Our pets rely on us to make the best choices for their well-being, including the treats we give them. However, not all dog treats are made with ingredients that prioritize health. Some additives commonly found in U.S. pet treats are linked to potential health risks and even banned in other countries. This guide will help you become a more informed buyer by identifying specific ingredients to watch out for. Avoiding these ingredients can support your pet's long-term health and help you feel confident in the treats you choose.
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Ethoxyquin
What it is: A preservative commonly used to extend shelf life in pet foods.
Why to Avoid It: Ethoxyquin has been linked to liver and kidney damage, and it may pose risks of carcinogenic effects. Some pets also show allergic reactions to this synthetic preservative. Ethoxyquin is banned in pet food products in the European Union due to these health concerns.
Tip for Buyers: Look for natural preservatives like Vitamin E (often labeled as “mixed tocopherols”), Vitamin C or Rosemary Extract. Choosing treats that are free from synthetic preservatives can reduce the risk of long-term health issues in your pet.
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Artificial Colors (e.g., Red 40, Yellow 5, Blue 2)
What they are: Synthetic dyes used to make treats look more appealing, typically for the pet owner’s benefit rather than the pet’s.
Why to Avoid Them: Artificial colors such as Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 2 have been linked to hyperactivity, allergies, and even potential carcinogenic effects. Though the research is primarily on human exposure, many pet owners prefer to avoid artificial dyes due to potential risks. These dyes are restricted or banned in several countries, including parts of the European Union and Canada.
Tip for Buyers: Choose treats with no colors or natural coloring from safe sources, like beet juice, turmeric, or carrot powder. These natural alternatives offer color without the associated health risks.
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BHA and BHT
What they are: Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) are synthetic preservatives used to prevent fats in food from spoiling.
Why to Avoid Them: Studies suggest that both BHA and BHT could be carcinogenic and are also linked to endocrine disruption. Despite these risks, they are still permitted in U.S. pet foods. However, the European Union and Japan have banned these additives due to potential health concerns.
Tip for Buyers: Check the label and avoid treats that list BHA or BHT. Look for alternatives that use natural preservatives like rosemary extract, which is both safe and effective.
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Propylene Glycol
What it is: A moisture-retaining agent used to keep treats soft and chewy.
Why to Avoid It: Propylene glycol is also used in antifreeze and has been associated with toxicity in cats. Although it is considered less harmful for dogs, it can still cause gastrointestinal issues and potentially affect the nervous system over time. The European Union has banned propylene glycol in pet food due to these health concerns.
Tip for Buyers: Look for treats that use vegetable glycerin instead of propylene glycol as a safer moisture-preserving ingredient. Vegetable glycerin provides similar texture benefits without the risks.
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Meat By-Products and Animal Fat
What they are: Generalized terms used to describe low-grade animal parts or fat, often left over from meat processing.
Why to Avoid Them: “Meat by-products” and “animal fat” can indicate the use of parts that are less nutritious and harder to trace back to a specific animal source. This can make the treat quality inconsistent and pose a risk of contamination or spoilage. Some countries require clearer labeling of meat sources to protect consumers.
Tip for Buyers: Look for treats with clearly labeled, high-quality protein sources, like “chicken” or “beef,” instead of vague terms. Or look for treats with high-quality, plant-based protein sources. This clarity ensures better nutritional value and can lower the risk of allergies or digestive issues.
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Sodium Tripolyphosphate (STPP)
What it is: A chemical preservative and texturizer often used to retain moisture in food products.
Why to Avoid It: Sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) has been linked to potential kidney and liver issues with long-term exposure. While it’s used to preserve texture, STPP is banned or restricted in the European Union for food products.
Tip for Buyers: Avoid treats that list STPP on the label. Natural moisture-retaining ingredients, like sweet potatoes or coconut oil, provide similar benefits without health risks.
The best way to protect your pet from questionable ingredients is to read labels carefully and opt for treats that use whole, recognizable ingredients. Here are some general tips to guide you in selecting healthier dog treats:
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Focus on Transparency: Choose treats from companies that clearly list all ingredients. Brands that prioritize transparency are typically more invested in your pet’s health and the quality of their products.
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Select Whole-Food Ingredients: Look for treats with ingredients like “chicken,” “sweet potato,” “carrot”, or "oats" rather than vague terms. Whole-food ingredients provide better nutrition and are less likely to contain harmful additives.
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Opt for Simple, Minimal Ingredients with essential vitamins and minerals: The fewer ingredients in a treat, the better. Look for treats with minimal ingredients and ones that contain additional nutrients, ideally ones you can recognize and pronounce. Simplicity often indicates higher quality.
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Watch for Additives and Fillers: Common fillers, like corn and wheat, may lack nutritional value and can cause allergies in some pets. Avoid treats with unnecessary fillers and focus on those with high-quality proteins, easily digestible plant proteins like oats, or vegetable sources.
Pet treats should bring joy to your furry friend’s life without compromising their health. By avoiding certain controversial ingredients, you can significantly reduce the risk of health issues and ensure your dog is enjoying safe, nutritious treats. As you browse the aisles, take a few extra seconds to read the label and avoid ingredients like ethoxyquin, artificial colors, BHA, BHT, and vague meat by-products. Instead, look for treats with transparent, whole-food ingredients and natural preservatives that align with the healthy lifestyle you want for your pet.
Remember, the best treats are those that nourish, not just reward. With a bit of label scrutiny and ingredient awareness, you can make informed choices that contribute to a long, happy life
