Type: Rendered animal ingredient (vague term)
Source: Poultry (species not specified)
Poultry By-Product Meal in Dog and Cat Food
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 a concentrated animal-derived ingredient
- Support kibble structure and formulation
- Use broad poultry sourcing for availability and cost
Where It Is Commonly Found
- Dry kibble
- Some mixed-protein formulas
- Foods using broad “poultry” labeling
Label Context
This is a broad label term. The exact parts and species included are not typically listed, and composition can vary by manufacturer and batch.
For pet-specific considerations, use the ingredient scan tool.
Educational Note
This page is part of the PetFoodDecoded Label Ingredient Library and is provided for educational reference only.