Deciphering the Babble

The Deciphering the Babble series, takes a look at the most common ingredients found on the commercial pet food bags, cans and other container labels that we all struggle not only pronouncing but knowing what the heck its even doing in there. The following takes a look at these ingredients, what their purpose is and if they are an artificial or natural product. In addition it takes a look at possible health risks of these ingredients and what whole food, natural and raw options there are for providing them.

The project has taken almost a year to complete. Although there seems to be similar databases out there, we have not found one that is as extensive or as inclusive as The Nutrition Code’s. We have examined almost all the major and sub major pet food brands out there including dry, wet/canned, freeze dried and raw products. If you do not see an ingredient please contact us so we can add it!

Anything labelled in green indicates a natural product. Anything labelled in red is an artificial or synthetic product.

Agar-Agar-made from seaweed as a thickener. itchiness. not need in the diet

Amino Acid Complexes (Cobalt, Copper, Manganese etc.)-the result from from complexing a soluble metal salt with a specific amino acid. available in all meats, bone and organs

Animal Digest-a slurry broth of indeterminate parts of indeterminate animals including but not limited to goats, pigs, sheep, rats and horse that could have been dead, diseased, disabled or dying possible from restaurants, shelters, supermarkets or road kill. Mostly likely from 4 D animals. Defined species and healthy animal meats and animal organs

Apple Pectin-a highly soluble fiber that cannot be digested by cats. in combination with guar gum can diarrhea, gas, and loose stools. not needed in the diet

Ascorbic Acid-a synthetic version of Vitamin C it is a natural preservative essential for collagen formations and immune support. in excess: intestinal irritation, kidney calculi. liver, kidney, heart, fish.

Bacillus coagulant fermentation product-a probiotic that aids in digestion not needed in the diet

Beef Pizzle-Bull penis. very fatty. beef

Beef Tripe-first or second stomach of a cow or other ruminant used for it's digestive enzyme content. cow, lamb

Beta Carotene-Source of Vitamin A. In excess, death, risk of cancers. chicken, pork, egg, fish, liver, kidney, brain

Betaine Anhydrous-vitamin derived from choline. nausea, stomach upset, and diarrhea also available as a prescription drug meanting it contains active chemicals. Should not be used in animlas with kidney disease. turkey, veal, beef

Betaine Hydrochloride-vitamin like substance found in grains as well as other food to increase hydrochloric acid in the stomach. can irritate stomach ulcers and prevent them from healing. turkey, veal, beef

Betaine-an ammonium salt used to replace some or all choline chloride. nausea, stomach upset, and diarrhea also available as a prescription drug meanting it contains active chemicals. Should not be used in animals with kidney disease. turkey, veal, beef, fish, lamb

BHA-an artificial preservative also known as butylated hydroxyanisole which was identified as cancer causing by the National Institute of health and banned in many countries artificial cancer, interferes with hormone function, bioaccumulation. not needed in the diet

Bifidobacterium Lactis-a type of probiotic found in the intestines. not needed in the diet, procuded naturally in the body

Bilberry Powder-a fruit that originally was used for treating/preveting diarrhea, eye problems, poor circulation and cancer. may lower blood sugar.not needed in the diet

Biotin-a B complex that aids in producing fatty acids and glucose. eggs, liver

Blueberry Pomace-the dry or pulpy residue of material resulting after the blueberry has been pressed or extracted. may contain pesticides from being sprayed the skin. not needed in the diet

Bone Meal-bone that is cooked and ground down into a powder as a bone replacement and calcium substitute. may contain contaminants like heavy metals. bone of animal animal

Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA)-an artifical preservative also known as butylated hydroxyanisole which was identified as cancer causing by the National Institute of health and banned in many countries. cancer, interferes with hormone function, bioaccumulation. not needed in the diet

Butylated Hydroxytoluence (BHT)-preservative used to prevent oxidation and rancidicty of fats. lower doses produced increased liver weight, and decreased activity of several hepatic enzymes. In addition to liver and kidney effects, BHT applied to the skin was associated with toxic effects in lung tissue.not needed in the diet

