4D Animals (Dead, Dying, Diseased, Disabled) in Pet Food

Grade F-5 ptsThe Dark Side of the Industry

What It Is

"AAFCO permits the use of 4D animal material in pet food rendering under certain conditions."

Health Impact

Animals that are dead on arrival, dying before slaughter, visibly diseased, or too disabled to walk are called "4D animals." In human food, they are rejected. They are legal in pet food rendering under AAFCO rules. The rendering process destroys most pathogens — but it does not destroy heavy metals, certain hormones, or all drug residues (see: pentobarbital).

Why This Grade

Our most serious tier: a documented carcinogen finding, an outright ban in at least one country or species, or an unspecified source that can legally include 4D (dead, dying, diseased, disabled) animals. -5 pts deducted.

Sources & Further Reading

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 4D Animals (Dead, Dying, Diseased, Disabled) safe for dogs and cats?

Rated F (-5 pts) by PetPro-tectors™. Animals that are dead on arrival, dying before slaughter, visibly diseased, or too disabled to walk are called "4D animals." In human food, they are rejected. They are legal in pet food rendering under AAFCO rules. The rendering process destroys most pathogens — but it does not destroy heavy metals, certain hormones, or all drug residues (see: pentobarbital).

What is 4D Animals (Dead, Dying, Diseased, Disabled) in pet food?

AAFCO permits the use of 4D animal material in pet food rendering under certain conditions.

Related The Dark Side of the Industry Ingredients

Pentobarbital in Pet FoodRendered Shelter AnimalsRoadkill and Restaurant Grease
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Sources: FDA, AAFCO Official Publication, National Toxicology Program,
WSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines, Journal of Animal Science.

PetPro-tection League™