14/08/2024
Hi everyone! We just wanted to share some important information about dog food after doing some research. We decided to switch to one of the following brands for our dog’s food. These options stood out due to their natural ingredients and the absence of artificial preservatives like BHA and BHT, which is important for minimizing potential health risks.
Here’s the research behind our decision:
• Artificial Preservatives: BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole) and BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) are synthetic antioxidants used to prevent fats and oils in pet foods from going rancid. They have been controversial due to potential health risks, including links to cancer.
Some high-quality pet food brands avoid these additives. Nature’s Logic, Acana, Orijen, and Merrick are known for NOT using BHA or BHT. However, it’s always good to check the most current ingredient lists as formulations can change.
• Fillers and By-Products: High-quality brands generally avoid fillers and animal by-products, which are often associated with lower-quality diets and potential health issues over time. The brands we’ve considered focus on high-quality, natural ingredients.
• High-Quality Ingredients: Brands that emphasize natural, whole foods and avoid artificial additives are generally considered better for overall health. This approach is associated with reduced long-term health risks.
• Cancer Risk: While avoiding certain additives like BHA and BHT can reduce potential risks, no dog food can completely eliminate the risk of cancer or other health issues. A balanced diet, regular vet check-ups, and an overall healthy lifestyle contribute significantly to a dog’s long-term health.
Here’s a closer look at each brand:
1. Nature’s Logic:
• Cancer Risk: Very low risk due to its use of whole foods and avoidance of synthetic chemicals.
• Other Health Concerns: Generally considered very safe, with a focus on high-quality, natural ingredients.
2. Acana and Orijen:
• Cancer Risk: Low risk, as these brands focus on biologically appropriate diets with no artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors.
• Other Health Concerns: Some dogs with food sensitivities may need to be careful with high protein content, but these are high-quality foods overall.
3. Merrick:
• Cancer Risk: Low risk due to natural ingredients and the absence of BHA, BHT, and other artificial preservatives.
• Other Health Concerns: Merrick is generally well-regarded, though, like all foods, it’s important to ensure the specific formula matches your dog’s dietary needs.
