What 85 of the things on a dog or cat food label actually are, in plain English, with the source each explanation comes from.
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A B C D E F G I L M N O P R S T V W Y Z
Artificial food coloring dyes like Red 40 are used primarily for visual appeal to pet owners, not pets. Some studies suggest potential sensitivities, and they offer no nutritional benefit.
Also appears on labels as: artificial color, red 40
Source: FDA, AAFCO
Artificial dyes (like Yellow 5, Red 40, Blue 1) are synthetic colorants.
Added to make the food look more appealing to pet owners (not for pets themselves).
Artificial colors are approved by the FDA for pet foods, but many owners and nutritionists question whether they are necessary or desirable. Pets do not need colored food—this is purely for human visual appeal. Some studies suggest artificial dyes may contribute to behavioral issues in sensitive individuals (in people), though evidence in pets is limited. Premium and natural brands typically avoid artificial colors in favor of natural colorants. Avoiding artificial dyes is a simple way to reduce unnecessary additives.
Also appears on labels as: artificial dye, artificial dyes, colorants (artificial), colorants (artificial dyes), added color, added colors, colorants
Source: FDA (food coloring regulations); AAFCO
Digestible whole grain providing carbohydrates and fiber. A legitimate grain ingredient with nutritional value, though less common than rice or oatmeal in pet foods.
Source: AAFCO
Named beef protein that is easily digestible and species-appropriate. A quality indicator in pet foods, commonly used as a primary protein source.
Source: AAFCO, WSAVA
BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole) is an antioxidant preservative.
Used to prevent fats from turning rancid, extending shelf life.
BHA is legal in the US and approved by the FDA for pet foods. However, it is restricted or banned in the EU, Japan, and other countries due to concerns about long-term safety. Some owners prefer foods preserved with natural methods (vitamin E, rosemary extract) or avoid it entirely. The science is debated: regulatory agencies consider it safe at approved levels, but some toxicology studies raise questions. If this concerns you, seek foods preserved with mixed tocopherols or rosemary instead.
Also appears on labels as: animal fat (bha preserved), animal fat (bha-bht preserved), butylated hydroxyanisole, bha
Source: FDA (21 CFR 573.60); European Food Safety Authority (restricted)
BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) is an antioxidant preservative.
Used to prevent fats from turning rancid, extending shelf life.
BHT is legal in the US and FDA-approved for pet foods, but is restricted in the EU and other countries. Like BHA, it faces scrutiny over long-term safety at approved levels. Regulatory bodies maintain it is safe; critics point to animal studies showing potential concerns. If you prefer to avoid it, look for foods preserved with vitamin E (mixed tocopherols) or natural antioxidants like rosemary extract.
Also appears on labels as: beef fat (bha/bht preserved), bha/bht preserved, butylated hydroxytoluene, bht
Source: FDA (21 CFR 573.61); European Food Safety Authority (restricted)
B vitamin supporting skin and coat health. Often included for its role in maintaining healthy skin and preventing hair loss.
Also appears on labels as: vitamin b7, vitamin h
Source: AAFCO, FDA
Whole fruit ingredient providing antioxidants, fiber, and nutrients. A quality ingredient that supports overall health and immunity in pets.
Source: AAFCO
Digestible carbohydrate source providing fiber and nutrients. A wholesome grain ingredient superior to refined white rice in nutritional value.
Also appears on labels as: rice
Source: AAFCO
"by-products of plant origin" refers to secondary materials or left-over parts from processing plants, grains, fruits, and vegetables for human use. These components provide dietary fiber, essential carbohydrates, or auxiliary proteins instead of serving as primary meat ingredient
Also appears on labels as: sous-produits d'origine végétale, vegetable by-products
Source: FEDIAF
Mineral providing calcium, essential for bone development and muscle function. Ensures proper calcium-phosphorus balance in complete and balanced formulas.
Also appears on labels as: limestone
Source: AAFCO, FDA
Mineral providing iodine, essential for thyroid function and metabolism. Ensures proper thyroid hormone production; included in controlled amounts.
Also appears on labels as: iodine
Source: AAFCO, FDA
B vitamin (Vitamin B5) supporting energy production and stress response. Important for metabolism and immune system function.
Also appears on labels as: calcium pantothenate, d-calcium pantothenate, vitamin b5, Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B5)
Source: AAFCO, FDA
Caramel color is made by heating sugars to create a brown pigment.
Creates a brown color without artificial dyes.
Caramel color is approved by the FDA and is derived from natural sugar. It is one of the safer coloring options and is common in natural/premium brands. It does not carry the same concerns as synthetic dyes. Regulatory agencies consider it safe for pets at approved levels.
