🟡 Malt Extract in Pet Food

Grade C-2.5 ptsSugars & Sweeteners

What It Is

"A concentrated syrup made by extracting sugars from sprouted (malted) barley."

Health Impact

Malting and extracting concentrates the natural sugars released when barley sprouts, producing a sweetener that's technically plant-derived but functions in the recipe exactly like any other added sugar — sweetness and palatability, no meaningful nutrition. Milder than straight sugar or corn syrup, but still empty calories. Score: 3/10.

Why This Grade

A real but unresolved concern: often an ongoing FDA/AAFCO research question (like the grain-free/DCM investigation), a common allergen, or a vague-but-not-alarming label claim. -2.5 pts deducted.

Sources & Further Reading

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Malt Extract safe for dogs and cats?

Rated C (-2.5 pts) by PetPro-tectors™. Malting and extracting concentrates the natural sugars released when barley sprouts, producing a sweetener that's technically plant-derived but functions in the recipe exactly like any other added sugar — sweetness and palatability, no meaningful nutrition. Milder than straight sugar or corn syrup, but still empty calories. Score: 3/10.

What is Malt Extract in pet food?

A concentrated syrup made by extracting sugars from sprouted (malted) barley.

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™