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Freeze dried dog treats offer concentrated nutrition without artificial preservatives, retaining up to 97% of their original vitamins and proteins through gentle dehydration.
You’ll find these shelf-stable snacks perfect for training since they break easily, won’t crumble in your pocket, and maintain their irresistible aroma that keeps your pup focused.
They’re particularly valuable for dogs with food sensitivities, as most freeze dried options contain single ingredients. Unlike traditional baked treats loaded with fillers, freeze dried varieties provide pure nutrition in lightweight, convenient packages.
Smart storage and proper handling can make these treats last months while delivering maximum nutritional punch.
Table Of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Freeze Dried Dog Treats Benefits
- Top 9 Freeze Dried Treats
- 1. Stewart Freeze Dried Beef Liver Treats
- 2. Vital Essentials Freeze Dried Beef Liver
- 3. Nutri Bites Freeze Dried Beef Liver
- 4. Vital Essentials Salmon Bites Dog Treats
- 5. Pupford Beef Liver Dog Training Treats
- 6. Wag Freeze Dried Lamb Liver Treats
- 7. Caledon Farms Freeze Dried Beef Liver
- 8. Stella Chewys Freeze Dried Beef Heart
- 9. Freeze Dried Salmon Dog Treats
- Homemade Freeze Drying Process
- Safety and Health Considerations
- Choosing The Right Freeze Dried Treats
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Are freeze-dried dog treats healthy?
- What is the best freeze-dried treat for dogs?
- Can you freeze dry dog treats?
- How long do freeze dried treats last unopened?
- Are freeze dried treats suitable for allergic dogs?
- How much should I feed my dog daily?
- Do freeze dried treats require refrigeration after opening?
- Conclusion
Key Takeaways
- You’ll retain 97% of original nutrients compared to heat-processed treats, giving your dog concentrated vitamins, proteins, and minerals without artificial preservatives.
- You can use these lightweight treats for training sessions since they break easily, won’t crumble in your pocket, and maintain their irresistible aroma that keeps dogs focused.
- You’ll find single-ingredient options perfect for dogs with food sensitivities, avoiding fillers and allergens while providing pure nutrition in convenient packages.
- You can store these treats for months without refrigeration when handled properly, making them ideal for travel and reducing waste from spoiled treats.
Freeze Dried Dog Treats Benefits
You’ll discover that freeze-dried dog treats offer superior nutritional value compared to traditional treats since the freeze-drying process preserves essential proteins, vitamins, and minerals while maintaining natural flavors that dogs love.
These lightweight, shelf-stable treats provide incredible convenience for pet owners while delivering the concentrated nutrition your dog needs for training and daily rewards.
Nutritional Value Preservation
Freeze drying preserves your dog’s treats like nature intended.
Nature’s nutrition locked in perfectly – no heat damage, just pure goodness preserved.
This gentle dehydration process maintains protein integrity and enzyme activity while locking in essential vitamins and minerals.
Unlike traditional heat processing that destroys nutrients, freeze dried dog treats retain up to 97% of their original nutritional value.
You’ll find superior nutrient retention compared to conventional preservation methods, ensuring your pup gets maximum nutrition from every bite.
This process helps with nutrient and flavor preservation, which is crucial for maximum nutrition and essential vitamins.
It also ensures that the treats are made with a gentle dehydration process.
Convenience and Long Shelf Life
Storage solutions become effortless with freeze dried dog treats, offering unmatched convenience for busy pet owners.
These lightweight, travel friendly options require no refrigeration, making them perfect for adventures or creating an emergency stockpile.
Extended shelf life means less frequent shopping trips, while easy portion control reduces waste and simplifies feeding routines with unmatched convenience.
Reduced Risk of Spoilage
Beyond their impressive shelf life, freeze-dried dog treats offer unmatched protection against spoilage.
The freezedrying process removes nearly all moisture, creating an environment where harmful bacteria can’t survive or multiply.
