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ESSENTIAL FOODS Reviews 

1,218
TrustScore 5 out of 5

4.8

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Review summary

Created with AI, based on recent reviews

Considering 181 reviews, reviewers overwhelmingly had an excellent experience with this company. Customers consistently praise the high quality of the food, noting its significant positive impact on their pets' health, shiny coats, and improved digestion. The service is frequently highlighted as exceptional, with many people appreciating the easy online ordering process and the fast, reliable delivery. Many customers also appreciate the thoughtful inclusion of free treats or little extras with their orders, which their pets consistently enjoy. These small gestures add to the positive experience, making each delivery feel more special for both pets and their owners.

What people talk about most

Product

Consumers find the product to be of high quality, with many reviewers noting that their pets thrive on the... See more

Quality

Clients share positive opinions on quality, with many reviewers consistently praising the high quality of... See more

Delivery service

Reviewers highlight positive aspects of delivery service, with many customers consistently praising the speed... See more

Service

Reviewers mention positive feedback about service, consistently describing it as excellent and impeccable.... See more

Order

People report positive experiences with ordering, highlighting the ease and efficiency of the online process... See more

Reviews shaping this summary

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I have been buying essential food meals and treats for my dog since he was a puppy. The breeder recommended the kibble and we have never looked back. The service has always been impeccable and the qua... See more

Company replied

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

It's very easy to order online and delivery is usually quicker than expected. My dog has been fed on Beginnings Small Breed for sporting and working dogs since he was a small puppy and is doing very... See more

Company replied

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Excellent quality food that my dog enjoys. She has the most amazing coat - it is commented on all the time as it is so shiny - and it can only be a result of her food, as well as genetics! We buy all... See more

Company replied

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I'm so pleased I was recommended Essential, and moved away from supermarket dog food. I thought our dog had simply mellowed as she'd gotten older, but the difference after starting this food was almo... See more

Company replied


Company details

  1. Animal Feed Store
  2. Feed Manufacturer
  3. Food Manufacturer
  4. Food Products Supplier

Written by the company

Why choose ESSENTIAL FOODS? There are many advantages to choosing ESSENTIAL FOODS. Our grain-free meal is crafted from high-quality ingredients – and guaranteed filler-free. In addition to our delectable line of tasty meals, you’ll find a large selection of irresistible treats prepared and packaged to the same high standard as the rest of the ESSENTIALS assortment. Our mission is to make a difference and help the dog get a healthier and better life through its eating habits. We simply feel committed to it. That's why we don't produce dog or cat food either; we produce meals. Meals packed with nutrition which keep a stable blood sugar level and which only contain ingredients that benefit and strengthen your best friend's health. Nutrition is essential for the dog's or cat's overall wellbeing. Explore our delicate meals, pâté, and treats at essentialfoods.com

Why choose ESSENTIAL FOODS?

Written by the company

With the first bag of ESSENTIALS, a new lifestyle awaits
ESSENTIAL FOODS grain-free meals are crafted from high-quality ingredients, with a high percentage of fresh meat and a variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Some of the benefits include improved digestion, a glossier coat, more balanced behaviour, and a healthier body weight.
BOF-approved
All meals are prepared using the BOF principle (Behavioural Optimizing Foods), meaning a meal should mirror the dog's natural diet and eating habits while helping to stabilize blood sugar.
Grain-free meals, pâté and treats
A grain-free diet helps sensitive digestion Although most dogs can digest grains without any problems, there are still some that struggle and are prone to digestive problems such as constipation. All our products are of highest quality and specially formulated using the right balance of key nutrients – just without the grains.

90 days guarentee

Very simple - It's a total satisfaction guarantee

Very simple - It's a total satisfaction guarantee
Should there be anything that you're not happy with, simply get in touch and we'll arrange for a FULL refund. Our guarantee covers all meal products bought online with us, up to 3 months from date of purchases. Just our very own confident way of saying: Give ESSENTIALS a go, you won't regret it!

