FEEDING YOUR PUPPY
Do you know what is in meat meal, the major
constituent of dry dog food?...Urine, fecal
matter, hair, pus, meat (from animals, afflicted)
with cancer and T.B., etc."
--Wendell O. Belfield, DVM
constituent of dry dog food?...Urine, fecal
matter, hair, pus, meat (from animals, afflicted)
with cancer and T.B., etc."
--Wendell O. Belfield, DVM
T.J. Dunn D.V.M."There is ample proof that today's
dogs and cats do not thrive on cheap, packaged,
corn-based pet foods. Dogs and cats are primarily
meat eaters; to fill them up with grain-based
processed dry foods that barely meet minimum
daily nutrient requirements has proven to be a
mistake."
dogs and cats do not thrive on cheap, packaged,
corn-based pet foods. Dogs and cats are primarily
meat eaters; to fill them up with grain-based
processed dry foods that barely meet minimum
daily nutrient requirements has proven to be a
mistake."
Dr Richard Pitcairn, DVM , PhD says, "I
find animals respond very quickly and
positively to a nutritiuos diet. In fact, it is
the major tool you need to eliminate many
of the chronic diseases your animal
encounters in these times."
find animals respond very quickly and
positively to a nutritiuos diet. In fact, it is
the major tool you need to eliminate many
of the chronic diseases your animal
encounters in these times."
This
Why I use Life's Abundance
Tear Staining
I talk about tear staining on another page and tell you I will share with you
what I think causes it, when you pick up your puppy. It is important to many of
you that your puppy not have it. To me too. Not only do I want to provide you
with the healthiest and happiest puppy, but also with the cutest/prettiest! I
always tell my kids, whatever you do, always do it to the best of your ability.
So I am trying to give you the most perfect puppy.
Part of the tear staining problem is the food. That is only part of it. I am
doing an experiment so to speak, to figure out which food might be
contributing to it.
what I think causes it, when you pick up your puppy. It is important to many of
you that your puppy not have it. To me too. Not only do I want to provide you
with the healthiest and happiest puppy, but also with the cutest/prettiest! I
always tell my kids, whatever you do, always do it to the best of your ability.
So I am trying to give you the most perfect puppy.
Part of the tear staining problem is the food. That is only part of it. I am
doing an experiment so to speak, to figure out which food might be
contributing to it.
So What's The Plan?
Right now, for the new litters I have, I am making my own food.
Yes, I made my own baby food too! I used one of Dr Pitcairns
recipes and they loved it! I will be posting the recipe here soon.
The reason I haven't done this before was I couldn't expect my
customers to make their own food, although it is very easy and I
would encourage any of you to do it.
I will be weaning my litters to a holistic food dog before it
leaves my home to go to yours. I have some ideas of what needs
to be eliminated in a food to keep their eyes stain free. I will
keep you posted.
Yes, I made my own baby food too! I used one of Dr Pitcairns
recipes and they loved it! I will be posting the recipe here soon.
The reason I haven't done this before was I couldn't expect my
customers to make their own food, although it is very easy and I
would encourage any of you to do it.
I will be weaning my litters to a holistic food dog before it
leaves my home to go to yours. I have some ideas of what needs
to be eliminated in a food to keep their eyes stain free. I will
keep you posted.
There are many dog foods out there to choose from.
How can you tell which one is best? You may think the
dog food you always used for your last dog was good,
but was it? Could your dog have been healthier with a
different dog food? Could he have lived longer? Keep
reading and see what you think!
How can you tell which one is best? You may think the
dog food you always used for your last dog was good,
but was it? Could your dog have been healthier with a
different dog food? Could he have lived longer? Keep
reading and see what you think!
There is no choice to be made as to which dog food to put your puppy on.
It is very important that he stays on the same dog food since a change can
cause diarrhea and can quickly lead to hypoglycemia which can be very bad
if not deadly for a small puppy.
Staying on the same dog food is so important that I put it in my Puppy
Guarantee that your puppy must stay on this dog food for at least 6 months.
It is very important that he stays on the same dog food since a change can
cause diarrhea and can quickly lead to hypoglycemia which can be very bad
if not deadly for a small puppy.
Staying on the same dog food is so important that I put it in my Puppy
Guarantee that your puppy must stay on this dog food for at least 6 months.
The information below is taken from The Animal Protection Institute. It is a lengthy
but thorough article and a must read for everyone who owns a dog or cat! I learned
things that shocked me.
but thorough article and a must read for everyone who owns a dog or cat! I learned
things that shocked me.
Get The Facts:
What’s Really in Pet Food
Updated May 2007
Plump whole chickens, choice cuts of beef, fresh grains, and all the wholesome nutrition your
dog or cat will ever need.
These are the images pet food manufacturers promulgate through the media and advertising.
This is what the $16.1 billion per year U.S. pet food industry wants consumers to believe they
are buying when they purchase their products.
This report explores the differences between what consumers think they are buying and what
they are actually getting. It focuses in very general terms on the most visible name brands — the
pet food labels that are mass-distributed to supermarkets and discount stores — but there are
many highly respected brands that may be guilty of the same offenses.
What most consumers don’t know is that the pet food industry is an extension of the human food
and agriculture industries. Pet food provides a convenient way for slaughterhouse offal, grains
considered “unfit for human consumption,” and similar waste products to be turned into profit.
This waste includes intestines, udders, heads, hooves, and possibly diseased and cancerous
animal parts.
What’s Really in Pet Food
Updated May 2007
Plump whole chickens, choice cuts of beef, fresh grains, and all the wholesome nutrition your
dog or cat will ever need.
These are the images pet food manufacturers promulgate through the media and advertising.
This is what the $16.1 billion per year U.S. pet food industry wants consumers to believe they
are buying when they purchase their products.
This report explores the differences between what consumers think they are buying and what
they are actually getting. It focuses in very general terms on the most visible name brands — the
pet food labels that are mass-distributed to supermarkets and discount stores — but there are
many highly respected brands that may be guilty of the same offenses.
What most consumers don’t know is that the pet food industry is an extension of the human food
and agriculture industries. Pet food provides a convenient way for slaughterhouse offal, grains
considered “unfit for human consumption,” and similar waste products to be turned into profit.
This waste includes intestines, udders, heads, hooves, and possibly diseased and cancerous
animal parts.
The Players
The pet food market has been dominated in the last few years by the acquisition of big
companies by even bigger companies. With $15 billion a year at stake in the U.S. and
rapidly expanding foreign markets, it’s no wonder that some are greedy for a larger
piece of the pie.
* Nestlé’s bought Purina to form Nestlé Purina Petcare Company (Fancy Feast, Alpo,
Friskies, Mighty Dog, Dog Chow, Cat Chow, Puppy Chow, Kitten Chow, Beneful, One,
ProPlan, DeliCat, HiPro, Kit’n’Kaboodle, Tender Vittles, Purina Veterinary Diets).
* Del Monte gobbled up Heinz (MeowMix, Gravy Train, Kibbles ’n Bits, Wagwells, 9Lives,
Cycle, Skippy, Nature’s Recipe, and pet treats Milk Bone, Pup-Peroni, Snausages, Pounce).
