Podcast
Questions and Answers
Which entity operates without regulatory authority in the pet food industry, focusing instead on establishing model regulations and guidelines for state enforcement?
Which entity operates without regulatory authority in the pet food industry, focusing instead on establishing model regulations and guidelines for state enforcement?
- The Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
- State Departments of Agriculture
- The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
- The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) (correct)
Which of the following statements accurately describes the roles of different agencies in regulating pet food?
Which of the following statements accurately describes the roles of different agencies in regulating pet food?
- State Departments of Agriculture primarily focus on ingredient definitions and nutritional requirements, while the FDA handles label law enforcement.
- The USDA acts as the primary regulatory authority for pet food, with AAFCO assisting in investigations and random testing.
- AAFCO drafts model pet food regulations which are then adopted and enforced by the FDA and State Departments of Agriculture. (correct)
- The FDA formulates pet food laws, while AAFCO is responsible for enforcing these regulations through inspections and random testing.
Considering pet food label modernization initiatives, which of the following is now a MANDATORY labeling requirement for pet food products in the United States?
Considering pet food label modernization initiatives, which of the following is now a MANDATORY labeling requirement for pet food products in the United States?
- Declaration of calorie content using a 'per familiar household unit' basis, alongside percentage of calories from macronutrients. (correct)
- A detailed list of all supplemental vitamins and minerals, specifying their chemical forms.
- Inclusion of 'handling and storage instructions' to maintain product quality and safety.
- A 'best before date' to assure consumers of the product's freshness and nutritional integrity.
Which component of the 'Pet Nutrition Facts' box on a pet food label is essential for enabling pet owners to appropriately manage their pet's daily food intake and caloric consumption?
Which component of the 'Pet Nutrition Facts' box on a pet food label is essential for enabling pet owners to appropriately manage their pet's daily food intake and caloric consumption?
For pet foods marketed with terms like 'light' or 'lite', what specific regulatory guideline must manufacturers adhere to regarding calorie content?
For pet foods marketed with terms like 'light' or 'lite', what specific regulatory guideline must manufacturers adhere to regarding calorie content?
What is the primary purpose of converting nutrient values from an 'as fed' basis to a 'dry matter' basis when evaluating pet food?
What is the primary purpose of converting nutrient values from an 'as fed' basis to a 'dry matter' basis when evaluating pet food?
If a dry dog food label guarantees a minimum crude protein of 26% 'as fed' and has a dry matter content of 90%, calculate the approximate crude protein content on a dry matter basis (DMB).
If a dry dog food label guarantees a minimum crude protein of 26% 'as fed' and has a dry matter content of 90%, calculate the approximate crude protein content on a dry matter basis (DMB).
Which of the following nutritional adequacy statements on a pet food label indicates that the product has been tested through feeding trials according to AAFCO procedures?
Which of the following nutritional adequacy statements on a pet food label indicates that the product has been tested through feeding trials according to AAFCO procedures?
Regarding pet food ingredient lists, what principle dictates the order in which ingredients are listed?
Regarding pet food ingredient lists, what principle dictates the order in which ingredients are listed?
According to AAFCO guidelines, if a pet food ingredient is labeled as 'beef' or 'beef meal,' from which animal species MUST it be derived?
According to AAFCO guidelines, if a pet food ingredient is labeled as 'beef' or 'beef meal,' from which animal species MUST it be derived?
If 'water' is listed as the first ingredient in a canned pet food, what is the MOST likely reason for this?
If 'water' is listed as the first ingredient in a canned pet food, what is the MOST likely reason for this?
For a pet food to be labeled as '100% Beef Dog Food', what is the MINIMUM percentage of beef (excluding water for processing and trace amounts of other ingredients) that must be present in the product?
For a pet food to be labeled as '100% Beef Dog Food', what is the MINIMUM percentage of beef (excluding water for processing and trace amounts of other ingredients) that must be present in the product?
If a dog food is named 'Beef Dinner', what percentage range of beef, by weight, must be present in the product according to AAFCO's 'dinner rule'?
If a dog food is named 'Beef Dinner', what percentage range of beef, by weight, must be present in the product according to AAFCO's 'dinner rule'?