Here’s why your pup stays safer:
- Moisture reduction eliminates bacterial breeding grounds – no water means no microbial growth
- Extended freshness keeps treats tasting great for months without refrigeration
- Storage stability means fewer wasted treats and more money in your pocket
- No moldy surprises hiding in treat jars or training pouches
- Peace of mind knowing each reward is as fresh as the first
This superior storage stability makes freeze-dried options incredibly reliable for training sessions and daily rewards.
Customizable and Cost-Effective
You’re not just saving money—you’re taking control.
You’re taking charge of your dog’s health—one ingredient at a time.
Making freeze dried dog treats at home lets you choose every ingredient, avoiding fillers and allergens that worry you.
DIY treat recipes cost a fraction of store prices, especially when bulk buying savings kick in.
Personalized ingredient control means you can cater to your dog’s specific needs while affordable freeze drying methods deliver premium results.
The cost-benefit analysis clearly favors homemade freeze dried dog treats for budget-conscious pet parents.
Top 9 Freeze Dried Treats
You’ve narrowed down your choices, but picking the right freeze-dried treat still requires knowing what sets the best options apart.
Here are nine top-rated freeze-dried dog treats that consistently deliver on quality, safety, and nutritional value.
1. Stewart Freeze Dried Beef Liver Treats
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Stewart’s freeze-dried beef liver treats consistently earn top marks from dog owners who’ve used them for decades.
These single-ingredient treats contain 100% USDA-certified beef liver with 50% protein and essential vitamins like iron and vitamin A.
Made in small batches since 1973, they’re grain-free and perfect for training or picky eaters.
The 21-ounce tub provides about 475 treats, lasting roughly three months while maintaining freshness.
Best For: Dog owners seeking high-quality, single-ingredient training treats or food toppers for dogs with food sensitivities.
- Strong liver smell may be unpleasant to humans despite dogs loving the treats
- Freeze-dried texture can occasionally result in crumbly or inconsistently sized pieces
- Higher price point compared to mass-produced commercial dog treats
- 100% USDA-certified beef liver with 50% protein and essential vitamins, made in the USA since 1973
- Large 21-ounce tub provides approximately 475 treats lasting about 3 months, offering excellent value
- Single-ingredient, grain-free formula ideal for dogs with allergies or dietary restrictions
2. Vital Essentials Freeze Dried Beef Liver
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With its single-ingredient formula and premium sourcing, Essential Elements delivers exceptional quality that’ll make your dog’s tail wag.
This freeze-dried beef liver contains 65% crude protein and gets processed within 45 minutes of harvesting, locking in nutrients like iron, zinc, and vitamin A.
You’re getting USDA-certified treats with no fillers, hormones, or artificial preservatives.
The strong aroma might knock your socks off, but dogs go absolutely crazy for these potent, bite-sized rewards that support muscle development and overall health.
Best For: Dog owners seeking premium, single-ingredient training treats for picky eaters or dogs with food sensitivities who want maximum nutritional value.
- High-protein (65%) single-ingredient formula with no fillers, hormones, or artificial preservatives from USDA-certified facilities
- Freeze-dried within 45 minutes of harvesting to preserve nutrients like iron, zinc, and vitamin A for optimal health benefits
- Versatile size and texture makes them perfect for training, meal toppers, or breaking into smaller pieces for any dog size
- Strong, potent smell that some owners find overwhelming and may require outdoor use or gloves
- Premium pricing with small bag sizes makes them expensive, especially for multi-pet households
- Some dogs may prefer chicken-based treats over beef liver despite the high-quality formula
3. Nutri Bites Freeze Dried Beef Liver
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When your dog needs premium nutrition without the premium price tag, Nutri Bites delivers exceptional value.
These single-ingredient beef liver treats contain 62% protein and essential vitamins A and B12, supporting your pet’s immune system and muscle development.
Made from North American beef liver using advanced freeze-drying technology, they preserve natural nutrients while eliminating moisture for extended shelf life.
The resealable 17.6-ounce pouch offers excellent portion control for training sessions or daily rewards.
Best For: Dog owners seeking high-quality, single-ingredient training treats or meal toppers that provide exceptional nutritional value without artificial additives.