* MasterFoods owns Mars, Inc., which consumed Royal Canin (Pedigree, Waltham’s,
Cesar, Sheba, Temptations, Goodlife Recipe, Sensible Choice, Excel).
Other major pet food makers are not best known for pet care, although many of their
household and personal care products do use ingredients derived from animal by-
products:
* Procter and Gamble (P&G) purchased The Iams Company (Iams, Eukanuba) in 1999. P&G
shortly thereafter introduced Iams into grocery stores, where it did very well.
* Colgate-Palmolive bought Hill’s Science Diet (founded in 1939) in 1976 (Hill’s Science
Diet, Prescription Diets, Nature’s Best).
Private labelers (who make food for “house” brands like Kroger and Wal-Mart) and co-
packers (who produce food for other pet food makers) are also major players. Three
major companies are Doane Pet Care, Diamond, and Menu Foods; they produce food for
dozens of private label and brand names. Interestingly, all 3 of these companies have
been involved in pet food recalls that sickened or killed many pets.
Many major pet food companies in the United States are subsidiaries of gigantic
multinational corporations. From a business standpoint, pet food fits very well with
companies making human products. The multinationals have increased bulk-purchasing
power; those that make human food products have a captive market in which to capitalize
on their waste products; and pet food divisions have a more reliable capital base and, in
many cases, a convenient source of ingredients.
The Pet Food Institute — the trade association of pet food manufacturers — has
acknowledged the use of by-products in pet foods as additional income for processors
and farmers: “The growth of the pet food industry not only provided pet owners with
better foods for their pets, but also created profitable additional markets for American
farm products and for the byproducts of the meat packing, poultry, and other food
industries which prepare food for human consumption.”
The pet food market has been dominated in the last few years by the acquisition of big
companies by even bigger companies. With $15 billion a year at stake in the U.S. and
rapidly expanding foreign markets, it’s no wonder that some are greedy for a larger
piece of the pie.
* Nestlé’s bought Purina to form Nestlé Purina Petcare Company (Fancy Feast, Alpo,
Friskies, Mighty Dog, Dog Chow, Cat Chow, Puppy Chow, Kitten Chow, Beneful, One,
ProPlan, DeliCat, HiPro, Kit’n’Kaboodle, Tender Vittles, Purina Veterinary Diets).
* Del Monte gobbled up Heinz (MeowMix, Gravy Train, Kibbles ’n Bits, Wagwells, 9Lives,
Cycle, Skippy, Nature’s Recipe, and pet treats Milk Bone, Pup-Peroni, Snausages, Pounce).
* MasterFoods owns Mars, Inc., which consumed Royal Canin (Pedigree, Waltham’s,
Cesar, Sheba, Temptations, Goodlife Recipe, Sensible Choice, Excel).
Other major pet food makers are not best known for pet care, although many of their
household and personal care products do use ingredients derived from animal by-
products:
* Procter and Gamble (P&G) purchased The Iams Company (Iams, Eukanuba) in 1999. P&G
shortly thereafter introduced Iams into grocery stores, where it did very well.
* Colgate-Palmolive bought Hill’s Science Diet (founded in 1939) in 1976 (Hill’s Science
Diet, Prescription Diets, Nature’s Best).
Private labelers (who make food for “house” brands like Kroger and Wal-Mart) and co-
packers (who produce food for other pet food makers) are also major players. Three
major companies are Doane Pet Care, Diamond, and Menu Foods; they produce food for
dozens of private label and brand names. Interestingly, all 3 of these companies have
been involved in pet food recalls that sickened or killed many pets.
Many major pet food companies in the United States are subsidiaries of gigantic
multinational corporations. From a business standpoint, pet food fits very well with
companies making human products. The multinationals have increased bulk-purchasing
power; those that make human food products have a captive market in which to capitalize
on their waste products; and pet food divisions have a more reliable capital base and, in
many cases, a convenient source of ingredients.
The Pet Food Institute — the trade association of pet food manufacturers — has
acknowledged the use of by-products in pet foods as additional income for processors
and farmers: “The growth of the pet food industry not only provided pet owners with
better foods for their pets, but also created profitable additional markets for American
farm products and for the byproducts of the meat packing, poultry, and other food
industries which prepare food for human consumption.”
The Manufacturing Process: How Pet Food Is Made:
Dry Food
The vast majority of dry food is made with a machine called an extruder. First, materials
are blended in accordance with a recipe created with the help of computer programs that
provide the nutrient content of each proposed ingredient. For instance, corn gluten meal
has more protein than wheat flour. Because the extruder needs a consistent amount of
starch and low moisture to work properly, dry ingredients — such as rendered meat-and-
bone-meal, poultry by-product meal, grains, and flours — predominate.
The dough is fed into the screws of an extruder. It is subjected to steam and high
pressure as it is pushed through dies that determine the shape of the final product,
much like the nozzles used in cake decorating. As the hot, pressurized dough exits the
extruder, it is cut by a set of rapidly whirling knives into tiny pieces. As the dough
reaches normal air pressure, it expands or “puffs” into its final shape. The food is
allowed to dry, and then is usually sprayed with fat, digests, or other compounds to make
it more palatable. When it is cooled, it can be bagged.
Although the cooking process kills bacteria in the ingredients, the final product can pick
up more bacteria during the subsequent drying, coating, and packaging process. Some
experts warn that getting dry food wet can allow the bacteria on the surface to multiply
and make pets sick. Do not mix dry food with water, milk, canned food, or other liquids.
A few dog foods are baked at high temperatures (over 500°F) rather than extruded.
This produces a sheet of dense, crunchy material that is then broken into irregular
chunks, much like crumbling crackers into soup. It is relatively palatable without the
sprayed-on fats and other enhancers needed on extruded dry food.
Semi-moist foods and many pet treats are also made with an extruder. To be appealing to
consumers and to keep their texture, they contain many additives, colorings, and
preservatives; they are not a good choice for a pet’s primary diet.
Wet Food
Wet or canned food begins with ground ingredients mixed with additives. If chunks are
required, a special extruder forms them. Then the mixture is cooked and canned. The
sealed cans are then put into containers resembling pressure cookers and commercial
sterilization takes place. Some manufacturers cook the food right in the can.
Wet foods are quite different in content from dry or semi-moist foods. While many
canned foods contain by-products of various sorts, they are “fresh” and not rendered or
processed (although they are often frozen for transport and storage). Wet foods usually
contain much more protein, and it’s often a little higher quality, than dry foods. They also
have more moisture, which is better for cats. They are packaged in cans or pouches.
Comparing Food Types
Because of the variation in water content, it is impossible to directly compare labels from
different kinds of food without a mathematical conversion to “dry matter basis.” The
numbers can be very deceiving. For instance, a canned food containing 10% protein
actually has much more protein than a dry food with 30% protein.