Butyrate-food for the cells of the lining of the colon. not needed in the diet

Calcium Carbonate-a cheap source of calcium needed for bone structure, blood clotting and helps conduct nerve signals. It also is used as a preservative and for color retention. in excess other vitamin deficiencies, hip dysplasia, abrasive in toothpaste. salmon, tuna, trout, sardines

Calcium Citrate-found in calcium supplements, also used for preservation and flavor. nausea, vomiting, decreased apeitie, constipation, increased thirst, increased urination. salmon, tuna, trout, sardines

Calcium Iodate Anhydrous-source of iodine. according to MSDS hazardous if ingestedcod, tuna, turkey breast, eggs

Calcium Iodate-a combination of calcium needed for bone growth and iodine needed for thyriod function which regulates growth and development. according to MSDS hazardous if ingested. canned fishes, egg, cod, turkey

Calcium Lactate-oral health components, source of calcium. nausea, vomitting, decreased appetite, constipation, dry mouth and increase thirst, increased urination. canned fishes, egg, cod, turkey

Calcium Pantothenate-an artifically created version of Vitamin B5 needed for hormone and energy production as well as other biological processes. can cause stomach upset/irritation, diahrrea, nausea. egg yolks, fish, liver,kidney

Calcium Phosphate-a combination of calcium and phosophorus used as an anti caking as well as a source of calcium. allergic reaction, stomach upset, increased thirst and urination, lethargy aches and pain

Calcium Propionate-a chemical preservative. can irritate stomach ulcers and prevent them from healing. not needed in the diet

Carob Powder-chocolate alternative, sweetener, source of fiber and several nutrients. not needed in the diet

Carrageen-a thickening agent from seaweed. gastrointestinal problems, intestinal lesions, ulcers and cancer. not needed in the diet.

Carrot Pomace-the dry or pulpy residue of material resulting after the carrot has been pressed or extracted. may contain pesticides found on the skin of fruit/vegetable. not needed in the diet

Cassia Gum-thickening and gelling agent. reproductive concerns, absorbs moisture in the digestive tract, is a sugar, decrease is apetite and digestive processes. not need in the diet

Celery Pomace-the dry or pulpy residue of material resulting after the celery has been pressed or extracted. may contain pesticides found on the skin of fruit/vegetable.not needed in the diet

Cellulose Gum-thickening agent from plant cell walls. loose bowel movements. not need in the diet

Cellulose-a structural component of most plants typically used in weight management, diabetes and hair ball control diets, anti caking agent. not needed in the diet

Chelated Minerals-are minerals that are chemically combined with amino acids making mineral absorption easier. available in all meats, bone and organs

Chia Seed-edible seed containing omega-3 fatty acids, carbohydrates, protein, fiber, antioxidants, and calcium. constipation and hard stools, diarrhea, bloating and excessive intestinal gas. not needed in the diet

Chicory Inulin-an commerically created alternative sweetener considered a prebiotic and energy source for colon cells. weight loss, drug interactions with some cardiac medications. not needed in the diet

Chicory Pulp-a fungicide. not need in the diet

Cholecalciferol-Vitamin D3. elevations in phosphorus and calcium, tissue hardening in kidneys, intestines and heart. liver, salmon, mackerel, egg yolks, beef

Choline Bitartrate-form of choline a vitamin B family nutrient. can cause stomach upset incluidng pain, diarrhea and vomiting. shrimp, eggs, chicken, turkey, tuna, cod, salmon, beef

Choline Chloride 60-is a powder of Choline Chloride exclusively for pet food. is excess sweating, a fishy body odor, gastrointestinal distress, diarrhea, and vomiting. eggs, liver

Choline Chloride- source of choline which is essential for the fat layers in cell membranes, components of specfici neurotransmitters and fat utilization. shrimp, eggs, chicken, turkey, tuna, cod, salmon, beef