Also appears on labels as: caramel color, colorante caramelo, caramel coloring, class iv caramel color
Source: FDA (color additives); AAFCO
Carrageenan is a thickening agent derived from red seaweed.
Creates the gel texture in wet/canned foods.
Carrageenan is derived from seaweed and is FDA-approved for pet foods. It is a natural thickener commonly used in wet foods. Some debate exists about potential digestive concerns (particularly regarding inflammation), but regulatory agencies maintain it is safe at approved levels for most pets.
Also appears on labels as: carrageenan, carrageenan (thickener), carrageenan gum
Source: FDA (food additive status); AAFCO
Whole vegetable ingredient providing fiber, vitamins, and natural sweetness. A wholesome, nutrient-dense ingredient common in quality pet foods.
Source: AAFCO
Named poultry protein source that is highly digestible and species-appropriate for dogs and cats. Fresh named meats indicate quality and transparency in formulations.
Source: AAFCO, WSAVA
Named meat sources like chicken are high-quality, species-appropriate protein that pets digest efficiently. Using specific meat names (rather than "meat" or "poultry") indicates transparency and quality.
Source: AAFCO, WSAVA
Animal fat providing essential fatty acids for coat and skin health. Preserved with natural vitamin E (mixed tocopherols) rather than synthetic preservatives.
Also appears on labels as: chicken fat, preserved with mixed tocopherols, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols)
Source: AAFCO, WSAVA
Rendered chicken protein, more concentrated than fresh chicken. A legitimate protein source; fresh named meats are generally preferred in premium formulas.
Also appears on labels as: chicken by-product meal
Source: AAFCO
Nutrient supporting brain development and liver function. Essential for cognitive function and metabolic health in dogs and cats.
Also appears on labels as: choline
Source: AAFCO, FDA
Mineral providing bioavailable copper, essential for iron metabolism and coat color. Proteinate and amino acid chelate forms are more bioavailable than sulfate forms.
Source: AAFCO, FDA
Mineral providing bioavailable copper, essential for iron metabolism and coat color. Proteinate and amino acid chelate forms are more bioavailable than sulfate forms.
Source: AAFCO, FDA
Mineral providing copper, essential for iron metabolism and coat color. Sulfate forms are less bioavailable than proteinate or amino acid chelate forms.
Also appears on labels as: copper sulphate
Source: AAFCO, FDA
Corn syrup is a sweetener that adds unnecessary sugar to pet food. While not toxic, it can contribute to weight gain and dental problems in pets when used excessively.
Also appears on labels as: glucose syrup
Source: AAFCO
Whole fruit ingredient providing antioxidants and fiber. Traditionally associated with urinary tract health in pets, though research on efficacy is mixed.
Source: AAFCO
Essential amino acid supporting immune function and urinary health. Often added to formulas to ensure complete amino acid profiles and support urinary pH management.
Also appears on labels as: dl methionine, methionine
Source: AAFCO, FDA
Beneficial bacteria supporting digestive and immune health. Produces short-chain fatty acids that nourish the intestinal lining and support overall gut health.
Also appears on labels as: bifidobacterium longum
Source: AAFCO
Plant ingredient providing inulin, a prebiotic fiber supporting digestive health. Encourages beneficial bacteria growth in the gut and supports overall digestive function.
Also appears on labels as: chicory, chicory root, inulin
Source: AAFCO
Concentrated egg protein source that provides amino acids and nutrients. A quality ingredient, though whole eggs are occasionally preferred in premium foods.
Source: AAFCO
Seaweed ingredient providing minerals, iodine, and nutrients. Used to support overall health; should be included in modest amounts as excessive iodine can be problematic.
Also appears on labels as: kelp, kelp meal
Source: AAFCO
Beneficial bacteria supporting digestive health and nutrient absorption. Helps maintain healthy gut microbiome and can reduce digestive upset in sensitive pets.
Also appears on labels as: lactobacillus acidophilus
Source: AAFCO
Beneficial bacteria supporting digestive health and immune function. Helps balance gut flora and supports nutrient absorption from food.
Also appears on labels as: pediococcus acidilactici
Source: AAFCO
A safe, common by-product of tomato processing made from leftover skins, pulp, and crushed seeds. Used primarily as a healthy, natural source of dietary fiber and antioxidants like lycopene, it helps firm up stool and supports good digestion
Also appears on labels as: tomato pomace
Source: AAFCO
Fermented yeast product providing B vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. A nutritious ingredient that supports immune function and coat health.
