Diane

Type: Marine oil (fat source) Source: Menhaden fish oil; preserved with mixed tocopherols (vitamin E compounds) What It Is Menhaden fish oil is a marine oil used to add fat and support the overall fatty-acid profile of the diet. “Preserved with mixed tocopherols” indicates antioxidants (vitamin E compounds) used to help protect the oil from … Read more

Minerals (Zinc Proteinate) Type: Trace mineral supplement (chelated zinc) Source: Zinc bound to protein/amino acids (proteinate form) What It Is Zinc proteinate is a chelated form of zinc used as a trace mineral source in pet foods. It is commonly included in mineral premixes. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Supplies zinc as part … Read more

Type: Mineral supplement (listed within a mineral blend) Source: Potassium chloride included as part of a grouped “minerals” listing What It Is Potassium chloride is a mineral ingredient that provides potassium. In some labels it appears inside a grouped “Minerals” statement instead of being listed as a standalone ingredient. Why It Appears on Pet Food … Read more

Type: Mineral supplement Source: Inorganic magnesium salt What It Is Magnesium sulfate is an inorganic mineral ingredient used to provide magnesium, which supports many normal body functions. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Provides magnesium as part of a mineral premix or formulation Helps meet formulated nutrient targets for complete and balanced diets Supports … Read more

Type: Trace mineral supplement (chelated manganese) Source: Manganese bound to protein/amino acids (chelated form) What It Is Manganese proteinate is a chelated form of manganese used in pet foods to help provide this trace mineral in a form that is often used in premixes. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Supplies manganese as part … Read more

Type: Animal-based organ ingredient Source: Animal liver tissue (species may vary by recipe) What It Is Liver is a nutrient-dense organ meat ingredient used in pet foods to contribute protein, fat, and naturally occurring vitamins and minerals (notably vitamin A and certain B vitamins). Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Boosts aroma and taste … Read more

Type: Plant-based omega-3 source Source: Milled flax seeds What It Is Ground flaxseed is finely milled flax seeds, rich in ALA omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Provides plant-derived omega-3s for skin/coat health Adds fiber for digestion and anti-inflammatory benefits Supports heart and immune function Where It Is Commonly … Read more

Type: Prebiotic soluble fiber Source: Extracted from chicory root or similar plants What It Is Inulin is a natural fructan fiber that acts as a prebiotic to feed beneficial gut bacteria. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Promotes healthy gut microbiome and digestion Improves stool quality and reduces odor Supports immune function via better … Read more

Type: Chelated iron supplement Source: Iron bound to amino acids/protein What It Is Iron proteinate is a chelated form of iron for improved absorption and reduced stomach upset. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Supports oxygen transport in blood and energy metabolism Better bioavailability than inorganic iron sources Less likely to cause GI irritation … Read more

Type: Synthetic water-soluble B vitamin Source: Added supplement form What It Is Folic acid is the synthetic form of folate (vitamin B9), essential for cell division and metabolism. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Supports DNA synthesis, red blood cell production Important for growth, pregnancy, and tissue repair Added to meet nutritional requirements Where … Read more