Strips Chicken with Carrots and Peas Adult Wet Dog Food

Animal Flesh, Muscle Tissue, Animal Protein, Skeletal Muscle

Meat refers to the edible muscle tissue derived from animals, commonly sourced from species such as chicken, beef, or lamb. It serves as a high-quality source of protein, essential amino acids, and vital nutrients like iron and B vitamins, supporting muscle maintenance and overall health. In pet food, meat is used in its natural form, ensuring optimal nutrient availability and palatability for pets.

Meat is included as a primary protein source to support essential amino acid requirements and overall nutritional value in pet food. Its presence also enhances palatability, making the product more appealing to pets.

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.

Pisum Sativum, Garden Pea, Green Pea, Field Pea

Peas are a plant-derived ingredient sourced from the seeds of the Pisum sativum plant. They are primarily included in pet food for their high protein content, dietary fibre, and essential micronutrients, supporting digestive health and energy. Peas are used in their natural, whole form, ensuring the retention of their nutritional value and functional benefits within the finished product.

Peas are included as a cost-effective source of protein, fibre, and carbohydrates, helping to optimise nutritional content while supporting product texture. They also serve as a label-friendly ingredient that appeals to consumers seeking grain-free or plant-based options.

Amylum, E1401, E1402, E1403

Starch is a carbohydrate derived primarily from plant sources such as grains, potatoes, or legumes. It serves as an energy source in pet food, providing readily digestible glucose to support metabolic needs. Starch is not used in its raw, unprocessed form; instead, it is typically cooked or processed to enhance digestibility and optimise its functional properties within the diet.

Starch is included as a cost-effective carbohydrate source that provides energy and helps bind kibble, optimising texture and processing efficiency. It also contributes to the overall bulk of the product, supporting desired kibble structure and shelf stability.

Micronutrients, Essential Micronutrients, Vital Nutrients, Accessory Food Factors

Vitamins are organic compounds derived from both plant and animal sources, essential for numerous metabolic and physiological functions in pets. Their primary purpose is to support immune health, vision, bone development, and cellular processes. In pet food, vitamins are not used in their natural, raw forms but are instead incorporated as stabilised compounds or premixes to ensure safety, stability, and optimal bioavailability.

Vitamins are included to ensure nutritional adequacy and meet regulatory requirements for complete and balanced pet food. They may also be added to compensate for nutrient losses during processing and storage.

Dietary Minerals, Inorganic Nutrients, Essential Minerals, Bulk Elements

Minerals are essential inorganic nutrients derived from the earth, not produced by animals or plants. They play a critical role in supporting various physiological functions, such as bone development, nerve transmission, and enzyme activity. In pet food, minerals are not used in their natural raw or metallic state; instead, they are incorporated as specific compounds (such as sulphates or chelates) to optimise safety and bioavailability.

Minerals are included to meet essential nutritional requirements for pets, supporting overall health and proper bodily functions. They are often added in precise amounts to ensure the product complies with regulatory standards and nutrient profiles.

Stabiliser, Thickener, E Number, Hydrocolloid

Gelling agent refers to a functional ingredient, typically derived from plant or seaweed sources such as guar gum, carrageenan, or agar, used to modify the texture and consistency of pet food. Its primary purpose is to bind moisture and create a stable, palatable gel structure. Gelling agents are not used in their raw plant form but are processed and utilised as purified extracts or compounds for optimal performance and safety.

Gelling agents are included to modify the texture and consistency of pet food, ensuring a uniform and appealing product structure. They also help stabilise moisture content, which can extend shelf life and improve product handling.

Flavouring, Flavouring Substance, Flavouring Agent, Flavouring Preparation

Flavours are additives derived from various sources, including animal, plant, or synthetic origins, designed to enhance the palatability of pet food. Their primary purpose is to improve taste and encourage consistent consumption. Flavours are not used in their natural, raw state; instead, they are formulated as specific compounds or extracts to ensure safety, stability, and uniformity in pet food products.

Flavours are included to enhance palatability, encouraging pets to consume the product. They also allow manufacturers to maintain consistent taste profiles despite variations in raw ingredient quality.

Chicory Root Fibre, Fructan, EINECS 232-684-3, Fructooligosaccharide

Inulin is a naturally occurring dietary fibre sourced primarily from plants such as chicory root. It serves as a prebiotic, supporting digestive health by promoting beneficial gut bacteria. In pet food, inulin is utilised in its extracted, purified form rather than as a whole plant, ensuring consistent quality and efficacy for optimal digestive function and overall wellbeing in pets.

Inulin is included as a prebiotic fibre to support digestive health and promote beneficial gut bacteria in pets. It also serves as a cost-effective bulking agent that can improve product texture and moisture retention.