Common Questions
Where Are Your Products Made?
Our manufacturing facility is located in Brantford, Ontario, Canada. We prioritize sourcing our ingredients from Canada whenever possible. However, certain items, such as fish, are imported from other countries. The country of origin for each ingredient is listed in the Ingredients & Nutritional section of the product description.
Why Feed Freeze Dried Raw Treats?
Freeze-drying preserves the natural nutrients, flavors, and textures of raw ingredients without the need for artificial preservatives. This process removes moisture while locking in essential vitamins and minerals, making our treats lightweight, shelf-stable, and packed with natural goodness.
What’s the Difference Between Freeze-Dried and Dehydrated Treats?
Both freeze-drying and dehydration remove moisture to preserve food, but they do so in different ways, affecting nutritional value, texture, and shelf life:
Freeze-Dried:
- Uses a low-temperature vacuum process to remove moisture while keeping the food structure intact.
- Preserves more nutrients since there’s no heat involved.
- Creates a light, airy texture that rehydrates quickly.
- Longer shelf life compared to dehydrated foods.
Dehydrated:
- Uses low heat over time to slowly remove moisture.
- Some heat-sensitive nutrients may be lost during the process.
- Results in a chewier, denser texture that takes longer to rehydrate.
- Shorter shelf life than freeze-dried products.
While both options are great for our pets, freeze-dried treats offer maximum nutrition and convenience.
Why Are Freeze-Dried Treats Considered Raw?
Freeze-dried treats are considered raw because they undergo a low-temperature vacuum process that removes moisture without cooking the food. Unlike traditional cooking methods that use heat, freeze-drying preserves the natural enzymes, vitamins, and minerals found in raw ingredients.
Since the treats are never exposed to high temperatures, their nutritional integrity remains intact, making them as close to fresh raw food as possible—just in a lightweight, shelf-stable form.
Do You Use Any Artificial Ingredients or Preservatives?
No! Our treats are 100% natural, single-ingredient, and free from artificial additives, preservatives, or fillers.
How Do You Keep Your Treats Fresh Without Preservatives?
To ensure maximum freshness and shelf stability, we include a silica pack and an oxygen absorber in our bags. These help prevent moisture buildup and oxidation, keeping your treats fresh and safe until they’re ready to be enjoyed. Please do not consume these packets—they are not edible.
Why Do You Use BPI-Certified Compostable Packaging?
Our packaging is certified by the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI), ensuring it meets rigorous scientific standards for safe decomposition in industrial composting systems. Many Canadian municipalities require the BPI logo to verify items eligible for compost bin disposal.
By using BPI-certified compostable materials, we contribute to a sustainable waste management system, reducing environmental impact and supporting eco-friendly practices.
What’s the Difference Between Biodegradable and Compostable?
Biodegradable products often contain EPI additives that cause them to break into smaller pieces rather than fully decompose. This process leaves behind harmful microplastics more easily ingested by wildlife as well as toxic residues, contributing to long-term environmental damage.
Compostable products, on the other hand, completely break down into natural, non-toxic elements like nutrient-rich compost. They support a healthier planet by leaving no harmful traces behind. Compostable is the superior, eco-friendly choice.
What is the Shelf Life of Your Treats?
Unopened, freeze-dried treats can typically last several years due to the moisture-removal process. However, because we use compostable bags, the packaging itself will begin to break down after about one year.
Once the bag is opened, the treats will be exposed to oxygen, causing them to slowly rehydrate. To maintain freshness, keep the bag tightly sealed and store it in a cool, dark place, such as a cupboard. Even moving them into an air-tight container can help keep our treats fresh. The treats should be consumed within one month of opening.
For extended shelf life, you can store the treats in the refrigerator, which can help them last up to three months.
Always inspect the treats before feeding and use your best judgment to ensure they are still safe for your pet.
How Long Does It Take to Process and Ship My Order?
We strive to process and ship orders as quickly as possible, typically within a few days to a week. To ensure freshness, we maintain a small inventory and may need extra time to prepare your order, especially during busier seasons. Please allow up to 2 weeks for processing in these cases, your patience helps us maintain the quality and care your furry friend deserves.
Free Shipping: We offer free shipping on orders over $100! Shipping rates for smaller orders will be calculated at checkout.
Once shipped, delivery times may vary depending on your location. For more details, please visit our Shipping Policy page.
What is Your Refund/ Return Policy?
We accept returns of unopened, unused products within 30 days of purchase for a full refund. If your item arrives damaged or defective, please contact us immediately, and we’ll replace it or issue a refund. Shipping fees are non-refundable, and proof of purchase is required.
To read more follow the link in the footer to see our full refund and return policy.
How Can I Carry Your Products in My Store?
Wholesale accounts for pet retailers will be available in Summer 2025. For inquiries about carrying our products, please contact us at hello@tuctucstreats.ca. We’d love to connect!