A new study published this morning in the journal Frontiers in Marine Science shows that despite the decline in shark populations, the important predator is still getting its meat in cans of cat and dog food.
Two researchers at the National University of Singapore used genetic testing to determine what types of meat were in 45 pet food products from 16 brands produced in the city-state. According to the study, many manufacturers list shark meat as white fish or ocean fish, but don't give consumers details on what their pets are eating.
The authors wrote that pet owners and animal lovers may be contributing to the decline of sharks.
The authors think the declines are due to an increase in fishing.
Many of the sharks found in the pet food were considered to be at risk of extinction. Blue shark, silky shark and whitetip reef shark were the most frequently identified species. The sand tiger shark, the Caribbean sharpnose shark, and the sicklefin weasel shark are vulnerable species.
It's not good for the pets to eat it, so we may be contributing to the problem. The Guardian says that shark meat is low in vitamins and minerals.
Dr. Andrew Griffiths told the independent news outlet that a lot of people don't want to eat it. People are surprised that these things can show up on their pet's plate.
It's difficult to know what to feed your pet without considering which animals are in their food. Grain-free food is just as bad for dogs as meat-based food, according to some groups. Regulation is weak.
It seems like an impossible task, but stricter fishing regulations and increased publicly- available pet food research are the only things that can ensure that Spot isn't eating mystery meat.
Australian officials say that Humpback whales are no longer a threat.
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