To put the foods on a level playing field, first calculate the dry matter content by
subtracting the moisture content given on the label from 100%. Then divide the
ingredient by the dry matter content. For example, a typical bag of dry cat food contains
30% protein on the label, but 32% on a dry-matter basis (30% divided by its dry matter
content, 100-6% moisture = 94%). A can of cat food might contain 12% protein on the
label, but almost 43% on a dry-matter basis (12% divided by its dry matter content, 100-
72% moisture = 28%). Dry food typically contains less than 10% water, while canned food
contains 78% or more water.
Dry Food
The vast majority of dry food is made with a machine called an extruder. First, materials
are blended in accordance with a recipe created with the help of computer programs that
provide the nutrient content of each proposed ingredient. For instance, corn gluten meal
has more protein than wheat flour. Because the extruder needs a consistent amount of
starch and low moisture to work properly, dry ingredients — such as rendered meat-and-
bone-meal, poultry by-product meal, grains, and flours — predominate.
The dough is fed into the screws of an extruder. It is subjected to steam and high
pressure as it is pushed through dies that determine the shape of the final product,
much like the nozzles used in cake decorating. As the hot, pressurized dough exits the
extruder, it is cut by a set of rapidly whirling knives into tiny pieces. As the dough
reaches normal air pressure, it expands or “puffs” into its final shape. The food is
allowed to dry, and then is usually sprayed with fat, digests, or other compounds to make
it more palatable. When it is cooled, it can be bagged.
Although the cooking process kills bacteria in the ingredients, the final product can pick
up more bacteria during the subsequent drying, coating, and packaging process. Some
experts warn that getting dry food wet can allow the bacteria on the surface to multiply
and make pets sick. Do not mix dry food with water, milk, canned food, or other liquids.
A few dog foods are baked at high temperatures (over 500°F) rather than extruded.
This produces a sheet of dense, crunchy material that is then broken into irregular
chunks, much like crumbling crackers into soup. It is relatively palatable without the
sprayed-on fats and other enhancers needed on extruded dry food.
Semi-moist foods and many pet treats are also made with an extruder. To be appealing to
consumers and to keep their texture, they contain many additives, colorings, and
preservatives; they are not a good choice for a pet’s primary diet.
Wet Food
Wet or canned food begins with ground ingredients mixed with additives. If chunks are
required, a special extruder forms them. Then the mixture is cooked and canned. The
sealed cans are then put into containers resembling pressure cookers and commercial
sterilization takes place. Some manufacturers cook the food right in the can.
Wet foods are quite different in content from dry or semi-moist foods. While many
canned foods contain by-products of various sorts, they are “fresh” and not rendered or
processed (although they are often frozen for transport and storage). Wet foods usually
contain much more protein, and it’s often a little higher quality, than dry foods. They also
have more moisture, which is better for cats. They are packaged in cans or pouches.
Comparing Food Types
Because of the variation in water content, it is impossible to directly compare labels from
different kinds of food without a mathematical conversion to “dry matter basis.” The
numbers can be very deceiving. For instance, a canned food containing 10% protein
actually has much more protein than a dry food with 30% protein.
To put the foods on a level playing field, first calculate the dry matter content by
subtracting the moisture content given on the label from 100%. Then divide the
ingredient by the dry matter content. For example, a typical bag of dry cat food contains
30% protein on the label, but 32% on a dry-matter basis (30% divided by its dry matter
content, 100-6% moisture = 94%). A can of cat food might contain 12% protein on the
label, but almost 43% on a dry-matter basis (12% divided by its dry matter content, 100-
72% moisture = 28%). Dry food typically contains less than 10% water, while canned food
contains 78% or more water.
Animal Protein:
Dogs and cats are carnivores, and do best on a meat-based diet. The protein used in
pet food comes from a variety of sources. When cattle, swine, chickens, lambs, or
other animals are slaughtered, lean muscle tissue is trimmed away from the carcass
for human consumption, along with the few organs that people like to eat, such as
tongues and tripe.
However, about 50% of every food animal does not get used in human foods.
Whatever remains of the carcass — heads, feet, bones, blood, intestines, lungs,
spleens, livers, ligaments, fat trimmings, unborn babies, and other parts not generally
consumed by humans — is used in pet food, animal feed, fertilizer, industrial
lubricants, soap, rubber, and other products. These “other parts” are known as “by-
products.” By-products are used in feed for poultry and livestock as well as in pet
food.
The nutritional quality of by-products, meals, and digests can vary from batch to
batch. James Morris and Quinton Rogers, of the University of California at Davis
Veterinary School, assert that, “[pet food] ingredients are generally by-products of
the meat, poultry and fishing industries, with the potential for a wide variation in
nutrient composition. Claims of nutritional adequacy of pet foods based on the
current Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) nutrient allowances
(‘profiles’) do not give assurances of nutritional adequacy and will not until ingredients
are analyzed and bioavailability values are incorporated.”3
Meat or poultry “by-products” are very common in wet pet foods. Remember that
“meat” refers to only cows, swine, sheep, and goats. Since sheep and goats are rare
compared to the 37 million cows and 100 million hogs slaughtered for food every
year, nearly all meat by-products come from cattle and pigs.
The better brands of pet food, such as many “super-premium,” “natural,” and
“organic” varieties, do not use by-products. On the label, you’ll see one or more
named meats among the first few ingredients, such as “turkey” or “lamb.” These
meats are still mainly leftover scraps; in the case of poultry, bones are allowed, so
“chicken” consists mainly of backs and frames—the spine and ribs, minus their
expensive breast meat. The small amount of meat left on the bones is the meat in the
pet food. Even with this less-attractive source, pet food marketers are very tricky
when talking about meat, so this is explained further in the section on “Marketing
Magic” below.
Meat meals, poultry meals, by-product meals, and meat-and-bone meal are common
ingredients in dry pet foods. The term “meal” means that these materials are not
used fresh, but have been rendered. While there are chicken, turkey, and poultry by-
product meals there is no equivalent term for mammal “meat by-product meal” — it is
called “meat-and-bone-meal.” It may also be referred to by species, such as “beef-
and-bone-meal” or “pork-and-bone-meal.”
What is rendering? As defined by Webster’s Dictionary, to render is “to process as
for industrial use: to render livestock carcasses and to extract oil from fat, blubber,
etc., by melting.” In other words, raw materials are dumped into large vat and boiled
for several hours. Rendering separates fat, removes water, and kills bacteria,
viruses, parasites, and other organisms. However, the high temperatures used (270°
F/130°C) can alter or destroy natural enzymes and proteins found in the raw
ingredients.
Because of persistent rumors that rendered by-products contain dead dogs and cats,
the FDA conducted a study looking for pentobarbital, the most common euthanasia
drug, in pet foods. They found it. Ingredients that were most commonly associated
with the presence of pentobarbital were meat-and-bone-meal and animal fat.
However, they also used very sensitive tests to look for canine and feline DNA,
which were not found. Industry insiders admit that rendered pets and roadkill were
used in pet food some years ago. Although there are still no laws or regulations
against it, the practice is uncommon today, and pet food companies universally deny
that their products contain any such materials. However, so-called “4D” animals
(dead, dying, diseased, disabled) were only recently banned for human consumption
and are still legitimate ingredients for pet food.
