Brain Care + j/d Dry Dog Food

Broken Rice, Rice Fragments, Rice Grits, Oryza Sativa

Brewers rice is a by-product of rice milling, consisting of small, broken rice grains derived from the Oryza sativa plant. It serves as a digestible carbohydrate source, providing energy for pets. Brewers rice is included in its natural, whole-food form, not as a processed extract or compound, ensuring a consistent and safe ingredient for pet food formulations.

Brewers rice is included as a cost-effective carbohydrate source that provides bulk and energy to pet food formulations. Its use helps optimise production costs while maintaining product texture and consistency.

Whole Wheat, Wholemeal Wheat, Triticum Aestivum, Wheat Wholemeal

Wholegrain wheat is a cereal grain derived from the entire wheat kernel, including the bran, germ, and endosperm. Sourced from plants, it serves as a rich source of dietary fibre, complex carbohydrates, and essential nutrients, supporting digestive health and sustained energy release. In pet food, wholegrain wheat is used in its natural, unrefined form to maximise nutritional value and maintain ingredient integrity.

Wholegrain wheat is included as a cost-effective carbohydrate source that provides bulk and energy to pet food formulations. Its use also appeals to consumers seeking recognisable, "whole" ingredients on product labelling.

Maize, Zea Mays, Whole Maize, Whole Kernel Maize

Wholegrain corn is a cereal grain derived from the whole seed of the maize plant, including the bran, germ, and endosperm. As a plant-based ingredient, it provides a source of carbohydrates, dietary fibre, and essential nutrients for energy and digestive health. Wholegrain corn is used in its natural, unrefined form to retain its full nutritional profile in pet food formulations.

Wholegrain corn is included as a cost-effective carbohydrate source that provides energy and bulk to pet food formulations. It also contributes to product texture and can support label claims appealing to consumers seeking wholegrain ingredients.

Flaxseed, Linum Usitatissimum, Flax, Flaxseed Oil

Linseed, also known as flaxseed, is a plant-derived ingredient sourced from the seeds of the flax plant (Linum usitatissimum). It is primarily included in pet food for its high content of omega-3 fatty acids and dietary fibre, supporting skin health and digestion. Linseed is used in its natural, whole or ground form to optimise nutrient availability and functional benefits.

Linseed is included as a source of omega-3 fatty acids and dietary fibre, supporting skin and coat health as well as digestive function. Its presence also allows manufacturers to market the product as containing plant-based nutrients and functional ingredients.

Gallus Gallus Domesticus, Poultry Meat, Domestic Fowl, Broiler Meat

Chicken is a high-quality animal protein sourced from poultry, commonly used in pet foods for its rich amino acid profile and palatability. It provides essential nutrients to support muscle maintenance and overall health. In premium pet foods, chicken is typically included in its natural, whole form, ensuring optimal nutrient availability and digestibility for pets.

Chicken is included as a primary animal protein source to meet nutritional requirements and enhance palatability for pets. Its recognisable presence on the label also appeals to consumers seeking high-quality, meat-based ingredients.

Rendered Chicken, Chicken Protein Meal, Dehydrated Gallus Gallus Domesticus, Rendered Gallus Gallus Domesticus

Chicken meal is a concentrated protein ingredient derived from rendered, clean chicken flesh and skin, excluding feathers, heads, feet, and entrails. Sourced from animal origin, it serves as a highly digestible protein source, supporting muscle maintenance and overall health in pets. Chicken meal is not used in its natural whole form but is processed and dried to optimise nutrient density and shelf stability.

Chicken meal is included as a concentrated protein source that provides essential amino acids for pet health while allowing manufacturers to optimise protein content cost-effectively. Its low moisture content also contributes to improved product stability and shelf life.

