Natural Flavors in Pet Food

Grade C-2.5 ptsRead the Fine Print

What It Is

"Flavoring derived from a plant or animal source."

Health Impact

Technically natural, but the source is never disclosed. Often animal digest or rendered material used to make unpalatable food taste good. Not dangerous, but a sign of a food that needed help tasting like food.

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 Natural Flavors safe for dogs and cats?

Rated C (-2.5 pts) by PetPro-tectors™. Technically natural, but the source is never disclosed. Often animal digest or rendered material used to make unpalatable food taste good. Not dangerous, but a sign of a food that needed help tasting like food.

What is Natural Flavors in pet food?

Flavoring derived from a plant or animal source.

Related Read the Fine Print Ingredients

Human-GradeAsh Content
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Sources: FDA, AAFCO Official Publication, National Toxicology Program,
WSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines, Journal of Animal Science.

PetPro-tection League™