Contact info

Promotion box for ESSENTIAL FOODS

One mission

To improve and prolong the lives of dogs and cats

4.8

Excellent

TrustScore 5 out of 5

1K reviews

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4.8

All reviews

(1,218)

526 reviews in the last 12 months

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Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Fast delivery

Fast delivery. Although the ordering process and website is a bit clunky.

I am however really shocked by the price hike. I buy to bags of food at a time and they aren’t large bags to try and save a little in order to stay loyal. Despite this I am starting to seek an alternative source of food for our Labrador.

8 June 2026
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

Dear Karen,

Thank you for taking the time to share your experience.

I'm delighted to hear that your order arrived quickly as we want to ensure fast delivery to avoid empty food bowls! We put an enormous amount of care into creating meals of exceptional quality, and it means a great deal to us when customers trust us to nourish their dogs day after day.

Thank you also for your feedback regarding our website and pricing. We continuously work to make our website as accessible and easy to use as possible, and customer feedback is an important part of that process. I recently tried reaching out by phone. We would love the opportunity to better understand your experience and thoughts so please do give us a call back if you would be interested in this. 

Thank you again for your support. We truly appreciate it and hope to continue serving both you and your Labrador for many years to come.

Warm regards,

Sofie from ESSENTIAL FOODS

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Prompt delivery.

Prompt delivery.
Good quallity food
Nice free gifts

8 June 2026
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

Hi,
Thank you so much for your review.
We are delighted to hear that your order arrived promptly and that you are pleased with the quality of the meals. Providing exceptional quality is at the heart of everything we do, so it is always rewarding to know it is appreciated.
We are also pleased that you enjoyed the little gifts included with your order. We love adding those extra touches as a way of saying thank you for choosing ESSENTIAL FOODS.
Warm wishes from all of us at ESSENTIAL FOODS 🐾

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I have a cat with hyperthyroidism and I…

I have a cat with hyperthyroidism and I was recommended to try Essential foods by a dog owning friend because the regular food I was using which is labelled as a high quality product contains ingredients that are known to not be in balance with a cat's dietary requirements.
It has been trial and error finding flavours which he enjoys and as a returning customer to Essential foods I am 100% confident that this food has made a huge difference to his temperament and overall health and well being.

8 June 2026
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

Dear Japple,



Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us.



We’re delighted to hear that ESSENTIALS has made such a positive difference to your cat’s temperament, health, and overall well-being. Finding the right food can sometimes be a journey of trial and error, especially when there are specific health considerations involved, so it’s wonderful to know that you found flavours he enjoys and that the results have been so encouraging.



We’re also grateful that you chose to give us a try based on a recommendation and even more pleased that you’ve become a returning customer. Hearing stories like yours reminds us why we are so passionate about creating meals made with carefully selected, high-quality ingredients.



Thank you again for your trust and support. We wish you and your cat many more happy and healthy years together.



Best regards,
Team ESSENTIAL FOODS

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Excellent service.

I have been feeding my 3 dogs Essential nautical for several years and wouldn’t change to any other dog food as not only do they all really enjoy their meals they are all doing really well on it. Excellent service and food delivered to my door within days.

5 June 2026
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

Hi Nicola,
Thank you so much for your wonderful review and for your loyalty over the years.
It is fantastic to hear that all three of your dogs continue to thrive on NAUTICAL LIVING and enjoy their meals just as much today as when they first started. When customers stay with us for many years, it is a testament to the trust they place in the quality of our recipes, and we never take that for granted.
We are also delighted that our delivery service continues to meet your expectations. Knowing that your meals arrive quickly and conveniently, ready for three happy dogs to enjoy, is exactly the experience we aim to provide.
Thank you for choosing ESSENTIAL FOODS year after year. We truly appreciate your trust and support.
Warm wishes from all of us at ESSENTIAL FOODS 🐾

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

3 delivery puppy loves it

3 delivery puppy loves it

5 June 2026
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

Hi Rachael,

Thank you so much for your review.

We are delighted to hear that your puppy loves the meals and that your deliveries have been arriving smoothly. There is nothing better than knowing a young dog is enjoying every mealtime and getting off to a great start.

Thank you for choosing ESSENTIAL FOODS. We look forward to being part of your puppy’s journey for many years to come.

