Navigating Pet Food Labels: Insights from Pet Nutritionist Penny van der Merwe

• What are the key elements pet owners should look for on pet food labels?
• Can you explain the significance of the ingredients list and how it impacts a pet’s nutrition?
• How do pet food claims (e.g., “grain-free,” “premium,” “natural”) affect the perception of quality, and what do they really mean?
• Are there any red flags or misleading terms that pet owners should be cautious of when reading labels?
• How can pet owners determine if a pet food product is appropriate for their pet’s specific dietary needs?
• What role do regulatory standards play in the labeling of pet food products?
• Can you share any tips for comparing different pet food brands and making informed choices based on label information?

In today’s market, choosing the right pet food can be a daunting task for pet owners. With a myriad of options and an abundance of marketing claims, understanding pet food labels is crucial to ensuring your furry friends receive the best nutrition possible. To help navigate this complex terrain, we sat down with Penny van der Merwe, a pet nutritionist from Woofable, to break down the key elements of pet food labels and what pet owners should look for.

What are the key elements pet owners should look for on pet food labels?

When it comes to pet food labels, there are several essential components that every pet owner should pay attention to. All registered pet food in South Africa should display an accreditation from the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association (PFMA) and a verification code (v-code) from the Department of Agriculture. These certifications ensure that the food is complete, balanced, and meets regulatory standards. Pet food labels must include a full description of the product, indicating the type of animal it is intended for and the appropriate age group. Additionally, the label should list all ingredients and provide a detailed nutritional analysis. This includes information about the levels of crude proteins, oils and fats, fibre, moisture, and ash content. It’s also important to check the best before date, batch code, and contact information for the producer or distributor. Feeding instructions and the weight or quantity of the product should also be clearly stated.

Can you explain the significance of the ingredients list and how it impacts a pet’s nutrition?

The ingredients list is one of the most critical aspects of a pet food label. Ingredients are listed in descending order by weight. The first ingredient listed is present in the highest quantity, which is often rice or cereals in dry foods or meat and animal derivatives in wet foods. As you move down the list, the quantities decrease, with additives and supplements appearing towards the end. The nutritional composition must include percentages of crude proteins, oils and fats, fibre, moisture (if above 14%), and ash. The term ‘crude’ refers to the method used to determine nutrient concentrations and does not reflect the quality of the nutrient. The nutritional requirements of a pet can vary based on factors like age, breed, and health condition, making it essential to understand these percentages.

How do pet food claims (e.g., “grain-free,” “premium,” “natural”) affect the perception of quality, and what do they really mean?

Pet food labels often feature marketing claims like ‘grain-free,’ ‘premium,’ and ‘natural,’ which can be misleading. Terms like ‘organic’ can be purchased as labels, and ‘animal derivatives’ can refer to any form of meat. While ‘grain-free’ foods may exclude wheat and corn, they often contain legumes, chickpeas, and soya, which can cause inflammation. ‘Natural’ is another term used loosely in marketing. Any processed food, despite its claims, cannot be entirely natural due to the additives and preservatives required for shelf stability. I advise pet owners to read labels carefully and be wary of such marketing terms, as they are designed to appeal to human preferences rather than reflecting the actual quality of the pet food.

Are there any red flags or misleading terms that pet owners should be cautious of when reading labels?

There are several red flags to watch out for on pet food labels. Claims of ‘fresh’ ingredients in dried dog food are misleading. Marketing images showing fresh meat can give a false impression of the food’s quality. For example, a bag might display a juicy roast beef, yet the actual animal protein content might be as low as 5%. Terms like ‘rich in chicken’ or ‘with turkey’ can also be deceptive. For instance, ‘bacon flavour’ means no actual bacon is present, while ‘flavoured with bacon’ indicates less than 4% bacon. It’s essential to scrutinize these terms to avoid falling for misleading marketing tactics.

How can pet owners determine if a pet food product is appropriate for their pet’s specific dietary needs?

Selecting the appropriate pet food for your pet’s dietary needs often requires consulting with a veterinarian or an animal nutritionist. Different pets have different nutritional needs based on factors like age, health, and metabolism. For example, puppy food is formulated with higher protein levels for growth, while senior dog food contains more fibre and less protein to cater to older dogs’ needs. Feeding the right type of food for your pet’s life stage is crucial for their health and well-being.

What role do regulatory standards play in the labeling of pet food products?

Regulatory standards play a significant role in pet food labeling. In South Africa, the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) and the Department of Agriculture enforce strict regulations to ensure pet food is safe and nutritious. These standards require detailed nutritional analysis and ingredient lists on pet food labels, allowing consumers to make informed decisions. In case of food recalls, these regulations ensure that pet owners receive timely assistance and that companies are held accountable.

Can you share any tips for comparing different pet food brands and making informed choices based on label information?

Here’s a useful tip for comparing pet food brands: calculate the carbohydrate content. Pet food labels often omit carbohydrate percentages, so you need to do some basic math. Add the percentages of protein, fat, moisture, and ash, then subtract this sum from 100 to determine the carbohydrate content. This method helps you understand the true nutritional composition of the food. Additionally, check for the presence of essential nutrients like taurine, glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are vital for your pet’s health.