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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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Apple Pectin-a highly soluble fiber that cannot be digested by cats. in combination with guar gum can diarrhea, gas, and loose stools. not needed 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. cats naturally produce Vitamin C

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Bacillus coagulant fermentation product-a probiotic that aids in digestion not needed in the diet

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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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Betaine Hydrochloride-vitamin like substance found in grains as well as other food to increase hydrochloric acid in the stomach. can irritate stomach ulcers and prevent them from healing. turkey, veal, beef

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Bifidobacterium lactis-a type of probiotic found in the intestines. not needed in the diet, procuded naturally in the body

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Biotin-a vitamin found in the vitamin B family responsbile for converting fats, carbs and protien into energy. egg, oily fish, chicken, liver

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Calcium Carbonate-source of calcium, color retention agent and preservative. in excess other vitamin deficiencies, hip dysplasia, abrasive in toothpaste. canned fishes 

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Calcium Iodate-a source of calcium and iodine. according to MSDS hazardous if ingested. canned fishes, egg, cod, turkey

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Calcium Pantothenate-version of Vitamin B5 typically needed for hormone and energy production as well as other biological processes. can cause stomach upset/irritation, diahrrea, nausea. egg, beef, turkey, duck, chicken, salmon, organ meat

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Calcium Propionate-a chemical preservative. can irritate stomach ulcers and prevent them from healing. not needed in the diet 

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Carrot Pomace-the dry or pulpy residue of material resulting after the carrot has been pressed or extracted. may contain pesticides found on the skin of fruit/vegetable. not needed in the diet 

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Celery Pomace-the dry or pulpy residue of material resulting after the celery has been pressed or extracted. may contain pesticides found on the skin of fruit/vegetable.not needed in the diet 

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Chia Seed-edible seed containing omega-3 fatty acids, carbohydrates, protein, fiber, antioxidants, and calcium. constipation and hard stools, diarrhea, bloating and excessive intestinal gas. not needed in the diet

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Choline Bitartrate-form of choline a vitamin B family nutrient. can cause stomach upset incluidng pain, diarrhea and vomiting. shrimp, eggs, chicken, turkey, tuna, cod, salmon, beef

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Choline Chloride- source of choline which is essential for the fat layers in cell membranes, components of specfici neurotransmitters and fat utilization. shrimp, eggs, chicken, turkey, tuna, cod, salmon, beef 

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Chondroitin Sulfate-aid in joint protection and cartilage production. poultry feet, trachea,  

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Citric Acid-natural preservative and antioxidant can cause abdominal pain, attacks metal, tooth erosion. not needed in the diet

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Cobalt Amino Acid Complex-the result from from complexing a soluble metal salt with a specific amino acid meat, liver, kidneys, oysters, mussels, fish 

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Cobalt Carbonate-source of colbalt which is needed to synthesis B12 but it is banned in Europe According to MSDS Causes abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, rash. May have cumulative toxic action. Large amounts depress erythrocyte production.  meat, liver, kidneys, oysters, mussels, fish 

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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 Polysaccharide Complex-a complex made of a soluble salt with a polysaccharide solution meat, liver, kidneys, oysters, mussels, fish 

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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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Copper Sulfate-a source of copper According to the CDC abdominal pain Nausea. Vomiting. Diarrhoea. Shock or collapse, kidney, hemolytic anemia, kidney damage liver damage. shellfish, organ meats (liver and kidney), veal, beef

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Cranberry Fiber-fibrous pulp of the cranberry that. includes flesh and skin not needed in the diet

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D-Activated Animal Sterol- a synthetic version of Vitamin D which is the end product that normally occurs when animals go outside in the sun made by UV radiation treatments. fatty fish, liver, egg yolk

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Dandelion-steams, leaves and flowers, inexpensive source of essential vitamins A, C, K, D, and B complex also a source of minerals such as iron, manganese, and potassium. Can cause stomach discomfort and allergic reactions. not needed in the diet

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Dicalcium Phosphate-an ingredient that adds texture to pet foods, supplement for calcium and phosphorus According to the NIH nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, constipation, stomach pain, thirst, dry mouth and increased urination. Can increase symptoms of diarrhea, parathyroid disease, lung disease, kidney stones or other stomach-related problems. bone, egg shell, fish, meat

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DL-Methionine-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.egg, fish, elk, chicken

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dried Aspergillus niger fermentation extract-an enzyme resulting from extracting and precipitating the water-soluble materials from a fermentation process, digestive aid not. not needed in the diet

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dried aspergillus oryzae fermentation product-an enzyme resulting from extracting and precipitating the water-soluble materials from a fermentation process, digestive aid. not needed in the diet

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dried bacillus coagulans fermentation product-direct-fed microorganism (probiotic) that enhances digestive health. not needed in the diet

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dried bacillus licheniformis fermentation product-an enzyme resulting from extracting and precipitating the water-soluble materials from a fermentation process, digestive aid. not needed in the diet

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dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation extract-an enzyme resulting from extracting and precipitating the water-soluble materials from a fermentation process, digestive aid. not need in the diet