Warm wishes from all of us at ESSENTIAL FOODS 🐾

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

My dachshund loves his superior living…

My dachshund loves his superior living dog meal. He finally started to enjoy his food again after years of being a picky eater and leaving his food for hours untouched. Now he can’t wait to get his meals. The only improvement I see is to be a little bit more transparent with the ingredients, meaning to show what the % of the dry protein is, once water from the meat is removed in the drying process, as this tends to confuse and mislead when it reads “x % fresh chicken” for example. This would help immensely in the comparing process when looking for a high meat content.

5 June 2026
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

Hi Tanja,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share such thoughtful feedback.

We are delighted to hear that your Dachshund is enjoying his SUPERIOR LIVING meals so much. Helping dogs rediscover their enthusiasm for mealtimes is one of the most rewarding things we can hear, especially when they have previously been selective eaters. Knowing that he now looks forward to every meal is wonderful.

We also appreciate your comments regarding ingredient transparency. At ESSENTIAL FOODS, we place great importance on openness and helping our customers make informed choices, so feedback like yours is incredibly valuable. We understand how comparing recipes and assessing meat content can be challenging, and your suggestion regarding the presentation of protein content after the drying process is both insightful and helpful. We will be sure to pass your thoughts on to the relevant team.

Thank you for your trust in ESSENTIAL FOODS and for sharing both your positive experience and constructive feedback. It is customers like you who help us continue to evolve and improve.

Warm wishes from Sofie and the rest of the team at ESSENTIAL FOODS 🐾

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Highly recommend

Easy to order and quick delivery. Really good quality products. Max absolutely loves the cod twists treats. The Nautical Living and Balance has really helped with his tummy issues. Would highly recommend products

3 June 2026
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

Hi Sue,

Thank you so much for your wonderful review.

We are delighted to hear that ordering has been easy, delivery has been quick, and that Max is enjoying his meals and treats so much. It is especially rewarding to know that NAUTICAL LIVING and BALANCE have helped support his sensitive tummy and contributed positively to his overall wellbeing.

At ESSENTIAL FOODS, we are passionate about creating meals and treats made with carefully selected ingredients and exceptional quality, so hearing feedback like yours means a great deal to us.

Please give Max an extra NORTH SEA CHEWY FISH DELIGHT from us, and thank you for your recommendation and trust in ESSENTIAL FOODS.

Warm wishes from all of us at ESSENTIAL FOODS 🐾

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Highly recommended

I first came across Essential Foods at Crufts this year. I was looking for a working dog food for my Hungarian Viszla, and I wanted a single protein. Essential foods had just what I required and I have been very satisfied with the product. Delivery of the food is very quick and efficient. My dog appears to enjoy it and is in excellent condition. I would highly recommend this food.

1 June 2026
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

Dear Gail,
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience.
We are delighted that you discovered ESSENTIAL FOODS at Crufts and found exactly what you were looking for. Choosing the right meals for an active dog is an important decision, and it is wonderful to hear that your Hungarian Vizsla is thriving, enjoying every meal, and maintaining such excellent condition.
It is also great to know that our delivery service has met your expectations. We believe that exceptional ingredients, carefully crafted recipes, and a seamless customer experience should always go hand in hand.
Thank you for your recommendation and for placing your trust in ESSENTIAL FOODS. We wish you and your Vizsla many more happy and active years together.
Warm wishes from all of us atESSENTIAL FOODS 🐾

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Fantastic experience throughout

Fantastic experience throughout, their food is amazing and my cat has a shinier, much healthier coat and is morw lively too!

1 June 2026
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

Hi
Thank you for your wonderful review. We’re delighted to hear that your cat is enjoying the meals and thriving, especially when it shows in both a healthier coat and more energy in everyday life.
With warm regards
ESSENTIAL FOODS 🐾

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Great product

I’ve been feeding my dog with estate kibble for 6 years. He’s has had no health issues in that time, his weight is consistent and toilet habits regular and normal. We both like this product. It is easy to order, always comes with some extra treats and delivered very quickly. Thank you Essential Foods

1 June 2026
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

Hi
Thank you for your wonderful review and for your loyalty over the past 6 years. It means a lot to hear that your dog continues to thrive on ESSENTIAL FOODS and that both the meals and overall experience have been such a positive part of everyday life.
We truly appreciate your kind words.
With warm regards
ESSENTIAL FOODS 🐾

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Hester loves Essentials

Easy to order, great products and a free gift!

