The family method combines elements of both formulation and feeding trials to substantiate nutritional adequacy claims for pet food products. This approach allows a product to be classified within a “product family” if it is...
In the United States, pet food labels are required to provide a nutritional adequacy statement, indicating that the product meets established nutritional standards for pets. Since 1984, regulations mandate that any pet food labeled as...
In pet nutrition, distinguishing between a “nutritional requirement” and a “nutritional recommendation” is essential for developing balanced and health-supportive diets. These terms, while related, serve different functions in formulating pet foods that meet physiological needs...
Semi-moist pet foods, while occupying a smaller market share compared to dry and canned foods, offer a convenient and palatable option for pet owners. These foods strike a balance between high moisture content and shelf...
The glycemic index (GI) of a food can vary widely depending on its variety, origin, and stage of ripeness. Even foods that seem similar can have dramatically different GI values due to these factors.
How...
Blood sugar levels can be measured using samples from different types of blood and methods. Blood can be collected from veins, arteries, or capillaries, and glucose levels can be measured in whole blood or in...
While the glycemic index (GI) is a widely used tool for ranking foods based on their effect on blood sugar, it has several limitations that make it less practical in certain real-world scenarios. Understanding these...
One of the major criticisms of the glycemic index (GI) is that it doesn’t account for how the addition of other macronutrients, like protein and fat, impacts blood sugar responses. GI was originally designed to...
Bifidobacterium, a Gram-positive, often branched anaerobic bacteria, has been widely utilized in the food industry for its gut health benefits. This genus includes various strains, such as Bifidobacterium breve and Bifidobacterium animalis, which have proven...
Beyond the primary nutrients, pet foods often contain ingredients aimed at enhancing palatability, aroma, and appearance. In the example ingredient list, the remaining ingredients—animal digest, garlic oil, and coloring agents (Red 40 and Yellow 5)—each...