- Single-ingredient beef liver with 62% protein and essential vitamins A and B12 for optimal nutrition
- Freeze-dried process preserves nutrients while creating long shelf life and minimal dust or crumbs
- Large 17.6-ounce resealable pouch offers excellent value and portion control for training or daily treats
- Higher price point compared to conventional dog treats, though quality justifies the cost
- Rich nutrient content requires careful portion control to prevent vitamin A toxicity with excessive feeding
- Strong aroma and taste may be too intense for some pets or require gradual introduction
4. Vital Essentials Salmon Bites Dog Treats
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With wild Alaskan salmon as the sole protein source, these treats pack 42% crude protein into bite-sized training rewards.
You’ll appreciate the single-ingredient simplicity—just salmon and mixed tocopherols for preservation. Each 2-calorie piece delivers omega-3 fatty acids for coat health while supporting lean muscle development.
The freeze-drying process locks in raw nutrition without heat damage. Perfect for dogs with food sensitivities, though be prepared for a strong fishy aroma that’ll have your pup begging for more, with benefits including lean muscle development and coat health, made possible by the freeze-drying process and wild Alaskan salmon.
Best For: Dog owners seeking high-quality, single-ingredient training treats for dogs with food sensitivities or those wanting premium freeze-dried nutrition.
- Single-ingredient formula with 42% protein content ideal for dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs
- Freeze-dried process preserves raw nutrition and natural omega-3s without heat damage
- Perfect bite-sized pieces for training with high reward value due to strong aroma and taste
- Strong fishy smell that may be off-putting to some pet owners during handling
- Higher price point compared to conventional dog treats due to premium processing and ingredients
- Small size may not satisfy larger dogs as standalone treats or chews
5. Pupford Beef Liver Dog Training Treats
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Training-focused high-value rewards, Pupford’s beef liver treats contain just three ingredients: freeze-dried beef liver, beef heart, and mixed tocopherols.
You’ll get approximately 475 treats per bag, each containing less than one calorie.
They’re mess-free and won’t crumble in your pocket during training sessions.
With 35% protein content, these USA-made treats effectively motivate even picky eaters while supporting your dog’s muscle health and energy needs.
Best For: Dog owners seeking premium, mess-free training treats that effectively motivate even picky eaters without adding excess calories to their pet’s diet.
- High-value rewards with simple 3-ingredient formula (freeze-dried beef liver, beef heart, mixed tocopherols) that appeals to most dogs, including picky eaters
- Mess-free convenience with no crumbling or grease, making them ideal for pocket storage during training sessions
- Excellent portion control with approximately 475 treats per bag at less than 1 calorie each, supporting frequent rewards without overfeeding
- Higher price point compared to standard dog treats, though many users find the quality justifies the cost
- Strong odor from freeze-dried organ meats may be off-putting for some owners during storage and handling
- Occasional shipping issues with bag breakage and some customers report receiving fewer treats than the advertised 475 count
6. Wag Freeze Dried Lamb Liver Treats
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If you’re after a treat that’s pure and simple, Wag Freeze Dried Lamb Liver Treats might be your answer.
Made with just lamb liver, these are packed with protein and nutrients, ideal for dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs.
The freeze-dried process preserves flavor and vitamins, but watch out—some customers say the treats crumble easily and arrive as “dust.”
They’re light, easy to break, and irresistible to most pups.
Just remember, moderation is key with organ meats to avoid vitamin A overload, as it is crucial for maintaining your dog’s health with these organ meats.
Best For: Dog owners seeking single-ingredient treats for pets with allergies, food sensitivities, or those who prefer simple, nutrient-dense rewards for training.
- Single ingredient (100% lamb liver) makes it ideal for dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs
- High in protein and essential vitamins like A, B, iron, and zinc for overall health support
- Lightweight, easy to break apart, and highly palatable for effective training rewards
- Treats often arrive crumbled or as "dust" due to packaging and shipping issues
- Higher cost per ounce compared to other treat options affects value for money
- Risk of vitamin A toxicity if overfed, requiring careful portion control with organ meats
7. Caledon Farms Freeze Dried Beef Liver
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Quality meets affordability in Caledon Farms’ freeze-dried beef liver treats.
