owners as consuming too much vitamin D can lead to health problems for dogs and mold can cause serious illness.
Ingredients: Some Blue Buffalo dog food products have been found to contain ingredients that are not listed on the label. For example, in 2014, the company was sued for allegedly using poultry by-product meal in their products without disclosing it on the label. This can be a concern for pet owners who are trying to avoid certain ingredients in their dog’s diet.
Quality control: There have been reports of quality control issues with Blue Buffalo dog food, such as moldy kibble and strange odors. These issues can be a concern for pet owners as they may indicate that the food is not being properly stored or is not fresh.
False advertising: In 2017, Blue Buffalo settled a class-action lawsuit for $32 million over allegations that they falsely advertised their products as being “made with real meat” and “never any poultry by-product meal.” This can be a concern for pet owners who are misled into purchasing a product that does not meet their expectations.
Nutritional value: Some Blue Buffalo dog food products have been criticized for being high in carbohydrates and lacking in important nutrients like protein. This can be a concern for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a nutritionally balanced diet.
Blue Buffalo dog food reviews
Quality of ingredients: Blue Buffalo prides itself on using high-quality, natural ingredients in their dog food. This includes real meat as the first ingredient, as well as whole grains and vegetables. However, some reviews have noted that the brand’s use of “meat meal” (a type of rendered meat product) as a secondary ingredient may not be as high-quality as some pet parents would like.
Variety of formulas: Blue Buffalo offers a wide range of dog food formulas, including options for different life stages, breeds, and dietary needs (such as grain-free or weight management options). This means that there is a good chance you can find a formula that will work for your dog’s specific needs.
Price: Blue Buffalo dog food can be on the more expensive side, with some reviewers noting that the cost may be prohibitive for some pet parents. However, other reviewers have noted that the quality of ingredients justifies the higher price point.
Palatability: Many reviewers have noted that their dogs seem to enjoy the taste of Blue Buffalo dog food, with some even stating that their picky eaters have been willing to eat it without hesitation.
Nutritional value: Blue Buffalo dog food is formulated to meet the AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) standards for complete and balanced nutrition. However, some reviewers have noted that their dogs have experienced digestive issues or weight gain after switching to the brand.
Why did Purina Sues Blue Buffalo?
Purina, a leading pet food brand, filed a lawsuit against Blue Buffalo in 2014 for allegedly making false and misleading advertising claims about the ingredients in their products. Purina claimed that Blue Buffalo’s advertising stated that their products did not contain poultry by-product meal, despite testing by Purina indicating otherwise.
Blue Buffalo responded by denying the allegations and counter-suing Purina for defamation. The lawsuit was eventually settled in 2017, with Blue Buffalo agreeing to pay $32 million for falsely advertising their products as being free of poultry by-product meal.
The lawsuit highlights the importance of transparency in the pet food industry, as consumers rely on the information provided by manufacturers to make informed decisions about the products they feed their pets. It also serves as a reminder that false advertising claims can have serious consequences for companies.
Overall, the lawsuit between Purina and Blue Buffalo serves as a cautionary tale for pet food companies to ensure that their advertising claims are accurate and truthful in order to maintain consumer trust and avoid legal action.
Alternative to Blue Buffalo dog food
Blue Buffalo is a popular brand of dog food, but it may not be the best option for every dog. There are several alternatives to Blue Buffalo that offer unique benefits and ingredients for your furry friend.
- Canidae: This brand offers a variety of grain-free and limited ingredient options for dogs with sensitivities or allergies. They also use high-quality proteins like chicken, lamb, and fish.
- Taste of the Wild: This brand uses wild game meats like bison, elk, and wild boar as their main protein source. They also use fruits and vegetables as natural sources of vitamins and minerals.
- Orijen: This brand prides itself on using high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients. They use a variety of proteins, including chicken, turkey, fish, and beef, and include fruits and vegetables for added nutrition.
- Merrick: This brand offers a variety of grain-free options and uses high-quality proteins like chicken, beef, and fish. They also include fruits and vegetables for added nutrition and use natural preservatives.
- Natural Balance: This brand offers a variety of limited ingredient options for dogs with sensitivities or allergies. They use high-quality proteins like chicken, lamb, and fish and include fruits and vegetables for added nutrition.
When choosing an alternative to Blue Buffalo, it is essential to consider your dog’s specific needs and dietary requirements. Be sure to read the ingredient list and look for high-quality proteins and natural sources of vitamins and minerals.
Conclusion of Blue Buffalo
Pros:
- Blue Buffalo uses high-quality, natural ingredients in their products, such as real meat as the first ingredient and whole fruits and vegetables.
- They offer a wide range of products for different types of pets, including dogs, cats, and birds.
- Many of their products are specifically formulated for specific health concerns, such as weight management or sensitive stomachs.
Cons:
- Blue Buffalo products can be relatively expensive compared to other pet food brands on the market.
- Some customers have reported issues with packaging and delivery, such as damaged bags or delayed shipments.
- There have been some recalls of Blue Buffalo products in the past, although these have been limited and the company has taken steps to address the causes.
Overall, Blue Buffalo offers a range of high-quality, natural pet food options for a variety of pets. While their products can be pricey, they are formulated with specific health concerns in mind and use high-quality ingredients. However, there have been some issues with packaging and delivery, as well as recalls in the past. Customers should weigh these factors when deciding whether to purchase Blue Buffalo pet food products.
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