Best Start Puppy Multi Vitamin

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

Summary

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.

Manufacturer Benefits

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.

Oryza Sativa, Paddy, Oryza Sativa Grain, Oryza Spp.

Summary

Rice is a cereal grain derived from the seeds of the Oryza sativa plant, making it a plant-based ingredient. It serves primarily as a highly digestible source of carbohydrates, providing energy for pets. In pet food, rice is typically used in its natural, whole or milled form, rather than as a processed extract, to optimise digestibility and nutrient availability.

Manufacturer Benefits

Rice is included as a cost-effective carbohydrate source that provides energy and helps create a desirable texture in pet food. It is also easily digestible, making it suitable for sensitive digestive systems and appealing for marketing as a familiar, label-friendly ingredient.

Glycerin, Glycerine, 1,2,3-Propanetriol, E422

Summary

Glycerol is a naturally occurring compound derived from plant or animal fats and oils. In pet food, it serves primarily as a humectant, helping to retain moisture and improve texture. Glycerol is not used in its raw, unrefined state; instead, it is utilised in a purified, food-grade form to ensure safety and optimal absorption in pet diets.

Manufacturer Benefits

Glycerol is included as a humectant to retain moisture and improve the texture of pet food products, helping to prevent them from drying out. It also acts as a cost-effective preservative, extending shelf life by inhibiting microbial growth.

Gelatin, E441, Hydrolysed Collagen, Collagen Hydrolysate

Summary

Gelatine is a protein derived from animal collagen, typically sourced from the skin, bones, and connective tissues of cattle or pigs. It serves as a gelling agent, providing structure and texture to pet foods while also contributing to protein content. Gelatine is not used in its raw animal form but is processed and purified to ensure safety, digestibility, and optimal functional performance.

Manufacturer Benefits

Gelatine is included as a functional binding and gelling agent to improve the texture and cohesiveness of pet food products. It also serves as a cost-effective protein source that can enhance palatability.

Natural Flavouring, Flavouring Substance, Flavouring Preparation, Flavouring Complex

Summary

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.

Manufacturer Benefits

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.

Amylum, E1401, E1402, E1403

Summary

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.

Manufacturer Benefits

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.

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

Summary

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.

Manufacturer Benefits

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.

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

Summary

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.

Manufacturer Benefits

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.

Tribasic Magnesium Phosphate, Magnesium Orthophosphate, E343, Magnesii Phosphas

Summary

Magnesium phosphate is a mineral compound derived from the combination of magnesium and phosphate, both essential nutrients. Sourced from inorganic origins, it is not used in its natural raw or metallic state but is instead utilised as a specific salt to optimise safety and bioavailability. Its primary purpose is to support bone health, muscle function, and overall metabolic processes in pets.

Manufacturer Benefits

Magnesium phosphate is included as a source of essential magnesium and phosphorus, supporting nutritional balance in pet food formulations. It also serves as a label-friendly mineral supplement to help meet regulatory nutrient requirements.

Nonfat Dry Milk, Dried Skimmed Milk, Milk Solids Non-Fat, Spray Dried Skim Milk

Summary

Skim milk powder is a dairy-derived ingredient produced by removing most of the fat and water from cow’s milk, resulting in a concentrated powder. It serves as a high-quality source of protein and calcium, supporting muscle maintenance and bone health in pets. Skim milk powder is used in its natural, dehydrated form, ensuring digestibility and nutrient availability in pet food formulations.

Manufacturer Benefits

Skim milk powder is included as a cost-effective source of protein and calcium, contributing to the nutritional profile of the product. It also enhances palatability and provides a label-friendly ingredient that appeals to consumers seeking familiar, wholesome components.

Sodium Chloride, NaCl, Table Salt, E535

Summary

Salt is a mineral ingredient derived from the combination of sodium and chloride, typically sourced from natural deposits or seawater. It is primarily included in pet food to support electrolyte balance, nerve function, and hydration. Salt is not used in its raw mineral form but is utilised as sodium chloride, a purified compound, to ensure safety, palatability, and optimal absorption in pets.

Manufacturer Benefits

Salt is included as a palatability enhancer to improve taste and encourage consumption, and also functions as a preservative to help extend product shelf life. Its use allows manufacturers to optimise flavour while maintaining product stability.

Surface-Active Agent, E Number 471, Food Additive E471, Surfactant

Summary

Emulsifier refers to a functional ingredient, typically derived from either plant or animal sources, that enables the stable blending of oil and water in pet food formulations. Its primary purpose is to improve texture and consistency, ensuring uniform distribution of nutrients. Emulsifiers are not used in their natural raw state; instead, they are incorporated as specific compounds, such as lecithin or mono- and diglycerides, for safety and efficacy.

Manufacturer Benefits

Emulsifiers are included to stabilise mixtures of ingredients that would otherwise separate, ensuring consistent texture and appearance throughout the product. This functional additive helps optimise product quality and shelf stability.

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

Summary

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.

Manufacturer Benefits

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.

Acidulant, Acidity Regulator, E Acidifier, Acidity Corrector

Summary

Food acid is a functional ingredient derived from either natural or synthetic sources, commonly used in pet food to regulate acidity and preserve freshness. Its primary purpose is to maintain optimal pH levels, which helps inhibit spoilage and supports product stability. Food acids are not used in their raw or elemental form; instead, they are utilised as safe, food-grade acid compounds suitable for animal consumption.

Manufacturer Benefits

Food acid is included to regulate the pH of the product, enhancing preservation and extending shelf life. It also helps maintain product stability and safety by inhibiting the growth of spoilage microorganisms.

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

Summary

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.

Manufacturer Benefits

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.