Poultry Fat, Gallus Gallus Domesticus Fat, Rendered Chicken Fat, Chicken Oil

Chicken fat is an animal-derived ingredient obtained from rendering chicken tissue. It serves primarily as a concentrated source of energy and essential fatty acids, supporting skin and coat health in pets. Chicken fat is used in its natural rendered form, not as a raw or unprocessed fat, ensuring palatability and digestibility while providing a stable, high-quality lipid source in pet food formulations.

Chicken fat is included as a highly digestible source of animal fat, providing essential fatty acids and enhancing the palatability of the product. It also contributes to the energy content of the food in a cost-effective manner.

Defatted Soybean Meal, Soyabean Meal, Glycine Max Meal, Soybean Cake

Soybean meal is a high-protein ingredient derived from the residue of soybeans (a legume plant) after oil extraction. It serves primarily as a concentrated protein source to support muscle development and overall health in pets. Rather than being used in its whole form, soybean meal is processed to enhance digestibility and nutrient availability, making it a practical and efficient dietary component.

Soybean meal is included as a cost-effective protein source to help meet nutritional requirements while managing production expenses. It also serves as a functional ingredient to improve kibble texture and binding.

Hydrolysed Chicken Extract, Hydrolysed Chicken Protein, Hydrolysed Gallus Gallus Domesticus Flavour, Hydrolysed Poultry Flavour

Hydrolysed chicken flavour is a functional ingredient derived from animal sources, specifically chicken proteins that have been broken down into smaller peptides through hydrolysis. Its primary purpose is to enhance palatability, making pet food more appealing. This ingredient is not used in its natural whole form; instead, it is utilised as a hydrolysed compound to optimise digestibility and reduce allergenic potential.

Hydrolysed chicken flavour is included as a palatability enhancer to improve the taste and aroma of the product, encouraging dogs to consume the food. It also allows manufacturers to label the product as containing chicken-derived ingredients without significantly increasing production costs.

Maize Protein Meal, Zea Mays Protein Meal, Maize Gluten Meal, Zea Mays Gluten Meal

Corn protein meal is a plant-derived ingredient produced from the extraction of protein-rich fractions from maize (corn) kernels. It serves primarily as a concentrated source of protein, supporting muscle maintenance and overall health in pets. Rather than using whole corn, the meal is processed to isolate and concentrate the protein, optimising digestibility and nutrient availability in pet food formulations.

Corn protein meal is included as a cost-effective protein source to help meet the product’s protein requirements while managing overall formulation costs. It also contributes to product texture and can support label claims for protein content.

Fish Liver Oil, Oleum Piscis, Oleum Jecoris, Oleum Piscarium

Fish oil is a nutrient-rich oil derived from the tissues of oily fish, making it an animal-based ingredient. It is primarily included in pet food for its high content of omega-3 fatty acids, which support skin, coat, and joint health. Fish oil is utilised in a purified, liquid form rather than as whole fish, ensuring optimal absorption and safety for pets.

Fish oil is included as a source of omega-3 fatty acids to support skin, coat, and joint health, enhancing the nutritional profile of the product. Its presence also serves as a marketing point, appealing to consumers seeking functional health benefits for their pets.

Porcine Liver Flavour, Sus Scrofa Domesticus Liver Flavour, Porcine Hepatic Flavour, Pig Liver Flavour

Pork liver flavour is a palatant derived from animal sources, specifically pork liver, and is commonly used in pet foods to enhance taste and aroma, encouraging palatability. Its primary function is to improve the acceptance of the food rather than provide significant nutritional value. This ingredient is not used in its whole food form but is processed and utilised as a flavouring extract or concentrate.

Pork liver flavour is included as a palatability enhancer to increase the appeal of the product to pets. It provides a desirable taste and aroma without significantly impacting the nutritional profile or cost of the formulation.

Daucus Carota, Daucus Carota Root, Daucus Carota Sativa, Wild Carrot

Carrot is a root vegetable of plant origin, widely recognised for its vibrant orange colour and natural sweetness. In pet food, carrot is included in its natural, whole form to provide dietary fibre, beta-carotene (a precursor to vitamin A), and antioxidants. Its primary benefit is supporting digestive health and immune function, while also contributing to overall palatability and nutritional diversity.