Vegetable Protein:
The amount of grain and vegetable products used in pet food has risen dramatically
over time. Plant products now replace a considerable proportion of the meat that was
used in the earliest commercial pet foods. This has led to severe nutritional
deficiencies that have been corrected along the way, although many animals died
before science caught up.
Most dry foods contain a large amount of cereal grain or starchy vegetables to
provide texture. These high-carbohydrate plant products also provide a cheap
source of “energy” — the rest of us call it “calories.” Gluten meals are high-protein
extracts from which most of the carbohydrate has been removed. They are often
used to boost protein percentages without expensive animal-source ingredients. Corn
gluten meal is the most commonly used for this purpose. Wheat gluten is also used to
create shapes like cuts, bites, chunks, shreds, flakes, and slices, and as a thickener
for gravy. In most cases, foods containing vegetable proteins are among the poorer
quality foods.
A recent fad, “low-carb” pet food, has some companies steering away from grains,
and using potatoes, green peas, and other starchy vegetables as a substitute. Except
for animals that are allergic to grains, dry low-carb diets offer no particular
advantage to pets. They also tend to be very high in fat and, if fed free-choice, will
result in weight gain. Canned versions are suitable for prevention and treatment of
feline diabetes, and as part of a weight loss program, as well as for maintenance.
Animal and Poultry Fat:
There’s a unique, pungent odor to a new bag of dry pet food — what is the source of
that smell? It is most often rendered animal fat, or vegetable fats and oils deemed
inedible for humans. For example, used restaurant grease was rendered and routed
to pet foods for several years, but a more lucrative market is now in bio-diesel fuel
production.
These fats are sprayed directly onto extruded kibbles and pellets to make an
otherwise bland or distasteful product palatable. The fat also acts as a binding agent
to which manufacturers add other flavor enhancers such as “animal digests” made
from processed by-products. Pet food scientists have discovered that animals love
the taste of these sprayed fats. Manufacturers are masters at getting a dog or a cat
to eat something she would normally turn up her nose at.
Additives in Processed Pet Foods:
Many chemicals are added to commercial pet foods to improve the taste, stability,
characteristics, or appearance of the food. Additives provide no nutritional value.
Additives include emulsifiers to prevent water and fat from separating, antioxidants
to prevent fat from turning rancid, and artificial colors and flavors to make the
product more attractive to consumers and more palatable to their companion animals.
A wide variety of additives are allowed in animal feed and pet food, not counting
vitamins and minerals. Not all of them are actually used in pet food. Additives can be
specifically approved, or they can fall into the category of “Generally Recognized as
Safe” (GRAS).
Anticaking agents
Antigelling agents
Antimicrobial agents
Antioxidants
Color additives
Condiments
Curing agents
Drying agents
Emulsifiers
Essential oils
Flavor enhancers
Flavoring agents
Grinding agents
Humectants
Leavening agents
Lubricants
Palatants
Pelleting agents and binders
Petroleum derivatives
pH control agents
Preservatives
Seasonings
Spices
Stabilizers
Sweeteners
Texturizers
Thickeners
Dogs and cats are carnivores, and do best on a meat-based diet. The protein used in
pet food comes from a variety of sources. When cattle, swine, chickens, lambs, or
other animals are slaughtered, lean muscle tissue is trimmed away from the carcass
for human consumption, along with the few organs that people like to eat, such as
tongues and tripe.
However, about 50% of every food animal does not get used in human foods.
Whatever remains of the carcass — heads, feet, bones, blood, intestines, lungs,
spleens, livers, ligaments, fat trimmings, unborn babies, and other parts not generally
consumed by humans — is used in pet food, animal feed, fertilizer, industrial
lubricants, soap, rubber, and other products. These “other parts” are known as “by-
products.” By-products are used in feed for poultry and livestock as well as in pet
food.
The nutritional quality of by-products, meals, and digests can vary from batch to
batch. James Morris and Quinton Rogers, of the University of California at Davis
Veterinary School, assert that, “[pet food] ingredients are generally by-products of
the meat, poultry and fishing industries, with the potential for a wide variation in
nutrient composition. Claims of nutritional adequacy of pet foods based on the
current Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) nutrient allowances
(‘profiles’) do not give assurances of nutritional adequacy and will not until ingredients
are analyzed and bioavailability values are incorporated.”3
Meat or poultry “by-products” are very common in wet pet foods. Remember that
“meat” refers to only cows, swine, sheep, and goats. Since sheep and goats are rare
compared to the 37 million cows and 100 million hogs slaughtered for food every
year, nearly all meat by-products come from cattle and pigs.
The better brands of pet food, such as many “super-premium,” “natural,” and
“organic” varieties, do not use by-products. On the label, you’ll see one or more
named meats among the first few ingredients, such as “turkey” or “lamb.” These
meats are still mainly leftover scraps; in the case of poultry, bones are allowed, so
“chicken” consists mainly of backs and frames—the spine and ribs, minus their
expensive breast meat. The small amount of meat left on the bones is the meat in the
pet food. Even with this less-attractive source, pet food marketers are very tricky
when talking about meat, so this is explained further in the section on “Marketing
Magic” below.
Meat meals, poultry meals, by-product meals, and meat-and-bone meal are common
ingredients in dry pet foods. The term “meal” means that these materials are not
used fresh, but have been rendered. While there are chicken, turkey, and poultry by-
product meals there is no equivalent term for mammal “meat by-product meal” — it is
called “meat-and-bone-meal.” It may also be referred to by species, such as “beef-
and-bone-meal” or “pork-and-bone-meal.”
What is rendering? As defined by Webster’s Dictionary, to render is “to process as
for industrial use: to render livestock carcasses and to extract oil from fat, blubber,
etc., by melting.” In other words, raw materials are dumped into large vat and boiled
for several hours. Rendering separates fat, removes water, and kills bacteria,
viruses, parasites, and other organisms. However, the high temperatures used (270°
F/130°C) can alter or destroy natural enzymes and proteins found in the raw
ingredients.
Because of persistent rumors that rendered by-products contain dead dogs and cats,
the FDA conducted a study looking for pentobarbital, the most common euthanasia
drug, in pet foods. They found it. Ingredients that were most commonly associated
with the presence of pentobarbital were meat-and-bone-meal and animal fat.
However, they also used very sensitive tests to look for canine and feline DNA,
which were not found. Industry insiders admit that rendered pets and roadkill were
used in pet food some years ago. Although there are still no laws or regulations
against it, the practice is uncommon today, and pet food companies universally deny
that their products contain any such materials. However, so-called “4D” animals
(dead, dying, diseased, disabled) were only recently banned for human consumption
and are still legitimate ingredients for pet food.
Vegetable Protein:
The amount of grain and vegetable products used in pet food has risen dramatically
over time. Plant products now replace a considerable proportion of the meat that was
used in the earliest commercial pet foods. This has led to severe nutritional
deficiencies that have been corrected along the way, although many animals died
before science caught up.
