Innovative Pet Dental Chews Harness Power of Sustainable Protein During Pet Dental Health Month
[Berkeley, California] — February 4, 2025 — As National Pet Dental Health Month brings attention to canine oral care, alarming statistics show that 73% of dogs in the U.S. suffer from dental-related issues. Now, a peer-reviewed study has revealed a promising solution: Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) protein significantly improves canine oral health. Jiminy's, a woman-owned sustainable pet care company, has transformed this breakthrough scientific finding into innovative dental chews that are revolutionizing how pet parents approach their dogs' dental care. If you're looking for the best dental chews for dogs, Jiminy’s chews are not only effective—they're sustainable and dog-approved.
The peer-reviewed research, based on comprehensive clinical trials conducted in the Netherlands over a 50-day period, demonstrated that BSFL protein contains natural compounds that actively fight harmful bacteria and support dental health. These compounds include medium-chain fatty acids with antimicrobial properties and lauric acid, along with natural antimicrobial peptides and high calcium content.
"This scientific breakthrough couldn't come at a better time, as we observe Pet Dental Health Month," said Anne Carlson, Jiminy’s Founder & CEO. "Research shows that small breed dogs are five times more likely to develop periodontal disease than larger breeds, and poor oral health can lead to serious complications including chronic kidney disease and heart valve infections."
Key findings from the clinical trials include:
- Significant reduction in Volatile Sulfur Compounds (VSC), the bacteria linked to periodontal disease
- Increase in beneficial Moraxella bacteria, supporting long-term oral health
- Measurable improvement in breath freshness
Made with BSFL protein, Jiminy's Dental Chews feature a unique design with a flexible texture and nubby surface that extends cleaning time. Unlike traditional mint-flavored products, these innovative, calcium-rich chews combine the proven benefits of BSFL with a proprietary blend of cinnamon and parsley that dogs prefer. The chews are also free from common allergens like chicken, wheat, corn, and soy, making them ideal for dogs with food sensitivities.
Additional information about the clinical study results can be found at https://jiminys.com/blogs/science/insect-protein-in-dog-food-improves-dental-health-new-research-shows-amazing-results
About Jiminy's
Jiminy's is pioneering sustainable pet nutrition through innovative insect protein-based dog food and treats. The company's revolutionary approach uses insect protein, a complete protein containing all essential amino acids, along with fiber, iron, and vitamins B2 & B12. This sustainable superfood requires exponentially less land, water, and feed than traditional protein sources while significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions. By combining superior nutrition with environmental stewardship, Jiminy's is leading the transformation of the pet food industry to meet today's environmental challenges. The company's products support both pet health and planetary health, offering solutions for common pet food allergies and digestive issues while maintaining an unmatched commitment to sustainability.
For more media information, contact:
Eric Carlson, Business Development for Jiminy’s
eric.carlson@jiminys.com
FAQ - Insect Protein & Dog Dental Health
1. What did the breakthrough study on insect protein and dog dental health find?
A peer-reviewed clinical study showed that Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) protein significantly improves canine oral health. Dogs fed BSFL showed reductions in harmful bacteria linked to periodontal disease, increases in beneficial oral bacteria, and improvements in breath freshness.
2. How does insect protein help improve dental health?
BSFL protein naturally contains medium-chain fatty acids with antimicrobial properties, lauric acid, antimicrobial peptides, and calcium, which help suppress bacteria that cause bad breath and periodontal disease while supporting oral microbiome balance.
3. How long was the study conducted?
The clinical trials took place over a 50-day period, where dogs’ oral health markers were tracked and compared.
4. What specific markers of dental health improved in the study?
Key improvements included:
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Reduction of Volatile Sulfur Compounds (VSCs) — bacteria linked to periodontal disease
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Increase in beneficial Moraxella bacteria in saliva
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Measurable improvement in breath freshness
These markers indicate better long-term oral health outcomes.
5. Can insect protein really reduce bad breath in dogs?
Yes — BSFL protein was associated with fresher breath and fewer compounds that cause foul odor, as confirmed by both microbial analysis and practical breath evaluation.
6. Is dental disease common in dogs?
Yes — periodontal disease affects the majority of dogs over the age of three, making effective dental care and preventive strategies an important part of overall pet health.
7. How does insect protein compare with traditional dog food proteins for dental health?
In research where dogs were fed either insect-based diets or traditional poultry protein diets, the insect diets reduced harmful bacteria and promoted beneficial oral microbiota, suggesting a distinct advantage for oral health.
8. What product uses this breakthrough study for dental care?
Jiminy’s has applied the study findings to create dental chews featuring BSFL protein, designed with a flexible, nubby texture and flavorful blend to help mechanically and biologically support oral care in dogs.
9. Are Jiminy’s dental chews suitable for dogs with food sensitivities?
Yes — they’re free from common allergens like chicken, wheat, corn, and soy, making them a good option for dogs with sensitivities while still delivering dental health benefits.
10. Do the dental chews replace brushing?
No — while the BSFL-based chews help reduce harmful bacteria and improve breath, they are best used as a supplement to regular brushing and professional dental care, not a complete replacement.
11. Is this insect protein dental benefit supported by other research?
Similar independent research has also reported that insect-based diets can reduce bad breath and dental-related bacteria in dogs, highlighting the broader scientific interest in BSFL for oral health.
