Popular Cat & Dog Food Attractants: A Comprehensive Lis

Feeding agents like phosphates are naturally derived substances, akin to food ingredients, and are easily metabolized and digested by the body. They do not induce dependency in the brain; their sole purpose is to enhance the aroma of pet food.

However, in China, where there is no specific pet food legislation and pet food is still categorized under livestock feed standards, the high cost of yeast and animal fats (approximately 30 yuan per kilogram) has led to the use of chemical additives as feeding agents. These include substances like disodium phosphate and ethyl maltol. While disodium phosphate may sound unfamiliar, ethyl maltol is quite common and can effortlessly mimic the flavors of beef, pork, and lamb. It's widely present in human foods like instant noodles and sausages.

These feeding agents, though edible, can have a significant impact on the liver and kidneys when consumed in large quantities. The overwhelming meaty taste in many domestic cat and dog foods is largely due to their use. While small amounts of chemical flavorings like monosodium glutamate (MSG) and chicken essence are generally safe, the lack of proper regulation in China often results in excessive use of these agents to compensate for the lack of protein in the ingredients.

Domestic cat and dog food prices can be surprisingly high, with some brands costing as much as 3040 yuan per kilogram. This isn't necessarily because the ingredients are of high quality; rather, the profit margins are substantial. These products are no different from those priced at just a few yuan per kilogram.

These cat and dog foods typically contain over 70% starch, which holds little appeal for our furry friends. To encourage consumption, feeding agents are often employed. Prolonged use can lead to malnutrition, resulting in organ failure, skin diseases, and the worst of all, a strong dependency on chemical feeding agents in the pets' brains. Switching to a new diet can be a lengthy process, and in some cases, it may be nearly impossible.

If you want to ensure a longer, healthier life for your feline or canine companion, opt for imported cat and dog food whenever possible. Even the more affordable imported brands are far superior in terms of food standards compared to domestic feed.