The Deciphering the Babble series, takes a look at the most common ingredients found on the commercial pet food bags, cans and other container labels that we all struggle not only pronouncing but knowing what the heck its even doing in there. The following takes a look at these ingredients, what their purpose is and if they are an artificial or natural product. In addition it takes a look at possible health risks of these ingredients and what whole food, natural and raw options there are for providing them.

 

The project has taken almost a year to complete. Although there seems to be similar databases out there, we have not found one that is as extensive or as inclusive as The Nutrition Code’s. We have examined almost all the major and sub major pet food brands out there including dry, wet/canned, freeze dried and raw products. If you do not see an ingredient please contact us so we can add it!

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Anything labelled in green indicates a natural product. Anything labelled in red is an artificial or synthetic product.

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Agar-Agar-made from seaweed as a thickener. itchiness. not need in the diet

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Ascorbic Acid-Vitamin C it is a natural preservative essential for collagen formations and immune support. in excess: intestinal irritation, kidney calculi. naturally produce Vitamin C

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Beef Pizzle-Bull penis. very fatty. beef

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Betaine Anhydrous-vitamin derived from choline.  nausea, stomach upset, and diarrhea also available as a prescription drug meanting it contains active chemicals. Should not be used in animlas with kidney disease. turkey, veal, beef

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Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA)-an artifical preservative also known as butylated hydroxyanisole which was identified as cancer causing by the National Institute of health and banned in many countries. cancer, interferes with hormone function, bioaccumulation. not needed in the diet 

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Butylated Hydroxytoluence (BHT)-preservative used to prevent oxidation and rancidicty of fats. lower doses produced increased liver weight, and decreased activity of several hepatic enzymes. In addition to liver and kidney effects, BHT applied to the skin was associated with toxic effects in lung tissue.not needed in the diet

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Biotin-a B complex that aids in producing fatty acids and glucose. eggs, liver

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Blueberry Pomace-the dry or pulpy residue of material resulting after the blueberry has been pressed or extracted. may contain pesticides from being sprayed the skin. not needed in the diet

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Calcium Carbonate-a cheap source of calcium needed for bone structure, blood clotting and helps conduct nerve signals. It also is used as a preservative and for color retention. in excess other vitamin deficiencies, hip dysplasia, abrasive in toothpaste. salmon, tuna, trout, sardines

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Calcium Lactate-oral health components, source of calcium. nausea, vomitting, decreased appetite, constipation, dry mouth and increase thirst, increased urination. canned fishes, egg, cod, turkey

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Calcium Pantothenate-an artifically created version of Vitamin B5 needed for hormone and energy production as well as other biological processes. can cause stomach upset/irritation, diahrrea, nausea.egg yolks, fish, liver,kidney

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Carrageen-a thickening agent from seaweed. gastrointestinal problems, intestinal lesions, ulcers and cancer. not needed in the diet.

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Cassia Gum-thickening and gelling agent. reproductive concerns, absorbs moisture in the digestive tract, is a sugar, decrease is apetite and digestive processes. not need in the diet

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Cellulose Gum-thickening agent from plant cell walls. loose bowel movements. not need in the diet

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Chicory Pulp-a fungicide. not need in the diet

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Cholecalciferol-Vitamin D3. elevations in phosphorus and calcium, tissue hardening in kidneys, intestines and heart. liver, salmon, mackerel, egg yolks, beef

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Choline Bitartrate-form of choline that combines choline and bitartrate salt. cancer,  sweating, a fishy body odor, gastrointestinal distress, diarrhea, and vomiting. eggs, liver

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Choline Chloride-synthetic source of choline which is essential for the fat layers in cell membranes, components of specfici neurotransmitters and fat utilization. is excess sweating, a fishy body odor, gastrointestinal distress, diarrhea, and vomiting. eggs, liver

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Chondroitin Sulfate-aid in joint protection and cartilage production. animal cartilage

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Cobalt Glucoheptonate-source of cobalt. meat, liver, kidneys, oysters, mussels, fish 

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Cobalt Proteinate-result of colbalt combined with amino acids, source of cobalt. meat, liver, kidneys, oysters, mussels, fish 

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Copper  Glycine Complex-complex of copper with the essential amino acid glycine. stomach pain, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, difficulty concentrating, unexplained sleepiness, mood swings, dizziness, and muscle aches. May cause zinc levels to become unbalanced. Can cause fluctuations in blood sugar level in diabetics. shellfish, organ meats (liver and kidney), veal, beef

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Copper Amino Acid Chelate-are minerals that are chemically combined with amino acids making mineral absorption easier. stomach pain, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, difficulty concentrating, unexplained sleepiness, mood swings, dizziness, and muscle aches. May cause zinc levels to become unbalanced. Can cause fluctuations in blood sugar level in diabetics. shellfish, organ meats (liver and kidney), veal, beef