Zinc Sulphate Monohydrate, Zinc Sulphate Heptahydrate, E6, ZnSO₄

Summary

Zinc sulphate is a mineral compound derived from the element zinc, typically sourced from mined zinc ores. It is utilised in pet food as a supplemental source of zinc, an essential trace mineral that supports immune function, skin health, and enzyme activity. Zinc is not used in its natural metallic state; instead, it is provided as zinc sulphate to optimise safety and bioavailability for pets.

Manufacturer Benefits

Zinc sulphate is included as a cost-effective and bioavailable source of the essential mineral zinc, which supports immune function and skin health in pets. Its addition ensures the product meets nutritional requirements for complete and balanced pet food labelling.

Acid-Hydrolysed Vegetable Protein, Enzymatically Hydrolysed Vegetable Protein, HVP, Plant Protein Hydrolysate

Summary

Hydrolysed vegetable protein is a plant-derived ingredient produced by breaking down vegetable proteins into smaller peptides and amino acids through hydrolysis. Its primary purpose is to enhance palatability and provide a readily digestible source of protein. Rather than being used in its original whole food form, it is utilised in a hydrolysed state to optimise digestibility and reduce allergenic potential.

Manufacturer Benefits

Hydrolysed vegetable protein is included as a cost-effective source of amino acids and to enhance palatability through the creation of savoury flavours. It also allows manufacturers to optimise protein content while maintaining a desirable product texture and appearance.

Chalk, Limestone, E170, Marble Dust

Summary

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.

Manufacturer Benefits

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.

E202, Sorbistat K, Potassium (E202), Potassium Salt of Sorbic Acid

Summary

Potassium sorbate is a preservative derived from sorbic acid, a naturally occurring compound found in some fruits, but it is manufactured synthetically for commercial use. Its primary function in pet food is to inhibit the growth of moulds and yeasts, thereby extending shelf life. Potassium sorbate is not used in its natural state but as a salt compound to ensure safety and effective preservation.

Manufacturer Benefits

Potassium sorbate is included as a preservative to inhibit the growth of mould, yeast, and some bacteria, thereby extending the product’s shelf life. Its use allows manufacturers to maintain product stability and freshness during storage and distribution.

Curcuma Longa, Indian Saffron, Jiang Huang, E100

Summary

Turmeric is a vibrant yellow spice derived from the root of the Curcuma longa plant, making it a plant-based ingredient. It is primarily included in pet food for its natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, supporting overall health and wellbeing. Turmeric is used in its natural powdered form, ensuring pets benefit from its active compound, curcumin, in a safe and bioavailable manner.

Manufacturer Benefits

Turmeric is included as a label-friendly ingredient to appeal to health-conscious consumers due to its association with natural antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Its presence may also support marketing claims related to holistic or functional pet foods, despite being used in small quantities with minimal direct nutritional impact for pets.

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

Summary

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.

Manufacturer Benefits

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.

Tocopherol, Mixed Tocopherols, E306, Rosemary Extract

Summary

Natural antioxidant refers to a substance, typically derived from plant sources, that helps protect pet food from oxidative damage and spoilage. Its primary function is to preserve freshness and extend shelf life by inhibiting the oxidation of fats and oils. In pet food, natural antioxidants are used in their natural form, ensuring safety and effective absorption without the need for chemical modification.

Manufacturer Benefits

Natural antioxidants are included to help preserve the freshness and stability of pet food by slowing the oxidation of fats and oils, thereby extending shelf life. They also serve as a label-friendly alternative to synthetic preservatives, appealing to consumers seeking more natural ingredients.

Cupric Sulphate, Blue Vitriol, Roman Vitriol, E519

Summary

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.

Manufacturer Benefits

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.

Selen, E578, Atomic Number 34, Se

Summary

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.

Manufacturer Benefits

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.

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

Summary

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.

Manufacturer Benefits

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.

Manganese(II) Oxide, Manganous Oxide, E172, MnO

Summary

Manganese oxide is an inorganic compound derived from the mineral manganese, an essential trace element. It is included in pet food primarily to support enzyme function, bone development, and metabolic processes. Manganese is not used in its natural metallic state; instead, it is utilised as manganese oxide to ensure safe consumption and optimal absorption by pets.

Manufacturer Benefits

Manganese oxide is included as a cost-effective source of the essential trace mineral manganese, which supports metabolic and skeletal health in pets. Its use ensures nutritional adequacy to meet regulatory labelling requirements for complete and balanced pet foods.

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

Summary

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.

Manufacturer Benefits

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 B7, Vitamin H, D-Biotin, Coenzyme R

Summary

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.

Manufacturer Benefits

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

Summary

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.

Manufacturer Benefits

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.

Vitamin B1, Aneurin, Thiamin, E101

Summary

Thiamine, also known as vitamin B1, is a water-soluble vitamin of plant origin, commonly sourced from grains and yeast. It plays a crucial role in energy metabolism and supports nervous system function in pets. Thiamine is not used in its raw or natural state but is typically utilised as thiamine mononitrate or thiamine hydrochloride to ensure stability, safety, and optimal absorption.

Manufacturer Benefits

Thiamine is included as an essential vitamin to meet nutritional requirements and prevent deficiency-related health issues in pets. Its addition ensures compliance with regulatory standards for complete and balanced pet food formulations.

Retinol, Retinyl Palmitate, Retinyl Acetate, E160a

Summary

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.

Manufacturer Benefits

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 B6, E300, Pyridoxine HCl, Pyridoxine Monohydrochloride

Summary

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.

Manufacturer Benefits

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.

Pteroylmonoglutamic Acid, Pteroylglutamic Acid, Vitamin B9, E920

Summary

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.

Manufacturer Benefits

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.