PetHealth

Nutrients & ingredients that deliver Pets require up to 41 essential nutrients in every meal. Foods that provide these nutrients in the right amounts is known and labelled ‘complete and balanced’ and can be identified by on-pack certifications by the Association of American Feed Control Officials or the European Pet Food Industry Federation. These certification statements provide assurance the food has been formulated to deliver all the essential nutrients your pet needs in their daily diet. There should also be information on the packaging regarding the ingredients that provide any specific

Ever looked at the back of your pet’s

food packet to see if what’s inside is REALLY healthy? Read through the ingredients list and been even more confused? What exactly is metabolisable energy? And what on earth makes superfoods super? Pet Health went inside what’s in the packet with the qualified Ivory Coat team to talk ingredients, health claims and the meaning behind some of the more confusing words on pet food packaging.

Protein Pets can’t survive without protein. It’s made up of amino acids that are often referred to as the building blocks of life. The body uses these acids to break down food, grow and repair tissue, and perform other critical functions. Pets can’t store amino acids and therefore need a constant supply via protein. The quality of protein in their diets is far more important than quantity, so instead of looking for total protein percentages on pet food, it’s better to check which ingredients are supplying that protein. Look for high quality animal and vegetable protein sources.

In the Ivory Coat pack

Dehydrated Australian salmon (or salmon meal) and Australian salmon are the main source of protein. Ocean fish, lentils and peas provide additional protein, with the latter also helping the ingredients hold their shape.

health benefits being claimed.

Fat

Fats are a great energy source, delivering twice as much energy as protein and carbs. They also provide the essential fatty acids omega-3 and omega-6 that the body can’t make itself. Your pets need fat in their diets to support cell growth, protect organs and transport nutrients. Omega-3 supports growth, cognition and nervous system development in younger pets, and performs an anti-inflammatory function in adults that reduces itchiness and boosts skin health. It is found in canola oil and linseed (or flaxseed). Omega-6 is also great for the skin and helps pets maintain a shiny coat. Common

In the Ivory Coat pack

Beef fat and canola oil provide omega-6 fatty acids and flavour. Linseed is another source of both omega-3 and omega-6. These ingredients mean this food delivers skin and coat benefits for your pet.

sources are animal fats and vegetable oils like canola and sunflower oil.

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