Carrot is included as a label-friendly ingredient to appeal to consumers seeking recognisable, natural components and to enhance the product’s perceived nutritional value. It may also provide a modest source of fibre and vitamins, supporting marketing claims of added health benefits.

Tomato Pomace, Solanum Lycopersicum Pomace, Tomato Fibre, Tomato Pulp Residue

Dried tomato pomace is a plant-derived ingredient composed of the skins, pulp, and seeds remaining after tomato processing. It is primarily included in pet food for its dietary fibre content, which supports digestive health, and as a source of antioxidants. Dried tomato pomace is used in its natural, dried form, ensuring the retention of beneficial nutrients and fibre for optimal pet nutrition.

Dried tomato pomace is included as a cost-effective fibre source and bulk-adding agent, helping to improve stool quality and digestive health. It also allows manufacturers to utilise a by-product of tomato processing, supporting sustainability and cost optimisation.

Citrus Pulp, Citrus Pulp Meal, Citrus Residue, Citrus Spp. Pulp

Dried citrus pulp is a plant-derived ingredient produced from the residual pulp of citrus fruits after juice extraction. It serves primarily as a source of dietary fibre and fermentable carbohydrates, supporting digestive health and beneficial gut bacteria in pets. Dried citrus pulp is utilised in its processed, dried form rather than as fresh fruit, ensuring stability, palatability, and consistent nutrient content in pet food formulations.

Dried citrus pulp is included as a cost-effective source of dietary fibre and energy, supporting digestive health and stool quality. It also serves as a bulk-adding agent, helping to optimise production costs while maintaining product texture.

2-Hydroxypropanoic Acid, E270, DL-Lactic Acid, L(+)-Lactic Acid

Lactic acid is an organic compound of microbial origin, commonly produced through the fermentation of carbohydrates. It is primarily included in pet food as a preservative and acidifier, helping to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and maintain product freshness. Lactic acid is not used in its natural, raw state but is instead utilised in a purified, food-grade form to ensure safety and effective absorption.

Lactic acid is included as a preservative to inhibit microbial growth and extend the product’s shelf life. It may also be used to enhance palatability by providing a mildly tangy flavour that appeals to pets.

Spinacia Oleracea, English Spinach, Common Spinach, Garden Spinach

Spinach is a leafy green vegetable of plant origin, valued for its rich content of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. In pet food, spinach primarily provides dietary fibre, iron, and phytonutrients that support overall health and immune function. Spinach is included in its natural form, ensuring pets benefit from its full nutritional profile without synthetic alteration or processing into extracts.

Spinach is included as a label-friendly ingredient to appeal to health-conscious consumers and enhance the perceived nutritional value of the product. It may also provide a modest source of vitamins and minerals, supporting marketing claims of added health benefits.

Chalk, Limestone, E170, Marble Dust

Calcium carbonate is a naturally occurring mineral compound derived from sources such as limestone or marine shells. It is primarily included in pet food as a source of calcium, essential for healthy bones, teeth, and metabolic functions. Calcium carbonate is not used in its raw mineral state; instead, it is processed into a purified, food-grade compound to optimise safety and bioavailability for pets.

Calcium carbonate is included as a cost-effective mineral supplement to provide a bioavailable source of calcium, supporting bone health and proper nutritional balance. It also functions as a pH stabiliser, contributing to product consistency and shelf stability.

Iodized Salt, Iodate Salt, Iodised Sodium Chloride, Iodised Table Salt

Iodised salt is a mineral-based ingredient produced by adding iodine, an essential trace element, to refined table salt. Sourced from mineral deposits, its primary purpose is to provide dietary sodium and ensure adequate iodine intake, supporting thyroid function and metabolic health. Iodised salt is not used in its natural raw form; instead, it is utilised as a fortified compound to optimise safety and bioavailability.