Most dry foods contain a large amount of cereal grain or starchy vegetables to
provide texture. These high-carbohydrate plant products also provide a cheap
source of “energy” — the rest of us call it “calories.” Gluten meals are high-protein
extracts from which most of the carbohydrate has been removed. They are often
used to boost protein percentages without expensive animal-source ingredients. Corn
gluten meal is the most commonly used for this purpose. Wheat gluten is also used to
create shapes like cuts, bites, chunks, shreds, flakes, and slices, and as a thickener
for gravy. In most cases, foods containing vegetable proteins are among the poorer
quality foods.
A recent fad, “low-carb” pet food, has some companies steering away from grains,
and using potatoes, green peas, and other starchy vegetables as a substitute. Except
for animals that are allergic to grains, dry low-carb diets offer no particular
advantage to pets. They also tend to be very high in fat and, if fed free-choice, will
result in weight gain. Canned versions are suitable for prevention and treatment of
feline diabetes, and as part of a weight loss program, as well as for maintenance.
Animal and Poultry Fat:
There’s a unique, pungent odor to a new bag of dry pet food — what is the source of
that smell? It is most often rendered animal fat, or vegetable fats and oils deemed
inedible for humans. For example, used restaurant grease was rendered and routed
to pet foods for several years, but a more lucrative market is now in bio-diesel fuel
production.
These fats are sprayed directly onto extruded kibbles and pellets to make an
otherwise bland or distasteful product palatable. The fat also acts as a binding agent
to which manufacturers add other flavor enhancers such as “animal digests” made
from processed by-products. Pet food scientists have discovered that animals love
the taste of these sprayed fats. Manufacturers are masters at getting a dog or a cat
to eat something she would normally turn up her nose at.
Additives in Processed Pet Foods:
Many chemicals are added to commercial pet foods to improve the taste, stability,
characteristics, or appearance of the food. Additives provide no nutritional value.
Additives include emulsifiers to prevent water and fat from separating, antioxidants
to prevent fat from turning rancid, and artificial colors and flavors to make the
product more attractive to consumers and more palatable to their companion animals.
A wide variety of additives are allowed in animal feed and pet food, not counting
vitamins and minerals. Not all of them are actually used in pet food. Additives can be
specifically approved, or they can fall into the category of “Generally Recognized as
Safe” (GRAS).
Anticaking agents
Antigelling agents
Antimicrobial agents
Antioxidants
Color additives
Condiments
Curing agents
Drying agents
Emulsifiers
Essential oils
Flavor enhancers
Flavoring agents
Grinding agents
Humectants
Leavening agents
Lubricants
Palatants
Pelleting agents and binders
Petroleum derivatives
pH control agents
Preservatives
Seasonings
Spices
Stabilizers
Sweeteners
Texturizers
Thickeners
Dog Food Ingredients
What Happened to the Nutrients?
Cooking and other processing of meat and by-products
used in pet food can greatly diminish their nutritional
value, although cooking increases the digestibility of
cereal grains and starchy vegetables.
To make pet food nutritious, pet food manufacturers
must “fortify” it with vitamins and minerals. Why?
Because the ingredients they are using are not
wholesome, their quality may be extremely variable,
and the harsh manufacturing practices destroy many
of the nutrients the food had to begin with.
Proteins are especially vulnerable to heat, and become
damaged, or “denatured,” when cooked. Because dry
foods ingredients are cooked twice — first during
rendering and again in the extruder — problems are
much more common than with canned or homemade
foods. Altered proteins may contribute to food
intolerances, food allergies, and inflammatory bowel
disease.
Cooking and other processing of meat and by-products
used in pet food can greatly diminish their nutritional
value, although cooking increases the digestibility of
cereal grains and starchy vegetables.
To make pet food nutritious, pet food manufacturers
must “fortify” it with vitamins and minerals. Why?
Because the ingredients they are using are not
wholesome, their quality may be extremely variable,
and the harsh manufacturing practices destroy many
of the nutrients the food had to begin with.
Proteins are especially vulnerable to heat, and become
damaged, or “denatured,” when cooked. Because dry
foods ingredients are cooked twice — first during
rendering and again in the extruder — problems are
much more common than with canned or homemade
foods. Altered proteins may contribute to food
intolerances, food allergies, and inflammatory bowel
disease.
Chemical vs. Natural Preservatives:
All commercial pet foods must be preserved so they stay fresh and appealing to our animal
companions. Canning is itself a preserving process, so canned foods need little or no additional
help. Some preservatives are added to ingredients or raw materials by the suppliers, and
others may be added by the manufacturer. The U.S. Coast Guard, for instance, requires fish
meal to be heavily preserved with ethoxyquin or equivalent antioxidant. Evidently, spoiling fish
meal creates such intense heat that ship explosions and fires resulted.
Because manufacturers need to ensure that dry foods have a long shelf life (typically 12 months)
to remain edible through shipping and storage, fats used in pet foods are preserved with either
synthetic or “natural” preservatives. Synthetic preservatives include butylated hydroxyanisole
(BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), propyl gallate, propylene glycol (also used as a less-
toxic version of automotive antifreeze), and ethoxyquin. For these antioxidants, there is little
information documenting their toxicity, safety, interactions, or chronic use in pet foods that
may be eaten every day for the life of the animal. Propylene glycol was banned in cat food
because it causes anemia in cats, but it is still allowed in dog food.
Potentially cancer-causing agents such as BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin are permitted at relatively
low levels. The use of these chemicals in pet foods has not been thoroughly studied, and long
term build-up of these agents may ultimately be harmful. Due to questionable data in the original
study on its safety, ethoxyquin’s manufacturer, Monsanto, was required to perform a new, more
rigorous study. This was completed in 1996. Even though Monsanto found no significant toxicity
associated with its own product, in July 1997 the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine
requested that manufacturers voluntarily reduce the maximum level for ethoxyquin by half, to
75 parts per million. While some pet food critics and veterinarians believe that ethoxyquin is a
major cause of disease, skin problems, and infertility in dogs, others claim it is the safest,
strongest, most stable preservative available for pet food. Ethoxyquin is approved for use in
human food for preserving spices, such as cayenne and chili powder, at a level of 100 ppm — but
it would be very difficult for even the most hard-core spice lover to consume as much chili
powder every day as a dog would eat dry food. Ethoxyquin has never been tested for safety in
cats. Despite this, it is commonly used in veterinary diets for both cats and dogs.
Many pet food makers have responded to consumer concern, and are now using “natural”
preservatives such as Vitamin C (ascorbate), Vitamin E (mixed tocopherols), and oils of
rosemary, clove, or other spices, to preserve the fats in their products. The shelf life is
shorter, however — only about 6 months.
Individual ingredients, such as fish meal, may have preservatives added before they reach the
pet food manufacturer. Federal law requires fat preservatives to be disclosed on the label;
however, pet food companies do not always comply with this law.