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Copper Lysine Complex-complex of copper with the essential amino acid lysine. shellfish, organ meats (liver and kidney), veal, beef

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Copper Proteinate-the result of chelation of a soluble salt with amino acids. shellfish, organ meats (liver and kidney), veal, beef

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Cranberry Meal-cranberries in which the moisture has been removed and is ground into a fine powder. Usually thought to aid the urinary tract. diahrrea, digestive upset, kidney stones,  inflammation of the stomach lining. not need in the diet

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Cysteine-an amino acid.  stomach pain and diarrhea. beef, lamb, chicken, turkey, pork, fish,eggs 

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D-Calcium Pantothenate-see Calcium Pantothenate. stomach irritation, appetite loss, nausea, diarrhea. egg yolks, fish, liver, kidney

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d-pantothenic acid-vitamins B5. gastrointestinal issues. egg yolks, fish, liver,kidney

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Deflourinated Tricalcium Phosphate-source of phosphorus and calcium. nausea, vomitting, decreased appetite, constipation, dry mouth and increase thirst, increased urination

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Dextrose-a form of glucose. do not us on diabetics, increases blood sugar (hyperglycemia), increases fat storeage, hypoglycemia. not needed in the diet

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DL-alpha tocopherol acetate-cheaper synthetic vitamin E. Vitamin E is required as antioxidant, immune system booster, aid in red blood cell formation and help the body utilize vitamin k. in excess decreased blood clotting. Do not give if heart disease or diabetes, may increase chances of stroke. liver, brain, kidney, fish, egg, bison

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DL-methionine-synthetic version of methionine which is important for skin and coat, as well as heart and eye health. It is also a precursor to important amino acids. Vomitting, diahrrea, loss of appetite, Heinz body anemia in cats. Should not be given to animals with liver, pancreatic or kidney disease, or those with urate kidney or bladder stones. fish, turkey, pork, lamb, beef, shellfish, eggs

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Durum Semolina -a type of wheat. contains gluten,abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea or constipation, as well as joint pain. not needed in the diet

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Erythorbic Acid-form of ascorbic acid. diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, headache, chest tightness and loss of breath.liver, kidney, heart, fish

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Ethylenediamine Dihydroiodide-source of iodine. stomach upset, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, skin rash and salivary gland swelling, numbness, pain or weakness in hands or feet, unusual fatigue, weakness or heaviness of legs, fever, and edema of neck or throat. Thyroid adenoma. poultry, pork, lamb, bison, egg, beef, fish

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Ferrous Glycine Complex-source of iron. chicken, fish, beef, lamb 

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Ferrous Sulfate-an iron supplement. Iron is important for production of red blood cells, digestion and immune system support. may cause upset stomach and constipation as well as staining of the teeth chicken, fish, beef, lamb

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Folic Acid-a synthetic version of Vitamin B9. taken long term  abdominal cramps, diarrhea, rash, irritability, confusion, nausea, stomach upset, behavior changes, skin reactions, seizures, gas, excitability. Liver, rabbit, chicken, turkey, pork, lamb, goat, ostrich, buffalo, egg, beef, salmon, halibut, haddock, sardine 

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Fructooligosaccharides-an commerically created alternative sweetener considered a prebiotic and energy source for colon cells. ntestinal gas (flatulence), intestinal noises, bloating, stomach cramps, and diarrhea. not needed in the diet

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Glycerin-a binder, sweetener and mold preventative. diarrhea; gas; nausea; stomach cramps. not needed in the diet

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Glycerol Monostearate-an emulsifying agent. not needed in the diet

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Guar Gum-a thickening ingredient found in guar beans, too also improve shelf life of food. It's primarily benefits include blood sugar stablization and benefits that fiber provide. gas production, diarrhea, and loose stools, may lower blood sugar and blood pressure. not needed in the diet 

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Inositol-aka Vitamin B8. Necessary for glycogen for energy, activates energy for the muscles and contributes to nerve impulses. nausea, tiredness, and dizziness. liver, eggs, fish, organ meat

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Inulin-* see Fructooligosaccharides. bloating, abdominal cramping, loose stool, gas, more frequent waste. not needed in the diet

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Iron Amino Acid Chelate-are minerals that are chemically combined with amino acids making mineral absorption easier. Constipation, diarrhea, stomach cramps, or upset stomach. liver, shellfish, beef, sardines, turkey, chicken, veal

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Iron Proteinate-source of iron see  iron amino acid chelate. Constipation; darkened or green stools; diarrhea; loss of appetite; nausea; stomach cramps, pain, or upset; vomiting. liver, shellfish, beef, sardines, turkey, chicken, veal