For a cat food labeled 'Cat Food with Chicken', what MINIMUM percentage of chicken must be present in the product based on AAFCO's 'with' rule?
For a cat food labeled 'Cat Food with Chicken', what MINIMUM percentage of chicken must be present in the product based on AAFCO's 'with' rule?
If a dog treat is described as 'Beef Flavor Dog Biscuits', what is the PRIMARY criterion for the 'beef flavor' claim to be valid under AAFCO guidelines?
If a dog treat is described as 'Beef Flavor Dog Biscuits', what is the PRIMARY criterion for the 'beef flavor' claim to be valid under AAFCO guidelines?
Which of the following terms used on pet food labels has a LEGAL definition established and regulated by authorities like AAFCO or the USDA?
Which of the following terms used on pet food labels has a LEGAL definition established and regulated by authorities like AAFCO or the USDA?
For a pet food to be labeled as 'Organic' according to USDA regulations, what MINIMUM percentage of organic ingredients (excluding water and salt) must it contain?
For a pet food to be labeled as 'Organic' according to USDA regulations, what MINIMUM percentage of organic ingredients (excluding water and salt) must it contain?
What is the PRIMARY purpose of conducting a nutritional assessment for a pet in a veterinary practice setting?
What is the PRIMARY purpose of conducting a nutritional assessment for a pet in a veterinary practice setting?
In the context of nutritional assessment, what differentiates a 'screening evaluation' from an 'extended evaluation'?
In the context of nutritional assessment, what differentiates a 'screening evaluation' from an 'extended evaluation'?
Which of the following is considered a 'risk factor' during a nutritional screening evaluation that would necessitate proceeding to an 'extended nutritional evaluation'?
Which of the following is considered a 'risk factor' during a nutritional screening evaluation that would necessitate proceeding to an 'extended nutritional evaluation'?
When performing a Body Condition Score (BCS) on a dog, which of the following assessment methods is MOST accurate and recommended?
When performing a Body Condition Score (BCS) on a dog, which of the following assessment methods is MOST accurate and recommended?
In a 9-point BCS scale, a score of 1/9 typically indicates which condition in a dog or cat?
In a 9-point BCS scale, a score of 1/9 typically indicates which condition in a dog or cat?
What is the primary anatomical area assessed when performing a Muscle Condition Score (MCS) in dogs and cats?
What is the primary anatomical area assessed when performing a Muscle Condition Score (MCS) in dogs and cats?
Which of the following best describes 'mild muscle wasting' in the context of Muscle Condition Scoring (MCS)?
Which of the following best describes 'mild muscle wasting' in the context of Muscle Condition Scoring (MCS)?
During a diet history collection, what is crucial to ascertain beyond just the brand and type of pet food being fed?
During a diet history collection, what is crucial to ascertain beyond just the brand and type of pet food being fed?
In the 'Circle of Nutrition' for nutritional assessment, which three key aspects are considered for a comprehensive evaluation?
In the 'Circle of Nutrition' for nutritional assessment, which three key aspects are considered for a comprehensive evaluation?
When should an 'extended nutritional evaluation' be considered MANDATORY rather than optional, based on screening evaluation risk factors?
When should an 'extended nutritional evaluation' be considered MANDATORY rather than optional, based on screening evaluation risk factors?
Which of the following clinical signs, noted during a physical examination, is a strong indicator for performing an extended nutritional evaluation?
Which of the following clinical signs, noted during a physical examination, is a strong indicator for performing an extended nutritional evaluation?
What is the NEXT step in nutritional assessment workflow if a 'screening nutritional assessment' identifies nutritional 'risk factors'?
What is the NEXT step in nutritional assessment workflow if a 'screening nutritional assessment' identifies nutritional 'risk factors'?
In an 'extended evaluation checklist', which category of assessment directly relates to the pet's ability to ingest and process food?
In an 'extended evaluation checklist', which category of assessment directly relates to the pet's ability to ingest and process food?
Which of the following blood parameters, typically assessed in an 'extended evaluation', can provide insights into protein status and potential malnutrition?
Which of the following blood parameters, typically assessed in an 'extended evaluation', can provide insights into protein status and potential malnutrition?
If a nutritional assessment workflow leads to 'No issues' being identified after a screening evaluation, what is the recommended course of action?
