❌ High-Fructose Corn Syrup in Pet Food

Grade D-4 ptsSugars & Sweeteners

What It Is

"Corn syrup processed to increase fructose content."

Health Impact

Among the worst sugar additives in any food, pet or human. Higher fructose content drives worse metabolic outcomes than regular corn syrup. No acceptable use in pet food. Score: 0.5/10.

Why This Grade

A meaningful red flag: an unnamed source, heavy processing into a by-product or digest form, or documented regulatory scrutiny in at least one country. -4 pts deducted.

Sources & Further Reading

Frequently Asked Questions

Is High-Fructose Corn Syrup safe for dogs and cats?

Rated D (-4 pts) by PetPro-tectors™. Among the worst sugar additives in any food, pet or human. Higher fructose content drives worse metabolic outcomes than regular corn syrup. No acceptable use in pet food. Score: 0.5/10.

What is High-Fructose Corn Syrup in pet food?

Corn syrup processed to increase fructose content.

Related Sugars & Sweeteners Ingredients

Corn SyrupMolassesMaltodextrinSugar
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Sources: FDA, AAFCO Official Publication, National Toxicology Program,
WSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines, Journal of Animal Science.

PetPro-tection League™