Study Finds Plant-Based Dog Foods Meet Most Nutritional Needs

Quick Summary

• Study Findings: Research conducted by a team from the University of Nottingham shows that plant-based dog foods can meet protein adn fat requirements but lack iodine and B vitamins. These nutrients are essential for dogs’ health.
• Commercial Testing: Analyses of 25 commercial dry dog foods (19 meat-based,6 plant-based) revealed no food met all official nutritional guidelines,despite being labeled as nutritionally complete.
• Supplementation Insights:

– Iodine deficiency in most dog foods could be addressed with seaweed supplementation.
– Plant-based options showed especially low levels of vitamin B, which is crucial for skin, nerves, and digestion in dogs.

• Environmental Impact Consideration: Researchers suggested that well-balanced plant-based diets could lower environmental impacts associated with meat production while providing adequate nutrition to pet dogs.
• expert Commentary:

– Andrew Knight emphasized oversights across all types of dog food manufacturing globally and called for improved labeling integrity.
– Lucia Casini advised against home-prepared plant-based meals for pets due to risks of nutrient gaps.

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