Today’s pet food market is flush with healthful options, though some questionable kibbles masquerade behind attractive packaging. The key lies in understanding the benefits and the purpose behind each of the ingredients listed on the bag. While nutritional needs vary among individuals and breeds, a diet filled with functional ingredients is advantageous to most.

The term “functional ingredient” does not have a universally agreed-upon definition. For our purposes, we define a “functional ingredient” as any component that beneficially impacts the nutritional value of a food or treat.

For pets, look for ingredients that contribute to high quality, sustained energy, soft coats, clear eyes, healthy joints and other indicators of health and well being.

Functional ingredients to seek in pet foods and treats:

• USDA-graded meats: It’s not feasible for most of us to feed our animals the raw protein they prefer “in the wild.” Barring the availability and cost of fresh meat, opt for packaged pet foods that list USDA-grade, lean meats early on the ingredient list. (Here is an FDA list of recommended labeling practices for pet foods including meat.)

• Energy-rich carbohydrates: These “good” carbs help to provide sustained energy for pets. Look for unmodified whole grains, listed as: natural oats, rice and barley.

• Whole produce: Though dogs and cats are mostly carnivorous, a diet rich in whole vegetables and fruits delivers beneficial antioxidants. The antioxidants, found in carrots (carotenoids), blueberries (anthocyanin) and apples (phytochemicals or flavonoids) boost a pet’s immune systems and aids in healthy cellular reproduction.1

• Supplements, based on a pet’s individual needs: While a veterinarian should be consulted for acute symptoms or signs of concern, we can contribute to our pet’s overall well-being by choosing treats that include glucosamine and chondroitin (for joint comfort) and Omega-3 for heart health.

Heathly Means More Adventures

Ingredients to avoid in pet foods and treats:

• Preservatives (commonly BHT/BHA and Ethooxyquin) and other additives: Preservatives stabilize the entire food product and prevent fats from turning rancid. Known carcinogens in humans, these types of preservatives have also been linked to other serious diseases.2 Additives, such as artificial colors and sweeteners (corn syrup, beet pulp sugar or sucrose), are typically added to make the food more desirable in appearance and moistness, but contribute nothing to the nutritional value.

• Meat by-products and meat meal: In a nutshell, these are euphemisms for the parts of an animal that are not considered suitable for human consumption. Though “unsuitable for human tastes” may not be a particularly salient argument against these ingredients, the manufacturing process for turning animal remains into meat by-products and meat meal is rife with questionable tactics and chemicals.3

• Fillers, such as wheat and corn: (Check out this comprehensive list for specific names wheat and corn variations.) The primary argument against wheat and corn derivatives is that they are known allergens that provide little to no nutritional value. Allergy symptoms to watch for, include: red eyes, itchy/dry skin, excessive scratching, digestive issues, and in some extreme cases, seizures.4

Even with guidelines, pet food labels can be confusing. Regulation of the terms “natural” and “organic” is not yet ironclad, though following brands that invoke those ideals is a good place to start.

After narrowing down pertinent ingredients to seek out and those to avoid, look for providers who are transparent with their processes. Transparency with regard to ingredients, manufacturing and packaging can be a strong indicator of a quality pet food maker. Visit manufacturer’s websites to learn about their values and discuss your questions with your veterinarian.

Don’t let your dog or cat fall victim to the game of dietary pinball we play with our own bodies. Look for functional ingredients that nourish, rather than just sustain. Throw out the fad diets and take control of the food you give your best, furry friend (and yourself).

1 Kane, E. (circa 2007) www.petplace.com. “Dietary Antioxidants are Important for Your Pet.” Retrieved on February 4, 2011 from http://www.petplace.com/dogs/dietary-antioxidants-are-important-for-your-pet/page1.aspx.

2 Newman, L. (2011, last modified) www.purelypets.com. “What’s in your Pet’s Food?” Retrieved on February 4, 2011 from http://www.purelypets.com/articles/whatsinfood.htm.

3 Smith, J. (2005) www.naturalnews.com. Retrieved February, 4, 2011 from http://www.naturalnews.com/012647.html

4 Ringwald, E. (2010) eHow.com. Retrieved on January 27, 2010 from http://www.ehow.com/way_5538872_wheatfree-dog-treat-recipes.html

Further resources:
• The Dog Food Project (http://www.dogfoodproject.com) offers a comprehensive list of specific ingredients to avoid and a nutrition primer for dogs.
• According to www.fda.gov, pet food labeling is regulated by the Federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA), with many states enforcing the more stringent recommendations of the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).