Diane

Type: Artificial color Source: Synthetic petroleum-derived dye What It Is Red 40 is a synthetic azo dye derived from petroleum sources. It is used solely to impart red coloration and has no nutritional value. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Used for nutritional, functional, or formulation purposes Included to meet recipe or processing requirements … Read more

Type: Vitamin supplement (Vitamin B6) Source: Vitamin supplement What It Is Pyridoxine hydrochloride is a supplemental form of Vitamin B6. It is commonly included in vitamin premixes for nutritional completeness. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels It may be included to: Provide Vitamin B6 as part of a vitamin premix Support consistent nutrient targets … Read more

Type: Plant ingredient (vegetable) Source: Plant (pumpkin) What It Is Pumpkin is a plant-based ingredient used in some pet foods and treats. It may appear as pumpkin, dried pumpkin, or as part of a vegetable blend. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Pumpkin may be included to: Add plant-based ingredients and variety Contribute fiber … Read more

Type: Humectant / moisture-retaining ingredient Source: Synthetic What It Is Propylene glycol is a moisture-retaining ingredient used to help keep certain products soft. It may also support texture and shelf stability in some formulations. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Propylene glycol may be included to: Retain moisture in soft or semi-moist products Support … Read more

Type: Fiber ingredient Source: Plant-derived cellulose What It Is Powdered cellulose is a refined fiber ingredient derived from plant material. It is used to add fiber and bulk. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Powdered cellulose may be included to: Add dietary fiber Increase bulk in certain formulas Support stool consistency Where It Is … Read more

Type: Rendered animal ingredient (vague term) Source: Poultry (species not specified) What It Is Poultry by-product meal is a rendered ingredient made from poultry parts other than muscle meat. The species (chicken, turkey, etc.) are not specified when the label says “poultry.” Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels It may be included to: Provide … Read more

Type: Starch / thickening ingredient Source: Plant (potato) What It Is Potato starch is a refined starch extracted from potatoes. It is used for binding, texture, and as a carbohydrate ingredient depending on the product. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Potato starch may be included to: Provide carbohydrates Support binding and structure Improve … Read more

Type: Mineral supplement (potassium source) Source: Mineral What It Is Potassium sulfate is a mineral compound used as a source of potassium in some formulations. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels It may be included to: Provide potassium Support mineral balance in the formula Where It Is Commonly Found Foods listing added minerals Products … Read more

Type: Preservative Source: Synthetic preservative What It Is This label wording indicates potassium sorbate is being used for its preservative function, typically to inhibit mold and yeast growth. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels It may be included to: Extend shelf life Help prevent mold or yeast-related spoilage Support stability in moisture-containing products Where … Read more

Type: Preservative Source: Synthetic preservative What It Is Potassium sorbate is a preservative used to inhibit mold and yeast growth, helping extend shelf life. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Potassium sorbate may be included to: Extend shelf life Help prevent spoilage from mold and yeast Support stability in moisture-containing products Where It Is … Read more