The Facts About Artificial Preservatives and Antioxidants in Dog Food

Across the globe, the harmful impacts of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) on human health are becoming more prominent in the media.

These UPFs often contain components that are not typical pantry staples, including emulsifiers, flavorings, preservatives, and antioxidants.

Alarmingly, some of these synthetic additives have been associated with significant health concerns, ranging from IBS, obesity, and diabetes to cancer and cardiovascular issues.

If you’ve come across these reports and studies, you might be prompted to scrutinize the labels of your dog’s food to identify any similar ingredients present in your furry companion’s daily meals.

What are preservatives?

Preservatives are substances added to food to slow down spoilage, and they can be either natural or artificial. Natural preservatives, such as rosemary oil or salt, often include acids like citric acid and sorbic acid that help lower the pH level, inhibiting mold growth without posing significant health risks.

The primary distinction between preservatives and antioxidants lies in their specific functions: preservatives aim to minimize microbial growth, particularly mold, while antioxidants focus on preventing fat oxidation and rancidity, which can result in an unpleasant smell.

Laura Ward, Dog Food Advisor’s resident nutritionist, emphasizes the importance of incorporating both antioxidants and preservatives in pet foods to ensure long-lasting safety and nutritional quality. By understanding how to identify these additives, pet owners can make informed choices about their pets’ diet.

Artificial preservatives are commonly utilized in dog food to extend its shelf life, mirroring similar practices in human food production. However, there are increasing concerns surrounding the potential health implications of artificial preservatives for pets, prompting a closer examination of these additives.

For more information on preservatives and their impact on pet health, explore our recommended reading materials.

Top-Rated Organic Dog Foods

When it comes to providing the best nutrition for your furry friend, opting for organic dog food can be a fantastic choice. Organic dog foods are made with high-quality ingredients and are free from artificial additives, making them a healthy option for your pet. Here are some of the best organic dog foods available on the market today:

1. Acana Regionals Dog Food

Acana Regionals Dog Food is a popular choice among pet owners looking for organic options. This food is made with a variety of fresh, regional ingredients, including free-range chicken and wild-caught fish. It is grain-free and packed with essential nutrients to keep your dog healthy and happy.

2. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula is another top-rated organic dog food. It contains real meat as the first ingredient and is free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. This food is designed to support the overall well-being of your dog and is available in a variety of flavors to suit your pet’s preferences.

3. Castor & Pollux Organix Dog Food

Castor & Pollux Organix Dog Food is a premium organic option for your canine companion. This food is made with organic, free-range chicken as the main ingredient and is supplemented with organic fruits and vegetables for added nutrition. It is also free from corn, wheat, and soy, making it ideal for dogs with food sensitivities.

4. Wellness CORE Grain-Free Dog Food

Wellness CORE Grain-Free Dog Food is a nutrient-dense option for pet owners seeking organic ingredients. This food is packed with high-quality protein sources, such as real chicken and turkey, and is free from grains, fillers, and artificial ingredients. It is designed to support your dog’s optimal health and vitality.

Conclusion

Choosing organic dog food for your pet can have numerous benefits, including improved overall health and well-being. With a wide range of options available, you can find the perfect organic dog food to suit your pet’s needs and preferences. Consider trying one of the top-rated organic dog foods mentioned above to provide your furry friend with a nutritious and delicious meal.

What concerns are there over the use of artificial preservatives?

Understanding the use of artificial preservatives in dog food can be challenging. The FDA regulates this by requiring approved food additive petitions to ensure safety and efficacy.

While many controversial preservatives have been eliminated from pet food, it is essential to carefully review ingredient lists. Consumers are increasingly opting for natural dog foods that avoid artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors.

Labels can be misleading; for example, the term ‘no added preservatives’ may not mean the absence of preservatives added to ingredients before incorporating them into the food, raising concerns about safety issues associated with certain additives.

Ethoxyquin

The inclusion of preservatives in fat is crucial to prevent oxidization and rancidity in poultry or meat meal. While regulations mandate the disclosure of preservatives in fat as an ingredient, the fat content in meal products such as chicken meal, fish meal, or bone meal often bypasses this requirement, allowing manufacturers to withhold information about additives or substances incorporated before reaching the final dog food product.

