Our Ingredient Glossary

Protein is a crucial component in pet food, playing a fundamental role in the overall health and well-being of animals. Proteins are a vital source of amino acids, some of which are essential and must be obtained through the diet since pets cannot produce them on their own. Proper protein intake is particularly critical for the development and maintenance of healthy muscles, bones, and a glossy coat. Different pets may have varying protein requirements based on factors such as age, breed, and activity level, and well-formulated pet food ensures that these nutritional needs are met to support optimal health and vitality.

BEEF is a high-quality red meat protein and amino acid source for maintaining healthy muscle structure and function.

BEEF LIVER is a nutrient-dense organ meat that is often included in pet food due to its various health benefits. Beef liver is particularly rich in various vitamins, including vitamin A, vitamin B12, riboflavin (B2), and folic acid. These vitamins play crucial roles in maintaining healthy skin, promoting vision, supporting the nervous system, and aiding in the production of red blood cells. Beef liver contains essential minerals such as iron, zinc, phosphorus, and copper. These minerals contribute to bone health, immune function, and overall well-being. It is a natural source of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), an antioxidant that plays a role in cellular energy production and can positively affect heart health. Pets find the taste of liver appealing, and its inclusion in pet food can enhance the palatability of the overall diet.

BEEF LUNGS are a very rich source of protein and amino acids, an excellent source of Vitamin B12, and a good source of selenium.

CHICKEN contains both white and dark meat. It is a high-quality source of amino acids and protein to build and maintain pets’ muscles.

CHICKEN LIVER, similar to the liver of other species, is a nutrient-rich organ that supplies Vitamin A, iron, protein, and essential amino acids with a taste pets love.

CHICKEN MEAL is a concentrated form of protein from chicken. Many pets find the taste of chicken appealing, making chicken meal a palatable ingredient in pet food. Palatability is important for encouraging pets to eat and enjoy their meals. Chicken meal is versatile and can be part of various pet food formulations, including dry kibble, wet food, and treats. This allows for a diverse range of pet food options.

DRIED EGG PRODUCT is a complete source of protein and a healthy source of fat containing all the essential amino acids and fats pets need to thrive.

DUCK MEAL is a concentrated and dehydrated form of duck meat that is commonly used as an ingredient in high-quality pet foods. It is created by removing the water content from duck meat, resulting in a protein-rich ingredient. It is a novel protein source that can be used for pets with sensitivities to more common protein sources.

EGG PRODUCT processed eggs or egg-related ingredients that include whole eggs, egg whites, egg yolks, and other egg components. Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein. In fact, they are considered the perfect complete protein for pets, containing all the essential amino acids pets need in one source. Eggs are highly digestible for most pets, making them a suitable protein source for dogs and cats with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues.

HERRING MEAL is a concentrated and dehydrated form of herring. Not only is it a great source of protein, but it is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA (eicosatetraenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). These fatty acids may have several health benefits, including contributing to a healthy and shiny coat, benefiting dogs with joint conditions, such as arthritis, supporting cardiovascular health, and providing immune support. DHA, one of the omega-3 fatty acids in herring, is crucial for developing the nervous system and brain function, making it particularly important for puppies and seniors.

LAMB, although not as novel as it used to be, lamb, is still considered by some to be a novel ingredient in pet food that can be useful for pets with sensitivities to other more common proteins like beef or chicken. Lamb is a rich source of high-quality animal protein. Protein is essential for pets, supporting muscle development, maintenance, and various physiological functions. Our lamb comes from New Zealand

LAMB MEAL is a concentrated and dehydrated form of lamb. Animal-based proteins, such as those from lamb, may provide a complete amino acid profile. This means they have all the essential amino acids pets need to get from their diet. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and are crucial for various bodily functions, including synthesizing enzymes, hormones, and tissues.

PEA PROTEIN is a concentrated protein from peas that provides many essential nutrients, including lysine and iron, that are important for healthy muscles and the immune system.

POTATO PROTEIN is a concentrated form of protein from white potatoes used as a supplementary protein source, particularly for foods for pets with sensitivities, as it is not a common allergen for pets. 

