If you're a pet parent, you've probably noticed limited ingredient dog treats and food becoming more popular in recent years. But what does limited ingredient mean? And why are these products becoming more common?
What does "limited ingredient" mean?
"Limited ingredient" means that the product has a limited number of ingredients. The term is not regulated, so there's no rule about how many ingredients can be included in a limited ingredient food or treat, but typically, it will be a single source of protein for dog food and very few ingredients for dog treats.
For example, Einstein Pets' popular Black and Whites treats contain only Oat Flour, Coconut, Honey, Chia Seed, Carob Powder, Coconut Oil, and Vanilla. (yum!)
On the contrary, Milk Bone Soft & Chewy Beef & Filet Mignon treats contain Beef, Chicken, Soy Grits, Sugar, Corn Starch, Filet Mignon, Chuck Roast, Dicalcium Phosphate, Salt, Natural Smoke Flavor, Propylene Glycol, Rice Flour, Guar Gum, Brewers Rice, Lactic Acid, Garlic Powder, Potassium Sorbate (used As A Preservative), Vitamins (vitamin E Supplement, Niacin Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, D-calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement), Minerals (ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Manganous Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite), Red 40, Yellow 5, Bha (used As A Preservative), Blue 2, Papain
So, you can easily see why we say Einstein Pets' treats are considered 'limited ingredient.'
Limited Ingredient is beneficial for both dogs and pet parents because it means that there are fewer things to worry about when it comes to ingredients. It's also easier to identify any potential allergens in limited ingredient products.
Common allergens in dog food include grains, dairy, and beef. If your dog has a food allergy, it's important to choose a limited ingredient product that doesn't contain the allergen. And the easiest way to avoid an allergen is by feeding limited ingredient food and treats.
Why are limited ingredient dog treats and food becoming more popular?
One reason that limited ingredient dog treats and food are becoming more popular is that they're seen as being healthier than other options. Limited ingredient food and treats often have a single protein source and are free from fillers and artificial ingredients.
Many limited ingredient products are also grain-free, which can be good for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies. Additionally, limited ingredient products tend to be lower in fat and calories than other options, making them a good choice for overweight or sedentary dogs.
What's the difference between limited ingredient dog treats and food and grain-free dog treats and food?
The main difference between limited ingredient dog treats and food and grain-free dog treats and food is the inclusion of grains in the latter. Grain-free options don't contain any grains, while limited ingredient products may or may not have grains. This can be important for dogs with allergies or sensitivities to grains.
Final thoughts
When it comes to our furry friends, we want only the best for them. That's why limited ingredient dog treats and food are becoming more popular by the day. These products have a limited number of ingredients, which makes them easier for us to identify any potential allergens. They're also seen as being healthier than other options, grain-free or not.
So if you're looking for the best possible nutrition for your pup, limited ingredient dog treats and food are the way to go. That's why all of Einstein Pets' dog treat recipes have limited ingredients, made with ingredients you can pronounce, that you would find in your own kitchen.