☠️ Propylene Glycol in Pet Food

Grade F-5 ptsCancer Agents

What It Is

"Humectant that maintains moisture in semi-moist foods."

Health Impact

The FDA banned propylene glycol in cat food in 1996 after it was linked to Heinz body anemia (a blood disorder) in cats. Still legal in dog food. A cousin of ethylene glycol (antifreeze). No reason to include it in pet food when safer alternatives exist.

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 Propylene Glycol safe for dogs and cats?

Rated F (-5 pts) by PetPro-tectors™. The FDA banned propylene glycol in cat food in 1996 after it was linked to Heinz body anemia (a blood disorder) in cats. Still legal in dog food. A cousin of ethylene glycol (antifreeze). No reason to include it in pet food when safer alternatives exist.

What is Propylene Glycol in pet food?

Humectant that maintains moisture in semi-moist foods.

Related Cancer Agents Ingredients

Caramel ColorRed 40 / Yellow 5 / Yellow 6 / Blue 2 (Artificial Colors)Artificial Smoke FlavorIron Oxide
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Sources: FDA, AAFCO Official Publication, National Toxicology Program,
WSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines, Journal of Animal Science.

PetPro-tection League™