Chondroitin Sulfate-aid in joint protection and cartilage production. animal cartilage

Citric Acid-natural preservative and antioxidant can cause abdominal pain, attacks metal, tooth erosion. not needed in the diet

Citrus Fiber-orange pulp and peel, source of fiber. diarrhea, gas, and loose stools. not needed in the diet

Cobalt Amino Acid Chelate-are minerals that are chemically combined with amino acids making mineral absorption easier. fish, poultry, red meat, eggs

Cobalt Amino Acid Complex-the result from from complexing a soluble metal salt with a specific amino acid meat, liver, kidneys, oysters, mussels, fish

Cobalt Carbonate-source of cobalt. skin irritation. fish, poultry, red meat, eggs

Cobalt Glucoheptonate-source of cobalt. fish, poultry, red meat, eggs

Cobalt Proteinate-result of colbalt combined with amino acids, source of cobalt. fish, poultry, red meat, eggs

Copper Amino Acid Chelate-are minerals that are chemically combined with amino acids making mineral absorption easier stomach pain, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, difficulty concentrating, unexplained sleepiness, mood swings, dizziness, and muscle aches. May cause zinc levels to become unbalanced. Can cause fluctuations in blood sugar level in diabetics. shellfish, organ meats (liver and kidney), veal, beef

Copper Amino Acid Complex-a source of copper where a metal ion is combined with an amino acid. stomach pain, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, difficulty concentrating, unexplained sleepiness, mood swings, dizziness, and muscle aches. May cause zinc levels to become unbalanced. Can cause fluctuations in blood sugar level in diabetics. shellfish, organ meats (liver and kidney), veal, beef

Copper Glycine Complex-complex of copper with the essential amino acid glycine. stomach pain, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, difficulty concentrating, unexplained sleepiness, mood swings, dizziness, and muscle aches. May cause zinc levels to become unbalanced. Can cause fluctuations in blood sugar level in diabetics. shellfish, organ meats (liver and kidney), veal, beef

Copper Lysine Complex-complex of copper with the essential amino acid lysine. shellfish, organ meats (liver and kidney), veal, beef

Copper Polysaccharide Complex-a complex made of a soluble salt with a polysaccharide solution meat, liver, kidneys, oysters, mussels, fish

Copper Proteinate-are minerals that are chemically combined with amino acids making mineral absorption easier. shellfish, organ meats (liver and kidney), veal, beef

Copper Sulfate Pentahydrate-sulfate salt of copper, source of copper. According to the CDC abdominal pain Nausea. Vomiting. Diarrhoea. Shock or collapse, kidney, hemolytic anemia, kidney damage liver damage. organ meats (liver, kidney)

Copper Sulfate-a synthetic source of copper which is essential for enzyme formation, blood cell creation, color/pigmentation, nervous seem function. According to the CDC abdominal pain Nausea. Vomiting. Diarrhoea. Shock or collapse, kidney, hemolytic anemia, kidney damage liver damage. organ meats (liver, kidney)

Cranberry Fiber-fibrous pulp of the cranberry that. includes flesh and skin not needed in the diet

Cranberry Meal-cranberries in which the moisture has been removed and is ground into a fine powder. Usually thought to aid the urinary tract. diahrrea, digestive upset, kidney stones, inflammation of the stomach lining. not need in the diet

cultured wheya source of copper. According to the CDC abdominal pain Nausea. Vomiting. Diarrhoea. Shock or collapse, kidney, hemolytic anemia, kidney damage liver damage. shellfish, organ meats (liver and kidney), veal, beef

Cupric Sulphate Pentahydrate-a source of copper. increased bowel movements, nausea, thirst, bloating, cramps, reduced appetite, tiredness. shellfish, organ meats (liver and kidney), veal, beef

Cyanocobalamin-form of B-12. cautionf or those with blood and heart disorders, history of cancer, gastro problems. liver, fish, red meats, eggs, chicken

