🌱 What makes Ernie’s Bites different from other pet treats?

Ernie’s Bites is proudly Tassie-owned and proudly Tassie-sourced. Our treats and toppers aren’t just pet snacks — they’re nutrient-rich bites of high-quality bio-available protein that is freeze-dried to lock in all the natural vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. We keep ingredients simple, clean, and local because that’s how pets thrive.

❄️ What is freeze-dried food, and why is it better?

Freeze-drying is a gentle, low-temperature dehydration process that removes moisture while keeping nutrients intact. Unlike oven-baked or air-dried treats that can lose valuable enzymes, freeze-dried snacks retain up to 97% of their original nutrients. That means your dog or cat is getting raw nutrition in shelf-stable, convenient bites.

⚖️ What’s the difference between freeze-dried and air-dried pet treats?

Freeze-drying uses extremely low temperatures and vacuum pressure to remove moisture from raw meat without applying heat. This preserves the original nutrients, enzymes, and natural texture of the ingredient.

Air-drying, on the other hand, removes moisture by exposing it to heated air over time. While still considered a more “natural” technique than baking or cooking, air-drying can degrade some of the more delicate nutrients and enzymes due to exposure to heat.

In short:

• Freeze-dried = raw nutrition + longer shelf life

• Air-dried = denser texture + partial cooking

Ernie’s Bites are 100% freeze-dried because we believe the closer to nature, the better.

🧊 Does freeze-dried mean raw?

Yes — freeze-dried products are technically raw, but in a shelf-stable, safe format. Since the freeze-drying process eliminates moisture and harmful pathogens, you get all the raw nutrition benefits without the mess or risk.

Our freeze-dried bites are safe, clean to handle, and ideal for both cats and dogs.

🔥 Is air-dried food cooked?

In most cases, yes — air-drying uses warm temperatures (sometimes up to 70°C or more), so it partially cooks the ingredient and can destroy more heat-sensitive nutrients like certain B vitamins and enzymes.

While this can still be nutritious, it doesn’t retain as many raw benefits as freeze-dried food does. This is why Ernie’s Bites will ONLY ever sell freeze-dried pet food, not air-dried pet food.

🐕 Which is better – freeze-dried or air-dried?

It depends on what you value! But here at Ernie’s Bites, we go freeze-dried all the way because:

• It preserves up to 97% of the original nutrients

• It keeps meat tasting fresh, with natural smell and texture pets love

• It gives you raw food benefits — with none of the prep or refrigeration hassle

Air-dried might be slightly softer or chewier, but freeze-dried wins in nutritional integrity and purity.

🐾 Are freeze-dried treats better for sensitive pets?

Yes! Because freeze-drying doesn’t use any preservatives, fillers or heat-altered proteins, it’s more digestible and allergy-friendly. Our single-protein, freeze-dried recipes are perfect for sensitive tummies, pets with food allergies, or elimination diets.

🇦🇺 Where are your ingredients sourced?

Every single ingredient in Ernie’s Bites is sourced from local Australian farms, fisheries, or butchers. We believe in regional transparency and supporting local producers. You’ll never find imported powders or mystery meat in our packs.

🐶 Are your treats suitable for dogs and cats?

Yes! All our proteins are single-ingredient, making them perfect for both dogs and cats. No fillers, grains, or additives — just 100% pure meat, which fits both species’ ancestral diets.

🍽️ How do I use meal toppers?

Meal toppers are perfect when you want to boost your pet’s everyday kibble or wet food with extra taste and nutrition. Just sprinkle a small amount over their regular food. It’s especially great for fussy eaters or senior pets who need more incentive at mealtime!

📦 Do you offer subscriptions or bundles?

Coming soon! We’re working on flexible monthly subscriptions and curated treat bundles for our fur-family fans. Stay tuned by signing up to our mailing list!

🐾 My pet has allergies. Can they eat Ernie’s Bites?

Most likely, yes. Our single-ingredient treats and toppers are ideal for pets with sensitivities or allergies. Since there's no wheat, soy, corn, preservatives or common allergens, they’re gentle on tummies. Still, we always recommend consulting your vet if your pet has severe food allergies.

🚚 How do you ship, and how long will it take?

We offer fast, reliable delivery Australia-wide. Most orders are processed within 1-2 business days, with shipping via Australia Post or Sendle. Standard delivery is 3–7 business days, depending on your location. We’ll keep you updated every step of the way