Many people have misconceptions about pet food. These misconceptions may stem from fads in human nutrition or past events. However, most pet food myths aren’t actually myths, just based on past events. A veterinarian, Dr. Donna M. Raditic, fields questions about specific ingredients, byproducts, pet food processing, and toxins in pet food. Let’s take a look at some of these topics and learn more about pet nutrition.
Misinformation about pet food
There is a lot of misinformation about pet food floating around the internet. According to Debbie Phillips-Donaldson, a pet nutrition expert, some pet food labels and online forums may not be accurate. While some of the sites are legitimate, others are just plain wacky. Pet food manufacturers have a responsibility to provide balanced and nutritious food for their animals. However, some pet foods lack important nutrients and cannot be fed to pets.
Contaminants in pet food
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) hasn’t yet set specific limits for heavy metals in pet food. The agency has done a decent job, though, of addressing bacteria, microorganisms, antibiotic residues, and acrylamides. However, the agency hasn’t done a good job on the toxicity of other chemicals, including BPA, lead, and cadmium.
Myths about grain-free pet food
A number of myths surround grain-free pet food. Although this type of diet is gaining popularity, there is still some controversy over whether it’s actually better for your dog. According to Fiona A. Picton, a dog nutritionist, grains are necessary for your pet’s health. While grains are a good source of energy, they are not the only important ingredient. Grain-free foods should contain the right amount of protein, fiber, and carbohydrates.
Impact of over-regulation of pet food on pets’ health
Over-regulation of pet food negatively impacts the health of pets. In order to ensure that pet foods are safe for consumption, the FDA has imposed many restrictions on the ingredients they can use in their products. These regulations also limit the availability of healthy ingredients. However, some companies still use artificial coloring, preservatives, and fillers, and many do not meet the minimum nutritional requirements set by the FDA.
Healthy alternatives to commercial pet food
There are many healthy alternatives to commercially prepared pet foods available. Many of these foods can be prepared at home, and they are less expensive. However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind. First, you should not feed your pet foods that contain a high percentage of processed carbohydrates. These foods could cause digestive problems in cats and dogs. Another consideration is the amount of protein in the food. A healthy alternative to commercial pet food is one that is high in protein and contains fresh ingredients.