Cysteine-an amino acid. stomach pain and diarrhea. beef, lamb, chicken, turkey, pork, fish,eggs

d-a-tocopheryl Acetate- vitamin E. stomach irritation, appetite loss, nausea, diarrhea. egg yolks, fish, liver, kidney

D-Activated Animal Sterol- a synthetic version of Vitamin D which is the end product that normally occurs when animals go outside in the sun made by UV radiation treatments. fatty fish, liver, egg yolk

d-alpha tocopherol-source of vitamin E and used to preserve fat. in excess decreased blood clotting. Do not give if heart disease or diabetes, may increase chances of stroke. liver, brain, kidney, fish, egg, bison

D-Calcium Pantothenate-see Calcium Pantothenate. stomach irritation, appetite loss, nausea, diarrhea. egg yolks, fish, liver,kidney

d-pantothenic acid-vitamins B5. gastrointestinal issues. egg yolks, fish, liver, kidney

Dandelion-steams, leaves and flowers, inexpensive source of essential vitamins A, C, K, D, and B complex also a source of minerals such as iron, manganese, and potassium. Can cause stomach discomfort and allergic reactions. not needed in the diet

Deflourinated Tricalcium Phosphate-source of phosphorus and calcium. nausea, vomitting, decreased appetite, constipation, dry mouth and increase thirst, increased urination

Dextrose-source of vitamin E and used to preserve fat. do not us on diabetics, increases blood sugar (hyperglycemia), increases fat storeage, hypoglycemia. liver, brain, kidney, fish, egg, bison

Dicalcium Phosphate- an ingredient that adds texture to pet foods. According to the NIH nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, constipation, stomach pain, thirst, dry mouth and increased urination. Can increase symptoms of diarrhea, parathyroid disease, lung disease, kidney stones or other stomach-related problems. not needed in the diet

DL-alpha tocopherol acetate-cheaper synthetic vitamin E. Vitamin E is required as antioxidant, immune system booster, aid in red blood cell formation and help the body utilize vitamin k. in excess decreased blood clotting. Do not give if heart disease or diabetes, may increase chances of stroke. liver, brain, kidney, fish, egg, bison

DL-methionine-synthetic version of methionine which is important for skin and coat, as well as heart and eye health. It is also a precursor to important amino acids. Vomitting, diahrrea, loss of appetite, Heinz body anemia in cats. Should not be given to animals with liver, pancreatic or kidney disease, or those with urate kidney or bladder stones. fish, tukey, pork, lamb, beed, shellfish, eggs

Dried _____ fermentation extract-a fungus (named in the ingredient blank), fermented to produce an enzyme aiding in digestion and is considered a probiotic supplement. not needed in the diet

Dried Aspergillus Niger Fermentation Extract-an enzyme resulting from extracting and precipitating the water-soluble materials from a fermentation process, digestive aid. not needed in the diet

Dried Aspergillus Oryzae Fermentation Product-an enzyme resulting from extracting and precipitating the water-soluble materials from a fermentation process, digestive aid. not needed in the diet

Dried Bacillus Coagulans Fermentation product-direct-fed microorganism (probiotic) that enhances digestive health. not needed in the diet

Dried Bacillus Licheniformis Fermentation Product-an enzyme resulting from extracting and precipitating the water-soluble materials from a fermentation process, digestive aid. not needed in the diet.

Dried Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Extract-an enzyme resulting from extracting and precipitating the water-soluble materials from a fermentation process, digestive aid. not needed in the diet

Dried Bifidobacterium Longum Fermentation Product-an enzyme resulting from extracting and precipitating the water-soluble materials from a fermentation process, digestive aid. not needed in the diet

Dried Bifidobacterium Thermophilum Fermentation Product-an enzyme resulting from extracting and precipitating the water-soluble materials from a fermentation process, digestive aid. not needed in the diet

Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product-an enzyme resulting from extracting and precipitating the water-soluble materials from a fermentation process, digestive aid.not needed in the diet