Also appears on labels as: brewers dried yeast, yeast
Source: AAFCO
Ethoxyquin is a synthetic antioxidant preservative.
Used to preserve fats and prevent spoilage in ingredients and finished foods.
Ethoxyquin is approved by the FDA for use in pet foods, but has been a point of controversy. The AAFCO allows it, but some pet nutrition advocates have linked it to health concerns in dogs, though this has not been conclusively proven. It is banned in human food in the US and many countries. Many premium pet foods have removed it in favor of natural preservatives. If you want to avoid it, choose foods preserved with mixed tocopherols or rosemary extract.
Also appears on labels as: santoquin, ethoxyquin
Source: AAFCO Official Publication; FDA (prior approval for animal feed)
Mineral providing iron, essential for oxygen transport in blood. Sulfate forms are less efficiently absorbed than proteinate or amino acid chelate forms.
Also appears on labels as: iron (ii) sulfate, iron sulfate
Source: AAFCO, FDA
Rendered fish protein rich in amino acids. A nutritious protein source commonly used in pet foods, particularly beneficial for omega-3 content.
Also appears on labels as: ocean fish meal
Source: AAFCO
Natural source of omega-3 fatty acids supporting coat and skin health. Similar benefits to salmon oil but may be from various fish species.
Source: AAFCO
Plant-based source of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. Supports coat and skin health, though marine sources (fish oil) are generally more bioavailable for pets.
Also appears on labels as: flax seed, ground flaxseed, linseed
Source: AAFCO
B vitamin (Vitamin B9) supporting cell division and DNA synthesis. Critical for proper growth and development, especially in growing puppies and kittens.
Also appears on labels as: folate, vitamin b9
Source: AAFCO, FDA
Guar gum is a thickening agent derived from guar beans.
Creates consistency in wet foods; acts as a binder and thickener.
Guar gum is derived from beans and is a natural thickener approved by the FDA. It is widely used in premium pet foods and is generally well-tolerated. A legitimate alternative to carrageenan for pets sensitive to seaweed-based thickeners.
Also appears on labels as: guar, guar gum 0.2%, guaran, guar gum
Source: FDA (natural food additive); AAFCO
Mineral providing bioavailable iron, essential for oxygen transport in blood. Proteinate and amino acid chelate forms are more efficiently absorbed than sulfate forms.
Source: AAFCO, FDA
Iron oxide is a mineral pigment (rust) used for coloring.
Provides brown, red, or yellow tones without synthetic organic dyes.
Iron oxide is an FDA-approved mineral colorant. It is inert (does not react in the digestive system) and is considered safe. This is a mineral-based alternative to synthetic dyes, used in some natural and premium brands.
Also appears on labels as: iron oxide color, iron oxide (colorant), iron oxides
Source: FDA (food coloring regulations); AAFCO
Mineral providing bioavailable iron, essential for oxygen transport in blood. Proteinate and amino acid chelate forms are more efficiently absorbed than sulfate forms.
Source: AAFCO, FDA
Stabilized form of Vitamin C supporting immune function and antioxidant protection. More stable than regular vitamin C in pet food formulations.
Also appears on labels as: ascorbic acid, l-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate, source of vitamin c, vitamin c, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C)
Source: AAFCO, FDA
Lamb is a high-quality, named meat protein source that is easily digestible and appropriate for dogs and cats. It is a good choice for pets with sensitivities to poultry.
Source: AAFCO, WSAVA
Lamb meal is rendered lamb protein, more concentrated than fresh lamb meat. It is a legitimate and nutritious protein source commonly used in quality pet foods.
Source: AAFCO
Mineral providing manganese, essential for bone development and metabolic function. Proteinate and amino acid chelate forms provide better absorption than sulfate forms.
Source: AAFCO, FDA
Mineral providing manganese, essential for bone development and metabolic function. Proteinate and amino acid chelate forms provide better absorption than sulfate forms.
Source: AAFCO, FDA
Mineral providing manganese, essential for bone development and metabolic function. Sulfate forms provide less absorption than proteinate or amino acid chelate forms.
Also appears on labels as: manganese sulphate
Source: AAFCO, FDA
Meat by-products include animal parts not fit for human consumption, such as beaks, hooves, and intestines. They are less nutritious than named meat sources and indicate lower quality ingredients.
Also appears on labels as: animal by-products, by-products, meat byproducts
Source: AAFCO, WSAVA
Mixed tocopherols are natural forms of vitamin E.
Used as a natural antioxidant to prevent fats from spoiling and maintain freshness.
