z/d Low Fat Hydrolysed Soy Dry Dog Food

Maize Starch, Zea Mays Starch, E1401, Maizena

Corn starch is a fine, white powder derived from the endosperm of corn kernels, making it a plant-based ingredient. It is primarily used as a carbohydrate source and functional thickener in pet foods, aiding in texture and digestibility. Corn starch is utilised in its processed, refined form rather than as whole corn, ensuring consistency and optimal absorption in formulated diets.

Corn starch is included as a cost-effective carbohydrate source and bulk-adding agent, helping to optimise product texture and binding. It also contributes to shelf stability by absorbing moisture and preventing spoilage.

Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Hydrolysed Soya Protein, Hydrolyzed Soya Protein, Glycine Max Protein Hydrolysate

Hydrolysed soy protein is a plant-derived ingredient produced by breaking down whole soybeans into smaller peptides and amino acids through hydrolysis. It is primarily included in pet food for its highly digestible protein content, supporting muscle maintenance and overall health. Rather than using whole soybeans, hydrolysed soy protein is utilised in its processed form to enhance digestibility and reduce allergenic potential.

Hydrolysed soy protein is included as a cost-effective, highly digestible source of plant-based protein that can help meet nutritional requirements while supporting hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient formulations. Its use also enhances palatability and improves product texture.

Microcrystalline Cellulose, Powdered Cellulose, E460, Cellulosum

Cellulose powder is a plant-derived ingredient sourced primarily from wood pulp. It serves as an insoluble dietary fibre, supporting digestive health and stool quality in pets. Rather than being used in its raw, fibrous state, cellulose is processed into a fine powder to optimise its functional benefits and ensure safe, consistent inclusion in pet food formulations.

Cellulose powder is included as a cost-effective fibre source to aid stool quality and promote digestive health. It also functions as a bulk-adding agent, helping to control calorie density in 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.

Glycine Max Oil, E322, Soya Oil, Soya Bean Oil

Soybean oil is a plant-derived oil extracted from the seeds of the soybean (Glycine max). It serves as a concentrated source of energy and provides essential fatty acids, particularly linoleic acid, which supports skin and coat health in pets. Soybean oil is utilised in its refined liquid form, not as whole soybeans, to optimise digestibility and nutrient availability in pet food formulations.

Soybean oil is included as a cost-effective source of fat and essential fatty acids, supporting energy density and skin and coat health in pet food. It also contributes to product texture and palatability while helping to optimise manufacturing costs.

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.

Pecan Shell Powder, Carya Illinoinensis Shell, Pecan Husk Powder, Pecan Shell Fibre

Ground pecan shell is a plant-derived ingredient sourced from the outer shell of pecan nuts. It is primarily included in pet food as a natural fibre source to support digestive health and promote regular bowel movements. Ground pecan shell is used in its natural, finely milled form, providing a safe and effective means of increasing dietary fibre content in premium pet food formulations.

Ground pecan shell is included as a cost-effective fibre source to aid in stool quality and provide bulk to the product. It may also serve as a natural abrasive to support dental health in some formulations.

Cocos Nucifera Oil, Copra Oil, E472c, Coconut Fat

Coconut oil is a plant-derived oil extracted from the flesh of mature coconuts. It is primarily included in pet food for its energy-dense medium-chain triglycerides, which support healthy skin, coat, and metabolism. Coconut oil is used in its natural, refined form, ensuring it is safe and readily digestible for pets while delivering its functional nutritional benefits.

Coconut oil is included as a source of medium-chain triglycerides, which are marketed for their potential health benefits and digestibility. It also serves as a label-friendly ingredient that appeals to consumers seeking natural or premium pet food formulations.

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.

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.

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.

Monostearin, Glyceryl Stearate, E471, 1-Monostearoyl Glycerol

Glycerol monostearate is a compound derived from the esterification of glycerol (a plant or animal-based alcohol) and stearic acid (a fatty acid). It serves primarily as an emulsifier, helping to blend fats and water in pet food for improved texture and stability. Glycerol monostearate is not used in its natural raw form but is specifically utilised as a processed compound to optimise safety and functionality.

