The “Human Dog Food” Diet Is Going Viral—But Should You Try It?

Another day, another TikTok trend—this time, it’s the “human dog food” diet, and yes, it’s exactly as unappetizing as it sounds. But before you assume someone’s raiding their pup’s bowl, rest assured: no actual pet food is involved.

The trend kicked off when a TikTok user went viral for showcasing his minimalist meal prep: a hearty mix of chicken, tofu, chopped veggies, and rice, all cooked into a soft, beige mash that he eats for every meal. The look? More “canine cuisine” than culinary masterpiece. The nickname “human kibble” stuck, not because of what’s in it—but because of its repetitive, utilitarian nature.

Despite its dog dish aesthetic, some viewers are eating it up. Fans praise the simplicity and efficiency of the diet, claiming it streamlines their routine, cuts down decision fatigue, and helps them stay on track with healthy eating.

One meal, one prep session, minimal thought required. But health experts are less enthused.

Nutritionists warn that the diet’s biggest flaw may be the very thing that makes it appealing: its monotony. Eating the same thing every day can quickly sap enjoyment from meals, making it harder to stick to in the long run. Even worse, a lack of variety can create nutritional blind spots. Over time, even a “balanced” mix of protein, grains, and vegetables might fall short on certain vitamins and minerals your body needs.

“There’s value in routine,” says one dietitian, “but your body thrives on variety.”

That doesn’t mean the concept is entirely off-base. Batch-cooking nutritious meals is a smart strategy for anyone trying to eat healthier with less effort. The key, experts say, is to use the “kibble” model as a baseline—maybe for lunch—and then inject more diversity at breakfast and dinner to keep both your body and brain engaged.

As for whether humans should eat like dogs? That depends on the goal. Simplicity and consistency can be powerful tools, but unlike dogs, we’re wired to crave variety and flavor. So if your weekday lunch resembles something from a pet aisle, fine. But your body—and your taste buds—will thank you for mixing it up occasionally.