SALMON is a fish that is a rich natural source of omega-3 fatty acids that help give your pet a coat and a soft, shiny feeling. It is also a high-quality source of protein for maintaining your pet’s muscles.

SALMON MEAL is a concentrated and dehydrated form of salmon. Due to its naturally high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA (eicosatetraenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). These fatty acids are crucial in supporting skin health, promoting a shiny coat, and contributing to overall well-being. It is a high-quality animal protein that is easily digestible for pets.

SHRIMP is very low in fat but high in protein. It is a good source of amino acids and a great taste for adding variety to your pet’s diet. Our wild-caught, food-grade Shrimp is sourced from sustainable fisheries in Ecuador.

TUNA is a nutrient-dense red meat fish, providing a high-quality source of amino acids with a taste cats are crazy about. For more information about Tuna, see our blog “Is Tuna Good For My Cat?”. Our wild-caught, food-grade Tuna is sourced from sustainable fisheries in Ecuador who are also some of the largest human-grade tuna producers in the western hemisphere. 

TURKEY LIVER is a nutrient-rich organ that supplies Vitamin A, iron, protein, and essential amino acids with a taste pets love.

TURKEY MEAL is a concentrated and dehydrated form of turkey. Turkey is a lean meat that provides high-quality animal protein. It is often a lean meat, making it a suitable protein source for dogs that need to manage their weight or those with specific dietary restrictions. Turkey contains B vitamins, such as B6 (pyridoxine) and B12 (cobalamin), which play a role in energy metabolism, the formation of red blood cells, and nervous system function.

WATER BUFFALO MEAL is a concentrated and dehydrated form of water buffalo. It is a novel protein source that can be used for pets with sensitivities to more common protein sources. It is a very lean protein source to help reduce the caloric content of a food.

WHITEFISH MEAL is a concentrated form of protein from whitefish. It is generally low in saturated fat, making it a suitable protein source for pets that need to manage their weight or those with specific dietary restrictions. Whitefish tends to be easily digestible, making it a suitable option for pets with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues. It is considered a novel protein, which can benefit dogs with food sensitivities or allergies to more common proteins like chicken or beef.

Fruits and Vegetables/Carbohydrates/Fiber

Including fruits, vegetables, and carbohydrates in pet food is integral to providing a well-rounded and nutritionally balanced diet for animals. Most importantly, they add fiber that is essential in proper digestion and helps maintain a healthy gastrointestinal tract. Furthermore, certain vegetables can provide essential dietary fiber, contributing to weight management and helping prevent constipation. Fruits and vegetables also offer a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that contribute to overall health and aid in preventing various diseases. Carbohydrates, such as grains and vegetables, serve as an important energy source, supporting pets’ daily activities and vitality.

BEET PULP (DRIED) is a great source of insoluble and soluble fiber that is beneficial for gastrointestinal health and provides good fecal consistency. It is a very gentle, beneficial source of fiber that has specific properties that make it suitable as a source of nutrition for the beneficial bacteria that reside in the intestinal tract (prebiotic). The sugar is almost completely removed, what is left in the pulp is only about 1/5 the amount of sugar that you would find in a serving of carrots of equal size.

BLUEBERRIES (DRIED) are a nutritious superfood packed with powerful antioxidants. In particular, they are high in vitamin C and the antioxidants known as anthocyanins, which are important in eye health. In some studies, blueberries have demonstrated the ability to prevent the adherence of the bacteria E.coli to the bladder wall and may benefit urinary tract health.

BROWN RICE is a whole grain, meaning it still contains all the highly nutritious parts of the grain, including the bran, germ, and endosperm, where many vitamins and minerals are concentrated. It contains both insoluble and soluble fibers that can help with the feeling of fullness in pets and are beneficial for stool quality.

CARROTS are a rich source of antioxidants and vitamin A. They are a good source of insoluble and soluble fiber, helping maintain gastrointestinal health.

CHICKPEAS, also known as garbanzo beans, are a great fiber source for gastrointestinal health. They are a good source of plant-based protein and are low in fat. As a complex carbohydrate, this ingredient adds a source of sustained energy.

