Methods for enhancing the palatability of liquid animal digests comprise hydrolyzing a substrate, such as animal viscera, and then adjusting the pH of the hydrolysate to at least 8.0, preferably at least 8.5, and more preferably at least 9.5. The resultant hydrolysate can be added to a food composition to form a pet food product, such as a dry pet food product. For example, the hydrolysate can be coated onto dry kibbles. The pH can prevent growth of food pathogens, for example Salmonella.