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dried bifidobacterium thermophilum fermentation product-an enzyme resulting from extracting and precipitating the water-soluble materials from a fermentation process, digestive aid. not needed in the diet

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dried lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product-an enzyme resulting from extracting and precipitating the water-soluble materials from a fermentation process, digestive aid. not needed in the diet

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dried lactobacillus casei fermentation product-an enzyme resulting from extracting and precipitating the water-soluble materials from a fermentation process, digestive aid. not needed in the diet

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dried Lactobacillus helveticus fermentation product-an enzyme resulting from extracting and precipitating the water-soluble materials from a fermentation process, digestive aid. not needed in the diet

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dried lactobacillus plantarum fermentation product-an enzyme resulting from extracting and precipitating the water-soluble materials from a fermentation process, digestive aid. not needed in the diet 

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dried Trichoderma longibrachiatum fermentation extract-an enzyme resulting from extracting and precipitating the water-soluble materials from a fermentation process, digestive aid. not needed in the diet

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dried trichoderma reeseI-an enzyme resulting from extracting and precipitating the water-soluble materials from a fermentation process, digestive aid. not needed in the diet.

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Dried Whey Protein Concentrate-a dry diary product contain 25% or more protein. increased bowel movements, nausea, thirst, bloating, cramps, reduced appetite, tiredness (fatigue). not needed in the diet

 

Enterococcus faecium fermentation product-an enzyme resulting from extracting and precipitating the water-soluble materials from a fermentation process, digestive aid. not needed in the diet

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Ethylenediamine Dihydriodide-iodine supplement. gastrointestinal irritationfish, poultry, egg 

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Fenugreek-a seed common in indian food it aids in digestion, skin and coat ingreity. It is also a flavor enhancer and source of several vitamins and minerals. safe in medicinl amounts up to 6 months Side effects can include diarrhea, stomach upset, bloating, gas, and a "maple syrup" odor in urine. Can cause nasal congestion, coughing, wheezing, facial swelling, and severe allergic reactions in some, may lower blood sugar. not needed in the diet 

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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 stainign of the teeth. liver, shellfish, beef, sardines, turkey, chicken, veal

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Folic Acid-Vitamin B9. taken long term  abdominal cramps, diarrhea, rash, irritability, confusion, nausea, stomach upset, behavior changes, skin reactions, seizures, gas, excitability. eggs, poultry, liver, pork, shellfish, salmon, and tuna. 

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Glucosamine Hydrochloride-aid in joint protection. safe up to two years gas, bloating, and cramps. Many commerical sources contain elevated manganese levels. Poultry feet, Trachea

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Green Tea Extract-a product of green tea leaves used  as an antioxidant. toxicity can occur at low doses, can reduce iron absorption, liver problems in some cases. not needed in the diet 

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Ground Whole Grain Sorghum-a grain that boosts protien levels in pet food. It does contain iron, phosphorus and B vitamins. Not needed in the diet

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Hemicellulose Extract-a syrup like wood chip byproduct. 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.heart, liver, egg, fish, poultry

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Iodine Iodate-source of iodine. cod, tuna, turkey breast, eggs

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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 may occur. liver, shellfish, beef, sardines, turkey, chicken, veal

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Iron Polysaccharide Complex-a complex made of a soluble salt with a polysaccharide solution. can cause constipation, upset stomach, vomitting, irregular heartbeat, seizures, drowsiness, allergic reaction. liver, shellfish, beef, sardines, turkey, chicken, veal

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

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L-Carnitine-a combination of lysine and methinine. Important for the metabolism of fat, helps with proper cardiac function and acts as an antioxidant. can cause nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, diarrhea, and seizures. Can also cause the urine and breath to have a "fishy" odor. red meat, chicken, shrimp pork

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L-Lysine-an amino acid important for protien production. It is important also for preventing viruses associated with respiratory issues. stomach pain and diarrhea. fish, poultry, egg 

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

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L-tryptophan-an version of the amino acid tryptophan. neuorlogical problems, stomach pain, belching and gas, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. It can also cause drowsiness, dry mouth, muscle weakness, and sexual problems. fish, egg, poultry, red meat 

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Lactic Acid-prevent bacterial contamination 

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Lactobacillus acidophilus-a probiotic that aids in digestion and relieving digstive related issues as well as allergies. not needed in the diet 

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Lactobacillus Plantarum Fermentation Product Dehydrated-an enzyme resulting from extracting and precipitating the water-soluble materials from a fermentation process, digestive aid. not needed in the diet

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Lactobacillus Rhamnosus Fermentation Product Dehydrated-an enzyme resulting from extracting and precipitating the water-soluble materials from a fermentation process, digestive aid. not needed in the diet

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Lecithin-emulsifier, moiturizer and preservative to prevent fats from separating, likely contains pesticides and chemcials as well as GMOs, cognitive impairmentnot needed in the diet

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Magnesium Stearate--lubricant, emulsifier, binding agent, release agent 

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Manganese Amino Acid Chelate-are minerals that are chemically combined with amino acids making mineral absorption easier. T-cell supression, prevent nutrient absorption. not needed in the diet 

