Almost like judging a book by its cover, except completely different
With all of the focus and fuss on health, nutrition, and dietary concerns for both dogs and their humans, we have all become far more aware of what we’re doing before making a food purchase.
Whether we’re buying a snack or a dog treat, a roast or a bag of organic dog biscuits, it is in our best interest to read the label. However, there are times when we are confused since not all of the words are used in their strictest sense and often the definitions are blurred deliberately to steer us in the direction of a purchase. Not always intentionally misleading, the terms used for labeling in pet foods and treats are not always clear to us, as consumers nor are they even crystal clear to those in the industry!
The terms "organic" "all natural" and "human grade" are but a few of the altest catch phrases appearing on pet food packages. What do these words really mean and who makes sure that the claims are substantiated?
The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) is the governing agency in the pet food world. This private organization is composed of government officials from different state and organizations including the Food and Drug Administration. After the massaive pet food recall of 2007, Congress called for the FDA to create its own pet food regulations and set standards for nutrition, labeling and ingredients.
In the meanwhile, here are a few common label terms:
Natural: Products with no syntehtic ingredients according to the AAFCO. Many pet foods that contain mostly all natural ingredients also include synthetic vitamins and minerals to meet the AAFCO requirements and include the disclaimer "natural ingredients with added vitamins and minerals."
Organic: Products that contain 95% or more organic ingredients can be labeled "USDA Organic". Such claims are regulated by the Department of Agriculture and are with respect to processes and not to nutrients or to safety.
Human Grade: Debate swirls around how to define this term and whether or not it misleads people into thinking the food is suitable for human consumption. The AAFCO has not released any specifics or official definition.