CRANBERRIES (DRIED) are a source of antioxidants and vitamin C. Much like blueberries, cranberries are known for their potential to promote a healthy urinary tract by preventing the adherence of the bacteria E.coli to the bladder wall.

FIELD PEAS are similar to the typical green pea; field peas are smaller and have a firmer texture. They are a good source of plant-based protein. As a complex carbohydrate, they offer a healthy energy source and contain fiber for healthy digestion.

FRUCTOOLIGOSACCHARIDE (FOS) is a nondigestible fiber that feeds the good bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract known as prebiotics. It contributes to healthy bacteria, digestive regularity, immune support, and good stool quality.

GROUND GRAIN SORGHUM is a cereal grain that is ground into a flour-like consistency. It is considered a highly digestible energy source in the form of complex carbohydrates.

LENTILS are a complex carbohydrate source commonly found in grain-free pet foods that serve as a good energy source for pets. They are a good plant-based protein source and are rich in dietary fiber that is good for intestinal tract health.

MILLET is a low-allergenic, gluten-free, complex carbohydrate that is easy to digest. It is a good source of essential nutrients such as magnesium, phosphorus, and manganese, which are essential for bone health and energy metabolism. It is also a great source of fiber for gastrointestinal health.

OAT GROATS are minimally processed oats that include the outer husk, bran, and germ. They are nutritious whole grains rich in nutrients, fiber, and fatty acids. As a complex carbohydrate, they are a good energy source, and the soluble fiber contained in oats may help regulate blood sugar levels.

OLIVES contain a chemical compound similar to nepetalactone found in cat nip. The effects are similar, causing some cats to become more playful, silly, or outright crazy. See our Blog here for more information on all the benefits of olives.

PAPAYA is a good source of fiber that may help reduce hairball formation, but it also contains an enzyme known as papain that will hydrolyze proteins in the digestive tract.

PEAS are legumes that are a rich natural source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are a good source of dietary fiber for gastrointestinal health, with a moderate amount of plant protein. They are a complex carbohydrate source that adds energy to a pet’s diet.

PINEAPPLE is a good source of fiber and water. It also is the source of bromelain, an enzyme found in the fruit and the stem that has been shown to reduce histamine and allergic reactions. It also may have the ability to break down hairballs.

POTATO STARCH is a highly digestible carbohydrate sourced from whole white potatoes. It is used as a healthy source of energy for the body.

POWDERED CELLULOSE is a non-digestible plant insoluble fiber that is very good at absorbing water, can help produce well-formed stool, and may reduce hairballs in cats.

PUMPKIN is a dietary fiber source that contains a fiber mixture that is good in supporting regular bowel movements and helping to manage both diarrhea and constipation. It is a good source of vitamins A, C, and E that contribute to overall immune health and skin and coat support.

RICE provides energy and is a natural source of carbohydrates that can regulate and improve bowel movements. Rice is easy on digestion and also provides a source of vitamin B1.

SEAWEED MEAL (DRIED) is a source of healthy fiber that feed the good bacteria in a pets intestinal tract.

SPINACH (DRIED) a good source of essential nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, iron, and antioxidants. These nutrients contribute to overall health, immune function, and the maintenance of healthy bones and blood. Contains dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health. Adequate fiber intake helps regulate bowel movements and supports a healthy gastrointestinal system.

SWEET POTATO is a common source of carbohydrates for grain-free foods. It contributes to normal gut health and stool quality as a prebiotic fiber that nourishes the cells of the digestive tract and is a good source of Vitamin C, B6, and A.

TOMATO POMACE (DRIED) is an excellent fiber source that is a dried mixture of tomato skins and pulp that remains after processing tomatoes for juice, soup, or ketchup and is a concentrated source of Lycopene an antioxidants with numerous health benefits.

WHOLE GROUND FLAXSEED contains healthy omega-3 fatty acids like Flax Seed Oil (See under fats) but includes beneficial fiber and healthy oils. This fiber is a soluble and insoluble mixture essential for maintaining a healthy digestive tract, promoting regular bowel movements, and supporting overall gastrointestinal function.

