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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Amino Acid Complexes (Cobalt, Copper, Manganese etc.)-the result from from complexing a soluble metal salt with a specific amino acid. available in all meats, bone and organs

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Animal digest-a slurry broth of indeterminate parts of indeterminate animals including but not limited to goats, pigs, sheep, rats and horse that could have been dead, diseased, disabled or dying possible from restaurants, shelters, supermarkets or road kill. Mostly likely from 4 D animals. Defined species and healthy animal meats and animal organs

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Ascorbic Acid-a synthetic version of Vitamin C it is a natural preservative essential for collagen formations and immune support. In large quanitities  abdominal cramps or pain, chest pain, dental erosion, dizziness, diarrhea, faintness, fatigue, flushing, gut blockage, increased risk of lung cancer, inflamed esophagus, nausea, red blood cell complications, skin tingling or irritation, slowing of endurance training, thickening of blood vessels close to the heart, urinary complications, and vomiting. liver, kidney, heart, fish

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

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Butyrate-food for the cells of the lining of the colon. 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 Iodate-a combination of calcium needed for bone growth and iodine needed for thyriod function which regulates growth and development. according to MSDS hazardous if ingested. canned fishes, egg, cod, turkey

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Calcium Pantothenate-an artificially 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, iver,kidney

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Chelated Minerals-are minerals that are chemically combined with amino acids making mineral absorption easier. available in all meats, bone and organs

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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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Proteinated Minerals- product of chelation of salt and amino acids see chelated minerals. available in all meats, bone and organs

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Copper Sulfate-a  synthetic source of copper which is essential for enzyme formation, blood cell creation, color/pigmentation, nervous seem function. According to the CDC abdominal pain Nausea. Vomiting. Diarrhoea. Shock or collapse, kidney, hemolytic anemia, kidney damage liver damage. organ meats (liver, kidney)

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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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Dicalcium Phosphate-an ingredient that adds texture to pet foods. 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. 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, tukey, pork, lamb, beed, shellfish, eggs

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Dried _____ fermentation extract-a fungus (named in the ingredient blank), fermented to produce an enzyme aiding in digestion and is considered a probiotic supplement. 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 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. 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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Glucosamine Hydrochloride-aid in joint protection. safe up to two years gas, bloating, and cramps. Many commerical sources contain elevated manganese levels. animal cartilage

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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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Hydrochloric Acid-highly crrosve strong mineral acid, found in the stomach to break food down moderate acute toxicity. 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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L-arginine-an amino acid essential in proiten production. It also aids in heart health and circulation, wound healing, hormone function and best waste processing in the kidneys. abdominal pain and bloating, diarrhea, and gout, may worsen asthma. turkey breast, pork loin, chicken, tuna, salmon

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L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate-aka Vitamin C which aids in immunity. not needed in the diet

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L-Carnitine-an amino acid that helps the body utilze fat as energy. can cause nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, diarrhea, and seizures. Can also cause the urine and breath to have a "fishy" odor. pork, seafood, chicken 

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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. beef, lamb, turkey, chicken, pork, tuna, shrimp, eggs

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L-Tryptophan-an amino acid essential for serotonin and melatonin production which aids in sleep and stress relief. 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, poultry, eggs

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L-Tyrosine-an amino acid essential for stress resilence including hormone production via the thyriod of adrenaline. nausea, headache, fatigue, heartburn, and joint pain. Do not use in those with hyperthyroidism. egg whites, salmon, turkey breast, pork sirloin, chicken breast, tuna, crab

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Lactic Acid-a product made in the musckes after vigorus exercise in pets foods to reduce microbial growth. can cause Sore throat. Burning sensation. Abdominal pain. Abdominal cramps. Nausea. Vomiting. nothing species appropriate, cats and dogs can produce it

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Manganese Sulfate-a cobination of manganese and sulfur used as a source of manganese to prevent manganese deficiency. mental status changes, vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, hypotension, acute hepatic and renal failure, metabolic acidosis, multiorgan system failure and death. 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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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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Mono calcium Phosphate-synthetic form of calcium. may upset the balance of phosphates and other chemicals in the body, in excess renal disease, damage to blood vessels. canned fishes, egg, cod, turkey

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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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Phosphoric Acid-a chemical addictive to stabilze food, flavor it and prevent discoloration common for rust removal and the acid portion in coca cola. can lower bone density, triggers kidney problems, decrease calcium levels, damages tissues. not needed in the diet

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Potassium Iodide-aka Vitmin B3 for circulatory and skin health, increasing energy and help with digestion. common: swollen glands, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, stomachache. Serious: rash, fever, joint pain, swelling of face, breathing issues, irritability  Rabbit, chicken, turkey, pork, lamb, goat, ostrich, buffalo, egg, beef, salmon, halibut, haddock, sardine, tuna

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Potassium Chloride-a synthetic supplement designed to provide potassium. Diarrhea; gas; nausea; stomach discomfort; vomiting. poultry, pork, lamb, bison, egg, beef, fish  

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Propylene Glycol-a key component in antifreeze, although banned in cat food but is still included in dog food to preserve moisture content. toxicity to liver and kidneys, neurological problems, carviovascular problems, potentially bioaccumlative,  in cats decreased activity, mental depression, and slight to moderate ataxia. 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-a synthetic version Vitamin B2 essential for producing red blood cells and anitbodies, maintain muscous membranes and absorption of other vitamins and minerals.  increase in blood, tissue, and urine levels of free riboflavin, liver and cell damage. beef, lamb, mackerel, eggs, pork

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Sodium Hexametaphosphate-an addictive important for stablizing the food, adding texture which has been reported to cause swollen kidneys, bone decalicification, skin irritation, and cancer. respiratory irriatation, allergic reaction, pancreatic cancer. not needed in the diet

 

Sodium Propionate-a chemical preservative  that is toxic to mold and bacteriaartificial

Sodium Seleniteaka Vitmin B2 for red blood cell production, growth and reproduction.  Skin, eye or respiratory irritant. not needed in the diet

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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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Sorbic Acid-chemicial preservative to prevent mold and bacterial growth. potential for abdominal pain. 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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Titanium Dioxide-an addicitive to thicken foods and a white coloring agent. potential carcinogen, oxidative stress, chronic inflammation. 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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Vegetable 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 that were sprayed on the skins of the fruits/veggies.not needed in the diet

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Vitamin D3 supplement-aka Vitamin D aids in uptake of calcium and helps to prevent muslce weakness, diabetes, heart issues and skin conditions. elevations in phosphorus and calcium, tissue hardening in kidneys, intestines and heart. liver, salmon, mackerel, egg yolks, beef

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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 Sulfate-a cobination of zinc and sulfur used as a source of zinc to prevent zinc deficiency. can result in cancer, blood chemistry changes, reproduction concerns. rabbit, poultry, prok, lamb, bison, egg, beef, fish 

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

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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