Your Guide to AAFCO's Updated Pet Food Labels
Jan 19, 2025
Visionary Pet Foods has listed Carbohydrate Content on our product labels since we started the business. We use a food labeling format similar to human food labels, so there is less confusion about what you are feeding your dog.
Now, the pet label advisory group AAFCO is finally catching up in meeting pet owners’ pleas for a pet food label they can better understand.
As a devoted pet parent, have you found yourself puzzling over your dog's food label? Good news: The world of pet nutrition is is becoming much clearer. Let's explore the changes coming to pet food labels and what they mean for you and your pup.
A New Era of Transparency
The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) is introducing new "Pet Nutrition Facts" labels. Here's why this matters:
- Carbohydrate Content: For the first time, carb levels will be clearly listed, crucial for understanding your dog's diet composition.
- User-Friendly Format: Labels will resemble human food labels, making them easier to interpret at a glance.
- Clear Calorie Information: Precise calorie counts will aid in portion control and weight management.
- Ingredient Clarity: You'll be able to identify high-quality ingredients and spot unnecessary fillers more easily.
Why This Matters for Your Dog
These label changes empower you to make better choices for your four-legged family member:
- Nutritional Insight: You'll have a clearer picture of what's going into your dog's bowl.
- Customized Diets: Selecting foods that align with your dog's nutritional needs becomes more effortless.
- Health Management: Finding suitable options becomes more straightforward for dogs with special dietary requirements.
Making the Most of New Labels
- Consider Low-Carb Options: Many dogs thrive on diets lower in carbohydrates.
- Prioritize Protein: Look for foods where high-quality animal proteins are the primary ingredients.
- Avoid Unnecessary Additives: Be vigilant about spotting and avoiding low-quality fillers.
- Don't Forget Healthy Fats: Good fats are crucial to your dog's overall health.
The Future of Pet Nutrition
These label changes represent a significant step towards better health for our canine companions. By understanding what's in your dog's food, you're taking an active role in their nutrition and overall well-being.
Ready to Explore Healthier Options?
When searching for the right food for your dog, look for brands that:
- Prioritize transparency in their labeling
- Offer low-carb, high-protein options
- Use high-quality, recognizable ingredients
- Avoid unnecessary fillers and additives
- Provide clear nutritional information
Every dog is unique. So while these new labels offer valuable information, it's always advisable to to consult with your veterinarian about your dog's specific nutritional needs.
Here's to making informed choices for happier, healthier dogs!
Authors Bio
Paul Raybould is the Co-Founder and CEO of KetoPet and Visionary Pet Foods. Paul is an experienced dog dad and a passionate advocate for dogs everywhere. He deeply understands dogs' dietary needs and the importance of providing them with the best nutrition possible. When not working helping dogs everywhere have a long, healthy life, Paul enjoys spending time with his wife Susan and two rescue standard poodles, Freya and Coconut.
Disclaimer
The content provided here is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. If you have any medical concerns about your dog, please consult a qualified veterinarian.
4 comments
1. When does the new labeling go into effect? When expected on shelve?
2. Any plans to reintroduce your kibble. Haven’t been able to find anything like it. Can’t afford the freeze dried for a 50 lb mixed breed.