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Frequently Asked Questions
Please see below for answers to common questions from customers
General
What is ESSENTIAL FOODS?
Established since 2013, ESSENTIAL FOODS is British born, and salutes the long-established connection between a quintessentially English countryside lifestyle and the superior quality of the local produce. We’re proud that our range of meals is cooked and prepared in Britain, using a selection of ingredients sourced in England, Scotland or Wales.
We prepare and cook our meals with pride. Meals that we know absolutely make a difference to the 250,000 customers, we so proudly serve on a daily basis. If you ask us, being born grain-free, BOF-approved and containing only carefully selected high-end ingredients, while never, ever compromising on our quality for the sake of making a penny more in profit, is what constitutes true luxury.
Our mission is to make a difference and help dogs and cats achieve healthier and better lives through their eating habits. We simply feel committed to it.
Why should I feed my dog or cat ESSENTIAL FOODS meals?
ESSENTIAL FOODS pride ourselves in providing the best quality meals for your dogs and cats, and therefore improving and prolonging their lives through healthy eating.
(A) Healthy & Natural Recipes:
Our recipes only contain human-grade, GMO-free and responsibly-sourced ingredients. No artificial flavours, added colours or preservatives. All ESSENTIALS’ meals are also FEDIAF-approved.
(B) Finest British Ingredients: Our British heritage rests on our pledge to continue using a selection of the high-end British ingredients sourced in England, Scotland or Wales. Our choice of using Gressingham Duck, Scottish Salmon, Salisbury Rainbow Trout, etc; reflects the best quality of ingredients that goes into our meals. And each of them is carefully selected to contribute to your pets' health and well-being.
(D) Minimum 70% Meat Content: No meat meals or grains used. Our high fresh meat content and the low preparation temperature means your dogs and cats get exceptional nutritional values vs. mass-branded pet foods.
(E) Unique BOF Formulation: Behavioural Optimising Food (BOF) is the principle of developing food to match your dog’s or cat’s natural diet. It keeps the blood sugar levels stable throughout the day. In the same way that it applies to people, when the blood sugar is running low or high, significant fluctuations both mentally and physically take place. All of our meals are composed in order to avoid these fluctuations. (Read more)
To top if off, we provide TOTAL SATISFACTION GUARANTEE. If you are dissatisfied with the product for any reasons, do write it in to us and we will provide you with a FULL refund (see Refund Policy). Your happiness is our top priority!
Is ESSENTIAL FOODS approved by any guidelines?
Our recipes are approved by the European Pet Food Industry Federation (FEDIAF). Similar to AAFCO in the United States, FEDIAF guidelines ensure that pet food is fit and safe for the purpose of feeding pets, whilst at the same time meeting the relevant requirements of European legislation.
What is the BOF Principle?
BOF (Behavioural Optimising Food) is the principle of developing food to match the natural diet of your dog. Our meals make sure your dog's blood sugar level remains stable. It's high fresh meat content stimulates natural instincts and our low preparation temperature means the dog receives the highest possible nutritional value. Berries, seeds and herbs mimic the stomach of the natural prey, and the size of the kibble makes sure the feed is chewed before being swallowed.
Where can I buy ESSENTIALS meals?
We are available on our official online retail store (www.essentialfoods.sg) and official marketplace store on Lazada.
We have retail partners that are retailing on their physical stores, online stores and also major marketplaces such as Shopee & Lazada too! Do contact us for our retailer list!
Are all your prices net prices?
Yes. All item prices listed are net prices. You will only be charged additional shipping fees if applicable.
Does ESSENTIAL FOODS donate to any charitable causes?
ESSENTIAL FOODS are about much more than just profits. We constantly donate to animal welfare causes, particularly in the European region. For a full list of contributions made, please visit: https://www.essentialfoods.com/charity-programme
How do I contact ESSENTIAL FOODS for help?
Do not hesitate to contact us for any questions or help required. You may reach us at
- Email: contact@essentialfoods.sg
- Whatsapp only: +65 8788 6430
Do note that our operating hours are Monday to Friday, 10am to 6pm (excluding public holidays). We will try our best to get back to you as soon as possible.
Meals
Where do you make ESSENTIALS kibble meals?
ESSENTIAL FOODS meals are 100% made in the United Kingdom. Our high-end ingredients are sourced from England, Scotland or Wales, and the kibbles are produced in England.
What are the ingredients used in each ESSENTIALS meal?
