Sorbitol in Pet Food

Grade D-4 ptsSugars & Sweeteners

What It Is

"Sugar alcohol used as a sweetener and humectant."

Health Impact

Sugar alcohol that causes gastrointestinal distress in pets — gas, bloating, and diarrhea. Not acutely toxic at low levels but there is no reason to include it in pet food. Score: 1/10.

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 Sorbitol safe for dogs and cats?

Rated D (-4 pts) by PetPro-tectors™. Sugar alcohol that causes gastrointestinal distress in pets — gas, bloating, and diarrhea. Not acutely toxic at low levels but there is no reason to include it in pet food. Score: 1/10.

What is Sorbitol in pet food?

Sugar alcohol used as a sweetener and humectant.

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™