Peas

Type: Legume / plant ingredient Source: Plant (legume) What It Is Peas are legumes used in some pet foods as a plant-based ingredient. They may contribute starch, fiber, and plant-derived components depending on the formula. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Peas may be included to: Provide carbohydrates and plant-based components Support grain-free or … Read more

Pea Protein

Type: Plant protein concentrate Source: Plant (peas) What It Is Pea protein is a concentrated protein ingredient derived from peas. It may be included to increase protein content from plant sources. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Pea protein may be included to: Increase total protein content Support grain-free formulations Provide plant-derived protein components … Read more

Pea Fiber

Type: Fiber ingredient Source: Plant (peas) What It Is Pea fiber is derived from peas and used primarily as a dietary fiber ingredient. It may be included to add bulk and support stool consistency. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Pea fiber may be included to: Add fiber for stool consistency Increase bulk in … Read more

Parsley

Type: Plant ingredient / herb Source: Plant (parsley) What It Is Parsley is an herb that may be included in small amounts as a plant ingredient. It may appear as part of an herb blend or for flavor/aroma support. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Parsley may be included to: Add a mild herbal … Read more

Oregano Extract

Type: Plant extract (flavoring and/or antioxidant support) Source: Plant (oregano) What It Is Oregano extract is derived from oregano and may be included for flavoring, aroma, or as part of a botanical/antioxidant blend depending on the product. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Oregano extract may be included to: Add flavor or aroma Support … Read more

Oil of Rosemary

Type: Antioxidant / preservative support ingredient Source: Plant (rosemary) What It Is Oil of rosemary is a rosemary-derived ingredient used primarily for antioxidant properties. It may be included as part of a preservative system, especially in foods containing fats and oils. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Oil of rosemary may be included to: … Read more

Ocean Fish Meal (Ethoxyquin Used as a Preservative)

Type: Rendered fish protein + preservative note Source: Fish (species not specified) + synthetic antioxidant (ethoxyquin) What It Is 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 … Read more

Oats

Type: Grain / carbohydrate source Source: Plant (grain) What It Is Oats are whole grains used in some pet foods as a source of carbohydrates and fiber. They may be included whole or in processed forms. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Oats may be included to: Provide carbohydrates for energy Contribute fiber Support … Read more

Oatmeal

Type: Grain / carbohydrate source Source: Plant (oats) What It Is Oatmeal refers to processed oats that have been rolled or cut. On pet food labels, “oatmeal” typically indicates a grain ingredient used for carbohydrates and fiber. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Oatmeal may be included to: Provide carbohydrates for energy Contribute dietary … Read more

Natural White Meat Chicken Flavor

Type: Flavoring ingredient (vague) Source: Natural flavoring (unspecified) What It Is Natural white meat chicken flavor is a label term used to describe flavoring intended to taste like chicken, with “white meat” used as a marketing descriptor. The label does not disclose the specific ingredients used to create the flavor. Why It Appears on Pet … Read more