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Manganese Polysaccharide Complex-a complex made of a soluble salt with a polysaccharide solution. fish, egg, poultry, beef, pork

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Manganese Sulfate-source of manganese. fish, egg, poultry, beef, pork

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Manganous Oxide-source of manganese. may cause abdominal pain and nausea, reproductive and developmental  concernsfish, egg, poultry, beef, pork

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Marigold Extract-anti-microbial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. not needed in the diet 

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Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex-Vitamin K. toxic to liver cells, weak immune system, anemia, skin/mouscus membrane irritation, mutagenic. egg, fish, liver 

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Millet-cereal plant used for grains and alcoholic beverages. may cause goitrogens , hypothyroidism. not needed in the diet 

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Mixed-tocopherols-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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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-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 loss of appetite, stomach pain, yellowing of eyes or skin, diahrrea, cough. chicken, tuna, veal, turkey, organ meats 

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Oat Groats-hulled kernels of oats that include the cereal germ and fiber-rich bran portion of the grain as well as the endosperm instestinal gas and bloating. not needed in the diet

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Phosphoric Acid-a chemical addictive to maintain urinary pH can lower bone density, triggers kidney problems, decrease calcium levels, damages tissues. not needed in the diet

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Porcine Plasma-pig blood with red blood cells removed. Pork blood (and other animals) 

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Potassium Chloride-source of potassium Diarrhea; gas; nausea; stomach discomfort; vomiting. poultry, pork, lamb, bison, egg, beef, fish

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Powdered Cellulose-minuscule pieces of wood pulp or other plant fibers. not needed in the diet

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Psyllium Seed Husk-portions of the seeds of the plant Plantago ovata Gas or stomach cramping, may cause chocking if not given with 8 oz of water. not needed in the diet

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Pyridoxine Hydrochloride-Vitamin B6 may cause nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, loss of appetite, sleepiness. liver, heart, kidney, rabbit, poultry, pork, lamb, egg, beef, fish

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Riboflavin-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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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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Rose Hips-Vitamin C source, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, stomach cramps, fatigue. not needed in the diet

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Rosemary extract-natural anti-oxidant and preservative Seizures. not needed in the diet

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Sodium Bisulfate-an acid salt. not need in the diet

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Sodium Selenite-an inexpensive delivery method of selenium bodily harm. Pork, beef, turkey, chicken, fish, shellfish, egg

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Soy Protein Isolate-protien isolated from the soybean Natural but extracted with acid washes assumed safe up to 6 months constipation, bloating, and nausea.not needed in the diet

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Spearmint extract-flavor enhancer may increase preexisiting kindey and liver damage. not needed in the diet

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Spinach Pomace-the dry or pulpy residue of material resulting after the spinach has been pressed or extracted may contain pesticides found on the skin of fruit/vegetable. not needed in the diet

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Tapioca Starch-starchy flour make from the cassava plant often as a thickening agent potential cyanide poisoning if poorly prepared.not needed in the diet

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Taurine-essential amino acid excess can result in negative nitrogen balance and kidney strain. heart, brain heavily worked muslce meat/dark meat

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Tetra Sodium Pyrophosphate-emulsifier to increase palatability low lethal human dose, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. not needed in the diet

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Thiamine Mononitrate-a form of thiamin or Vitamin B1 fats soluable, fat accumalation in liver= liver damage, cellular death. liver, rabbit, poutrly, pork, lamb, bison, egg, beef, fish

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Tripe-first or second stomach of a cow or other ruminant used as food stomach of ruminant animals like beef and lamb

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Turmeric-an indian spice know for antiinflammatory, antioxidant and other beneficial properties. may decrease blood sugar, may slow blood clotting, may reduce fertilitiy in males, can prevent the absorption of iron. not needed in the diet 

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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 B12-a vitamin in the B family needed for cognitive function cautionf or 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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Vitamin D-3 supplement-Vitamin D supplement made from lanolin a fatty substanced found on sheep wool elevations in phosphorus and calcium, tissue hardening in kidneys, intestines and heart. fatty fish, liver, egg yolk

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Watercress Pomace-the dry or pulpy residue of material resulting after the watercress has been pressed or extracted may contain pesticides found on the skin of fruit/vegetable. not needed in the diet

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Yucca schidigera extract-a natural herbal plant known ato have nti-arthritic and anti-inflammatory properties, reduce stool smell hemolysis, 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 although rare…illness of digestive system, dcreased white blood cells, anermia, feeling of vomiting, indigestion, cramps. rabbit, poultry, pork, lamb, bison, egg, beef, fish

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Zinc Oxide-source of zinc metal fume fever, cancer, reproductive effects. rabbit, poultry, pork, lamb, bison, egg, beef, fish

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Zinc Polysaccharide Complex-a complex made of a soluble salt with a polysaccharide solution abdominal discomfort, constipation, diarrhea. 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 can damage the intestinal wall, prevent absorption of certain minerals, inhibit production and function of red blood cells. rabbit, poultry, pork, lamb, bison, egg, beef, fish

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Zinc sulfate-a zinc and sulfur supplement can result in cancer, blood chemistry changes, reproduction concerns. 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