All commercial pet foods must be preserved so they stay fresh and appealing to our animal
companions. Canning is itself a preserving process, so canned foods need little or no additional
help. Some preservatives are added to ingredients or raw materials by the suppliers, and
others may be added by the manufacturer. The U.S. Coast Guard, for instance, requires fish
meal to be heavily preserved with ethoxyquin or equivalent antioxidant. Evidently, spoiling fish
meal creates such intense heat that ship explosions and fires resulted.
Because manufacturers need to ensure that dry foods have a long shelf life (typically 12 months)
to remain edible through shipping and storage, fats used in pet foods are preserved with either
synthetic or “natural” preservatives. Synthetic preservatives include butylated hydroxyanisole
(BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), propyl gallate, propylene glycol (also used as a less-
toxic version of automotive antifreeze), and ethoxyquin. For these antioxidants, there is little
information documenting their toxicity, safety, interactions, or chronic use in pet foods that
may be eaten every day for the life of the animal. Propylene glycol was banned in cat food
because it causes anemia in cats, but it is still allowed in dog food.
Potentially cancer-causing agents such as BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin are permitted at relatively
low levels. The use of these chemicals in pet foods has not been thoroughly studied, and long
term build-up of these agents may ultimately be harmful. Due to questionable data in the original
study on its safety, ethoxyquin’s manufacturer, Monsanto, was required to perform a new, more
rigorous study. This was completed in 1996. Even though Monsanto found no significant toxicity
associated with its own product, in July 1997 the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine
requested that manufacturers voluntarily reduce the maximum level for ethoxyquin by half, to
75 parts per million. While some pet food critics and veterinarians believe that ethoxyquin is a
major cause of disease, skin problems, and infertility in dogs, others claim it is the safest,
strongest, most stable preservative available for pet food. Ethoxyquin is approved for use in
human food for preserving spices, such as cayenne and chili powder, at a level of 100 ppm — but
it would be very difficult for even the most hard-core spice lover to consume as much chili
powder every day as a dog would eat dry food. Ethoxyquin has never been tested for safety in
cats. Despite this, it is commonly used in veterinary diets for both cats and dogs.
Many pet food makers have responded to consumer concern, and are now using “natural”
preservatives such as Vitamin C (ascorbate), Vitamin E (mixed tocopherols), and oils of
rosemary, clove, or other spices, to preserve the fats in their products. The shelf life is
shorter, however — only about 6 months.
Individual ingredients, such as fish meal, may have preservatives added before they reach the
pet food manufacturer. Federal law requires fat preservatives to be disclosed on the label;
however, pet food companies do not always comply with this law.
Potential Contaminants:
Given the types of things manufacturers put in pet food, it is not surprising that bad things
sometimes happen. Ingredients used in pet food are often highly contaminated with a wide
variety of toxic substances. Some of these are destroyed by processing, but others are not.
* Bacteria. Slaughtered animals, as well as those that have died because of disease, injury, or
natural causes, are sources of meat, by-products, and rendered meals. An animal that died on
the farm might not reach a rendering plant until days after its death. Therefore the carcass
is often contaminated with bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli. Dangerous E. Coli bacteria
are estimated to contaminate more than 50% of meat meals. While the cooking process may
kill bacteria, it does not eliminate the endotoxins some bacteria produce during their growth.
These toxins can survive processing, and can cause sickness and disease. Pet food
manufacturers do not test their products for bacterial endotoxins. Because sick or dead
animals can be processed as pet foods, the drugs that were used to treat or euthanize them
may still be present in the end product. Penicillin and pentobarbital are just two examples of
drugs that can pass through processing unchanged. Antibiotics used in livestock production
are also thought to contribute to antibiotic resistance in humans.
* Mycotoxins. Toxins from mold or fungi are called mycotoxins. Modern farming practices,
adverse weather conditions, and improper drying and storage of crops can contribute to mold
growth. Pet food ingredients that are most likely to be contaminated with mycotoxins are
grains such as wheat and corn, and fish meal.
* Chemical Residue. Pesticides and fertilizers may leave residue on plant products. Grains
that are condemned for human consumption by the USDA due to residue may legally be used,
without limitation, in pet food.
* GMOs. Genetically modified plant products are also of concern. By 2006, 89% of the
planted area of soybeans, 83% of cotton, and 61% of maize (corn) in the U.S. were genetically
modified varieties. Cottonseed meal is a common ingredient of cattle feed; soy and corn are
used directly in many pet foods.
* Acrylamide. This is a carcinogenic compound formed at cooking temperatures of about 250°
F in foods containing certain sugars and the amino acid asparagine (found in large amounts in
potatoes and cereal grains). It is formed in a chemical process called the Maillard reaction.4,
5 Most dry pet foods contain cereal grains or potatoes, and they are processed at high
temperatures (200–300°F at high pressure during extrusion; baked foods are cooked at well
over 500°F); these are perfect conditions for the Maillard reaction. In fact, the Maillard
reaction is considered desirable in the production of pet food because it imparts a palatable
taste, even though it reduces the bioavailability of some amino acids, including taurine and
lysine.The content and potential effects of acrylamide formation in pet foods are unknown.
Given the types of things manufacturers put in pet food, it is not surprising that bad things
sometimes happen. Ingredients used in pet food are often highly contaminated with a wide
variety of toxic substances. Some of these are destroyed by processing, but others are not.
* Bacteria. Slaughtered animals, as well as those that have died because of disease, injury, or
natural causes, are sources of meat, by-products, and rendered meals. An animal that died on
the farm might not reach a rendering plant until days after its death. Therefore the carcass
is often contaminated with bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli. Dangerous E. Coli bacteria
are estimated to contaminate more than 50% of meat meals. While the cooking process may
kill bacteria, it does not eliminate the endotoxins some bacteria produce during their growth.
These toxins can survive processing, and can cause sickness and disease. Pet food
manufacturers do not test their products for bacterial endotoxins. Because sick or dead
animals can be processed as pet foods, the drugs that were used to treat or euthanize them
may still be present in the end product. Penicillin and pentobarbital are just two examples of
drugs that can pass through processing unchanged. Antibiotics used in livestock production
are also thought to contribute to antibiotic resistance in humans.
* Mycotoxins. Toxins from mold or fungi are called mycotoxins. Modern farming practices,
adverse weather conditions, and improper drying and storage of crops can contribute to mold
growth. Pet food ingredients that are most likely to be contaminated with mycotoxins are
grains such as wheat and corn, and fish meal.
* Chemical Residue. Pesticides and fertilizers may leave residue on plant products. Grains
that are condemned for human consumption by the USDA due to residue may legally be used,
without limitation, in pet food.
* GMOs. Genetically modified plant products are also of concern. By 2006, 89% of the
planted area of soybeans, 83% of cotton, and 61% of maize (corn) in the U.S. were genetically
modified varieties. Cottonseed meal is a common ingredient of cattle feed; soy and corn are
used directly in many pet foods.
