Lemmikkiruoka

Lemmikkiruoka, literally “animal food” in Finnish, is the commercial product that supplies the dietary needs of household pets such as dogs, cats, rabbits, birds and small mammals. The market for pet food in Finland is well established, with both domestic manufacturers and imports supplying a wide range of dry kibble, wet foods, semi‑wet and specialty products. Pet food is regulated by the Finnish Food Authority (Elintarvikevirasto) and must meet the standards set by the European Union, which include mandatory labeling of ingredients, guaranteed nutrient content and safety testing.

A typical kibble product consists of a base of cereals, legumes or protein sources, binders, essential vitamins and minerals, and a small amount of fats and flavouring agents. Cats, as obligate carnivores, require higher protein and taurine levels, whereas dogs can thrive on a more varied diet. Specialist diets exist for pets with allergies, diabetes, kidney disease or obesity, and are formulated to meet specific nutritional requirements.

The recommended feeding schedule depends on the species, age, weight and activity level of the pet. Most pet owners use a combination of dry and wet food to balance chewing benefits, hydration and palatability. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and related health problems; under‑feeding may cause malnutrition.

Pet food packaging in Finland must also carry a best-before date and a microbial limit statement. Recent EU regulations on food safety and traceability have tightened the requirement for ingredient transparency, making it easier for consumers to choose foods that are high quality and free from harmful additives.

Overall, lemmikkiruoka plays a central role in pet welfare, providing essential nutrients to support health, longevity and quality of life for companion animals across Finland.