Subscribe To This Site
Deciphering Dog Food Labels - Part II
|
| AAFCO Label Rules Required information for dog food labels. |
|---|
| Product Name |
| List of Ingredients |
| Guaranteed Analysis |
| Nutritional Adequacy Statement |
| Dog Feeding Guidelines |
| Net Quantity Statement |
| Manufacturer's Name and Address |
It is normally found on the back of the packaging.
Click here to read more about AAFCO and the other organizations who regulate dog food.
Guaranteed Analysis
According to AAFCO rules, the guaranteed analysis must consist of the following:- Minimum Percentage of Protein
- Minimum Percentage of Fat
- Maximum Percentage of Fiber
- Maximum Percentage of Moisture
How to Compare Dry Dog Food with Canned Dog Food
There is a huge difference in moisture content between dry dog food and canned. Canned dog food averages 75% water, whereas dry dog food averages about 10%.
The formula is quite simple, really ... Grab your calculators and follow along with our example.
Divided by Percentage of Dry Matter
Multiplied by 100
Assuming a can of dog food contains:
- 9% protein
- 4% fat
- 1% fiber
- 81% moisture
At first glance, 9% protein looks on the very low side compared to dry dog food. Now watch this number after we convert it.
1. Calculate the dry matter of the canned food by deducting the moisture
percentage (81%) from 100. i.e. 100 - 81 = 19%.
2. Now, using this dry matter figure of 19%, apply the formula to each of
the components, as follows:
Protein: 9 divided by 19 x 100 = 47.4%
Fat: 4 divided by 19 x 100 = 21%
Fiber: 1 divided by 19 x 100 = 5.3%
Notice the protein percentage now. You will find in many cases, canned dog food values tend to exceed that of dry dog food.
If you're weighing up the pros and cons of Canned Dog Food Versus Dry Dog Food, we also recommend you read our eye-opening articles on:
Dog Food Storage - What you need to know Before You BUY dog food, and
Risks of Pet Food Containers - What you need to know Before You OPEN dog food.
CONTINUE to Dog Food Labels - Part III
BACK to Dog Food Labels Introduction
BACK to Dog Food Scoop Home
