There are so many dog food options available today, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Dog food packaging often includes terms like “cold-pressed” and “extruded” - but what do they really mean?
More importantly, does the processing method affect your dog’s digestion, nutrition, and overall health?
In this guide, we unleash the truth about these terms so you can make an informed choice for your dog.
What Is Extruded Kibble?
Extrusion is the most common method used in dry pet food production and is typically the process most people associate with traditional dry biscuits. Generally, if a package does not specify a production processing type, it is extruded.
The production process generally follows these steps:
- Raw ingredients are ground into a fine powder and blended to create a dough
- The mixture is combined with water and steam, beginning the cooking process
- The mixture is then cooked at high temperatures (typically around 120°C or higher), which helps reduce harmful bacteria
- The hot, dough-like mixture is pushed through a die plate and cut into small pieces by rotating blades
- The kibble moves through a conveyor dryer (usually around 90–150°C) to remove excess moisture and achieve a crisp, biscuit-like texture
- Once cooled, the kibble is coated with fats and flavourings to enhance palatability and preserve freshness
- The finished product is cooled to room temperature, packaged, and sealed
Benefits of Extruded Kibble
- The extrusion process breaks down starches, which can support digestibility.
- The crisp texture encourages chewing, which may contribute to dental maintenance when combined with a proper dental routine.
- High-temperature cooking helps reduce microbial risk and contributes to a long shelf life.
- Widely available and suitable for many dogs when nutritionally balanced with a generally cheaper up-front cost
What Is Cold-Pressed Dog Food?
Like extrusion, “cold-pressed” refers to the production method rather than the ingredient list itself.
The process typically involves:
- Ingredients are selected and milled into a fine powder
- The ground ingredients are blended in an industrial mixer, with controlled moisture added if required
- The mixture is pressed into shape at lower temperatures (often around 70–90°C), rather than being expanded through high-heat extrusion
- The pellets are cooled, dried, and stabilised to remove excess moisture and lock in structure
- The finished product undergoes quality and moisture testing before packaging. While cold-pressed food uses lower temperatures, reputable manufacturers still follow strict safety and quality control standards to ensure the final product is safe and nutritionally complete.
- The food is packed in protective, multi-layer packaging to maintain freshness
Benefits of Cold-Pressed Food
- Produced at lower temperatures compared to traditional extrusion, meaning more nutrients are retained from the raw ingredients
- Breaks down differently in the digestive system compared to expanded kibble which is beneficial for sensitive stomachs
- Often selected by owners seeking a premium alternative or feeding approach with a higher up-front cost but a lower daily feeding amount
If you’re interested in exploring this type of food further, you can view our Complete Cold-Pressed Dog Food range here.
Cold-Pressed vs. Extruded: What Most Owners Care About
|
What You Care About |
Traditional Extruded Kibble |
Cold-Pressed Food |
|
Price Per Bag |
Often lower upfront cost |
Often slightly higher upfront cost |
|
Cost Per Day |
Can be economical depending on brand and feeding amount |
Often nutrient-dense, so feeding amounts may be lower |
|
Shelf Life |
Long shelf life |
Long shelf life |
|
Storage |
Store in a cool, dry place |
Store in a cool, dry place |
|
Digestive Behaviour |
Expands when exposed to moisture before breaking down |
Breaks down without significant expansion |
|
Texture |
Light and crunchy |
Dense and compact |
|
Suitability |
Works well for many dogs |
Often chosen by owners looking for an alternative feeding approach |
|
Availability |
Widely available |
Growing but more specialist |
|
Perceived Positioning |
Varies by brand |
Often positioned as a premium alternative |
So… Does it matter?
There is no universal ‘best’ option, it should always come down to choosing a food that suits your dogs and your individual needs. Both extruded and cold-pressed foods can be complete, balanced, and suitable when produced to proper nutritional standards.
The processing method may matter more if:
- Your dog has a sensitive stomach or certain allergies
- You prefer a lower temperature production method
- You have previously fed raw food and are looking for a more convenient alternative
- You’re looking for a softer kibble
If you’d like help working out which option is right for your dog or deciding between our cold-pressed options, you can always contact our team by emailing customerservices@sabrepetfood.co.uk, or phoning us on 08002294010.