YUCCA SCHIDIGERA EXTRACT is derived from the Yucca plant and is included in pet food formulations because it helps naturally reduce stool and urine odor. It is also a fiber source for gastrointestinal health and can have some anti-inflammatory effects.

Fats

Fat is a concentrated energy source, providing pets with the calories they need for their daily activities. Fat also contributes to the palatability of pet food, enhancing its taste and aroma, which can be especially important for picky eaters. Additionally, fat is crucial for absorbing fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) and certain essential fatty acids that play a vital role in maintaining a pet’s overall health. Moreover, including an appropriate amount of fat in pet food helps support healthy skin and coat.

CANOLA OIL contributes the essential omega-6 fatty acid, with a little linolenic acid, and Omega-3 fatty acid.

CHICKEN FAT is a common fat source in pet foods as it is an excellent energy source and provides essential fatty acids, particularly Omega 6 Fatty Acids, that benefit skin and coat health.

FISH OIL is rich in healthy sources of omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA, which promotes healthy joints, skin, and coat, and DHA, which contributes to healthy vision and brain development in puppies and kittens.

FLAXSEED OIL is naturally rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid. These fatty acids have demonstrated an anti-inflammatory effect on the body.

MENHADEN FISH OIL is a source of Omega 3 fatty acids, specifically eicosatetraenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), that support joint, skin and coat, heart, immune function, and cognitive function.

NEW ZEALAND GREEN MUSSELS are a natural alternative to fish oils as a source of healthy Omega 3 fatty acids with the additional benefit of glucosamine and chondroitin. This whole food supplement may support joint health and function.

SUNFLOWER OIL is extracted from sunflowers and is a source of fat for energy. It is a particularly rich source of omega-6 fatty acids that support healthy skin and coat.

Binders/Texturizers

Achieving the right texture is crucial for the palatability of pet food, particularly for our feline friends. Adding binders and texturizers helps create a texture that dogs and cats enjoy eating, an appearance that pet parents appreciate, and helps keep ingredients from separating during processing, which can lead to an imbalance of nutrition.

AGAR-AGAR is naturally derived from seaweed and is used in small amounts in pet food to thicken and stabilize canned food. Agar-agar has been used in foods for over 350 years, and its natural extract originated in Japan.

ANIMAL PLASMA is derived from pork or beef during processing. Plasma, which is about 90% water, is readily separated from blood cells and dried into a nutrient-rich ingredient. Plasma is high in protein, easy to digest, and extremely palatable. It is a functional ingredient for both human and pet food that is used to improve the texture and stability of food and as a palatability enhancer.

GUAR GUM is a natural carbohydrate made from the guar bean. It is used in wet pet foods to thicken canned food and add a pleasant texture to enhance your pet’s mouthfeel experience.

LECITHIN is an emulsifier. It is an ingredient that helps blend ingredients that don’t naturally want to blend. In dry pet food, it is used to help the formula move through the processing equipment and enhance the digestibility of starches.

SODIUM TRIPOLYPHOSPHATE is a preservative that helps food have a smother texture.

STARCH is separate from a carbohydrate source and is used in pet food to thicken, gel, or stabilize wet pet food products, just like corn starch is used in human cooking and food preparation.

TAPIOCA STARCH comes from the root of the cassava plant and is used in pet food to thicken, gel, or stabilize wet pet food products, just like corn starch is used in human cooking and food preparation.

Palatants

A palatant is a substance added to pet food to enhance its flavor and palatability, making it more appealing to pets. The primary goal is to encourage pets to eat the food and ensure they receive the necessary nutrients for their well-being.

CHICKEN BROTH is made by simmering chicken in water to create a nutritionally dense broth that aids in adding flavor and helps promote healthy hydration in pets.

NATURAL FLAVOR Natural flavor can include ingredients such as meats, spices, broths, and yeast to enhance the flavor of the food for your pet.

TUMERIC POWDER is used in pet food to enhance the flavor and color of the food.