You’ll appreciate this Canadian company’s commitment to single-ingredient purity—just 100% North American beef liver with no additives or preservatives.
Each small-batch creation delivers 67% crude protein, supporting your dog’s muscle development while providing essential B vitamins, iron, and zinc.
The light, airy texture breaks easily for training portions, making these treats perfect for picky eaters and dogs with sensitive stomachs alike.
Best For: Dog owners seeking a high-quality, single-ingredient training treat that’s suitable for picky eaters and dogs with food sensitivities.
- 100% North American beef liver with no artificial additives, preservatives, or fillers
- High protein content (67%) with essential vitamins and minerals for overall health
- Light, airy texture that breaks easily for training portions and is suitable for all dog sizes
- Dry texture requires water availability during extended training sessions in hot weather
- Mild liver smell typical of freeze-dried organ meat products
- Price has increased slightly over time, though treat sizes have grown accordingly
8. Stella Chewys Freeze Dried Beef Heart
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With 100% pure freeze-dried beef heart, Stella & Chewy’s delivers a single-ingredient powerhouse that’ll make your dog’s tail wag like crazy.
You’re getting 48-67% crude protein plus heart-healthy taurine and omega-3s in every bite.
These bite-sized treats break easily for training sessions and won’t leave greasy residue on your hands.
Made from grass-fed cattle in the USA, they’re perfect for dogs with food sensitivities who need simple, clean nutrition.
Best For: Dog owners with pets who have food sensitivities, allergies, or picky eating habits who want a high-protein, single-ingredient training treat.
- 100% pure freeze-dried beef heart with no fillers, additives, or preservatives – perfect for dogs with dietary restrictions
- High protein content (48-67%) plus beneficial nutrients like taurine and omega-3s for heart and coat health
- Convenient bite-sized format that breaks easily for training without leaving greasy residue on hands
- Premium pricing may be expensive for regular daily use compared to standard dog treats
- Strong smell that some pet owners may find unpleasant, though dogs typically love it
- Single protein source limits variety for dogs who prefer different flavors or need dietary rotation
9. Freeze Dried Salmon Dog Treats
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Salmon’s reputation as a superfood isn’t just hype—freeze dried salmon dog treats pack a punch for skin, coat, joints, and heart.
You’ll get up to 98% of the nutrients found in fresh fish, plus omega-3s, B vitamins, and minerals.
They’re grain-free, hypoallergenic, and perfect for sensitive pups.
Some pieces might be tough, so break them up for smaller dogs or cats.
Store in a cool, dry spot, and keep an eye out for that fishy aroma.
Best For: Dogs and cats with allergies, sensitive stomachs, or those needing a nutrient-rich, single-ingredient treat.
- Retains up to 98% of nutrients, including omega-3s and essential vitamins.
- Grain-free, hypoallergenic, and suitable for pets with dietary restrictions.
- Highly palatable and versatile for training, meal toppers, or rewards.
- Some pieces may be tough or sharp, requiring breaking or removal for small pets.
- Strong fishy odor from packaging may be off-putting.
- Higher price point compared to standard treats.
Homemade Freeze Drying Process
If you’ve ever wondered how to make freeze dried dog treats at home, you’ll need a freeze dryer and a bit of patience.
This process removes moisture under low temperatures, letting you preserve flavor, reduce waste, and customize treats for your dog’s taste—no lab coat required.
Harvest Right Home Freeze Dryer
With a Harvest Right Home Freeze Dryer, you can jump into DIY freeze-drying for dog treats right from your kitchen.
Sure, Harvest Right cost isn’t pocket change, but you’ll control every ingredient in your freeze dried dog treats.
Understanding the initial investment is vital for budgeting.
Regular freeze-dryer maintenance keeps things running smooth.
Experiment with treat recipe ideas—your dog’s taste buds might just thank you!
Minimizing Food Waste With Leftovers
You’ve got a home freeze dryer—why let good food go to waste?
Portioning leftover treats and freezing veggie scraps lets you whip up leftover treat recipes for your dog, all while reducing pet waste.