1 June 2026
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

Hi,
Thank you for your lovely review. We’re so pleased that Hester enjoys ESSENTIAL FOODS and that both the products and the little extra gift were appreciated.
With warm regards
ESSENTIAL FOODS 🐾

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Great experience

The website is easy to understand, the delivery was smooth, and my dogs are delighted with their new food.

15 May 2026
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

Hi Ana,
Thank you so much for your lovely review.
We are delighted that you found the website easy to navigate and that your delivery arrived smoothly. While we dedicate a lot of time to ensuring that ordering and delivery goes smoothly, we are most happy to hear that your dogs are enjoying their new meals. Creating a great experience from the moment you visit us to the moment the bowl is served is something we care deeply about.
Thank you for choosing ESSENTIAL FOODS. We hope your dogs continue to look forward to every mealtime.
Warm wishes from all of us at ESSENTIAL FOODS 🐾

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

My dogs love it

My dogs love it. Only downside is the packaging. I’ve had to individually wrap each slab so it doesn’t contaminate my other frozen items

29 May 2026
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

Hi Rhys,
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback.
We are so pleased to hear that your dogs love their meals from ESSENTIAL FOODS. Knowing that mealtimes are being enjoyed is always wonderful to hear.
We also appreciate your comments regarding the packaging. Feedback like yours is valuable as it helps us continue to improve every aspect of the experience. We understand how important practicality and convenience are when storing meals at home, and we have therefore sent you a message asking to provide a little bit more detail, so we know what we can improve upon in the future. We hope til hear from you regarding this. 
Thank you for choosing ESSENTIAL FOODS and for helping us become even better.
Best wishes from all of us at ESSENTIAL FOODS 🐾

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Excellent product and the service is…

Excellent product and the service is second to none. Always delivered within a couple of days. I cannot fault them.

26 May 2026
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

Hi Julia,
Thank you so much for your lovely review.
It is fantastic to hear that you are so happy with both the meals and the service you have experienced with ESSENTIAL FOODS. We work hard to ensure that every order arrives quickly and smoothly, so it is especially rewarding to know that this has been your experience time and time again.
Your kind words mean a great deal to us, and we truly appreciate your trust and support.
Best wishes from all of us at
ESSENTIAL FOODS 🐾

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

Overall

Overall, both of my dogs enjoy this dog food and have adapted to it well. I’ve noticed that their tear stains have reduced, which is a great improvement. Their coats also look healthy, and they are always excited at mealtime.

The only downside is that their stools have become a little hard after switching to this food. Other than that, I’m quite satisfied with the quality and results, and I would recommend it to other dog owners.

With this brand since sep 2025

22 September 2025
Unprompted review
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

Dear Wyl,

Thank you so much for your lovely review and for being part of the ESSENTIAL FOODS family since September 2025!

It is wonderful to hear that both of your dogs are enjoying their meals and have settled into their new food so well. We were especially happy to read that you have noticed a reduction in their tear stains and that their coats are looking healthy and shiny. Knowing that they get excited when mealtime comes around always brings a smile to our faces!

We also appreciate you sharing your experience regarding their stools becoming a little firmer. This can sometimes happen when dogs transition to a recipe with a different fibre content or ingredients than they are used to. Fibre plays an important role in supporting healthy digestion and gut health, but of course we want your dogs to be as comfortable as possible and for everything to be just right.

One of the things we love most about having a wide range of ESSENTIAL recipes is that we can often make small adjustments to find the perfect match for each individual dog. Every dog is wonderfully unique, and sometimes a simple tweak can make all the difference.

Please do reach out to our Nutritional Advisors by email at service@essentialfoodsgb.co.uk or by phone on +44 1904 211600. We would love to learn a little more about your dogs, their routine, and what they are currently eating so we can help ensure they continue to thrive and enjoy every bowl.

