Shih Tzu Adult Dry Dog Food

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

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.

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.

Dried Poultry Meat, Poultry Meat Meal, Rendered Poultry Meat, Gallus Spp. Meat Meal

Dehydrated poultry meat is an animal-derived ingredient made by removing moisture from fresh poultry, typically chicken or turkey, to concentrate its protein and nutrient content. It serves as a high-quality protein source, supporting muscle maintenance and overall health in pets. This ingredient is used in its natural form, simply dehydrated, ensuring optimal digestibility and nutrient retention.

Dehydrated poultry meat is included as a concentrated protein source that supports essential amino acid requirements while allowing for efficient storage and transport due to its reduced moisture content. Its use can also optimise product labelling by highlighting a recognisable animal protein ingredient.

Rendered Fat, Tallow, Lard, E471

Animal fat is a lipid ingredient derived from the tissue of animals, commonly sourced from poultry, beef, or lamb. It serves as a concentrated source of energy and enhances palatability in pet foods. Animal fat is used in its rendered form, not as raw tissue, to ensure safety, stability, and optimal absorption of essential fatty acids for pets’ health and wellbeing.

Animal fat is included as a cost-effective energy source and to enhance palatability, making the product more appealing to pets. It also contributes to the texture and mouthfeel of the final product.

Plant Protein Isolate, Isolated Plant Protein, Isolated Vegetable Protein, Plant Protein Concentrate

Vegetable protein isolate is a concentrated protein ingredient derived from plant sources such as peas or soy. It is primarily included in pet food to boost protein content and support muscle maintenance and overall health. Rather than using whole plants, the protein is extracted and isolated to maximise purity and digestibility, making it a highly bioavailable and functional protein source for pets.

Vegetable protein isolate is included as a cost-effective, concentrated protein source to help meet nutritional requirements while managing formulation costs. It also allows manufacturers to optimise protein content without relying solely on animal-derived ingredients.

Hydrolysed Animal Derivative, Hydrolysed Animal Extract, Hydrolysed Animal Peptides, Hydrolysed Animal Protein Hydrolysate

Hydrolysed animal protein is a protein ingredient derived from animal sources, such as poultry or fish, that has been broken down into smaller peptides and amino acids through a process called hydrolysis. Its primary purpose is to provide highly digestible protein, supporting muscle maintenance and overall health. Rather than using whole animal tissue, this ingredient is utilised in its hydrolysed form to optimise digestibility and reduce allergenic potential.

Hydrolysed animal protein is included as a highly digestible protein source that can help reduce the risk of allergic reactions in sensitive pets. It also enhances palatability, making the product more appealing to animals.

Dietary Fibre, Plant Fibre, Fibre, E460

Vegetable fibres are plant-derived components sourced from various vegetables and are included in pet food formulations. Their primary purpose is to support digestive health by providing insoluble and soluble fibre, which aids in healthy bowel function and stool quality. Vegetable fibres are used in their natural form, ensuring pets receive the functional benefits of whole plant material.

Vegetable fibres are included as a cost-effective source of dietary fibre to support digestive health and promote stool quality. They also serve as a bulk-adding agent, helping to optimise product texture and satiety.

Dried Sugar Beet Pulp, Sugar Beet Fibre, Beta Vulgaris Pulp, Sugar Beet Residue

Beet pulp is a fibrous by-product derived from sugar beet plants after sugar extraction. It serves as a valuable source of moderately fermentable fibre, supporting digestive health and stool quality in pets. Beet pulp is incorporated in its dried, processed form rather than as raw beet, ensuring optimal digestibility and nutrient availability for companion animals.

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 product texture and satiety.

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.

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.

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.

Oligofructose, FOS, Oligofructan, E968

Fructooligosaccharides are short-chain carbohydrates derived from plant sources such as chicory root. They serve primarily as prebiotics, supporting digestive health by promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Fructooligosaccharides are not used in their whole plant form but are extracted and purified for inclusion in pet food, ensuring optimal efficacy and digestibility for companion animals.

Fructooligosaccharides are included as a prebiotic fibre to support digestive health by promoting beneficial gut bacteria. They also serve as a label-friendly functional ingredient that can enhance the perceived nutritional value of the product.

Borago Officinalis Seed Oil, Starflower Oil, Boraginaceae Seed Oil, Borago Officinalis Oil

Borage oil is a plant-derived oil extracted from the seeds of the borage plant (Borago officinalis). It is primarily included in pet food for its high gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) content, an omega-6 fatty acid that supports skin and coat health. Borage oil is used in its natural, cold-pressed form to optimise nutrient retention and bioavailability in pet diets.

Borage oil is included as a source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid that supports skin and coat health in pets. Its presence allows manufacturers to market the product as containing beneficial fatty acids, appealing to health-conscious consumers.

