Ascorbic Acid in Pet Food

Grade B-1 ptsPreservatives

What It Is

"Vitamin C used as a natural antioxidant preservative."

Health Impact

Vitamin C form used for preservation. Beneficial as both a preservative and a nutrient. Dogs synthesize their own Vitamin C so it is not essential — but it is not harmful and does its job well. Score: 7/10.

Why This Grade

A minor caveat applies — usually a processing step (e.g. rendering into a meal), a moderate allergen history, or a named-but-fattier source — but nothing on our risk watchlist. -1 pt deducted.

Sources & Further Reading

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ascorbic Acid safe for dogs and cats?

Rated B (-1 pts) by PetPro-tectors™. Vitamin C form used for preservation. Beneficial as both a preservative and a nutrient. Dogs synthesize their own Vitamin C so it is not essential — but it is not harmful and does its job well. Score: 7/10.

What is Ascorbic Acid in pet food?

Vitamin C used as a natural antioxidant preservative.

Related Preservatives Ingredients

Mixed Tocopherols (Vitamin E)Rosemary ExtractGreen Tea ExtractCitric Acid
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Sources: FDA, AAFCO Official Publication, National Toxicology Program,
WSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines, Journal of Animal Science.

PetPro-tection League™