Iodised salt is included as a cost-effective source of essential sodium and iodine, supporting pet health and meeting nutritional requirements. It also acts as a flavour enhancer to improve palatability.

Thioctic Acid, DL-Thioctic Acid, 1,2-Dithiolane-3-Pentanoic Acid, E320

Alpha lipoic acid is a naturally occurring compound derived from both plant and animal sources, often synthesised for use in pet foods. It functions primarily as a potent antioxidant, supporting cellular health and metabolic processes. Rather than its raw form, alpha lipoic acid is utilised as a purified, bioavailable compound to optimise safety and absorption in companion animal diets.

Alpha lipoic acid is included as an antioxidant to help stabilise fats and extend the shelf life of the product. It may also be used for its perceived health benefits, supporting marketing claims related to cellular health and vitality.

E508, Muriate of Potash, Potassium Monochloride, KCl

Potassium chloride is a mineral compound derived from the element potassium, typically sourced from naturally occurring mineral deposits. It is utilised in pet food as a purified salt rather than in its raw metallic form, ensuring safety and optimal absorption. Its primary purpose is to provide essential potassium, which supports nerve function, muscle contraction, and fluid balance in companion animals.

Potassium chloride is included as a cost-effective mineral supplement to help meet pets’ dietary potassium requirements. It also functions as a salt substitute to optimise electrolyte balance in the formulation.

Trimethylethanolamine Chloride, Choline Monochloride, E1001, 2-Hydroxy-N,N,N-Trimethylethanaminium Chloride

Choline chloride is a synthetic compound derived from choline, an essential nutrient typically sourced from plant or animal origins. It is primarily included in pet food to support healthy brain function, liver metabolism, and cellular structure. Choline is not used in its natural state; instead, it is utilised as choline chloride to ensure stability, safety, and optimal absorption in pet diets.

Choline chloride is included as an essential nutrient to support normal liver function and brain health in pets. It is a cost-effective way to meet regulatory requirements for choline content in complete and balanced pet foods.

Tocopherol, Alpha-Tocopherol, E307, D-Alpha-Tocopherol

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin derived from plant sources such as vegetable oils, nuts, and seeds. It functions primarily as an antioxidant, helping to protect cell membranes from oxidative damage and supporting immune health. In pet food, Vitamin E is not used in its natural raw form but is typically utilised as a stabilised compound, such as tocopherol acetate, to optimise safety and absorption.

Vitamin E is included as a natural antioxidant to help preserve the freshness and stability of fats and oils in the product, thereby extending shelf life. It also serves as a label-friendly nutrient that appeals to consumers seeking added health benefits for their pets.

Ascorbic Acid, L-Ascorbic Acid, E300, L-Threo-Hex-2-Enono-1,4-Lactone

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin of plant origin commonly included in pet food formulations. Its primary purpose is to support immune function and act as an antioxidant, helping to protect cells from oxidative damage. Vitamin C is not used in its natural fruit form but is instead utilised as a synthesised compound to ensure stability and consistent dosage.

Vitamin C is included as an antioxidant to help preserve the freshness and stability of the product by slowing oxidation. It may also be added for its perceived health benefits, supporting marketing claims related to immune support.

Nicotinic Acid, Vitamin B3, Pyridine-3-Carboxylic Acid, E375

Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is a water-soluble vitamin of synthetic or natural origin, commonly derived from plant or animal sources. It plays a crucial role in energy metabolism and supports healthy skin, nerves, and digestion in pets. Niacin is not used in its raw form but is typically included as a safe, bioavailable compound such as niacinamide or nicotinic acid.

Niacin is included as an essential B vitamin to meet nutritional requirements and support metabolic health in pets. Its addition ensures compliance with regulatory standards for complete and balanced pet food labelling.

Vitamin B1 Mononitrate, Nitrate Salt of Thiamine, E101a, Thiamin Mononitrate

Thiamine mononitrate is a synthetic, water-soluble form of vitamin B1, derived from chemical synthesis rather than natural sources. It is added to pet food to support energy metabolism and proper nervous system function. Thiamine is not used in its natural state; instead, the mononitrate compound is utilised for stability, safety, and optimal absorption in formulated diets.

