Hero Mama
HERO Glowing Freeze-Dried Meal
Rating
Is Hero Mama HERO Glowing Freeze-Dried Meal dry dog food good?
Hero Mama HERO Glowing Freeze-Dried Meal is a dry dog food rated 4 stars, with high ingredient transparency and moderate animal protein content. The recipe lists most animal ingredients by name and features real muscle meat as a primary protein source. However, most minerals are supplied in inorganic forms that may be less well absorbed. This recipe is free from Gluten grains, Dairy, Nuts, Red meat, Shellfish, Unknown Meal but contains Grains (gluten-free), Egg, Legumes, Poultry, Fish.
Allergy Highlights
Contains:
Free From:
Pros
- Uses clearly named animal protein sources for better transparency.
- Includes plant ingredients that can provide fiber and natural antioxidants.
Cons
- Relies mostly on inorganic mineral supplements, which may be less bioavailable.
Nutrition Breakdown
- Protein 48%
- Fat 19%
- Est. Carbs 17%
- Fiber 6%
- Ash 10%
Moisture (9%) removed so you can compare foods fairly.
Dry matter basis = label value ÷ (100% − moisture%). Carbs estimated from remaining.
- Protein 44%
- Fat 18%
- Est. Carbs 16%
- Fiber 6%
- Moisture 9%
- Ash 9%
As-fed values are the raw percentages printed on the product label.
Tips
- Protein is Super High (48% dry matter) on our label-based comparison range. This can fit very active, working, or growing dogs, but dogs with kidney disease or other medical conditions need vet-guided diet targets.
- Fat is High (19% dry matter) on our label-based comparison range. It can support calorie needs for active or growing dogs, but portion control and pancreatitis history deserve extra attention.
Ingredients Analysis
57 of 57 matched
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1 Dehydrated Chicken
Animal ProteinDescription
Dehydrated form of chicken. it is a meat concentrate that contains up to 4 times more protein than fresh chicken on dry matter basis.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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2 Fresh Chicken
Animal ProteinDescription
The dominant animal protein source in pet foods. Other than protein, it is also high in iron, zinc, selenium, and B vitamins.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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3 Pea Protein
Plant Protein ConcentrateDescription
Extracted protein from pea in a dry process. It contains 45 - 55% protein, which will significantly boost up the overall protein content of pet foods.
Why Notice?
High level of plant-based protein is not easy to digest and offers less biological value. Good quality pet foods should obtain sufficient protein from animal sources.
Digestion Concern
The process will concentrate the level of oligosaccharides, which is a 3 - 5 carbon short-chain sugar that is indigestible by dogs / cats. It offers much less biological value (less absorbed by the body) to pets compared to animal protein.
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4 Chicken Fat
FatDescription
The fatty layer separated during the cooking process, with a high level of omega 6, It is more preferable by dogs and cats over other types of fats.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal fat with high digestibility and biological value.
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5 Brown Rice Flour
CarbsDescription
Flour made from brown rice, a source of carbohydrates and fiber.
Why Concerned?
A common filler without gluten, with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.
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6 Fresh White Fish
Animal ProteinDescription
Whitefish is a term refers to several species of demersal fish with fins, particularly Atlantic cod, whiting, haddock, hake, pollock.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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7 Peptide Protein
Animal ProteinDescription
A protein source made of peptide which contains two or more amino acids – strings of the body's basic building blocks (Protein is also made up of amino acids!). Compare to other common proteins, peptides protein are made up of smaller chains of amino acids. This could mean they are easier to break down and perhaps easier for the body to absorb.
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8 Yeast Powder
Plant Protein ConcentrateDescription
Dried yeast in powder form, a source of B vitamins and protein.
Why Concerned?
A controversial ingredient, some believe it can support the immune system, while others say it can be linked to allergies and bloating. However, no scientific research can provide a concrete conclusion.
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9 Fish Oil
FatDescription
Oil derived from fish, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, DHA, and EPA.
Why Concerned?
A high-quality animal fat with high digestibility and biological value.
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10 Peas
Carbs Plant ProteinDescription
A type of legume that is added to boost up the protein content and acts as an alternative carb. It contains around 22% protein.
