The high fiber content in insect protein has proven helpful for pets with gut health or allergy issues, Carlson explained, something that the company didn’t initially anticipate. Jiminy’s products exceed the Association of American Feed Control Officials’ (AAFCO) nutritional requirements while supporting a diverse gut micro-biome (which can be a game-changer for chronically gassy pups).

If the world is going to draw down its emissions to avoid the worst impacts of climate change, pet diets have to be part of that.

“It’s crazy how much meat they’re consuming,” Carlson said. “And most of its coming from traditional animal agriculture, which we know is completely unsustainable.”