Glycerol monostearate is included as an emulsifier to improve texture and maintain the stability of fats within the pet food, preventing separation during processing and storage. It may also contribute to extending shelf life by helping to retain moisture and inhibit staleness.

Beet Fibre, Beet Fiber, Beta Vulgaris Pulp, Beta Vulgaris Fibre

Dried beet pulp is a fibrous by-product derived from sugar beet plants after sugar extraction. As a plant-based ingredient, it serves primarily as a source of fermentable fibre, supporting digestive health and stool quality in pets. Dried beet pulp is used in its processed, dried form rather than as fresh beet, optimising its digestibility and functional benefits in pet food formulations.

Dried beet pulp is included as a cost-effective source of dietary fibre to promote digestive health and stool quality in pets. It also serves as a bulk-adding agent, helping to optimise the texture and consistency of the final product.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Gypsum, E516, Anhydrite, Dihydrate Gypsum

Calcium sulphate is a mineral-derived compound commonly included in pet food formulations. Sourced from naturally occurring gypsum, it is not used in its raw mineral state but is instead utilised as a purified, food-grade compound. Its primary purpose is to provide a bioavailable source of calcium, supporting healthy bone development and maintenance in pets, while also serving as a firming agent in some recipes.

Calcium sulphate is included as a cost-effective source of calcium to support nutritional balance and bone health in pet food formulations. It also functions as a firming agent, helping to optimise texture and product stability.

Cranberry Juice, Vaccinium Macrocarpon Juice, Vaccinium Macrocarpon Extract, Cranberry Extract

Pressed cranberry is a fruit ingredient derived from whole cranberries, a plant source known for their rich antioxidant content. It is included in pet food primarily to support urinary tract health and provide natural antioxidants. Pressed cranberry is used in its natural, whole-food form, ensuring pets benefit from its full spectrum of nutrients and bioactive compounds.

Pressed cranberry is included as a natural source of antioxidants and to enhance the product’s marketing appeal by highlighting fruit content. It may also contribute to urinary tract health claims, supporting a premium positioning in the pet food market.

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.

L-Ascorbyl Polyphosphate, Ascorbic Acid Polyphosphate, Polyphosphate Ester of Ascorbic Acid, E304

Ascorbyl polyphosphate is a synthesised compound derived from vitamin C (ascorbic acid), typically of plant origin. It serves as a stable source of vitamin C, supporting immune function and acting as an antioxidant in pet food. Ascorbyl polyphosphate is not used in its natural form; instead, it is utilised as a phosphate-bound compound to optimise stability and bioavailability.

Ascorbyl polyphosphate is included as a stable, cost-effective source of vitamin C that resists degradation during processing and storage. Its use helps manufacturers ensure consistent nutrient labelling and extend the shelf life of the finished product.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

Magnesia, E530, Magnesium(II) Oxide, Calcined Magnesia

Magnesium oxide is an inorganic compound derived from the mineral magnesium, typically sourced from natural deposits. It is utilised in pet food as a supplemental source of magnesium, an essential mineral that supports nerve, muscle, and bone health. Rather than its raw metallic form, magnesium is provided as magnesium oxide to optimise safety, stability, and bioavailability for pets.

Magnesium oxide is included as a cost-effective mineral supplement to ensure adequate magnesium levels in the diet, supporting essential metabolic functions. Its use allows manufacturers to meet nutritional requirements efficiently without significantly impacting product cost or palatability.

Iron(II) Sulphate, Ferrous Iron Sulphate, E172, Green Vitriol

Ferrous sulphate is an inorganic compound derived from iron, an essential mineral for animal health. It is primarily included in pet food to support normal red blood cell formation and prevent iron deficiency anaemia. Ferrous sulphate is not used in its natural metallic state; instead, it is utilised as a salt to optimise safety, stability, and absorption within the animal’s body.