Digestion Concern
Legume contains oligosaccharides, which is a 3 - 5 carbon short-chain sugar that are indigestible by dogs / cats.
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11 Plant Fiber
CarbsDescription
Fiber derived from unspecified plants, supports digestive health.
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12 Hydrolyzed Yeast
Plant Protein ConcentrateDescription
Made from fungus and often used to make beer, a rich source of minerals such as selenium. B-complex vitamins, and chromium. It contains around 40% protein.
Why Concerned?
A controversial ingredient, some believe it can support the immune system, while others say it can be linked to allergies and bloating. However, no scientific research can provide a concrete conclusion.
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13 Cranberry
CarbsDescription
High in vitamin C and antioxidants, it is also best known for fighting Urinary Tract Infections. While it could be true for humans, the effect on pets is yet to be confirmed by further research.
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14 Pumpkin
CarbsDescription
An alternative high carbs filler with an excellent source of potassium, vitamin C, and beta carotene.
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15 Red Bell Pepper
CarbsDescription
Red bell pepper, very high in vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants.
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16 Wheatgrass
CarbsDescription
Young wheat shoots harvested before grain development, rich in chlorophyll, vitamins, and minerals.
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17 Catnip
CarbsDescription
Dehydrated form of catfish, contains up to 4 times more protein than fresh meat. It is a great source of lean protein, healthy omega-3 fats, and vitamin B12.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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18 Egg Yolk Powder
Animal ProteinDescription
Dehydrated egg yolk, rich in protein, fats, vitamins A and D.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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19 Egg White Powder
Animal ProteinDescription
Dehydrated egg whites, a pure protein source with very low fat.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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20 Taurine
SupplementDescription
An essential amino acid (building blocks of protein) to maintain a healthy brain and heart functions.
Why Prefer?
A safe supplement to improve the completeness of essential amino acids profile (the building block of protein).
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21 Choline
SupplementDescription
Vital molecule for various functions in the body, lack of choline can result in weight loss, vomiting, and fatty liver.
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22 Fructo-oligo-saccharides
(Detected): fructooligosaccharides
PrebioticsDescription
Known as FOS, a type of fiber derived from chicory roots, beets, or cane. It is added as prebiotics for good bacteria growth in the colon, which aids digestion.
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23 Mannan Oligosaccharides
PrebioticsDescription
Known as MOS, a sugar extracted from yeast, added as a prebiotic. It is well known for its ability to bind pathogenic bacteria, such as E. coli and Salmonella, preventing them from growing in the intestine.
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24 Yucca Extract
CarbsDescription
Yucca schidigera is a desert plant found in the arid southwestern US and Mexico. It has been shown to reduce fecal aroma (poop's smell) without any harmful effect.
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25 Dicalcium Phosphate
SupplementDescription
A supplement for calcium and phosphorus. It is mainly used to improve the texture of pet foods. It is also found in some toothpaste as a polishing agent.
Why Notice?
A risky supplement that can cause health issues, backed by research studies.
Digestion Concern
It does not absorb any water, almost insoluble, and becomes very hard in digesting.
Uncertain/Risky
Studies show that it can cause the formulation of kidney stones.
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26 Calcium Carbonate
SupplementDescription
An inorganic form of calcium, it is essential in the formation of bones / teeth and different cellular functions. Compare to organic form, it has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.
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27 Silicon Dioxide
Food AdditiveDescription
A natural compound made of silicon and oxygen, a food additive as an anti-caking agent to prevent clumping.
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28 Sodium Pyrophosphate
Food AdditiveDescription
A sodium salt of pyrophosphoric acid, used as an emulsifier and to prevent tartar buildup.
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29 Vitamin A
SupplementDescription
Supplement of vitamin A, it is essential for healthy skin, normal vision, and immune function.
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30 Vitamin D3
SupplementDescription
Supplement for vitamin D3 (animal-derived), which is essential for calcium homeostasis - to maintain a constant concentration of calcium. A deficiency will result in osteopenia (lower bone mass).