Safe freezing practices mean those bits from last night’s dinner become freezedried dog treats, not landfill.
It’s practical, smart, and your dog will thank you!
You can even tailor these treats to your dog’s specific dietary needs by using homemade dog food to make healthy choices.
Preserving Meat’s Natural Texture
Your dog’s taste buds know the difference—preserving meat’s natural texture during the freeze dried process is all about maintaining cellular integrity and moisture retention.
Proper freeze drying prevents texture degradation and protein denaturation, keeping meat dog treats palatable.
The result? Freeze dried dog treats with superior palatability factors, so your pup enjoys every bite without the rubbery chew of old-school snacks.
Many pet owners also use freeze dried salmon as a healthy treat.
Creating Customizable Treats
When you make freeze dried dog treats at home, you’re in the driver’s seat—choosing every ingredient to match your pet’s dietary needs.
Experiment with flavor combinations, texture variations, or treat size, all while using safe recipes.
The freeze dried process lets you customize pet food, so you can keep things interesting, healthy, and suited to your dog’s preferences.
Safety and Health Considerations
When you’re choosing freeze dried dog treats, it’s smart to think about safety and health risks, since even tasty snacks can carry hidden dangers like bacteria.
By handling and storing these treats properly, you’ll help keep your dog healthy and avoid any unpleasant surprises, considering the potential for bacteria.
Risk of Pathogen Contamination
Even the best freeze dried dog treats aren’t immune to pathogen survival.
Pathogen contamination can sneak in from raw ingredients, facility surfaces, or sloppy handling practices.
Regulatory oversight helps, but consumer awareness is key for safety and healthy dog treats.
Remember, freeze drying doesn’t kill everything—Salmonella and Listeria can stick around.
- Watch out for contamination sources
- Check ingredient quality
- Stay updated on recalls
Importance of Proper Handling and Storage
You want your freezedried dog treats to last, right?
Safe thawing, airtight packaging, and cool, dry food storage prevent spoilage and maintain freshness.
Moisture is the enemy—think of it as the villain in your shelf life story.
Avoiding contamination means keeping treats sealed and handling with clean hands.
Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
| Preventing Spoilage | Maintaining Freshness |
|---|---|
| Airtight packaging | Store in cool, dry place |
| Avoid moisture | Use clean hands |
| Safe thawing | Check expiration date |
To ensure the longevity of your dog treats, remember that airtight packaging and safe thawing are crucial, and always handle the treats with clean hands to prevent contamination, and store them in a cool, dry place.
Regulatory Compliance and Standards
Traversing the maze of FDA Regulations and AAFCO Standards is key when picking freeze dried dog treats.
Labels must meet strict Labeling Requirements, and brands need solid Recall Procedures and Supplier Verification.
These regulations and standards help guarantee quality and safety, so you’re not playing roulette with your pet’s health.
Always check for compliance before tossing treats in your cart.
Pet treat labels must adhere to specific net weight guidelines on the front.
Preventing Health Risks for Pets
You can protect your dog’s health by choosing freeze dried dog treats from reputable sources with proper regulatory oversight and veterinary guidance.
Safe handling practices, combined with quality treat sourcing that guarantees pathogen elimination, help you maximize the benefits while minimizing risks for your furry friend’s wellbeing.
Addressing ideal caloric intake is also essential for maintaining a healthy weight.
Choosing The Right Freeze Dried Treats
Selecting the right freeze-dried treats requires careful evaluation of ingredient quality, manufacturer reputation, and your dog’s specific dietary needs.
You’ll want to prioritize products from reputable brands that follow proper safety protocols and consult your veterinarian to confirm the treats align with your pet’s health requirements, considering complete concepts to make an informed decision.
Factors to Consider for Pet Health
When selecting freeze dried dog treats, you’ll want to check treat ingredients for quality proteins and avoid artificial additives.
Consider your dog’s dietary needs and any allergen awareness requirements, especially with common triggers like chicken or beef.
Practice portion control since these concentrated treats pack intense flavors your pup loves.
Monitor hydration concerns, as freeze dried dog treats contain minimal moisture.
