Brew Bites USA Turns Brewery Waste into Pet Wellness Treats
In Tucson, Arizona, a small business is finding a creative way to turn what many breweries consider waste into a beneficial product for pets. Brew Bites USA takes spent grain – the leftover malt after the brewing process – and combines it with hemp‑derived extracts to produce treats that aim to support animal nutrition and calm anxiety.
The Concept Behind the Product
Founder Ty Young explained that the idea emerged from a desire to add value to a by‑product that would otherwise end up in landfills. “Spent grain adds a lot of fiber, and that’s very good for animals. It’s a good filler as well,” Young said in a recent interview with KGUN 9. By repurposing this material, the company not only reduces waste but also creates a revenue stream for local breweries.
Nutritional Value of Spent Grain
Spent grain retains a significant portion of the original barley’s nutrients. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, dried spent grain can contain up to 20 % protein and 60 % fiber on a dry‑matter basis, making it a potent source of dietary fiber for dogs and cats. Fiber aids digestion, helps maintain healthy weight, and can contribute to a feeling of fullness, which is why many pet nutritionists recommend it as a supplemental ingredient.
Hemp Extracts and CBD for Pet Anxiety
Beyond fiber, Brew Bites USA incorporates hemp extracts that contain cannabidiol (CBD) and other beneficial phytochemicals. Research suggests that CBD may help modulate stress responses in animals. A 2018 study conducted by Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine found that dogs receiving CBD showed a significant reduction in pain and increased activity levels (Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 2018). More recent work published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (2020) noted that CBD could alleviate anxiety‑related behaviors, including noise phobias and separation distress.
Young emphasized that the treats are formulated with flexible CBD dosing: “All of our treats are one size, but dogs aren’t. So, we keep the CBD separate and let our customers determine their own dosage.” This approach allows pet owners to adjust the amount based on their animal’s weight, size, and specific needs, following guidance from veterinarians.
From Grain to Treat: The Production Process
Head baker Bunny Lea described the straightforward yet careful method used to transform spent grain into biscuits. First, the grain is spread onto trays and dried in a low‑temperature oven to remove residual moisture. Once dry, it is milled into a fine powder. The powder is then mixed with additional fillers—such as oat flour and sweet potato—to improve texture and palatability. Finally, the dough is pressed into small biscuit shapes and baked until firm. Throughout the process, temperature and timing are monitored to preserve the nutritional integrity of both the grain and the hemp extracts.
Supporting the Local Brewing Community
Brew Bites USA actively partners with Tucson breweries, including Blackrock Brewers, to source spent grain. Young highlighted the community focus: “We want to support local and help the local economy and community.” By creating a market for a by‑product that breweries often pay to dispose of, the company helps reduce operational costs for its partners while promoting a circular economy model.
Practical Benefits for Pet Owners
With the Fourth of July approaching, many pet owners anticipate heightened anxiety in their animals due to fireworks. The treats from Brew Bites USA can serve as a calming aid during loud events, thanks to the combination of fiber‑rich spent grain and CBD‑infused hemp extract. Veterinarians often recommend a multimodal approach to noise phobias, incorporating behavioral training, environmental adjustments, and, when appropriate, supplements like CBD. The product offers a convenient, locally made option that aligns with these recommendations.
Conclusion
Brew Bites USA illustrates how innovative thinking can transform industrial waste into a product that benefits both animals and the local economy. By leveraging the nutritional qualities of spent grain and the therapeutic potential of hemp‑derived CBD, the company provides a sustainable solution that addresses pet wellness while supporting Tucson’s craft brewing scene. For pet owners interested in trying the treats, consulting with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate CBD dosage is advised, especially for animals with underlying health conditions or those taking other medications.
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