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31 Vitamin C
SupplementDescription
Supplement for vitamin C, which can help to prevent oxidative damages by radicals, maintain healthy skin, and boost the immune system.
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32 Vitamin E
SupplementDescription
Supplement for vitamin E, which is an important antioxidant that protects oxidative damages on cellular membranes by free radicals. A deficiency will result in symptoms like anorexia, depression, and dermatitis.
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33 Vitamin B1
SupplementDescription
Supplement for vitamin B1, which is important for energy production and glucose metabolism.
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34 Vitamin B2
SupplementDescription
Supplement for vitamin B2, which is vital for breaking down food and absorbing nutrients. A deficiency will result in symptoms like anorexia and weight loss.
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35 Vitamin B6
SupplementDescription
Supplement for vitamin B6, which is vital for producing glucose, red blood cells, and synthesis of niacin, taurine, dopamine. A deficiency will result in symptoms like anemia, seizures, and heart-related issues.
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36 Vitamin B12
SupplementDescription
Supplement for vitamin B12, which is vital for carbon transfer and propionate metabolism. A deficiency will result in symptoms similar to gastrointestinal disorders, such as diarrhea and weight loss.
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37 Folic Acid
SupplementDescription
A synthetic form of folate, which is also known as vitamin B9. It plays an important role to support the body's functions, such as cell growth.
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38 Calcium Pantothenate
SupplementDescription
An organic form of calcium, it is essential in the formation of bones / teeth and different cellular functions. Compare to inorganic form, it has 5 - 15% more absorption rate to the body.
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39 Niacin
SupplementDescription
Known as vitamin B3, essential to maintain healthy GI tracts, skin/coat, and nervous system.
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40 Biotin
SupplementDescription
A water-soluble vitamin B that is important for maintaining healthy skin, coat, and nails.
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41 Potassium Chloride
SupplementDescription
An inorganic form of potassium, which offers 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body. It is essential for important functions like nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and carbon dioxide / oxygen transport.
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42 Copper
SupplementDescription
An inorganic form of copper, which is important for the production of blood cells, hair coat color pigmentation, and maintaining the nervous system. Compare to organic form, it has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.
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43 Zinc
SupplementDescription
An inorganic form of zinc, which is vital in skin function and wound healing, cell replication, the structure and function of biological membranes. Compare to organic form, it has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.
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44 Iron
SupplementDescription
An inorganic form of iron. It is essential for the transport and movement of oxygen around the body. Compare to organic form, it has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.
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45 Manganese
SupplementDescription
An inorganic form of manganese that has 5 - 15% less absorption rate than the organic form. It is essential for the transport and movement of oxygen around the body.
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46 Iodine
SupplementDescription
Supplement for iodine, a rare mineral essential for healthy thyroid function, usually found in seaweed.
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47 Selenium
SupplementDescription
An inorganic form of selenium, has 5 - 15% less absorption rate than the organic form. It is essential to protect the body from oxidative damage by free radicals.
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48 Egg Yolk Antibody
Food AdditiveDescription
Antibodies derived from egg yolks (IgY), used for immune support.
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49 Lactobacillus Acidophilus
ProbioticsDescription
A type of probiotics, good bacteria that promotes good digestion and overall health. L. acidophilus produces lactic acid, which is believed to help prevent bad bacterias from growing in the intestines.
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50 Lactobacillus Casei
ProbioticsDescription
A type of probiotics, good bacteria that promotes good digestion and overall health. It is more survivable in acid and bile than other probiotic strains
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51 Lactobacillus Paracasei
ProbioticsDescription
A probiotic bacterium that supports immune function and digestive health.
Why Prefer?
A beneficial probiotic strain.
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52 Lactobacillus Plantarum
ProbioticsDescription
A beneficial probiotic bacteria that supports digestive health and immune function.
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53 Bifidobacterium Breve
ProbioticsDescription
A probiotic that helps maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria.
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54 Bifidobacterium Animalis
ProbioticsDescription
A probiotic bacteria that supports digestive health.
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55 Bifidobacterium Adolescentis
ProbioticsDescription
A probiotic found in the human and animal gut, supporting digestive health.