Each individual ingredient in a meal is carefully selected for its ability to contribute to the dog’s good health and well-being. Our British heritage rests on our pledge to continue using a selection of the finest British ingredients sourced in England, Scotland or Wales. Our choice of using Gressingham Duck, Scottish Salmon, Salisbury Rainbow Trout, etc; reflects the best quality of ingredients that goes into our meals.
Ingredients are also human-grade, GMO-free and responsibly-sourced. No artificial flavours, added colours or preservatives. For example, instead of artificial preservatives, we use Rosemary extract to preserve our meals as naturally and gently as possible.
For a full list of ingredients in each meal, please refer to each product page for more details.
What is the kibble size for each meal?
For all 2.5KG Meals for dogs, the kibble is ~0.8cm in size (except for THE BEGINNING - LARGE BREED’s croquette size is ~1.8cm).
For all 10kg Meals for dogs, the kibble is in large croquette size of ~1.8cm (except for THE BEGINNING SMALL BREED which is in small kibble size).
For all 1.5KG & 3.0KG Meals for cats, the kibble is ~0.9 - 1.0 cm in size.
How should I store ESSENTIALS meals?
We recommend that all meals should be stored in a cool, dry place; away from direct sunlight and in an airtight container. This will ensure the last meal tastes as good as the first.
How long can I store ESSENTIALS meals for?
All ESSENTIAL FOODS meals are able to last for 12 to 15 months from the date of production. To see the accurate expiry date of your bag, please refer to the Best Before Date (BBD) on the bag.
Feeding & Transition
What age and breed of dogs and cats are suitable for ESSENTIALS meals?
Our suite of meals ensure there will be a meal suitable for dogs and cats of all breeds and ages.
- THE BEGINNING (SMALL BREED) - Puppies and juniors (below the age of 10-12 months) with an expected adult weight below 15 kg.
- THE BEGINNING (LARGE BREED) - Puppies and juniors (below the age of 24 months) with an expected adult weight of 15 kg and above.
- SUPERIOR LIVING - Adult dogs of all breeds
- NAUTICAL LIVING - Adult dogs of all breeds
- ESTATE LIVING - Adult dogs of all breeds
- THE JAGUAR - Adult cats of all breeds
- LITTLE LION - Kittens (below the age of 10-12 months) of all breeds
- THE PANTHER - (1) sterilised/neutered cats, (2) indoor/inactive/weight-loss lifestyles and (3) older/senior cats (7+ years)
Can I feed THE BEGINNING (SMALL BREED) to large breed puppies or vice versa?
We do not recommend that as your dog might under or over take the nutritional value as it should.
For small breed puppies, i.e adult expected to weigh less than 15kg, please feed THE BEGINNING (SMALL BREED), which has a nutrient content in the feed balanced for their higher metabolic rate.
For large breed puppies, i.e adult expected to weigh 15kg or more, please feed THE BEGINNING (LARGE BREED), which has a lower protein value - overfeeding large breed puppies can cause obesity and joint related developmental issues.
How do I choose between all the ESSENTIAL FOODS meals?
ESSENTIALS meals are catered for all types of pets. When choosing an ESSENTIAL meal, please take into consideration the age and breed of your dog or cat. Please refer to each product page for more information.IMPORTANT: please take note of any ingredients that your pets might be allergic to.
How much do I need to feed my pet?
Please refer to the feeding guide at the end of each product page or at the back of the kibble bag. Please note that it is only a generic guide and feeding amount should be tailored according to your pet’s Body Condition Score and dietary needs. Read more on our BCS guide here.
Please feel free to reach out to us for individual advice.
How should I transition my pet from another food to ESSENTIAL FOODS?
To transit your dog or cat from another pet food to ESSENTIAL FOODS, first make sure that your pet is not facing any existing digestive issues (i.e your pet is currently having firm poop).
Next, adopt a gradual method in terms of mixing ESSENTIAL FOODS (EF) kibbles to his current meal. A gradual method will give your pet’s digestive system time to adjust to their new food and will also reduce the chances of digestive upset.
- Day 1-5: 20% EF, 80% old diet
- Day 6-8: 40% EF, 60% old diet
- Day 9-11: 60% EF, 40% old diet
- Day 12-13: 80% EF, 20% old diet
- Day 14 onwards: 100% EF
IMPORTANT: Please note that the length of the transition period should be catered accordingly to your pet’s digestive sensitivity.
Please reach out to us for any individual advice required.
Why does my dog have looser or larger quantities of stools after transitioning to ESSENTIAL FOODS?
As a general rule, the amount and shape of your dog's stools says a lot about the quality of what is served. If your dog is experiencing an increased amount of stool after switching to ESSENTIALS, it is very likely you haven't yet found the correct meal size for your dog.
