Ingredient Library

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

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

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

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

Type: Flavoring ingredient Source: Natural flavoring (unspecified) What It Is Natural smoke flavor is a label term used for flavoring intended to create a smoky taste and aroma. The label does not disclose the specific ingredients or method used to produce the smoke flavor. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Natural smoke flavor may … Read more

Type: Label term (vague) Source: Not specified on the label What It Is “Natural preservatives” is a broad label term indicating the product uses one or more preservatives considered “natural,” but the label does not specify which preservative ingredients were used. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Natural preservatives may be included to: Help … Read more

Type: Flavoring ingredient Source: Natural flavoring (unspecified) What It Is Natural hickory smoke flavor is a label term used for flavoring intended to create a smoky, hickory-style taste and aroma. The specific ingredients used to create the smoke flavor are not disclosed on the label. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Natural hickory smoke … Read more

Type: Flavoring ingredient Source: Natural flavoring (unspecified) What It Is Natural filet mignon flavor is a marketing-style flavor descriptor intended to evoke a premium beef flavor. The actual ingredients used to create this flavor are not disclosed. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels This ingredient may be included to: Create a premium or upscale … Read more

Type: Flavoring ingredient Source: Natural flavoring (unspecified) What It Is Natural beef flavor is a broad labeling term for flavoring substances designed to impart a beef-like taste. The actual components used to produce the flavor are not listed. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Natural beef flavor may be included to: Enhance taste and … Read more

Type: Flavoring ingredient Source: Natural flavoring (unspecified) What It Is Natural bacon flavor is a labeling term used to describe flavoring intended to mimic the taste and aroma of bacon. The specific ingredients used to create this flavor are not disclosed on the label. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Natural bacon flavor may … Read more