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56 Bifidobacterium Longum
ProbioticsDescription
A probiotic that binds to the intestine and prevents bad bacteria from attaching.
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57 Lactobacillus Bulgaricus
ProbioticsDescription
A probiotic bacteria commonly found in yogurt, promoting digestive health.
Tips
- Named animal proteins near the top: Dehydrated Chicken, Fresh Chicken are listed early in the ingredient panel.
- Plant protein signal: Pea Protein, Peas may raise the listed protein percentage without meaning there is more meat.
- Higher-priority ingredients to review: Pea Protein, Dicalcium Phosphate.
- Higher-caution ingredients: Dicalcium Phosphate have caution notes in the ingredient database.
- Possible digestion triggers: Pea Protein, Peas, Dicalcium Phosphate have digestion notes; watch tolerance if your pet has a sensitive stomach.
Protein Analysis
How this recipe earned its protein scores.
Protein Clarity
High- Named 100%
Strong clarity: 100% of Hero Mama HERO Glowing Freeze-Dried Meal's animal-protein ingredients are clearly named (like chicken or salmon). Only 0% use vague terms such as "meat meal" and 0% are by-products. Named protein ingredients let you verify the source and check for allergens.
Contributing ingredients
Named
Animal Protein
Moderate- Animal 66%
- Plant 3%
- Plant concentrate 29%
- Auxiliary 2%
Mixed protein sources in Hero Mama HERO Glowing Freeze-Dried Meal: 66% animal, 3% whole plants, and 29% plant-protein concentrates. The recipe combines meat with notable plant-protein signals.
Contributing ingredients
Animal
Plant
Plant concentrate
Auxiliary
Hero Mama HERO Glowing Freeze-Dried Meal dry dog food Review
Hero Mama HERO Glowing Freeze-Dried Meal is a strong choice — rated 4 stars with high ingredient transparency and moderate animal protein content. A confident pick when the ingredient panel matches your pet's needs.
Best for
- Owners who want clearly named protein sources
Avoid if
- Your pet is allergic to eggs
- You're avoiding legumes
- You're avoiding plant-protein concentrates like pea or soy isolate
Key takeaways
- Named animal proteins make up 100% of the recipe's protein panel — a clear sourcing win.
- Plant-protein concentrates appear in the top 10 ingredients: Pea Protein.
- Contains common allergens: Grains (gluten-free), Egg, Legumes, Poultry, Fish.
- On a dry-matter basis: 48% protein, 19% fat, 17% estimated carbohydrates.
- 66% of the weighted protein comes from animal sources.
Frequently asked questions
Is Hero Mama HERO Glowing Freeze-Dried Meal good for dogs?
Yes — rated 4 stars, with high ingredient transparency and moderate animal protein content.
Does Hero Mama HERO Glowing Freeze-Dried Meal contain Dairy?
No — based on the ingredient list, Hero Mama HERO Glowing Freeze-Dried Meal doesn't include Dairy or related ingredients, so pets sensitive to Dairy can typically avoid this allergen here.
Does Hero Mama HERO Glowing Freeze-Dried Meal contain Egg?
Yes — based on the ingredient list, Hero Mama HERO Glowing Freeze-Dried Meal contains Egg, so pets sensitive to Egg should generally avoid this product or consult a vet first.
Does Hero Mama HERO Glowing Freeze-Dried Meal contain Legumes?
Yes — based on the ingredient list, Hero Mama HERO Glowing Freeze-Dried Meal contains Legumes, so pets sensitive to Legumes should generally avoid this product or consult a vet first.
Does Hero Mama HERO Glowing Freeze-Dried Meal contain Nuts?
No — based on the ingredient list, Hero Mama HERO Glowing Freeze-Dried Meal doesn't include Nuts or related ingredients, so pets sensitive to Nuts can typically avoid this allergen here.
Is Hero Mama HERO Glowing Freeze-Dried Meal grain-free?
No — the recipe contains Grains (gluten-free).
What are the main protein sources in Hero Mama HERO Glowing Freeze-Dried Meal?
The top animal proteins are Dehydrated Chicken, Fresh Chicken, Fresh White Fish — clearly named, so you can verify the source.