Thiamine mononitrate is included as a stable, cost-effective source of vitamin B1 to meet nutritional requirements and ensure product labelling compliance. Its synthetic form maintains potency during processing and storage, supporting both product stability and regulatory standards.

D-Calcium Pantothenate, E315, Pantothenic Acid Calcium Salt, Calcium D-Pantothenate

Calcium pantothenate is a synthetic compound derived from pantothenic acid, a water-soluble B vitamin (vitamin B5) of plant or animal origin. It is primarily included in pet food to support energy metabolism and maintain healthy skin and coat. Rather than using pantothenic acid in its natural form, calcium pantothenate is utilised for its stability, safety, and enhanced bioavailability in pet nutrition.

Calcium pantothenate is included as a stable, bioavailable source of vitamin B5 to meet nutritional requirements and support labelling claims of complete and balanced nutrition. Its use ensures consistent vitamin content throughout the product’s shelf life.

Retinol, Retinyl Palmitate, Retinyl Acetate, E160a

Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble nutrient derived from animal sources (as retinyl esters) or plant sources (as carotenoids). It supports vision, immune function, and skin health in pets. In pet food, Vitamin A is not used in its raw or natural state but is provided as stabilised compounds (such as retinyl acetate or retinyl palmitate) to ensure safety, stability, and optimal absorption.

Vitamin A is included as an essential nutrient to support vision, immune function, and overall health in pets, ensuring the product meets established nutritional standards. Its addition also allows manufacturers to optimise the nutritional profile and comply with regulatory labelling requirements.

Vitamin B2, E101, Lactoflavin, 7,8-Dimethyl-10-Ribityl Isoalloxazine

Riboflavin, also known as vitamin B2, is a water-soluble vitamin of synthetic origin commonly added to pet foods. It plays a crucial role in energy metabolism and supports healthy skin, eyes, and nervous system function. Riboflavin is not used in its natural form but is typically utilised as a synthesised compound to ensure stability, safety, and optimal absorption in pet diets.

Riboflavin is included as an essential vitamin to meet nutritional requirements and ensure regulatory compliance for complete and balanced pet food labelling. Its addition helps optimise the product’s nutrient profile without significantly impacting cost or palatability.

Vitamin B6, E300, Pyridoxine HCl, Pyridoxine Monohydrochloride

Pyridoxine hydrochloride is a synthetic, water-soluble form of vitamin B6, derived from chemical synthesis rather than natural sources. It is added to pet foods to support protein metabolism, nervous system health, and immune function. Unlike naturally occurring vitamin B6 in foods, pyridoxine is utilised in its hydrochloride salt form to ensure stability, safety, and optimal absorption in companion animals.

Pyridoxine hydrochloride is included as a cost-effective, stable source of vitamin B6 to ensure nutritional adequacy and meet regulatory labelling requirements. Its addition helps manufacturers guarantee consistent vitamin content throughout the product’s shelf life.

Vitamin B7, Vitamin H, D-Biotin, Coenzyme R

Biotin is a water-soluble B-vitamin (vitamin B7) of synthetic origin, commonly included in pet foods to support healthy skin, coat, and metabolic function. Its primary benefit is aiding in the metabolism of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. Biotin is not used in its natural, free form but is instead utilised as a stable, bioavailable compound to optimise absorption and efficacy in pets.

Biotin is included as an essential vitamin to support skin, coat, and metabolic health in pets, fulfilling nutritional requirements for complete and balanced diets. Its addition also allows manufacturers to highlight the inclusion of key micronutrients on product labelling, appealing to health-conscious consumers.