* Acrylamide. This is a carcinogenic compound formed at cooking temperatures of about 250°
F in foods containing certain sugars and the amino acid asparagine (found in large amounts in
potatoes and cereal grains). It is formed in a chemical process called the Maillard reaction.4,
5 Most dry pet foods contain cereal grains or potatoes, and they are processed at high
temperatures (200–300°F at high pressure during extrusion; baked foods are cooked at well
over 500°F); these are perfect conditions for the Maillard reaction. In fact, the Maillard
reaction is considered desirable in the production of pet food because it imparts a palatable
taste, even though it reduces the bioavailability of some amino acids, including taurine and
lysine.The content and potential effects of acrylamide formation in pet foods are unknown.
Pet Food Recalls:
When things go really wrong and serious problems are discovered in pet food, the company
usually works with the FDA to coordinate a recall of the affected products. While many
recalls have been widely publicized, quite a few have not.
* In 1995, Nature’s Recipe recalled almost a million pounds of dry dog and cat food after
consumers complained that their pets were vomiting and losing their appetite. The problem
was a fungus that produced vomitoxin contaminating the wheat.
* In 1999, Doane Pet Care recalled more than a million bags of corn-based dry dog food
contaminated with aflatoxin. Products included Ol’ Roy (Wal-Mart’s brand) and 53 other
brands. This time, the toxin killed 25 dogs.
* In 2000, Iams recalled 248,000 pounds of dry dog food distributed in 7 states due to
excess DL-Methionine Amino Acid, a urinary acidifier.
* In 2003, a recall was made by Petcurean “Go! Natural” pet food due to circumstantial
association with some dogs suffering from liver disease; no cause was ever found.
* In late 2005, a similar recall by Diamond Foods was announced; this time the moldy corn
contained a particularly nasty fungal product called aflatoxin; 100 dogs died.
* Also in 2005, 123,000 pounds of cat and dog treats were recalled due to Salmonella
contamination.
* In 2006, more than 5 million cans of Ol’ Roy, American Fare, and other dog foods
distributed in the southeast were recalled by the manufacturer, Simmons Pet Food,
because the cans’ enamel lining was flaking off into the food.
* Also in 2006, Merrick Pet Care recalled almost 200,000 cans of “Wingalings” dog food
when metal tags were found in some samples.
* In the most deadly recall of 2006, 4 prescription canned dog and cat foods were recalled
by Royal Canin (owned by Mars). The culprit was a serious overdose of Vitamin D that
caused calcium deficiency and kidney disease.
* In February 2007, the FDA issued a warning to consumers not to buy “Wild Kitty,” a
frozen food containing raw meat. Routine testing by FDA had revealed Salmonella in the
food. FDA specifically warned about the potential for illness in humans, not pets. There
were no reports of illness or death of any pets, and the food was not recalled.
* In March 2007, the most lethal pet food in history was the subject of the largest recall
ever. Menu Foods recalled more than 100 brands including Iams, Eukanuba, Hill’s Science
Diet, Purina Mighty Dog, and many store brands including Wal-Mart’s. Thousands of pets
were sickened (the FDA received more than 17,000 reports) and an estimated 20% died
from acute renal failure caused by the food. Cats were more frequently and more severely
affected than dogs. The toxin was initially believed to be a pesticide, the rat poison
“aminopterin” in one of the ingredients. In April, scientists discovered high levels of
melamine, a chemical used in plastics and fertilizers, in wheat gluten and rice protein
concentrate imported from China. The melamine had been purposefully added to the
ingredients to falsely boost their protein content. Subsequent tests revealed that the
melamine-tainted ingredients had also been used in feed for cows, pigs, and chickens and
thousands of animals were quarantined and destroyed. In early May, scientists identified
the cause of the rapid onset kidney disease that had appeared in dogs and cats as a
reaction caused by the combination of melamine and cyanuric acid, both unauthorized
chemicals. The fallout from this recall is ongoing as of May 2007 so please be sure to
check the FDA website for the most recent updates.
When things go really wrong and serious problems are discovered in pet food, the company
usually works with the FDA to coordinate a recall of the affected products. While many
recalls have been widely publicized, quite a few have not.
* In 1995, Nature’s Recipe recalled almost a million pounds of dry dog and cat food after
consumers complained that their pets were vomiting and losing their appetite. The problem
was a fungus that produced vomitoxin contaminating the wheat.
* In 1999, Doane Pet Care recalled more than a million bags of corn-based dry dog food
contaminated with aflatoxin. Products included Ol’ Roy (Wal-Mart’s brand) and 53 other
brands. This time, the toxin killed 25 dogs.
* In 2000, Iams recalled 248,000 pounds of dry dog food distributed in 7 states due to
excess DL-Methionine Amino Acid, a urinary acidifier.
* In 2003, a recall was made by Petcurean “Go! Natural” pet food due to circumstantial
association with some dogs suffering from liver disease; no cause was ever found.
* In late 2005, a similar recall by Diamond Foods was announced; this time the moldy corn
contained a particularly nasty fungal product called aflatoxin; 100 dogs died.
* Also in 2005, 123,000 pounds of cat and dog treats were recalled due to Salmonella
contamination.
* In 2006, more than 5 million cans of Ol’ Roy, American Fare, and other dog foods
distributed in the southeast were recalled by the manufacturer, Simmons Pet Food,
because the cans’ enamel lining was flaking off into the food.
* Also in 2006, Merrick Pet Care recalled almost 200,000 cans of “Wingalings” dog food
when metal tags were found in some samples.
* In the most deadly recall of 2006, 4 prescription canned dog and cat foods were recalled
by Royal Canin (owned by Mars). The culprit was a serious overdose of Vitamin D that
caused calcium deficiency and kidney disease.
* In February 2007, the FDA issued a warning to consumers not to buy “Wild Kitty,” a
frozen food containing raw meat. Routine testing by FDA had revealed Salmonella in the
food. FDA specifically warned about the potential for illness in humans, not pets. There
were no reports of illness or death of any pets, and the food was not recalled.
* In March 2007, the most lethal pet food in history was the subject of the largest recall
ever. Menu Foods recalled more than 100 brands including Iams, Eukanuba, Hill’s Science
Diet, Purina Mighty Dog, and many store brands including Wal-Mart’s. Thousands of pets
were sickened (the FDA received more than 17,000 reports) and an estimated 20% died
from acute renal failure caused by the food. Cats were more frequently and more severely
affected than dogs. The toxin was initially believed to be a pesticide, the rat poison
“aminopterin” in one of the ingredients. In April, scientists discovered high levels of
melamine, a chemical used in plastics and fertilizers, in wheat gluten and rice protein
concentrate imported from China. The melamine had been purposefully added to the
ingredients to falsely boost their protein content. Subsequent tests revealed that the
melamine-tainted ingredients had also been used in feed for cows, pigs, and chickens and
thousands of animals were quarantined and destroyed. In early May, scientists identified
the cause of the rapid onset kidney disease that had appeared in dogs and cats as a
reaction caused by the combination of melamine and cyanuric acid, both unauthorized
chemicals. The fallout from this recall is ongoing as of May 2007 so please be sure to
check the FDA website for the most recent updates.