Mixed tocopherols (vitamin E) are a natural preservative extracted from vegetable oils. Unlike synthetic preservatives (BHA, BHT), tocopherols are generally recognized as safe and are the same form of vitamin E found in supplements for people. This is a common sign of a naturally preserved formula. Products preserved this way often have a shorter shelf life once opened, but offer no synthetic chemical concerns.
Also appears on labels as: mixed tocopherols (preservative), natural mixed tocopherols, tocopherol, vitamin e, vitamin e (tocopherol), mixed tocopherols
Source: AAFCO; FDA (Generally Recognized as Safe)
Natural flavors are compounds extracted from plant or animal sources.
Make food more palatable so pets eat it.
Natural flavors are derived from real ingredients (meat, herbs, etc.) rather than synthetic chemicals. The term "natural flavor" is regulated by the FDA and requires derivation from natural sources. This is a common, safe ingredient in all quality pet foods. "Natural" here means the source is nature-derived, not that it is minimally processed—the compounds are typically isolated and concentrated.
Also appears on labels as: flavor, natural beef flavor, natural chicken flavor, natural flavors, natural flavour, natural pork flavor, natural tuna flavor, natural vanilla flavor, natural flavor
Source: FDA (flavor regulation); AAFCO
B vitamin (Vitamin B3) supporting energy metabolism and skin health. Essential for converting food into energy and maintaining healthy skin and coat.
Also appears on labels as: niacin, niacinamide, vitamin b3
Source: AAFCO, FDA
B vitamin (Vitamin B3) supporting energy metabolism and skin health. Essential for converting food into energy and maintaining healthy skin and coat.
Source: AAFCO, FDA
Digestible grain providing carbohydrates, fiber, and some protein. A wholesome ingredient commonly used in pet foods and can support digestive health.
Also appears on labels as: ground oatmeal, oats
Source: AAFCO
Safe, healthy additions to pet food in moderation. They provide valuable dietary fiber, vitamins (like Vitamin C), and antioxidants that support digestion, skin, and immune health
Also appears on labels as: beet, beets
Source: AAFCO, FDA
B vitamin (Vitamin B5) supporting energy production and stress response. Important for metabolism and immune system function.
Source: AAFCO, FDA
Legume vegetable providing protein, fiber, and nutrients. A wholesome ingredient used in pet foods as both a protein and carbohydrate source.
Source: AAFCO
Mineral providing potassium, essential for heart function and muscle contractions. Added to balance sodium and support cardiovascular health.
Source: AAFCO, FDA
Mineral providing iodine, essential for thyroid health and metabolic function. Similar function to calcium iodate but in different chemical form.
Source: AAFCO, FDA
Probiotics are beneficial live bacteria that support digestive health and nutrient absorption. They help maintain a healthy gut microbiome and can reduce digestive upset.
Also appears on labels as: dried fermentation products, live cultures
Source: AAFCO
Propylene glycol is a humectant and preservative used in wet foods.
Keeps moisture in canned/wet foods, prevents mold growth, maintains texture.
Propylene glycol is FDA-approved for use in pet foods. However, it is PROHIBITED in cat food (21 CFR 589.1001) by the FDA due to concerns about hemolytic anemia in cats. In dog foods at approved levels, it is considered safe by regulatory agencies. If you own a cat, avoid any product containing propylene glycol. The rulebook auto-fails any cat food with this ingredient.
Also appears on labels as: propylene glycol, propylene-glycol
Source: FDA (21 CFR 589.1001, 573.780); FDA CVM guidance
Whole vegetable rich in fiber and nutrients. Commonly used to support digestive health and can help with both constipation and diarrhea in pets.
Source: AAFCO
B vitamin (Vitamin B6) supporting amino acid metabolism and immune function. Important for proper protein utilization and immune response.
Also appears on labels as: pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin b6)
Source: AAFCO, FDA
B vitamin (Vitamin B2) supporting energy production and cell growth. Essential for converting food into usable energy.
Also appears on labels as: riboflavin, vitamin b2
Source: AAFCO, FDA
Rosemary extract is a natural antioxidant derived from rosemary herb.
Used as a natural preservative to prevent fat rancidity without synthetic chemicals.
Rosemary extract contains natural antioxidants (carnosic acid) that slow spoilage. It is GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) for pet foods and is a popular choice among premium and natural brands. Note: this is different from the rosemary herb itself (which can be toxic to dogs in large quantities); the extract is processed differently and safe at approved levels.