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L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate-source of Vitamin C. not needed in the diet, cats naturally produce Vitamin C

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L-Lysine Monohydrochloride-another version of the amino acid Lysine. stomach pain and diarrhea. beef, turkey, chicken, pork, fish, egg

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L-threonine-amino acid. stomach upset, headache, nausea, and skin rash. pork, chicken, liver, fish, eggs

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L-Tryptophan-an amino acid essential for serotonin and melatonin production which aids in sleep and stress relief. stomach pain, belching and gas, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. fish, poultry, eggs

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Lecithin-fatty substance used an emulsifierNatural but extracted with harsh chemicals. likely contains pesticides and chemcials as well as GMOs, cognitive impairment. not needed in the diet

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Locust Bean Gum-thickening and gelling agent. gas. not needed in the diet

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Manganous Oxide-Oxide form of manganese. may cause abdominal pain and nausea, reproductive and developmental  concerns. fish, egg, poultry, beef, pork

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Magnesium Sulfate-source of magnesium. mental status changes, vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, hypotension, acute hepatic and renal failure, metabolic acidosis, multiorgan system failure and death. eggs, fish, beef, lamb, chicken, turkey, rabbit, veal, tripe

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Manganese  Glycine Complex-source of manganese. do not use in those with liver disease, iron deficiency. fish, egg, poultry, beef, pork

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Manganese Amino Acid Chelate-are minerals that are chemically combined with amino acids making mineral absorption easier. do not use in those with liver disease, iron deficiency  fish, egg, poultry, beef, pork

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Manganese Proteinate-source of manganese. do not use in those with liver disease, iron deficiency  fish, egg, poultry, beef, pork

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Manganous Oxide-Oxide form of manganese. may cause abdominal pain and nausea, reproductive and developmental  concerns. fish, egg, poultry, beef, pork

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Medium-Chain Triglyceride- vegetable oil source of fat typically from cocoanut or kernel oils. diarrhea, vomiting, irritability, nausea, stomach discomfort, intestinal gas, essential fatty acid deficiency. not needed in the diet

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Menadione Sodium Bisulfite complex-synthetic Vitamin K that often is reported as cancer causing as well as lung, kidney and liver toxicity. toxic to liver cells, weak immune system, anemia, skin/mouscus membrane irritation, mutagenic. beef, pork, duck, goose, chicken liver

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Mixed Tocopherols-a natural preservative often made of vitamin E. in excess decreased blood clotting. Do not give if heart disease or diabetes, may increase chances of stroke. liver, brain, kidney, fish, egg, bison

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Monocalcium Phosphate-synthetic form of calcium. may lead to renal disease, blood vessel damage.canned fishes, egg, cod, turkey

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Montmorillonite Clay-a trace mineral clay as an anti caking agent. Dioxin Accumulation, immunosuppression, affect fertility, cancer.not needed in the diet

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Niacin-synthetic Vitamin B3 for circulatory and skin health, increasing energy and help with digestion. in excess itchy, dry skin, upset tummy.poultry, pork, lamb, bison, egg, beef, fish

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Niacin Supplement-synthetic Vitamin B3 for circulatory and skin health, increasing energy and help with digestion. in excess itchy, dry skin, upset tummy.poultry, pork, lamb, bison, egg, beef, fish

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Niacinamide-source of Vitamin B3. in excess itchy, dry skin, upset tummy.poultry, pork, lamb, bison, egg, beef, fish

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Nicotinic Acid-a vitamin B supplement for niacin. in excess itchy, dry skin, upset tummy.chicken, tuna, veal, turkey, organ meats 

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Papain-protein-digesting enzyme obtained from unripe papaya fruit, used to tenderize meat and as a food supplement to aid digestion. potential throat damage, reported severe allergic reactions, increase bleeding in those with blood disorders. not needed in the diet

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Pyridoxine Hydrochloride-a synthetic form of vitamin B6 important for the metabolism of protiens into amino acids, the production of blood cells and neurotransmitters. may cause nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, loss of appetite, sleepiness. tuna, salmon, turkey, chicken, pork, beef

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Riboflavin Supplement-Vitamin B2.  increase in blood, tissue, and urine levels of free riboflavin, liver and cell damage. liver, heart, kidney, rabbit, poultry, pork, lamb, bison, egg, beef, fish

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Selenium Yeast-source of selenium produced by yeast. may increae the risk of diabetes, can make hypothyroidism and autoimmune dseases worse. Vomiting, nausea and a drop in energy. fish, turkey, liver, beef, chicken, eggs

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Sodium Alginate-thickening agent. bloating, diarrhea and nausea. not needed in the diet

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Sodium Ascorbate-form of Vitamin C. Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps/pain. cats and dogs make this themselves

