Virchew’s Dog Food Revolution

A bold step toward redefining canine health and sustainability, this collaboration brings together Maia Farms’ mushroom based protein and Virchew’s veterinary formulated innovation to create clean, plant based meals that support digestion, performance, and longevity, proving that better food for dogs can also mean a better future for the planet.

Love Bites high-protein dog treats from The Love Bowl shown in heart-shaped bowls, with options to serve dry and crunchy or rehydrated as meaty morsels—versatile, nutritious pet food made with sustainable maia farms ingredients

Before Maia: The Challenge

Virchew set out to redefine what dog food could be. As one of the first companies in the world to offer fully plant based, veterinary formulated meals for dogs, they weren’t just creating new products. They were building a new category.

But pioneering a pet food revolution meant facing a complex challenge. The Virchew team needed a protein that could match the nutritional value of animal ingredients while supporting digestive health, clean formulation, and sustainability. Many plant proteins lacked amino acid completeness, caused digestive issues, or required unwanted additives. Virchew needed something better.

Enter Maia Farms: The Solution

Maia Farms partnered with Virchew to introduce our FLOUR & BITES, nutrient dense mushroom-mycelium based ingredients. Designed to deliver high protein content, excellent digestibility, and prebiotic fibre, our mushroom flour provided the clean, functional foundation Virchew was looking for.

Working closely with Virchew’s veterinary nutrition team, Maia Farms supported product development from bench to bowl. Together we ensured the ingredient met rigorous nutritional standards and manufacturing demands, while contributing to Virchew’s mission of offering whole food based, science backed diets for dogs.

Key Results

Veterinary Formulated Nutrition
Maia’s mushroom FLOUR & BITES helped Virchew build complete and balanced diets that meet nutritional requirements without animal protein.

Improved Digestibility
Mushroom-mycelium based protein was easy for dogs to digest, supporting gut health and reducing the need for fillers or synthetic ingredients.

Sustainability Story
Virchew’s use of Maia’s fungi based ingredient allowed them to further strengthen their commitment to climate friendly food production.

Product Innovation
From fresh meals to treats and supplements, Maia’s FLOUR & BITES provided a versatile, clean label ingredient across Virchew’s growing line.

Market Leadership
With Maia’s support, Virchew advanced its position as a global leader in plant based pet nutrition, attracting interest from retailers, vets, and conscious pet parents alike.

Why it matters

The future of pet food is changing. With rising concerns around sustainability, animal welfare, and chronic health issues in pets, brands like Virchew are leading a vital shift. Maia Farms is proud to power that shift with ingredients that are better for animals, better for people, and better for the planet.

A Word from the Founder of Virchew

“Working with Maia Farms has been a game-changer. Their innovative ingredients elevate our formulas, aligning perfectly with our mission to improve dog health while reducing strain on the global food supply.”

- Laura Simonson, Founder & CEO, Virchew