Cobalamin, Cyanocobalamin, Hydroxocobalamin, Methylcobalamin

Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin of animal origin, essential for nerve function and red blood cell formation in pets. It is primarily included in pet food to support energy metabolism and overall vitality. Vitamin B12 is not used in its natural, raw form but is instead utilised as a specific compound, such as cyanocobalamin, to ensure stability, safety, and optimal absorption.

Vitamin B12 is included as an essential nutrient to support metabolic and neurological functions in pets, ensuring the product meets established nutritional standards. Its addition helps manufacturers achieve complete and balanced labelling claims.

Pteroylmonoglutamic Acid, Pteroylglutamic Acid, Vitamin B9, E920

Folic acid is a synthetic form of vitamin B9, originally derived from plant sources but produced for pet food as a stable, bioavailable compound. Its primary purpose is to support cell division, DNA synthesis, and overall growth in pets. Folic acid is not used in its natural state; instead, it is utilised as a manufactured supplement to optimise absorption and efficacy.

Folic acid is included as a synthetic vitamin to ensure nutritional adequacy and meet regulatory requirements for B-vitamin content in pet food. Its addition helps standardise nutrient levels across batches, supporting consistent product labelling and animal health.

Cholecalciferol, Colecalciferol, Calciol, E671

Vitamin D3, also known as cholecalciferol, is a fat-soluble vitamin of animal origin commonly derived from lanolin or fish oil. It plays a crucial role in regulating calcium and phosphorus metabolism, supporting healthy bone development in pets. Vitamin D3 is not used in its natural form but is instead utilised as a stabilised compound to ensure safety, efficacy, and optimal absorption in pet food formulations.

Vitamin D3 is included to ensure the finished product meets established nutritional requirements for canine health, supporting bone development and calcium regulation. Its addition allows manufacturers to guarantee consistent vitamin content regardless of natural variation in raw materials.

L-Lysine, 2,6-Diaminohexanoic Acid, E640, L-2,6-Diaminohexanoic Acid

Lysine is an essential amino acid derived from animal or plant protein sources. It plays a critical role in protein synthesis, supporting muscle development and immune function in pets. Lysine cannot be produced by the body and must be supplied through the diet. It is not used in its raw form but is typically included as a purified amino acid to optimise bioavailability and nutritional balance.

Lysine is included as an essential amino acid to ensure the pet food meets the complete nutritional requirements for dogs, supporting healthy growth and maintenance. Its addition allows manufacturers to optimise protein quality, especially when using plant-based or mixed protein sources.

L-Methionine, 2-Amino-4-(Methylthio)butyric Acid, E620, L-2-Amino-4-(Methylthio)butyric Acid

Methionine is an essential amino acid derived from animal or plant sources, crucial for protein synthesis and overall metabolic health in pets. It primarily supports healthy skin, coat, and liver function. Methionine is not used in its raw elemental form; instead, it is incorporated as a specific compound, such as DL-methionine, to optimise safety, stability, and bioavailability in pet food formulations.

Methionine is included as an essential amino acid to support protein synthesis and overall health in pets, particularly when animal protein sources are limited or variable. It also serves as a cost-effective way to meet nutritional requirements and optimise the amino acid profile of the final product.

2-Aminoethanesulphonic Acid, L-Taurine, E107, 2-Aminoethane-1-Sulphonic Acid

Taurine is a naturally occurring amino sulfonic acid derived from animal sources, particularly meat and fish. It is added to pet food to support cardiovascular health, vision, and proper immune function, especially in cats who cannot synthesise it sufficiently. Taurine is not used in its raw form; instead, it is incorporated as a purified, synthesised compound to ensure stability, safety, and optimal absorption.

Taurine is included to ensure adequate levels of this essential amino acid, particularly in diets where animal protein content may be insufficient to meet canine or feline nutritional requirements. Its addition supports cardiovascular health and is often used to address consumer concerns about diet-associated heart issues.

