Taste of the Wild and Blue Buffalo are two of the most popular mid-premium pet food brands. Both target owners willing to pay more than budget kibble but not committed to fresh food.
Quick Comparison
| Factor | Taste of the Wild | Blue Buffalo |
|---|---|---|
| Price (28lb) | $50-70 | $55-80 |
| Recall history | 2012 major recall | Multiple 2010-2017 |
| Manufacturing | Diamond Pet Foods | General Mills (since 2018) |
| Recipe count | ~12-15 formulas | 50+ formulas |
Taste of the Wild
Strengths: Often cheaper than Blue Buffalo, consistent ingredient quality, "ancestral" positioning, multiple novel proteins (bison, venison, salmon), wide retail availability.
Concerns: 2012 Salmonella recall was significant, mostly grain-free (DCM concerns), made by Diamond Pet Foods which has had multiple recalls.
Blue Buffalo
Strengths: Much wider product range (Wilderness, Basics, Life Protection), both grain-free and grain-inclusive options, LifeSource Bits, specific formulas for many situations.
Concerns: Multiple recalls 2010-2017, 2014 lawsuit settled over by-product meal misrepresentation, some formulas in early FDA DCM investigation.
The Recall Issue
Both have had recalls. TotW's 2012 Salmonella recall affected Diamond manufacturing. Blue Buffalo's recalls spread over multiple years suggested manufacturing inconsistency. Neither has clean track record of Wellness or Purina Pro Plan.
Which to Pick
Pick Taste of the Wild if: You prefer "ancestral diet" positioning, want novel proteins at lower cost, dog does well on grain-free.
Pick Blue Buffalo if: You want more variety of formulations, need specific options (weight management, sensitive stomach), OK with the recall history.
Better Alternatives
- Wellness: Better recall history, comparable quality
- Purina Pro Plan: Better research, often cheaper
- Acana Wholesome Grains: Better ingredient quality, grain-inclusive
The Bottom Line
Both decent mid-premium choices but not best-in-class. Taste of the Wild offers better value; Blue Buffalo offers more variety. For cleaner recall histories, consider Wellness or Purina Pro Plan.