Thank you again for your trust, recommendation, and continued support. It truly means a lot to us.

Kind regards,
Sofie - Head of Nutrition at ESSENTIAL FOODS

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Great quality dog food ,great service .

Excellent service ,quick delivery. When we got our springer puppy the breeder used Essentials and we decided to keep her on it . She is super healthy,coat is soft and shiny. It is also lovely to receive a free treat with the order,which she also loves. Fabulous

22 May 2026
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

Hi Bronwen,

Thank you so much for your lovely review. It means a lot to hear that your puppy is continuing to thrive on our meals and that you’ve feeding her ESSENTIALS journey after getting her home. That means we are doing something right!

A soft shiny coat and great health is exactly what we hope and work for, and we are happy to hear that she also loves the free treat with every meal order. 

Warm wishes from all of us at ESSENTIAL FOODS 🐾

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Very rapid delivery time of a high…

Very rapid delivery time of a high quality dried food which compliments my dogs diet.
Highly recommend.

20 May 2026
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

Hi Stevan,
Thank you so much for your lovely review. We’re so pleased to hear that you’re happy with both the fast delivery and the quality of the meals. It means a lot to us to know that the food fits so well into your dog’s diet and daily routine.
Thank you as well for your recommendation. That truly means a great deal to us.
Best wishes from all of us at ESSENTIAL FOODS 🐾

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I love the dry food

I love the dry food
I tried first the sample by all about dog dog food website and then I got the puppy pack.
I was very happy wirh the purchase but I’m a bit struggling with money these days so I can’t get it anymore but I’m thinking to get the sample again and then a small bag because I was giving the kibble like if it was gold so super high precious treats one by one!!!
Honestly they smell different and the poos were way better because my girl is always a bit sensitive so it helped her a lot!
Thank you guys
David G

8 April 2026
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

Hi David,

Thank you so much for your honest and heartfelt review. It truly means a lot to us that you took the time to share your experience.

We are so happy to hear that your girl has loved the meals so far and that you noticed such a positive difference with her digestion and sensitive tummy. It puts a smile on our faces to hear that she loves her kibbles so much that they are nearly priceless. 

We completely understand that priorities and budgets can change, and we are simply grateful that you chose to try ESSENTIAL FOODS and gave us a place in your girl’s everyday life. Hopefully there will be more little priceless treats for her again in the future.

Please give her an extra cuddle from all of us.

Best wishes from Sofie at ESSENTIAL FOODS 🐾

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I'm so pleased I was recommended…

I'm so pleased I was recommended Essential, and moved away from supermarket dog food. I thought our dog had simply mellowed as she'd gotten older, but the difference after starting this food was almost instant. She has more energy, she is now very playful and is much happier. We've been feeding her this for a few years now.

18 May 2026
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

Hi Katie,
Thank you so much for sharing this. What a wonderful experience to read about.
It really means a lot to hear what a difference the change in meals has made for your dog. Sometimes we do just assume age is slowing them down a little, so hearing that her energy, playfulness and happiness returned so quickly after switching to ESSENTIALS is incredibly special for us. You can't doubt the effect of quality once you have experienced it. 
We are so happy to hear that she has continued to thrive on the meals over the years, and we truly appreciate you having us as part of her everyday life.
Best wishes from Sofie at ESSENTIAL FOODS 🐾

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Great products that my dogs love!

Great products that my dogs love, since moving them over to Essential foods my dogs eat infections have cleared up and they seem more content. Excellent delivery, normally within 24 hours of ordering, very happy overall!

18 May 2026
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

Hi Mark,
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience with us.
It means a lot to hear that your dogs are thriving on their ESSENTIAL FOODS meals and that you have seen such a positive difference since making the switch. Hearing that they seem happier and are free from the infections they struggled with before is exactly why we are so passionate about what we do. It shows that quality meals really make the difference. 
We are also very pleased to hear that the delivery experience continues to work smoothly for you and your dogs. 
Best wishes from Sofie and the rest of the team at ESSENTIAL FOODS 🐾

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