myoglobin

Do you pour away the red liquid leftovers at the bottom of your pup’s bowl or Nutriment raw food tray? Then STOP! That stuff is liquid gold!

 

You may assume that it’s blood and that it should be discarded, but it’s in fact nutrient-dense myoglobin and water. It makes a fantastic nutritional addition to your pet’s natural, raw diet.

 

What is myoglobin?

Myoglobin is a dark red iron and oxygen-binding protein that is found in the cardiac and skeletal muscles of mammals. It is responsible for storing oxygen so that working muscles can contract and work effectively.

Myoglobin is also rich in bioavailable iron, taurine (great for cats!) and B vitamins, making it a nutrition powerhouse that your pets should enjoy.

 

Did you know? Diving mammals such as seals and whales are able to swim underwater for extended periods of time because of the large amounts of myoglobin in their muscles!

 

Red meat vs white meat

 The skeletal muscles of large mammals, such as cow and deer, contain high concentrations of myoglobin. These muscles are also called ‘slow twitch’ as they are used for extended periods of time, for example when standing and walking, therefore needing a consistent oxygen and energy source. The high myoglobin levels are what make the meat appear red, hence the term ‘red meat’.

 

The ‘fast twitch’ muscles (used in quick bursts for example when fleeing danger) of animals such as chickens, get most of their energy from glycogen, and therefore there is less myoglobin and less of a red appearance, hence the term ‘white meat’.

 

What should I do with leftover myoglobin?

 

Myoglobin liquid can be collected and poured over any meal to add flavour and extra nutrition. It can also be frozen in an ice cube tray for a nice cooling treat or to add to meals when it suits.