Dogs sometimes have loose stools if their kibble is changed too quickly. This is due to differences in ingredients of different products and their digestive system is unable to adapt immediately. If your dog is having loose stools, transit slowly and decrease the ratio of ESSENTIALS meals to your previous diet.
For larger stools, it is also in part due to the digestive system needing more time to adapt to the new kibble. Give them some time and the most important thing is to make sure their Body Conditioning Score (BCS) is good during this period. Having a good BCS allows us to know that they are eating the right amount.
Please feel free to reach out to us for individual advice.
Subscription
How does the meal subscription model works?
At the product page, choose the Subscribe and Save option, and select your desired order frequency. Do note that this is order frequency, not delivery frequency. Please allow 2-3 working days for delivery after order has been placed. Make sure your cart reflects the correct subscription product and frequency before carting out.
E.g If order is placed on 1st Jan with 3 weeks frequency, the next order will be placed on 21st Jan and your credit card will be automatically charged. We will arrange for delivery and you are expected to receive it 2-3 working days later.
What are the benefits of being a subscriber?
Apart from the convenience, being on our meal subscription has many other perks, including:
1. Save 5% on every order
2. Guaranteed free shipping on every order
3. Cancel, pause or change anytime
4. Never miss your order - reminder email sent 3 days before order is placed
5. Exclusive deals & gifts
CAN I CANCEL OR PAUSE MY SUBSCRIPTION ANYTIME I WANT?
Yes! Our subscription plan offers the flexibility that customer needs. You can manage your subscription through the customer portal. Log in with your email > Click on "Manage Subscription".
CAN I CHANGE THE PRODUCT OR ORDER FREQUENCY?
Yes! Our subscription plan offers the flexibility that customer needs. You can manage your subscription through the customer portal. Log in with your email > Click on "Manage Subscription".
I FINISHED MY MEALS EARLIER THAN EXPECTED, HOW DO I BRING FORWARD MY NEXT ORDER AND SUBSEQUENT SCHEDULE?
Yes! Our subscription plan offers the flexibility that customer needs. You can manage your subscription through the customer portal. Log in with your email > Click on "Manage Subscription" > "Ship Next Order Now"
I FINISHED MY MEALS LATER THAN EXPECTED, HOW DO I BRING DELAY MY NEXT ORDER AND SUBSEQUENT SCHEDULE?
Yes! Our subscription plan offers the flexibility that customer needs. You can manage your subscription through the customer portal. Log in with your email > Click on "Manage Subscription" > "Change Next Order Date"
Shipping & Returns
How much is your delivery fee?
Our site has FREE shipping on all orders, and no minimum spend is required.
*We reserve the right to change this promotion without prior notice
How long does it take to deliver once I place my order?
After your order has been processed, it will take about 2-3 working days to reach you. You may check the delivery status on your order status page via the tracking number after it has been shipped.
Please allow some buffer time for peak period such as holidays and peak promotional period.
Do you do same-day delivery?
Unfortunately, we do not offer same-day delivery. If there is any urgent request, please reach out to us immediately and we will try our best to accommodate to your request.
Can I opt for self-collection?
Unfortunately, we do not offer self-collection option. If there is any urgent request, please reach out to us immediately and we will try our best to accommodate to your request.
I’m located outside of Singapore, can you ship to me?
If you are a customer located outside of Singapore, please reach out to us and check whether we are able to fulfil your order via alternative arrangements.
How do I change my shipping address for the next order?
If you have signed up for an account, you can edit your account details on the account page. Simply log in to your account, and click on “Addresses” to edit your shipping address.
What if I receive damaged or wrong products?
We will gladly replace another one for you immediately. If we are unable to replace, a FULL refund will be issued.
*IMPORTANT:To be eligible for any damaged or wrong items refund, please reach out to us within 5 days from the delivery date and attach clear photo evidences. Read more on our refund policy here.
What if I’m not satisfied with the product?
At ESSENTIALS, we offer TOTAL SATISFACTION GUARANTEE! Should there be anything you are dissatisfied with the product, simply reach out to us and we will offer you a FULL refund!
Once we process your request, simply pack the items you wish to return and we will send you the instructions on how to return them.
Please note that it is only eligible for full bag products (sample products excluded) bought from our online store, and return requests made within 30 days upon receiving the items.
For more details, please refer to our Refund Policy.
Need help?
We're right here. For you and your dog or cat –Always. Our advisors are here to help you find the perfect match.
CONTACT US
Whatsapp Text Only: +65 8788 6430
Monday-Friday: 10am - 6pm (excluding public holidays)