Natural Flavouring, Flavouring Substance, Flavouring Preparation, Flavouring Complex

Natural flavour is a food additive derived from animal or plant sources, designed to enhance the palatability of pet food. Its primary purpose is to improve taste and encourage consistent consumption. Rather than being used in its original raw form, natural flavour is typically processed and concentrated to ensure safety, stability, and uniformity in pet food formulations, while maintaining its natural origin.

Natural flavour is included to enhance palatability, encouraging pets to consume the product. It also allows manufacturers to improve taste without specifying individual flavouring agents, supporting flexible formulation and label-friendly marketing.

Ferrum, Fe, E1, Elemental Iron

Iron is an essential mineral sourced from both animal and plant origins, crucial for oxygen transport and energy metabolism in pets. Its primary benefit is supporting healthy red blood cell formation and preventing anaemia. Iron is not used in its natural, raw, or metallic state; instead, it is utilised in pet food as safe, bioavailable compounds such as iron sulphate or iron proteinate to optimise absorption.

Iron is included as an essential mineral to support healthy blood function and overall metabolism in pets. Its addition ensures the product meets nutritional requirements and regulatory standards for complete and balanced pet food.

Zn, E579, Zincum, CI 77947

Zinc is an essential trace mineral sourced from the earth and is vital for numerous biological functions in pets, including immune support and skin health. In pet food, zinc is not used in its natural metallic state; instead, it is utilised as a compound such as zinc sulphate or zinc chelate to optimise safety and absorption, ensuring pets receive its full nutritional benefit.

Zinc is included as an essential trace mineral to support immune function, skin health, and overall metabolic processes in pets. Its addition ensures nutritional adequacy and compliance with regulatory labelling standards for complete and balanced pet foods.

Cu, ECP, CI 77400, C.I. 77400

Copper is an essential trace mineral sourced from the earth and is vital for numerous physiological functions in pets. It primarily supports red blood cell formation, connective tissue development, and immune system health. Copper is not used in its natural metallic state; instead, it is incorporated into pet food as safe, bioavailable compounds such as copper sulphate or copper proteinate to optimise absorption and efficacy.

Copper is included as an essential trace mineral to meet nutritional requirements for dogs, supporting enzyme function and red blood cell formation. Its addition ensures compliance with regulatory standards for complete and balanced pet food labelling.

E34, Manganum, Mn, EINECS 231-105-1

Manganese is an essential trace mineral sourced from the earth and is vital for numerous metabolic processes in pets. It primarily supports bone development, enzyme function, and antioxidant defence. Manganese is not used in its natural metallic state; instead, it is incorporated into pet food as a safe, bioavailable compound such as manganese sulphate or manganese oxide to optimise absorption and efficacy.

Manganese is included as an essential trace mineral to support metabolic and skeletal health in pets, fulfilling nutritional requirements for complete and balanced pet food. Its addition ensures compliance with regulatory standards and appeals to consumers seeking scientifically formulated diets.

Elemental I, E127, Iodum, CAS 7553-56-2

Iodine is an essential trace mineral sourced primarily from seaweed or mineral deposits. It plays a critical role in supporting healthy thyroid function and hormone production in pets. Iodine is not used in its natural elemental form due to safety and bioavailability concerns; instead, it is typically incorporated as a compound such as potassium iodide or calcium iodate to optimise absorption and efficacy.

Iodine is included as an essential trace mineral to support thyroid function and overall metabolic health in pets. Its addition ensures nutritional adequacy and compliance with regulatory labelling standards for complete and balanced pet foods.

Selen, E578, Atomic Number 34, Se

Selenium is an essential trace mineral sourced from the earth, typically derived from plant or yeast-based compounds for pet food use. It plays a crucial role in supporting antioxidant defences and thyroid function. Selenium is not used in its natural, raw metallic state; instead, it is utilised as a safe, bioavailable compound such as sodium selenite or selenomethionine to optimise absorption and efficacy.

Selenium is included as an essential trace mineral to meet nutritional requirements and support overall health in pets. Its addition ensures compliance with regulatory standards for complete and balanced pet food formulations.