If a nutritional assessment workflow leads to 'No issues' being identified after a screening evaluation, what is the recommended course of action?
What is the ultimate goal of integrating nutritional assessment as the '5th vital sign' in veterinary practice?
What is the ultimate goal of integrating nutritional assessment as the '5th vital sign' in veterinary practice?
While the FDA has ultimate regulatory authority over pet food, state departments of agriculture also play a crucial role. Which of the following best describes the nuanced relationship between these agencies and AAFCO in pet food regulation?
While the FDA has ultimate regulatory authority over pet food, state departments of agriculture also play a crucial role. Which of the following best describes the nuanced relationship between these agencies and AAFCO in pet food regulation?
Considering the 'Pet Nutrition Facts' label, which of the following statements is MOST accurate regarding its function beyond simply listing nutrient content?
Considering the 'Pet Nutrition Facts' label, which of the following statements is MOST accurate regarding its function beyond simply listing nutrient content?
For a pet food product labeled 'Weight Management', which of the following scenarios would MOST likely lead to regulatory scrutiny regarding calorie content claims?
For a pet food product labeled 'Weight Management', which of the following scenarios would MOST likely lead to regulatory scrutiny regarding calorie content claims?
When comparing nutrient profiles of different pet foods, why is converting nutrient guarantees to a 'dry matter basis' (DMB) considered essential for accurate evaluation?
When comparing nutrient profiles of different pet foods, why is converting nutrient guarantees to a 'dry matter basis' (DMB) considered essential for accurate evaluation?
A dry dog food label indicates a guaranteed minimum crude protein of 28% on an 'as fed' basis, with a stated moisture content of 10%. If a pet owner wants to compare this protein content to a canned food, what is the approximate crude protein percentage on a dry matter basis (DMB)?
A dry dog food label indicates a guaranteed minimum crude protein of 28% on an 'as fed' basis, with a stated moisture content of 10%. If a pet owner wants to compare this protein content to a canned food, what is the approximate crude protein percentage on a dry matter basis (DMB)?
Which of the following statements regarding the 'Nutritional Adequacy Statement' on a pet food label is MOST critical for ensuring the food supports long-term pet health?
Which of the following statements regarding the 'Nutritional Adequacy Statement' on a pet food label is MOST critical for ensuring the food supports long-term pet health?
In a pet food ingredient list, 'chicken', 'chicken meal', and 'chicken by-product meal' are listed. Based on AAFCO's ingredient definition principles, what can be definitively inferred about these ingredients?
In a pet food ingredient list, 'chicken', 'chicken meal', and 'chicken by-product meal' are listed. Based on AAFCO's ingredient definition principles, what can be definitively inferred about these ingredients?
If 'water' is the first ingredient listed on a canned cat food label, and the guaranteed analysis shows a maximum moisture content of 78%, what is the MOST likely nutritional implication?
If 'water' is the first ingredient listed on a canned cat food label, and the guaranteed analysis shows a maximum moisture content of 78%, what is the MOST likely nutritional implication?
For a dog food to be marketed as '100% Lamb Dog Food', what specific criteria, beyond ingredient percentage, must be met according to AAFCO?
For a dog food to be marketed as '100% Lamb Dog Food', what specific criteria, beyond ingredient percentage, must be met according to AAFCO?
If a dog food is labeled 'Chicken Dinner', and the ingredient list shows 'chicken', 'chicken meal', and 'chicken by-product meal', what is the MOST accurate interpretation regarding the 'dinner' rule and ingredient percentages?
If a dog food is labeled 'Chicken Dinner', and the ingredient list shows 'chicken', 'chicken meal', and 'chicken by-product meal', what is the MOST accurate interpretation regarding the 'dinner' rule and ingredient percentages?
A cat food is labeled 'Salmon Entrée'. If the manufacturer decides to change the product name to 'Cat Food with Salmon', how would this change impact the MINIMUM required percentage of salmon in the food?
A cat food is labeled 'Salmon Entrée'. If the manufacturer decides to change the product name to 'Cat Food with Salmon', how would this change impact the MINIMUM required percentage of salmon in the food?
For a dog treat labeled 'Beef Flavor', what is the primary determinant of whether this claim is legally and ethically justifiable under AAFCO guidelines?
