Yora, a new dog food which claims to be the world's most sustainable because it's made substantially from insects, has been launched in the UK.

40% of the dry food is a 'flour' made from Hermetia illucens larvae reared in a new, £18 million facility in Holland. Other ingredients include British grown oats, potato and a number of other botanicals. 

Insects require only a small fraction of the resources to farm than other forms of protein, such as chicken or beef. The manufacturer says that compared to beef, its grubs need just 2% of the land and 4% of the water to produce each kilogram of protein, which means they generate 96% less greenhouse emissions. And they don't need any antibiotics or growth hormones.

The manufacturer also says insects are easier to digest than chicken, making Yora ideal for pets with sensitive stomachs.

TV vet Rory Cowlam MRCVS is throwing his weight behind the new dog food. He said: "Yora provides a healthy, high protein alternative to conventional kibble. It’s hypoallergenic, and free from antibiotics and growth hormones. Pets love the taste – plus it’s great for the planet.

"As a keen conservationist and dog lover, I am incredibly excited by the enormous potential for this dog food to reduce our pets’ collective carbon pawprint."

Tom Neish, founder of Yora, said: "Animals and humans have been eating insects since the dawn of time and we believe Yora is the future of pet food. We have trialled 29 recipes to find the perfect combination of great tasting ingredients and are very proud of the end result.

"Yora enables dog owners to take the lead in giving their dog a nutritious, tasty food whilst having a positive impact on the environment."

Yora is available to buy online or from Pets Corner stores, priced at £13.99 for a 1.5kg bag.

If you're interested in stocking Yora at your practice, contact Hollie Smith, Marketing and Operations Manager on 01293 265618, or email hollie@yorapetfoods.com

Now, I'm off to buy a bag for my dog. I figure it should be easier to persuade Daisy that an insect-based diet is necessary to save the planet, than my wife.

PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vet nurses.