Camellia Sinensis Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Tea Leaf Extract, Camellia Sinensis

Green tea extract is a concentrated form of the leaves from the Camellia sinensis plant, a botanical ingredient. It is primarily included for its antioxidant properties, supporting cellular health and immune function in pets. Rather than using whole green tea leaves, the extract is utilised in a purified, standardised form to optimise the delivery of beneficial polyphenols and ensure consistent potency.

Green tea extract is included as a natural antioxidant to help preserve product freshness and extend shelf life. It may also be used for its label appeal, as consumers associate it with health benefits.

Vitis Vinifera Extract, Vitis Vinifera Fruit Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Extract, Vitis Vinifera

Grape extract is a plant-derived ingredient obtained from the seeds, skin, or pulp of grapes. It is primarily included in pet food for its antioxidant properties, helping to protect cells from oxidative damage. Rather than using whole grapes, which can be toxic to pets, grape extract is utilised in a purified, controlled form to ensure safety and optimise bioavailability of beneficial polyphenols.

Grape extract is included as a natural antioxidant to help preserve the product and extend shelf life. It may also be used for its marketing appeal as a label-friendly, plant-based ingredient.

Calendula Officinalis Extract, Calendula Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, E160b

Marigold extract is a plant-derived ingredient sourced from the flowers of the marigold (Tagetes species). It is primarily included in pet food for its natural antioxidant properties, particularly due to its lutein content, which supports eye health and immune function. Marigold extract is utilised in a concentrated form rather than as whole flowers, ensuring consistent potency and bioavailability in pet diets.

Marigold extract is included as a natural source of lutein to support eye health and provide antioxidant benefits, which can be highlighted in marketing to appeal to health-conscious consumers. Its presence also enhances the product’s label appeal by signalling the inclusion of botanicals.

Hydrolysed Crustacea, Hydrolysed Shellfish, Hydrolysed Prawn Extract, Hydrolysed Crustacea Extract

Hydrolysed crustaceans are animal-derived ingredients produced by breaking down the proteins of crustaceans such as shrimp or crab into smaller peptides. This process enhances digestibility and reduces allergenic potential, making it beneficial for pets with sensitivities. Hydrolysed crustaceans are not used in their whole, natural form but are specifically processed to optimise nutrient absorption and functional benefits in pet food formulations.

Hydrolysed crustaceans are included as a source of highly digestible animal protein and to provide specific amino acids or bioactive peptides that may support joint health or skin function. Their inclusion can also serve as a marketing differentiator, appealing to consumers seeking novel or premium ingredients.

Hydrolysed Collagen, Collagen Hydrolysate, Gelatine Hydrolysate, Collagen Peptides

Hydrolysed cartilage is an animal-derived ingredient sourced primarily from poultry or bovine connective tissue. It is included in pet food for its high collagen content, supporting joint health and mobility. Rather than being used in its raw form, cartilage undergoes hydrolysis—a process that breaks down proteins into smaller peptides—enhancing digestibility and bioavailability for optimal nutritional benefit.

Hydrolysed cartilage is included as a source of collagen and amino acids, supporting joint health claims and appealing to consumers seeking functional benefits for their pets. Its processed form also enhances digestibility and can be used to differentiate products in a competitive market.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Pentapotassium Triphosphate, STPP, E451(i), Triphosphoric Acid Pentasodium Salt

Sodium tripolyphosphate is a synthetic compound derived from inorganic sources, commonly used in pet food formulations. Its primary function is to act as a preservative and to help maintain the texture and moisture of products. Sodium tripolyphosphate is not used in its natural mineral form; instead, it is utilised as a processed salt to ensure safety, stability, and optimal absorption.

Sodium tripolyphosphate is included as a functional additive to improve product texture and moisture retention, helping maintain palatability and appearance. It also acts as a preservative to extend shelf life and inhibit spoilage.

Antimicrobials, E Numbers, Food Additives, Chemical Preservatives

Preservatives are compounds added to pet food to inhibit the growth of spoilage microorganisms and extend shelf life. Originating from both synthetic and natural sources, their primary function is to maintain product safety and freshness. Preservatives are not used in their raw or elemental state; instead, they are incorporated as specific compounds, such as mixed tocopherols or potassium sorbate, to optimise efficacy and safety for pets.

Preservatives are included to extend the product’s shelf life by inhibiting the growth of spoilage organisms and maintaining freshness during storage and distribution. Their use helps ensure product safety and stability, reducing waste and optimising inventory management.

Antioxidant Agents, Free Radical Scavengers, E306, E321

Antioxidants are compounds sourced from both plant and synthetic origins, commonly added to pet food to protect fats and oils from oxidation, thereby preserving freshness and nutritional quality. Their primary function is to neutralise free radicals, supporting cellular health. Antioxidants are not used in their raw or isolated chemical state; instead, specific forms such as mixed tocopherols or ascorbate compounds are utilised for safety and efficacy.

Antioxidants are included to prevent the oxidation of fats and oils, thereby extending the product’s shelf life and maintaining nutritional quality. They also help preserve colour and flavour, supporting product stability and consumer appeal.