At Poppy’s Picnic, we know some dogs and their humans prefer food gently cooked rather than served raw. That’s exactly why we created our Mighty Mince and Power Ball ranges – versatile, cookable raw dog food made with the same top-quality ingredients but designed to be lightly baked or pan-cooked if desired.
And yes – that includes the salmon oil in the mix!
Salmon oil is a brilliant natural source of omega-3 fatty acids, known to support shiny coats, healthy skin, brain development, and joint mobility. But if you’re cooking food that contains salmon oil, is there a risk of losing its nutritional magic?
The answer is: not if you cook it gently. Let’s explore how to do it right.
Why Salmon Oil Is So Good for Dogs
Salmon oil is rich in EPA and DHA, two powerful omega-3 fatty acids that dogs can’t produce themselves. These nutrients:
Nourish the skin and promote a glossy coat
Soothe inflammation in joints and tissues
Support cognitive health and development
Boost heart and immune function
That’s why you’ll find it in our Mighty Mince meals, such as Mighty Mince Beef and Mighty Mince Chicken and our Power Ball meals too.
But what happens when you cook these meals?
Cooking with Salmon Oil: It’s All About the Method
Salmon oil is a delicate fat – too much heat for too long, and it can start to degrade, meaning fewer health benefits. But done the right way, cooking can still preserve much of its goodness.
✅ Best Practices for Baking Mighty Mince with Salmon Oil:
1. Keep the temperature moderate:
Cook at 200°C or lower. This reduces the risk of damaging the sensitive omega-3s while still ensuring the meat is safe and delicious.
2. Don’t overdo the time:
Shorter is better – aim for 10–15 minutes, just until lightly cooked through. This helps maintain nutrients while still giving you peace of mind if you’re transitioning from raw to cooked.
3. No preheating oil separately:
As the salmon oil is already blended into the Mighty Mince, you don’t need to heat it alone. This protects the oil from harsh, direct heat.
4. We add antioxidant-rich extras:
We add extra herbs and veg which contain antioxidants that help protect the omega-3s during baking.
The Positives of Light Cooking
When cooked properly, the natural salmon oil in Mighty Mince and Power Balls doesn’t just survive – it integrates beautifully into the meal. Light baking can actually enhance digestibility for some dogs, especially those new to raw feeding or those with sensitive tummies.
And importantly, the omega-3s aren’t “lost” – they’re simply absorbed in a different way. Gently cooking may even help unlock flavours your dog will adore.
Final Thoughts: Cook It Your Way – Gently
At Poppy’s Picnic, we believe in flexibility for every dog. Whether you serve Mighty Mince raw or gently cooked, you’re still giving your dog the very best nutrition, complete with omega-rich salmon oil.
Want to give it a go? Try our Mighty Mince or Power Ball ranges here: