Food Metas
The Food Meta category represents the broadest grouping of food sources. All foods fall under these major groups, categorized by their biological origin, providing a foundation for understanding the relationships between whole ingredients, derivatives, and nutrients within canine diets. Food Metas form the top level of the taxonomy, guiding how ingredients are classified and explored.
| search_title | Featured Image | Information |
|---|---|---|
| Animal |  Animal |
Animal Animals are organisms that consume other living things for energy, distinguishing them from plants, which produce energy through photosynthesis, and fungi, which absorb nutrients from organic matter. Animal-derived foods, both terrestrial and aquatic, provide essential nutrients like proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. |
| Plant | Plant |
Plant Plants are living organisms that primarily produce energy through photosynthesis, differentiating them from animals and fungi. They serve as key sources of nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. |
| Fungi | 
Fungi |
Fungi Fungi are a group of organisms that include mushrooms, yeasts, and molds. In dog nutrition, they provide immune-supportive compounds like β-glucans, probiotic species for gut balance, and enzymes that aid digestion. |
| Bacteria |  Bacteria |
Bacteria In dog nutrition, bacteria are used as living functional ingredients or as part of fermentation processes that alter how foods behave in the body. Their role is to influence digestion and the gut environment rather than to supply calories or nutrients. |
| Algae | 
Algae |
Algae In dog nutrition, algae are plant-like organisms used as sources of omega-3 fats, trace minerals, and other marine compounds. They are included to supply specific functional components, not to serve as primary protein or energy sources. |