VEGETABLE BROTH is made by simmering vegetables in water to create a nutritionally dense broth that aids in adding flavor and helps promote healthy hydration in pets.

Preservatives

Preservatives are added to pet food for several reasons, primarily to extend the product’s shelf life and maintain its nutritional quality.

CITRIC ACID is a natural antioxidant preservative that helps to maintain a product’s taste, appearance, and nutrition over time.

MIXED TOCOPHEROLS Vitamin E is a natural preservative and powerful antioxidant that preserves foods from spoilage, which is especially important if diets or ingredients are high in polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms, primarily bacteria, that confer health benefits when consumed adequately. These microorganisms are crucial in maintaining a balanced and healthy microbial community within the digestive tract. In the context of pet food, probiotics are added to promote the well-being of the gastrointestinal system.

LACTOBACILLUS ACIDOPHILUS FERMENTATION PRODUCT (DRIED) is a probiotic or good bacteria that is added to our formulas to help support healthy digestion.

LACTOBACILLUS CASEI FERMENTATION PRODUCT (DRIED) is a probiotic or good bacteria that is added to our formulas to help support healthy digestion.

LACTOBACILLUS REUTERI FERMENTATION PRODUCT (DRIED) is a probiotic or good bacteria that is added to our formulas to help support healthy digestion.

BIFIDOBACTERIUM ANIMALIS FERMENTATION PRODUCT(DRIED) is a probiotic or good bacteria that is added to our formulas to help support healthy digestion.

Amino Acids

Amino acids are fundamental building blocks of proteins, crucial in various physiological functions within living organisms. While the body can produce some amino acids independently, others, known as essential amino acids, must be obtained through the diet. In pet food, amino acids are added to ensure that the nutritional profile meets the specific requirements of the animals. Pet food manufacturers carefully select and incorporate specific amino acids to meet pets’ nutritional needs. This attention to amino acid composition is particularly crucial in commercial pet foods where ingredients may vary, and processing methods can impact the availability of essential amino acids. By supplementing pet foods with the right balance of amino acids, manufacturers aim to ensure that companion animals receive the necessary nutrients for optimal health and well-being throughout their lives.

DL-METHIONINE is an essential amino acid that helps support muscle development and healthy skin and coat. Dogs and cats also like the taste of methionine, which can be used to enhance the palatability of food.

L-LYSINE is an essential amino acid that helps build and maintain muscles, organs, skin and coat, and the immune system.

TAURINE – is a special sulfur-containing amino acid that’s naturally only found in meat sources. It is required for cats and can benefit some dogs, especially large breeds. Taurine is an amino acid that is essential for maintaining healthy vision, heart health, and digestion.

MINERALS

Minerals are essential nutrients that play a vital role in pets’ overall health and well-being, just as they do in humans. These minerals are critical for various physiological functions, including bone formation, nerve function, enzyme activity, and maintaining proper fluid balance in the body. Pet food manufacturers carefully formulate their products to ensure they provide a balanced and complete diet for pets. Including minerals helps prevent nutritional deficiencies and supports the overall health of animals.

CALCIUM CARBONATE, the same active ingredient as in TUMS®, provides essential mineral calcium for strong teeth and bones and can act as a preservative.

CALCIUM IODATE is a source of the essential mineral iodine, which is a mineral used by the body for proper thyroid function.

CHOLINE CHLORIDE is necessary for brain function, the synthesis of neurotransmitters, and healthy fat metabolism.

COPPER PROTEINATE is a chelated mineral source of copper, an important mineral for the absorption of iron and the formation of skin and hair pigmentation.

COPPER SULFATE is a source of copper, an important mineral for the absorption of iron and the formation of skin and hair pigmentation.

DICALCIUM PHOSPHATE provides essential minerals, calcium, and phosphorous for strong teeth and bones. it can also improve the texture of the food.

FERROUS SULFATE is a source of iron that helps create a healthy immune system, produce energy, hemoglobin, and myoglobin, and oxygenate red blood cells.

IRON PROTEINATE is a chelated form of iron that helps create a healthy immune system produces energy, hemoglobin, and myoglobin, and oxygenates red blood cells.

