Understanding Food Labels: For Your Dog and You

Navigating the world of food labels can be daunting, whether you are shopping for yourself or your pet. Understanding what goes into your food—and your dog’s food—can help you make healthier choices and ensure that you and your furry friend are getting the best nutrition possible. Here’s a comprehensive guide to deciphering food labels for both human and pet foods.

 

Understanding Human Food Labels

1. Ingredients List

• Order of Ingredients: Ingredients are listed in descending order by weight. The first few ingredients make up the majority of the product.
• Recognizing Additives: Look for natural ingredients and be wary of artificial additives, preservatives, and sweeteners. Common additives like high fructose corn syrup, artificial colors, and hydrogenated oils should be minimized.

2. Nutrition Facts Panel

• Serving Size: Always check the serving size first. All nutritional information on the label is based on this amount.
• Calories: Pay attention to the number of calories per serving and consider how many servings you are consuming.
• Macronutrients:
  • Total Fat: Check for both saturated and trans fats. Aim for foods with lower amounts of these unhealthy fats.
  • Cholesterol: Keep cholesterol intake low to maintain heart health.
  • Sodium: High sodium levels can lead to hypertension. Choose products with lower sodium content.
  • Total Carbohydrates: Look at dietary fiber and sugars. High fiber is good, while lower sugars are better.
  • Proteins: Ensure adequate protein intake for muscle maintenance and overall health.

3. Daily Values (%DV)

• Understanding %DV: This indicates how much a nutrient in a serving contributes to a daily diet based on 2,000 calories per day.
• 5-20 Rule: 5% DV or less of a nutrient per serving is considered low, while 20% DV or more is high.

4. Nutrient Claims

• Understanding Claims: Terms like “low fat,” “high fiber,” or “reduced sodium” are regulated by the FDA. Understanding these terms can help make healthier choices.
  • Low Calorie: 40 calories or less per serving.
  • Low Sodium: 140 mg or less per serving.
  • High Fiber: 5 grams or more per serving.

 

Understanding Pet Food Labels

1. Ingredients List

• Order of Ingredients: Similar to human food, ingredients are listed by weight. Look for high-quality protein sources as the first ingredients.
• Recognizing Fillers: Avoid foods with fillers like corn, wheat, and soy. Opt for whole grains and real meat instead of by-products and meals.

2. Guaranteed Analysis

• Crude Protein and Fat: Indicates the minimum amount of protein and fat. Look for high percentages of protein and moderate fat levels.
• Crude Fiber and Moisture: Indicates the maximum amount of fiber and moisture. Balanced fiber is crucial for digestion, and moisture content is important for hydration.

3. Nutritional Adequacy Statement

• AAFCO Statement: Look for a statement that the food meets AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) nutrient profiles for a complete and balanced diet. This ensures the food provides all necessary nutrients.

4. Feeding Guidelines

• Portion Control: Check the feeding guidelines to ensure proper portion sizes based on your pet’s weight, age, and activity level. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and other health issues.

5. Nutrient Claims

• Understanding Claims: Similar to human food, terms like “grain-free,” “organic,” or “natural” have specific meanings. Ensure these claims align with your pet’s dietary needs.
  • Grain-Free: Does not contain grains but may use alternative carbohydrates like potatoes or peas.
  • Organic: Must meet specific standards for organic farming and processing.
  • Natural: Generally means no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

 

Tips for Healthier Choices

• Whole Foods: Opt for products with whole, recognizable ingredients.
• Avoid Additives: Limit foods with artificial additives, preservatives, and high sugar content.
• Balanced Diet: Ensure a balanced intake of macronutrients and micronutrients for both you and your pet.
• Consult Professionals: When in doubt, consult a nutritionist for human diets and a veterinarian for pet diets to ensure all nutritional needs are met.

Understanding food labels empowers you to make informed and healthier choices, contributing to better health and well-being for both you and your pet.

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READ MORE: What’s In My Dog’s Food? Canine Nutrition

 

Sources:
https://www.fda.gov/food/nutrition-facts-label/how-understand-and-use-nutrition-facts-label
https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition-basics/understanding-food-nutrition-labels
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/how-to-read-a-dog-food-label/