Calcium Hydrogen Phosphate, Dibasic Calcium Phosphate, E341(ii), Calcium Phosphate Dibasic

Dicalcium phosphate is a mineral compound derived from calcium and phosphorus, commonly sourced from phosphate rock. It serves as a key dietary supplement in pet foods, providing essential calcium and phosphorus to support healthy bones and teeth. Dicalcium phosphate is not used in its natural raw or metallic state; instead, it is utilised in its purified compound form to ensure safety and optimal absorption.

Dicalcium phosphate is included as a cost-effective mineral supplement to provide essential calcium and phosphorus for skeletal health. It also serves as a functional agent to improve product texture and processing stability.

D-Glucosamine Monohydrochloride, Glucosamine HCl, 2-Amino-2-Deoxy-D-Glucose Hydrochloride, Chitosamine Hydrochloride

Glucosamine hydrochloride is a compound derived from shellfish or produced synthetically, categorised as an amino sugar. It is primarily included in pet food to support joint health and maintain cartilage integrity. Glucosamine is not used in its natural raw form; instead, it is utilised as the hydrochloride salt to optimise stability, safety, and absorption in companion animals.

Glucosamine hydrochloride is included as a functional additive to support joint health claims, appealing to consumers seeking preventative or therapeutic benefits for their pets. Its presence enables manufacturers to market the product as beneficial for mobility and ageing pets, enhancing perceived value.

Tocopherols, E306, Natural Tocopherols Concentrate, D-Alpha Tocopherol Concentrate

Mixed tocopherols are a blend of compounds derived from plant oils, primarily functioning as a source of vitamin E. Their main purpose in pet food is to act as natural antioxidants, helping to preserve the freshness of fats and oils. Rather than being used in their isolated, pure form, mixed tocopherols are incorporated as stabilised extracts to optimise safety, efficacy, and nutrient retention.

Mixed tocopherols are included as a natural preservative to extend shelf life by slowing the oxidation of fats and oils in pet food. They are often used as a label-friendly alternative to synthetic preservatives to appeal to consumer preferences for natural ingredients.

Chondroitin Sulfate, Chondroitin Polysulphate, Chonsurid, Haliotis Spp. Chondroitin Sulphate

Chondroitin sulphate is a compound derived from animal cartilage, commonly sourced from bovine or marine origins. It is primarily included in pet food to support joint health by aiding cartilage structure and function. Chondroitin is not used in its natural raw state; instead, it is utilised as a purified sulphated glycosaminoglycan to optimise safety, stability, and absorption in companion animals.

Chondroitin sulphate is included as a functional ingredient to support joint health, appealing to consumers seeking products with perceived mobility benefits for their pets. Its presence also serves a marketing purpose by enhancing the product’s value proposition in the premium and senior pet food segments.

L-Carnitine, Levocarnitine, Vitamin Bt, E306

Carnitine is a naturally occurring compound derived from animal sources, primarily meat and fish. It plays a crucial role in energy metabolism by transporting fatty acids into the mitochondria for cellular energy production. In pet food, carnitine is utilised in a synthesised, bioavailable form rather than its raw state, ensuring optimal absorption and safety for companion animals.

Carnitine is included as a functional ingredient to support fat metabolism and energy production, particularly in formulas targeting active or senior pets. Its addition allows manufacturers to market the product as supporting heart health and weight management.

Provitamin A, E160a, All-Trans-Beta-Carotene, CI 40800

Beta carotene is a plant-derived pigment and precursor to vitamin A, commonly sourced from carrots and other colourful vegetables. Its primary nutritional benefit is supporting vision, immune function, and antioxidant defence. In pet food, beta carotene is utilised in its extracted or purified form rather than as whole vegetables, ensuring consistent potency and bioavailability for optimal health outcomes.

Beta carotene is included as a natural source of vitamin A and as a colour-enhancing agent to improve the visual appeal of the product. Its presence also allows for label-friendly marketing, appealing to consumers seeking natural additives.