Can my pet eat Simply Seaweed if they are allergic to seafood?

As seaweed is the natural habitat of many fish and shellfish, there may be traces of marine life in any seaweed product. If your pet has a serious fish or shellfish allergy, they should not be allowed to consume any seaweed products including Simply Seaweed. Pets that are intolerant of seaweed or algae derivatives should also refrain from consuming seaweed products including Simply Seaweed.

It is important to understand the difference between a food intolerance and a food allergy. Whilst they can share many clinical signs, food intolerances are usually less severe and limited to digestive issues. An intolerance is a chemical reaction that occurs within the body, whereas an allergy is an immune system response. A serious allergy can affect the nervous system and result in a life threatening situation.

What is the difference between seaweed, kelp, algae etc.?

  • Alga – The singular term for Algae.
  • Algae – Aquatic organisms that have the ability to conduct photosynthesis. Seaweed is a type of Algae.
  • Kelp – A type of Seaweed, that is big and brown.
  • Macroalgae – Another term for Seaweed.
  • Marine Algae – A type of Seaweed.
  • Microalgae – Microscopic, single-celled Algae.
  • Nori – The Japanese term for either Seaweed in general or for the dried red algae sheets used in cooking.
  • Phytoplankton – Microscopic Marine Algae.
  • Plankton – Microscopic organisms that live in water.
  • Sea Vegetable – Edible Seaweed.
  • Seagrass – Flowering Seaweed.
  • Seaweed – A plant that grows in the sea.

Where is Simply Seaweed made?

Our seaweed is imported from Canada and Ireland, then locally packaged, managed and distributed.

We are unable to claim that our product is Australian made, as Australian consumer law states that an imported product must undergo a significant change in Australia in order to be claimed as Australian made (note that repackaging and blending does not constitute a major change).

Will my pet like the taste? If they don’t, do you have any suggestions?

In our experience, pets are not usually bothered by Simply Seaweed added to their food. Some even enjoy it due to the fishy smell and taste! One study Palatability of extruded dog diets supplemented with Ascophyllum nodosum L. (Fucaceae, Phaeophyceae) found that Ascophyllum nodosum did not affect the palatability of dog food.

For pets that are fussy, some suggestions are;

  • Start by introducing a very small quantity of the product, gradually increasing the amount up to the recommended dosage.
  • If feeding kibble, add a splash of water into the bowl then swirl to encourage the product to stick to the biscuits.
  • Mix the product with a small amount of something yummy, such as yoghurt, chicken stock, gravy, margarine, sardines, milk, brewer’s yeast or peanut butter.

Our product is backed by a satisfaction guarantee, so if your pet refuses to consume Simply Seaweed you are welcome to return it for a full refund.