Concerns have emerged regarding fish meal, as some varieties are treated with ethoxyquin to prevent spoilage during sea transportation. The U.S. Coast Guard mandates the use of this preservative in fish meal to avert spontaneous combustion while at sea.

In 2022, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) conducted a review on the safety of ethoxyquin. This compound, also utilized in pesticides, was banned in Europe in 2017 due to concerns about DNA damage and cell mutation. The EFSA analysis could not definitively affirm its safety for animals or humans ¹.

Evidence suggests that ethoxyquin contains p-phenetidine, suspected of inducing genetic mutations in animals and humans. Consequently, researchers could not ascertain the absence of risks for animals with extended lifespans or those specifically bred for reproduction. Despite this, the FDA permits its limited use in pet food in the U.S., deeming it safe for animals raised for meat production.

Top Picks for Natural Dog Food

Looking for the best organic dog foods to provide your furry friend with a healthy and balanced diet? Here are some top recommendations to keep your pet happy and nourished.

Benefits of Organic Dog Foods

Switching to organic dog food can have numerous benefits for your pet’s health. From improved digestion to better skin and coat health, organic options can provide essential nutrients without harmful additives or chemicals.

What to Look for in Organic Dog Foods

When choosing organic dog food, look for high-quality ingredients such as real meat, whole grains, and natural supplements. Avoid artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives to ensure your dog gets the best nutrition possible.

Top Brands for Organic Dog Foods

Some of the top brands offering organic dog foods include [Brand A], [Brand B], and [Brand C]. These companies focus on using organic ingredients to provide a wholesome and nutritious diet for your beloved pet.

Conclusion

Investing in organic dog food can be a great way to prioritize your pet’s health and well-being. With the right choices and brands, you can ensure that your dog receives the nutrition they need to thrive and live a long, happy life.

BHA & BHT

Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) are preservatives commonly used in dog food, but they raise concerns about health risks. Research from the University of Hamburg referred to them as “tumor promoters.” Furthermore, studies have shown that BHA can lead to tumor growth in various animal species such as rats, mice, hamsters, and fish.

Moreover, these preservatives have been associated with several health issues, including disruptions to the endocrine system (classified as an “endocrine disruptor” by the E.U.), allergic reactions, and behavioral effects like increased aggression and reduced learning capabilities in children.

TBHQ

TBHQ, also known as tertiary butylhydroquinone, functions as a fat preservative in pet food to prolong its shelf life. Despite its common use in the industry, TBHQ is also found in explosives, varnishes, and lacquers.

Certain research studies have indicated a potential association between TBHQ and the development of pre-cancerous stomach tumors and harm to cellular DNA ⁶. Conversely, there are conflicting reports suggesting its beneficial role in cancer prevention ⁷. Ultimately, the decision regarding its usage is left to individual discretion.

Emulsifiers

Emulsifiers play a crucial role in preventing ingredient separation, although some have been associated with health concerns such as obesity and metabolic issues in animal studies ⁸.

For instance, carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) and polysorbate-80 (P80), commonly used in pet food for flavor enhancement and shelf-life extension, have been linked to higher risks of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Similarly, carrageenan, utilized as a gelling agent, has been shown to induce intestinal ulceration in rabbits, mice, and rats, potentially elevating IBD risk.

Other additives like propyl gallate (E310), known for causing tumor development in rats, potassium sorbate (E202), which harms white blood cells, and propylene glycol, utilized to retain moisture in certain dog food formulas, have raised concerns over their safety. Interestingly, propylene glycol is prohibited by the FDA in cat food but remains permitted in dog food products.

How to Prevent Artificial Preservatives

It can be challenging to determine how many additives are present in your dog’s food before it reaches the packaging stage. The best way to find out is by contacting the manufacturer directly through their website or customer service.

To avoid feeding your dog food with harmful additives, the most effective method is to alter their diet.

According to Ward, opting for “natural” foods is crucial to steer clear of artificial preservatives and antioxidants.

Although products may claim to have “no added artificial preservatives,” it’s essential to ensure that the ingredients themselves are naturally preserved in natural foods. Otherwise, there is a risk that artificial preservatives and antioxidants might be present in the ingredients.

Explore the variety of natural dog food options available by referring to Dog Food Advisor’s list of the best natural dog foods.

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