Ferrous sulphate is included as a cost-effective source of dietary iron to meet nutritional requirements in pet food formulations. It helps ensure the product delivers essential minerals for pet health while maintaining compliance with labelling standards.

Zinc White, CI 77947, Calamine, Chinese White

Zinc oxide is an inorganic compound derived from the mineral zinc, commonly used in pet food as a supplemental source of the essential trace mineral zinc. Its primary benefit is to support immune function, skin health, and enzyme activity. Zinc is not used in its natural metallic state; instead, it is utilised as zinc oxide to optimise safety, stability, and bioavailability in pet nutrition.

Zinc oxide is included as a cost-effective and stable source of essential zinc, supporting nutritional adequacy in pet food formulations. Its use ensures compliance with regulatory requirements for trace minerals while maintaining product shelf stability.

Cupric Sulphate, Blue Vitriol, Roman Vitriol, E519

Copper sulphate is an inorganic compound derived from copper, an essential trace mineral. It is primarily included in pet food to support vital physiological functions such as enzyme activity, immune health, and connective tissue formation. Copper sulphate is not used in its natural metallic state; instead, it is utilised as a salt to optimise safety, stability, and bioavailability for animal nutrition.

Copper sulphate is included as a cost-effective and reliable source of essential copper, a trace mineral necessary for canine health. Its use ensures precise nutrient formulation and supports compliance with nutritional labelling standards.

Manganese(II) Oxide, Manganese Monoxide, E172, Manganese Oxide

Manganous oxide is an inorganic compound derived from the mineral form of manganese, an essential trace element. It is included in pet food primarily as a source of manganese, which supports bone development, metabolism, and antioxidant function. Manganous oxide is not used in its natural metallic state; instead, it is utilised as a safe, bioavailable compound to optimise absorption and nutritional benefit.

Manganous oxide is included as a cost-effective source of manganese, an essential trace mineral that supports metabolic and skeletal functions in pets. Its stable form allows for consistent nutrient delivery throughout the product’s shelf life.

Calcium Diiodate, E917, Ca(IO3)2, Calcium Iodate Anhydrous

Calcium iodate is a mineral-derived compound commonly included in pet foods as a source of iodine, an essential trace element. It is not used in its natural, raw mineral state; instead, it is utilised in the form of a stable, food-grade compound to ensure safety and optimal absorption. Its primary purpose is to support healthy thyroid function and metabolic processes.

Calcium iodate is included as a stable, bioavailable source of iodine to support thyroid function and overall metabolic health in pets. Its use ensures consistent iodine content throughout the product, optimising nutritional labelling and regulatory compliance.

Disodium Selenite, E901, Selenious Acid Disodium Salt, Disodium Selenious Acid

Sodium selenite is an inorganic compound derived from selenium, an essential trace mineral. It is included in pet food formulations to provide a bioavailable source of selenium, which supports antioxidant defence and immune function. Sodium selenite is not used in its natural elemental form; instead, it is utilised as a salt compound to ensure safety, stability, and optimal absorption in pets.

Sodium selenite is included as a cost-effective and stable source of the essential trace mineral selenium, which supports normal metabolic and immune functions in pets. Its use allows manufacturers to meet nutritional requirements efficiently and with consistent quality.

L-Tryptophan, L-α-Aminoindole-3-Propionic Acid, 2-Amino-3-(Indol-3-yl)Propanoic Acid, EAA 10

Tryptophan is an essential amino acid derived from animal or plant protein sources. It plays a crucial role in pet nutrition by supporting protein synthesis and serving as a precursor for serotonin, which influences mood and behaviour. Tryptophan is not used in its isolated, natural form but is instead incorporated as a purified amino acid to optimise dietary balance and bioavailability in pet food formulations.

Tryptophan is included as an essential amino acid to support complete and balanced nutrition, meeting regulatory requirements for canine dietary adequacy. Its addition ensures the product can be marketed as providing all necessary amino acids for dogs’ health.

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.

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.

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.