Before you Use Yogurt Chips on Dog Treats, Stop & Read this Information First

As baking and decorating dog treats becomes more popular, so does the misunderstanding of what ingredients are safe to use. Most independent dog bakeries and franchises are already knowledgeable about all natural ingredients but the larger chain stores commonly still use yogurt chips. Now, in moderation, yogurt chips are fine for dogs. The issue that our health conscience dog bakers have are that customers tend to compare their own beautiful, all natural decorated treats to those found in chain stores and dog bakeries that purchase from online manufacturers. Every time we hear them speaking of these, we cringe, knowing that 90% of those treat ingredients just list that they are coated with… “Yogurt Chips”.

What consumers and retailers don’t necessarily pay attention to is the list of ingredients in most yogurt chips. Here they are: Sugar, Partially Hydrogenated Palm Kernel Oil, Whey Powder, Nonfat Yogurt Powder, Titanium Dioxide, Soy Lecithin, Salt, and Artificial Flavor.  

Hydrogenated Palm Oil is high in saturated fat, even we should avoid it. In humans, researchers claim hydrogenated oils can be associated with many serious diseases including cancer, diabetes, and obesity. As for Artificial Flavor? I don’t even know what that is but “artificial” says enough for me. Of course sugar and salt and not the best for dogs, but we all know that. And if you are claiming to do be a "soy free" bakery... ummm there is soy in yogurt chips.

For those of you who still use yogurt chips, don't beat yourself up. It might be that you think powdered icings are more expensive. But, in reality, once mixed the powdered icings go further and make more product. They don't even melt, so there's less product to throw away. Not to mention the time that is saved not having to melt the chips in order to use them.... Or it could be as simple as not knowing that there is a safer alternative for dogs. 

Educating yourself and your own customers is the key. Now, yes, dogs can eat yogurt chips but you might want to take the time to post and boast about the healthy ingredients that you use in your own homemade dog treats. This will help educate your customer to take a closer look at the ingredients that, perhaps, your competitors are using. 

For step by step, in-depth, personalized classes on "How to Make Money Baking and Selling Custom, Healthy Dog Treats From your Own Home or Storefront" check out our course offerings here: Online Courses and Workshops

Happy Baking!