A growing number of veterinarians state that processed pet food (kibbles and canned
food) is the main cause of illness and premature death in the modern dog and cat. In
December 1995, the British Journal of Small Animal Practice published a paper
contending that processed pet food supresses the immune system and leads to liver,
kidney, heart and other diseases. Dr. Kollath, of the Karolinska Hospital in Stockholm,
headed a study done on animals. When young animals were fed cooked and processed
foods they initially appeared to be healthy. However, as the animals reached adulthood,
they began to age more quickly than normal and also developed chronic degenerative
disease symptoms. A control group of animals raised on raw foods aged less quickly and
were free of degenerative disease. Don E. Lundholm, DVM - "We are seeing disease
conditions in animals that we did not see years ago. Many of these may be traced to
nutrition as the source.
food) is the main cause of illness and premature death in the modern dog and cat. In
December 1995, the British Journal of Small Animal Practice published a paper
contending that processed pet food supresses the immune system and leads to liver,
kidney, heart and other diseases. Dr. Kollath, of the Karolinska Hospital in Stockholm,
headed a study done on animals. When young animals were fed cooked and processed
foods they initially appeared to be healthy. However, as the animals reached adulthood,
they began to age more quickly than normal and also developed chronic degenerative
disease symptoms. A control group of animals raised on raw foods aged less quickly and
were free of degenerative disease. Don E. Lundholm, DVM - "We are seeing disease
conditions in animals that we did not see years ago. Many of these may be traced to
nutrition as the source.
What Are he Vets Saying
FDA News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 19, 2008
Media Inquiries:
Kimberly Rawlings, 301-827-6242
Consumer Inquiries:
888-INFO-FDA
FDA Requests Seizure of Animal Food Products at PETCO Distribution Center
Today, at the request of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), U.S. Marshals
seized various animal food products stored under unsanitary conditions at the PETCO
Animal Supplies Distribution Center located in Joliet, Ill., pursuant to a warrant issued by
the United States District Court in Chicago.
U.S. Marshals seized all FDA-regulated animal food susceptible to rodent and pest
contamination. The seized products violate the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act
because it was alleged in a case filed by the United States Attorney that they were being
held under unsanitary conditions. (The Act uses the term "insanitary" to describe such
conditions).
During an FDA inspection of a PETCO distribution center in April, widespread and active
rodent and bird infestation was found. The FDA inspected the facility again in May and
found continuing and widespread infestation.
"We simply will not allow a company to store foods under filthy and unsanitary conditions
that occur as a direct result of the company's failure to adequately control and prevent
pests in its facility," said Margaret O'K. Glavin, associate commissioner for regulatory
affairs. "Consumers expect that such safeguards will be in place not only for human food,
but for pet food as well."
The distribution center in Joliet, Ill., provides pet food products and supplies to PETCO
retail stores in 16 states including Alabama, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky,
Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas,
and Wisconsin.
FDA has no reports of pet illness or death associated with consumption of animal food
distributed by PETCO, and does not have evidence that the food is unsafe for animals.
However, the seized products were in permeable packages and held under conditions that
could affect the food's integrity and quality.
As a precaution, consumers who have handled products originating from the PETCO
distribution center should thoroughly wash their hands with hot water and soap. Any
surfaces that came in contact with the packages should be washed as well. Consumers are
further advised as a precaution to thoroughly wash products sold in cans and glass
containers from PETCO in the 16 affected states.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 19, 2008
Media Inquiries:
Kimberly Rawlings, 301-827-6242
Consumer Inquiries:
888-INFO-FDA
FDA Requests Seizure of Animal Food Products at PETCO Distribution Center
Today, at the request of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), U.S. Marshals
seized various animal food products stored under unsanitary conditions at the PETCO
Animal Supplies Distribution Center located in Joliet, Ill., pursuant to a warrant issued by
the United States District Court in Chicago.
U.S. Marshals seized all FDA-regulated animal food susceptible to rodent and pest
contamination. The seized products violate the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act
because it was alleged in a case filed by the United States Attorney that they were being
held under unsanitary conditions. (The Act uses the term "insanitary" to describe such
conditions).
During an FDA inspection of a PETCO distribution center in April, widespread and active
rodent and bird infestation was found. The FDA inspected the facility again in May and
found continuing and widespread infestation.
"We simply will not allow a company to store foods under filthy and unsanitary conditions
that occur as a direct result of the company's failure to adequately control and prevent
pests in its facility," said Margaret O'K. Glavin, associate commissioner for regulatory
affairs. "Consumers expect that such safeguards will be in place not only for human food,
but for pet food as well."
The distribution center in Joliet, Ill., provides pet food products and supplies to PETCO
retail stores in 16 states including Alabama, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky,
Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas,
and Wisconsin.
FDA has no reports of pet illness or death associated with consumption of animal food
distributed by PETCO, and does not have evidence that the food is unsafe for animals.
However, the seized products were in permeable packages and held under conditions that
could affect the food's integrity and quality.
As a precaution, consumers who have handled products originating from the PETCO
distribution center should thoroughly wash their hands with hot water and soap. Any
surfaces that came in contact with the packages should be washed as well. Consumers are
further advised as a precaution to thoroughly wash products sold in cans and glass
containers from PETCO in the 16 affected states.
Disclaimer: By using my website, you are agreeing to this disclaimer. The information
on this website has not been approved by the FDA or AVMA. Any statements made on
my website are for educational purposes only and are my opinion only. They are not
intended to be a substitute for any medical care or advice from a licensed dr or
veterinarian for you or your pet. The author of this website is neither a legal counselor
nor a health practitioner, nor a veterinarian and makes no claims in this regard. You
should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health problems or illnesses
without consulting a doctor or veterinarian. The same being said for any products
purchased from this website. This disclaimer applies to people and animals.
Buttercuppuppies.com does not provide medical advice and nothing said at
buttercuppuppies.com should be taken as constituting medical advice.
on this website has not been approved by the FDA or AVMA. Any statements made on
my website are for educational purposes only and are my opinion only. They are not
intended to be a substitute for any medical care or advice from a licensed dr or
veterinarian for you or your pet. The author of this website is neither a legal counselor
nor a health practitioner, nor a veterinarian and makes no claims in this regard. You
should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health problems or illnesses
without consulting a doctor or veterinarian. The same being said for any products
purchased from this website. This disclaimer applies to people and animals.
Buttercuppuppies.com does not provide medical advice and nothing said at
buttercuppuppies.com should be taken as constituting medical advice.
Trends in Home-Prepared Diets for Pets
By C. J. Puotinen
In the United States, most people believe that "people food" is unsuitable, even
dangerous, controlled balance of vitamins and minerals.".......
Please keep reading here, it is fascinating and it is what I am doing with my puppies and
plan to do with my adults soon.
Weston Price
By C. J. Puotinen
In the United States, most people believe that "people food" is unsuitable, even
dangerous, controlled balance of vitamins and minerals.".......
Please keep reading here, it is fascinating and it is what I am doing with my puppies and
plan to do with my adults soon.
Weston Price
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