Calcium

Type: Mineral (macromineral) Source: Mineral supplement or naturally occurring in ingredients What It Is Calcium is an essential mineral required for bone development, muscle contraction, and nerve function. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Calcium is added to pet food products to: Support bone and teeth health Maintain proper muscle and nerve function Balance … Read more

Beef By-Product

Type: Animal-based by-product ingredient Source: Beef by-products (organs and non-muscle parts) What It Is Beef by-product refers to non-muscle portions of cattle used in pet food. This may include organs and other parts that provide protein and naturally occurring nutrients. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Beef by-product is added to pet food products … Read more

Zinc Proteinate

Type: Mineral supplement (chelated) Source: Zinc bound to protein What It Is Zinc proteinate is a chelated form of zinc designed for improved absorption. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Zinc Proteinate is added to pet food products to: Support immune function Promote skin and coat health Meet trace mineral requirements Where It Is … Read more

Whole Grain Ground Corn

Type: Grain carbohydrate Source: Corn grain What It Is Whole grain ground corn consists of entire corn kernels ground into meal. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Whole Grain Ground Corn is added to pet food products to: Provide carbohydrates Contribute plant protein Support kibble structure Where It Is Commonly Found Dry kibble Grain-inclusive … Read more

White Rice

Type: Grain carbohydrate Source: Milled white rice What It Is White rice is a refined grain used as a digestible carbohydrate source. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels White Rice is added to pet food products to: Provide energy Support sensitive digestion Contribute to kibble structure Where It Is Commonly Found Dry kibble Veterinary … Read more

Salmon Oil (a source of DHA)

Type: Marine-derived fat Source: Salmon oil What It Is Salmon oil is extracted from salmon and is rich in DHA omega-3 fatty acids. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Salmon Oil (a source of DHA) is added to pet food products to: Support skin and coat health Promote cognitive development Provide essential fatty acids … Read more

Rice Flour

Type: Grain carbohydrate Source: Finely milled rice What It Is Rice flour is finely ground rice used as a binder and carbohydrate source. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Rice Flour is added to pet food products to: Provide digestible energy Support kibble texture Act as binding agent Where It Is Commonly Found Dry … Read more

Raspberries

Type: Fruit Source: Raspberry fruit What It Is Raspberries are berries included in small amounts for antioxidants. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Raspberries is added to pet food products to: Provide phytonutrients Add natural ingredient appeal Support antioxidant content Where It Is Commonly Found Premium formulas Limited-ingredient diets Label Context Included in small … Read more

Quinoa

Type: Seed carbohydrate/protein Source: Quinoa seed What It Is Quinoa is a seed used as a carbohydrate and plant protein source. Why It Appears on Pet Food Labels Quinoa is added to pet food products to: Provide energy Add plant protein Support alternative grain formulations Where It Is Commonly Found Grain-free diets Premium kibble Label … Read more