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Sodium Carbonate-acidity regulator, anticaking agent, raising agent, and stabilizer but also used to make glass,  soap and remove skin and flesh for taxidermist use. frquent urination, loss of appetite, mood changes, muscle pain or tiwtiching, nausea, vomitting, restlessness, slowed breathing. not needed in the diet

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Sodium Nitrite-preservative, antibacterial and color enhancer. abdominal pain, anxiety, confusion, hives, itching, redness of the skin. not needed in the diet

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Sodium Selenite F-5302-source of selenium. bodily harm. fish, turkey, liver, beef, chicken, eggs

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Sodium Silico Aluminate-synthetically produced anti caking additive. contain alumninum know to contribute to brain disorders. not needed in the diet

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Sodium Tripolyphosphate-preservative as well as an oral health product. gassiness, nausea, stomach upset, cramps and vomiting. Abdominal pain and a bloated feeling. not needed in the diet

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Taurine-an amino acid. excess can result in negative nitrogen balance and kidney strain. chicken, beef liver, chicken liver, shrimp

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Thiamine Mononitrate-a synthetic nitrate salt form of thiamine used as a supplement. Thiamine is needed to handled stress. fats soluable, fat accumalation in liver= liver damage, cellular death. pork, organ meats, eggs

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Tomato Pomaces-the pulpy remains after pressing for juice including skin, pulp, seeds and stems. The skin can hold pesticides and makes up most of the pomace. may contain pesticides from being sprayed on the skin. not needed in the diet

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Tricalcium Phosphate-a supplement in which calcium binds to phosphorus to act as a firming agent and to maintain alkaline/acid balance. digestive upset, vomiting, diarrhea, nausea and abdominal cramping. calcium: sardines, eggs, chicken phosphorus: beef, chicken, pork

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Vitamin A Acetate-form of vitamin A. banned in cosmetics in Germany, interfere with cellular signaling, cause mutations, lead to cell death and may be implicated in cardiovascular disease. Tumor formation at low doses. chicken, pork, egg, fish, liver, kidney, brain

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Vitamin A Palmitate-source of Vitamin A. dry, itchy or peeling skin, can cause liver disease, in excess birth defects, stomach pain,loss of appetite nausea. chicken, pork, egg, fish, liver, kidney, brain

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Vitamin B12 Supplement-a vitamin in the B family needed for cognitive functionArtifical 

Vitamin D2 Supplementsource of Vitamin D. caution for those with blood and heart disorders, history of cancer, gastro problems. liver, heart, kidney, rabbit, poultry, pork lamb, bison, egg, fish

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Xanthan Gum-thickening anf emulsifying agent. intestinal gas (flatulence) and bloating, might lower blood sugar levels. not needed in the diet

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Yucca Schidigera Extract-added to reduce fecal odor and may reduce joint pain. hemolysis (burst of red blood cells), and overdose may cause loose stool and bleeding.not needed in the diet

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Zinc Amino Acid Chelate-the binding of a substance that enhances zinc absorption to zinc. nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, kidney and stomach damage, can decrease copper absorption.  rabbit, poultry, pork, lamb, bison, egg, beef, fish

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Zinc Glycine Complex-source of zinc. nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, kidney and stomach damage, can decrease copper absorption. rabbit, poultry, pork, lamb, bison, egg, beef, fish

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Zinc Oxide-source of zinc. may interact with chemotherapy drugs, diarrhea, kidney problems, lethargy, chills and fever, yellowing of the whites of your eyes. rabbit, poultry, pork, lamb, bison, egg, beef, fish

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Zinc Proteinate-a supplement resulting from the bond between zinc with an amino acid, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, kidney and stomach damage, can decrease copper absorption  rabbit, poultry, pork, lamb, bison, egg, beef, fish

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Zinc Sulfate-a zinc and sulfur supplement, cancer, interferes with hormone function, bioaccumulation. rabbit, poultry, pork, lamb, bison, egg, beef, fish

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A few notes:
Many of these effects are seen in humans, but many things are first tested on animals. 

Some of these vitamin and mineral supplements may be ok in short term use but not in long term use as in consumption on a daily basis for 10 years

Many ingredients especially when giving everyday multiple times a day for many years has a cumulative effect

Even if a side effect is NOT noted does not mean one does not exist. Some products have not been fully researched.

Many supplements in your pets'   food is more than they need to make up for degredation and so the food can be given to all breeds and sizes of dogs this is where the a concern arrises

There is added concern for vitamins and mineral supplements that are made in the lab as many contain petroluems and tars or extracted with harsh chemicals

All fruits, veggies and grain heavily tax the pancreas, contribute to inflammtion including cancer, contain lots of sugar which contribute to weight gain and diabetes

Side effects and symptoms may not appear in all animals