Pet Food Ingredients

All pet foods include protein, carbohydrates, fats, fiber, vitamins and minerals. Animals' digestive systems break these ingredients down into nutrients-glucose, amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals-that supply energy and keep the body healthy.

Some pet food ingredients do double or triple duty, providing more than one nutrient. For example, certain plant ingredients provide both protein and carbohydrates. Many ingredients provide vitamins and minerals, in addition to protein, carbohydrates or fiber. Some vitamins and minerals also act as preservatives.

Available supply, consistent quality, targeted nutrient profile and cost all affect which ingredients pet food manufacturers use.

to view a series of pop-up windows with information about pet food nutritional components.