Dried Ground Fenugreek-a seed common in indian food it aids in digestion, skin and coat ingreity. It is also a flavor enhancer and source of several vitamins and minerals. safe in medicinl amounts up to 6 months Side effects can include diarrhea, stomach upset, bloating, gas, and a "maple syrup" odor in urine. Can cause nasal congestion, coughing, wheezing, facial swelling, and severe allergic reactions in some, may lower blood sugar. not needed in the diet

Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product-an enzyme resulting from extracting and precipitating the water-soluble materials from a fermentation process, digestive aid. not needed in the diet

Dried Lactobacillus Casei Fermentation Product-an enzyme resulting from extracting and precipitating the water-soluble materials from a fermentation process, digestive aid. not needed in the diet

Dried Lactobacillus Helveticus Fermentation product-an enzyme resulting from extracting and precipitating the water-soluble materials from a fermentation process, digestive aid. not needed in the diet

Dried Lactobacillus Lactis Fermentation Product-an enzyme resulting from extracting and precipitating the water-soluble materials from a fermentation process, digestive aid. not needed in the diet

Dried Lactobacillus Plantarum Fermentation Product-an enzyme resulting from extracting and precipitating the water-soluble materials from a fermentation process, digestive aid. not needed in the diet

Dried Pediococcus Acidilactici Fermentation Product-an enzyme resulting from extracting and precipitating the water-soluble materials from a fermentation process, digestive aid. not needed in the diet

Dried Trichoderma Longibrachiatum Fermentation Extract-an enzyme resulting from extracting and precipitating the water-soluble materials from a fermentation process, digestive aid. not needed in the diet

Dried Trichoderma ReeseI-an enzyme resulting from extracting and precipitating the water-soluble materials from a fermentation process, digestive aid. not needed in the diet.

Dried Whey Protein Concentrate-a dry diary product contain 25% or more protein. increased bowel movements, nausea, thirst, bloating, cramps, reduced appetite, tiredness (fatigue). not needed in the diet

Dulse-red edible seaweed high in iodine as well as calcium, magnesium, potatssim, iron, manganese, zinc and many vitamins. avoid with hyperthyroidism. not needed in the diet

Durum Semolina -a type of wheat. contains gluten,abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea or constipation, as well as joint pain. not needed in the diet

Enterococcus faecium fermentation product-an enzyme resulting from extracting and precipitating the water-soluble materials from a fermentation process, digestive aid. not needed in the diet

Ergocalciferol-vitamin D2. nausea/vomiting, constipation, loss of appetite, increased thirst, increased urination, mental/mood changes, unusual tiredness. liver, salmon, mackerel, egg yolks, beef

Erythorbic Acid-form of ascorbic acid. diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, headache, chest tightness and loss of breath.liver, kidney, heart, fish

Ethylenediamine Dihydriodide- iodine supplement. stomach upset, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, skin rash and salivary gland swelling, numbness, pain or weakness in hands or feet, unusual fatigue, weakness or heaviness of legs, fever, and edema of neck or throat. Thyroid adenoma. fish, poultry, egg

Fenugreek-a seed common in indian food it aids in digestion, skin and coat ingreity. It is also a flavor enhancer and source of several vitamins and minerals. safe in medicinl amounts up to 6 months Side effects can include diarrhea, stomach upset, bloating, gas, and a "maple syrup" odor in urine. Can cause nasal congestion, coughing, wheezing, facial swelling, and severe allergic reactions in some, may lower blood sugar. not needed in the diet

Fermented Decaffeinated Green Tea-fermenting sweet tea with a culture of yeast and bacteria. can cause stomach upset and constipation, can reduce absorption of iron, may make anemia worse, may increase anxiety, increase risk of bleeding, may affect blood sugar, increase pressure in the eyes, increase the amount of calcium flushed form the body and in rare cases liver problems. fish, poultry, egg

Ferrous Glycine Complex-source of iron. chicken, fish, beef, lamb