making dog food / eat by date

Question
Hi there!
I make my own treats, and sometimes food, for my pitbull Emma.  She has been a finicky eater since they day we brought her home from the shelter (although she'll gobble up Kibbles and Bits any time she sees them!!!), and it just makes me feel better to know that she's eating human-grade food.  I'm considering selling treats and pre-made meals to a local dog boutique.  I can't seem to figure out expiration dates.  How long would a treat (made primarily from bananas, peanut butter, honey, flour, etc) be ok to eat, and how long would a meal (protein, rice, veggie) be ok?  Thank you!!!

Answer
Hi Denise,

Kibble and Bits is not human grade food.  

When you are making fresh treats, think of them as cookies.  The shelf life of a home-made cookie is how to gage your dog treats.  The food is tricky, if frozen, it should last for a month in the freezer.  I would definitely tell customers to store the food in the refrigerator but not more than one week.  Think on terms of your own food and go by that.
If this is something you are interested in, I have a pet food business that I need reps for.  Check out www.pipschoice.com and let me know.

Susan Potts,CPG
www.spottsgrooming.com