DietGel® FAQ
When should I use DietGels®?
DietGels® are soft dietary supplements containing carbohydrate, fat, protein, and fortified with mineral and vitamin mixes (except for DietGel® Recovery, which only contains a mineral mix). They are a superior alternative to mash diets that are used as a supplement or as the sole source of nutrition, reducing time and labor costs (in the vivarium or lab). DietGel® 93M is a complete diet. Please consult with your nutritionist for long term use. DietGels® are designed to provide compromised rodents a palatable source of hydration and nutrients and are an excellent solution for:
- Breeding and weaning of pups
- Post-surgical support
- Neurologically compromised rodents
- EAE models, Transgenic Mice
- Shipping
What is the difference between DietGel® 76A (w/Animal Protein) and DietGel® 76A (w/Wheat protein)?
DietGel® 76A (w/Animal Protein) contains casein as the source of protein, while DietGel® 76A (w/Wheat protein) contains a vegetarian source of protein. There are some slight changes in nutritional values, and a different flavor profile that can make all the difference for your animals.
Moreover, as animal products sometimes encounter issues for exportation, DietGel® 76A (w/Wheat protein) can be imported in Europe.
Why does DietGel® sometimes have white or brown specs?
Non-soluble ingredients are sometimes visible in the DietGel®, showing up as white to brown specs or clumps. The non-soluble ingredients do not affect the nutritional integrity of the product, making it 100% safe to use for your research animal.
What is the white foam in the gel?
It is rare but normal to see white particulate on top of or within the product. During the production process, foam can form from the mixture and interaction of all the ingredients and rise to the top of the gel. The foam, which contains ingredients such as casein or sugar, can dry out, exposing casein or sugar crystals, and form a white, crystal-like residue layer that can be mistaken as mold. It’s completely safe for the animals and poses no health risk. Products are lab tested by batch, to confirm they are safe for consumption.
Why does the color and texture of DietGel® vary from case to case?
The color of DietGel changes during the irradiation process. When DietGel® is produced, the color is tan, and the texture is firm. The irradiation process changes the product color from tan to a darker caramel color and breaks some of the bonds in the gel matrix. All products are 100% irradiated and safe to use.
Why does the texture and consistency of DietGel® Boost vary?
The texture and consistency of DietGel® Boost can vary naturally due to the incorporation of chunky peanut butter into the product which results in a firmer gel. Extreme high and low temperatures can also impact the consistency of the product.
Can I use DietGel® Recovery for support during shipments?
DietGel® Recovery is an excellent choice as a hydration source when shipping mice and rats. Many sites have successfully used DietGel® Recovery during transport of rodents who arrive dry, healthy and require less time to acclimate. DietGel® Recovery is a purified water gel containing 60% water. It is fortified with calories and minerals and provides 155 kcals/100 grams.
When shipping guinea pigs, we recommend using HydroGel®. In a recent study conducted by Charles River Laboratories, consumption, and weight loss of guinea pigs during transit were significantly better with HydroGel® compared to a sweetened gel. The study showed that animals consumed more HydroGel®, therefore preventing body weight loss and decreasing clinical pathologic indicators of dehydration.
How long can DietGel® be stored at room temperature once opened?
When left open, DietGel® will evaporate over time. Within 4-5 days, the product will lose over 50% of its moisture, making it more difficult for the animals to consume and less appetizing. It is best to change out the product after 2-3 days of being left open.
Is DietGel® good to use if the cup contents looks loose and oily?
Product texture and consistency being observed as loose or oily can be the combination of natural ingredients, significant temperature cycling, and extensive agitation that can occur during transit. The gel may look similar to how natural peanut butter can look with oil separation. Hand mixing the cup contents briefly will reconstitute the ingredients for consumption. The product is safe for consumption.