KELP MEAL is a natural source of over 60 minerals, vitamins, and 21 amino acids.

MANGANESE PROTEINATE is a chelated mineral that is a source of manganese, which is essential for nervous system function and helps to form and maintain connective tissues of the body.

MANGANESE SULFATE is a source of manganese, which is essential for nervous system function and helps form and maintain connective tissues of the body.

MONOSODIUM PHOSPHATE is an added source of sodium and phosphorous essential for your pet’s health.

POTASSIUM CHLORIDE  provides both potassium salt and chloride. It is required for body fluid maintenance, nerve conduction, and specific metabolic processes and is used to boost the flavor of the food.

SALT provides an essential mineral (sodium) that our pets’ bodies use for functions and overall metabolism, and it is also a natural, safe flavoring and preservative.

SODIUM SELENITE is a source of the essential mineral selenium that helps maintain a healthy heart and liver and produces antibodies.

TRICALCIUM PHOSPHATE provides essential minerals, calcium, and phosphorous for strong teeth and bones.

ZINC PROTEINATE is a chelated form of zinc, a constituent of about 100 enzymes involved in many different processes within the body, including skin coat health, wound healing, and eye and brain function.

ZINC SULFATE is a source of zinc, a constituent of about 100 enzymes involved in many different processes within the body, including skin coat health, wound healing, and eye and brain function.

VITAMINS

Vitamins play a crucial role in the overall health of animals, just like they do for humans. Pet food diets are typically supplemented with vitamins, especially the fragile B vitamins, because the heat and pressure used during food processing can destroy some of these sensitive nutrients. To ensure the final product has the correct amounts and balance of vitamins for pet health, some vitamins are added in additional amounts to account for loss during the processing and storage of food.

BIOTIN, also known as B7, helps enzymes in the body and is vital for a healthy nervous system, skin, and coat. Biotin is essential for carbohydrate and fat metabolism and regulates gene expression.

BREWERS DRIED YEAST (Dried yeast) is an excellent natural source of B vitamins to support metabolic health and is a good source of protein. It also contains chromium, which is essential for maintaining insulin and blood sugar.

D-CALCIUM PANTOTHENATE is a synthetic form of Vitamin B5 with antioxidant properties that would naturally be found in plant and animal tissue. As with the other B vitamins, it is essential for metabolizing carbohydrates, protein, and fats.

FOLIC ACID acts with B12 to form hemoglobin in red blood cells. It helps the body metabolize amino acids and is an integral part of the cell membrane.

L-ASCORBYL-2-POLYPHOSPHATE is a source of vitamin C that supports immune health. Some evidence suggests that it may support joint health when used in dog foods.

NIACIN SUPPLEMENT is a water-soluble vitamin also known as vitamin B3. It can be found naturally in meat, poultry, and fish. As with the other B vitamins, it is essential for metabolizing carbohydrates, protein, and fats.

PYRIDOXINE HYDROCHLORIDE is also known as vitamin B6. This B vitamin is essential for protein metabolism and the body to help build muscle, hair, and nails.

RIBOFLAVIN SUPPLEMENT is Vitamin B2, which is needed to release energy from food and for normal growth and development.

THIAMINE MONONITRATE is vitamin B1, essential in the breakdown of carbohydrates from foods and important to all cells in the body.

VITAMIN A ACETATE is a natural form of vitamin A, a fat-soluble vitamin important in supporting vision, bone growth, reproduction, and immune health.

VITAMIN A SUPPLEMENT Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that assists in healthy skin, hair, vision, bone growth, teeth development and reproduction, and the immune system.

VITAMIN B12 SUPPLEMENT Like the other B vitamins, it is essential for metabolism, and in particular, this vitamin helps with red blood cell formation and maintenance of the central nervous system.

VITAMIN D3 SUPPLEMENT is a fat-soluble vitamin that aids in the formation of normal bone tissue growth and maintenance. It is vital for your pet’s joints, teeth, and bones.

VITAMIN E SUPPLEMENT is a vital antioxidant that supports your pet’s immune system and nourishes the skin and coat.