What is Green Tripe?
Tripe is another word for the stomach of a ruminating animal. Ruminants are four legged animals that eat grass and other plant matter, and chew their "cud." Examples of ruminants are: cows, sheep, and goats. The stomach of a ruminant is unique, in that it consists of four chambers, sometimes referred to as having four stomachs. Each compartment has its own name, and performs its own function in the process of ruminant digestion.
One big difference between ruminant digestion and non-ruminant digestion, is that ruminants can digest tough, fibrous plant material easily. This is because they produce enzymes like cellulase, to help accomplish the task. Carnivorous, or meat-eating animals, like our pet dogs, cats and ferrets, do not possess the enzyme cellulase; therefore, they are not able to easily break down plant matter.
One part of the digestive process is called fermentation. In the ruminant stomach, fermentation happens in one of the stomach chambers. Non-ruminants carry out fermentation in the small intestine, instead of in the stomach. The process of fermentation requires assistance from special bacteria. One example of such a bacteria is Lactobacillus Acidophilus, which can also be found in yogurt, and is otherwise known as a probiotic. These friendly bacteria are also responsible for the production of certain vitamins, mainly the family of B vitamins, as well as various proteins.
When we say that tripe is "green" we are referring to the fact that it is not bleached and scalded.
Why is Green Tripe good to feed?
Green tripe packs a lot of nutrition: it contains just the right balance of Calcium and Phosphorous for our companion pets, along with protein, fat, enzymes, vitamins, and good bacteria to aid digestion.
By leaving the tripe "as is," or "green," we keep the nutritional benefits intact. Make no mistake, green tripe is smelly! But of course pets love the odor and taste, and it's actually good for them.
Tripe is an excellent recovery food for weak or ill animals that may have a depressed appetite. Green Cow® is excellent for puppies under a year who may not have completely developed internally and may have on and off diarrhea. Cats love our Green Cow® as well!
