Type: Rendered fish protein + preservative note
Source: Fish (species not specified) + synthetic antioxidant (ethoxyquin)
Ocean Fish Meal (Ethoxyquin Used as a Preservative) in Dog and Cat Food
Ocean fish meal is a rendered fish ingredient with moisture removed, creating a concentrated protein source. This label wording indicates ethoxyquin was used as a preservative, typically to stabilize the fish meal.
Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels
Ocean fish meal may be included to:
- Provide concentrated fish-based protein
- Enhance aroma and palatability
- Contribute marine-derived ingredients to the formula
Where It Is Commonly Found
- Dry kibble
- Fish-based or mixed-protein formulas
Label Context
This preservative disclosure often applies to the ingredient supply chain: ethoxyquin may be applied to fish meal before it reaches the pet food manufacturer. Species and processing can vary when a label uses broad terms like “ocean fish.”
For pet-specific considerations, use the ingredient scan tool.
Educational Note
This page is part of the PetFoodDecoded Label Ingredient Library and is provided for educational reference only.