Also appears on labels as: rosemary extract, rosemary oleoresin, natural preservatives (rosemary)
Source: FDA (GRAS determination); AAFCO
Salmon oil is a rich natural source of omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), which support skin health, coat quality, and immune function in dogs and cats.
Also appears on labels as: fish oil (salmon)
Source: AAFCO, WSAVA
Mineral providing sodium and chloride, essential electrolytes for nerve and muscle function. Included in controlled amounts to maintain proper electrolyte balance.
Source: AAFCO
Mineral providing selenium, a powerful antioxidant supporting immune function and thyroid health. Essential in small amounts; excess can be problematic.
Also appears on labels as: selenium
Source: AAFCO, FDA
Sugars are simple carbohydrates from sugar cane, beets, or corn.
Added sweetness and palatability; acts as a binder.
Sugar is FDA-approved and safe for dogs at typical levels, but adds calories without nutrition. High sugar intake is linked to obesity and dental disease in pets. Cats are obligate carnivores and do not have taste receptors for sweetness, making added sugar particularly unnecessary in cat foods. The rulebook includes a deduction for added sugars depending on prominence in the formula.
Also appears on labels as: sugar, cane sugar, organic cane sugar, various sugars, sugars
Source: AAFCO; WSAVA nutrition guidelines
Taurine is an amino acid essential for cats.
Added to ensure cats meet their taurine requirement.
Taurine is absolutely essential for cats—deficiency causes dilated cardiomyopathy (heart disease) and blindness. Dogs can synthesize their own taurine, but cats cannot. All quality commercial cat foods must contain adequate taurine. The rulebook awards a credit (+8) for taurine in cat foods.
Also appears on labels as: l-taurine, taurine
Source: AAFCO (cat nutritional requirement); WSAVA
B vitamin (Vitamin B1) supporting energy metabolism and nervous system function. Essential for converting carbohydrates into energy.
Also appears on labels as: thiamine, thiamine mononitrate, vitamin b1, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1)
Source: AAFCO, FDA
Natural vitamin E compounds used as preservatives. A safe, natural alternative to synthetic preservatives like BHA and BHT for maintaining food freshness.
Also appears on labels as: preservative, tocopherols, tocopherols (preservative)
Source: AAFCO, FDA
Naturally-derived pigments from vegetable and fruit juices.
Provides color using whole-food sources instead of synthetic dyes.
Vegetable and beet juice colors are extracted from plants and represent a more natural coloring option than synthetic dyes. They are generally safe and approved by the FDA. This approach reflects a philosophy of minimal processing and whole-food sourcing, even though the visual color is still primarily for human appeal.
Also appears on labels as: vegetable juice (color), beet juice (for color), beet juice color, fruit juice color, vegetable color
Source: FDA (food coloring regulations); AAFCO
Essential vitamin supporting vision, immune function, and skin health. Added to pet foods to ensure adequate levels across all life stages.
Also appears on labels as: retinol, retinyl acetate, vitamin a
Source: AAFCO, FDA
B vitamin supporting energy metabolism and nervous system function. Important for pets' cognitive function and metabolic health.
Also appears on labels as: cobalamin, cyanocobalamin, vitamin b12
Source: AAFCO, FDA
Essential vitamin supporting bone health and calcium absorption. Added to pet foods to ensure proper calcium-phosphorus balance and skeletal development.
Also appears on labels as: cholecalciferol, vitamin d, vitamin d3
Source: AAFCO, FDA
Antioxidant vitamin supporting immune function and coat health. Also used as a natural preservative; essential for all pets' health and longevity.
Also appears on labels as: alpha tocopherol, dl-alpha tocopherol acetate
Source: AAFCO, FDA
Whole grain brown rice is a digestible carbohydrate source that provides fiber and nutrients. It is a legitimate grain ingredient, superior to refined white rice in nutritional value.
Source: AAFCO
Natural plant extract traditionally used to reduce odors in pet waste. Used as a natural digestive aid; generally recognized as safe in modest amounts.
Also appears on labels as: yucca, yucca schidigera
Source: AAFCO
Mineral providing zinc, essential for immune function and skin health. Proteinate and amino acid chelate forms are more bioavailable than sulfate forms.
Source: AAFCO, FDA
Mineral providing zinc, essential for immune function and skin health. Proteinate and amino acid chelate forms are more bioavailable than sulfate forms.
Source: AAFCO, FDA
Mineral providing zinc, essential for immune function and skin health. Sulfate forms are less bioavailable than proteinate or amino acid chelate forms.
Also appears on labels as: zinc sulphate
Source: AAFCO, FDA