For health, make certain treats provide essential vitamins and minerals to ensure your pet receives the necessary nutrients.
Natural benefits shine when you match treats to your pet’s specific health profile, considering their unique needs and requirements to maximize the natural benefits.
Consulting With Veterinarians for Recommendations
Your dog’s health isn’t a guessing game—veterinarians bring vet expertise that considers breed specifics and individual needs.
They’ll help you navigate treat allergies, recommend appropriate portion control, and address ingredient concerns in freeze dried dog treats.
Professional reviews and recommendations guarantee you’re selecting products that match your dog’s unique requirements, making veterinarians your best resource for safe treat choices.
Many brands utilize a freeze-drying process to preserve nutrients, which is an important consideration for your dog’s health and wellbeing, and individual needs.
Ensuring Quality and Safety in Treats
Your veterinarian’s guidance becomes even more valuable when you examine manufacturing standards.
Quality freeze dried dog treats require rigorous oversight throughout production.
Here’s what separates safe products from risky ones:
- Pathogen elimination – Look for companies using validated testing protocols that screen for Salmonella, Listeria, and E. coli before distribution
To guarantee safety, consider methods to effectively treat pathogens.
- Ingredient sourcing – Verify manufacturers maintain regulatory oversight of their supply chain with documented safe handling procedures
- Manufacturing transparency – Choose brands that openly discuss their freeze dried quality controls and safety certifications
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are freeze-dried dog treats healthy?
As they say, an ounce of prevention‘s worth a pound of cure.
Freeze-dried dog treats offer high protein and retain nutrients through minimal processing, but they may contain pathogens like salmonella since freeze-drying doesn’t eliminate all harmful bacteria.
What is the best freeze-dried treat for dogs?
Finding the right freeze-dried option means balancing quality ingredients with your dog’s specific needs.
Top contenders include Essential Elements for single-protein diets, Stella & Chewy’s for small breeds, and Nulo Freestyle for kibble toppers.
Consider your pup’s sensitivities and preferences, including their need for quality ingredients.
Can you freeze dry dog treats?
Yes, you can freeze-dry dog treats at home using a freeze dryer, though it requires specialized equipment costing thousands.
The process preserves nutrients while removing moisture, creating shelf-stable treats that retain flavor and nutritional value.
How long do freeze dried treats last unopened?
Unopened freeze-dried treats typically last 2-5 years when stored properly in cool, dry conditions.
You’ll want to check expiration dates and store them away from heat and moisture for maximum shelf life.
Are freeze dried treats suitable for allergic dogs?
Freeze-dried treats can benefit allergic dogs since they’re typically made with single ingredients, reducing exposure to common allergens like grains, artificial additives, or multiple protein sources that trigger reactions.
How much should I feed my dog daily?
Start with your dog’s weight and activity level as the foundation.
Most dogs need 2-3% of their body weight in food daily, but active pups require more calories than couch potatoes for peak health.
Do freeze dried treats require refrigeration after opening?
Most freeze-dried treats don’t need refrigeration after opening since the moisture removal process creates shelf-stable products.
However, you’ll want to store them in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent moisture absorption.
Conclusion
Studies show freeze-dried treats retain 97% of their original nutritional content, making them substantially more nutrient-dense than conventional baked alternatives.
You’ve discovered that freeze dried dog treats offer unmatched convenience and health benefits for your pet.
They’re perfect for training sessions, travel, and dogs with food sensitivities.
Remember to store them properly, choose reputable brands, and consult your veterinarian about incorporating these concentrated nutrition powerhouses into your dog’s diet for ideal health results.
- https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/freeze-dried-dog-food-market-report
- https://datahorizzonresearch.com/freeze-dried-treats-for-pets-market-9924
- https://www.aafco.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2024_OP_Chapter_6_enc.pdf
- https://www.whole-dog-journal.com/food/fresh-dried-dehydrated/the-best-freeze-dried-raw-dog-foods-of-2018/
- https://www.greatpetcare.com/dog-nutrition/freeze-dried-dog-food-the-pros-and-cons/