For a dog treat labeled 'Beef Flavor', what is the primary determinant of whether this claim is legally and ethically justifiable under AAFCO guidelines?
Among the terms 'Natural', 'Organic', 'Holistic', and 'Premium' used in pet food marketing, which term(s) have a LEGAL definition established and enforced by regulatory bodies like the USDA or FDA?
Among the terms 'Natural', 'Organic', 'Holistic', and 'Premium' used in pet food marketing, which term(s) have a LEGAL definition established and enforced by regulatory bodies like the USDA or FDA?
To label a pet food as 'Organic' under USDA regulations, and to display the USDA Organic seal, what MINIMUM percentage of organic ingredients (excluding water and salt) must it contain?
To label a pet food as 'Organic' under USDA regulations, and to display the USDA Organic seal, what MINIMUM percentage of organic ingredients (excluding water and salt) must it contain?
What is the MOST comprehensive purpose of incorporating routine nutritional assessments as the '5th vital sign' in veterinary practice, beyond simply addressing weight issues?
What is the MOST comprehensive purpose of incorporating routine nutritional assessments as the '5th vital sign' in veterinary practice, beyond simply addressing weight issues?
In nutritional assessment, what is the KEY distinction that determines whether to proceed from a 'screening evaluation' to an 'extended evaluation'?
In nutritional assessment, what is the KEY distinction that determines whether to proceed from a 'screening evaluation' to an 'extended evaluation'?
Which of the following scenarios during a nutritional screening evaluation would MOST strongly necessitate proceeding to an 'extended nutritional evaluation'?
Which of the following scenarios during a nutritional screening evaluation would MOST strongly necessitate proceeding to an 'extended nutritional evaluation'?
When assessing Body Condition Score (BCS) in a canine patient, what is the MOST critical aspect of palpation to differentiate between a score of 5/9 (ideal) and 7/9 (overweight)?
When assessing Body Condition Score (BCS) in a canine patient, what is the MOST critical aspect of palpation to differentiate between a score of 5/9 (ideal) and 7/9 (overweight)?
In a 9-point Body Condition Score (BCS) scale, a score of 1/9 is indicative of 'emaciated'. Which of the following clinical presentations would be MOST consistent with a BCS of 1/9?
In a 9-point Body Condition Score (BCS) scale, a score of 1/9 is indicative of 'emaciated'. Which of the following clinical presentations would be MOST consistent with a BCS of 1/9?
When performing a Muscle Condition Score (MCS), palpation over specific anatomical areas is crucial. Which area provides the MOST reliable assessment of muscle wasting in dogs and cats?
When performing a Muscle Condition Score (MCS), palpation over specific anatomical areas is crucial. Which area provides the MOST reliable assessment of muscle wasting in dogs and cats?
Which description BEST characterizes 'mild muscle wasting' in the context of Muscle Condition Scoring (MCS)?
Which description BEST characterizes 'mild muscle wasting' in the context of Muscle Condition Scoring (MCS)?
During the diet history component of a nutritional assessment, what information is MOST critical to ascertain beyond just the brand name and type of pet food?
During the diet history component of a nutritional assessment, what information is MOST critical to ascertain beyond just the brand name and type of pet food?
In the 'Circle of Nutrition' model for nutritional assessment, which triad of factors MUST be comprehensively evaluated to achieve a holistic understanding of a patient's nutritional status?
In the 'Circle of Nutrition' model for nutritional assessment, which triad of factors MUST be comprehensively evaluated to achieve a holistic understanding of a patient's nutritional status?
Under what circumstances is an 'extended nutritional evaluation' considered MANDATORY rather than optional, based on the risk factors identified during a screening evaluation?
Under what circumstances is an 'extended nutritional evaluation' considered MANDATORY rather than optional, based on the risk factors identified during a screening evaluation?
During a physical examination, which of the following clinical signs would be a STRONG indicator that an 'extended nutritional evaluation' is warranted?
During a physical examination, which of the following clinical signs would be a STRONG indicator that an 'extended nutritional evaluation' is warranted?
If a 'screening nutritional assessment' identifies nutritional 'risk factors', what is the IMMEDIATE next step in the nutritional assessment workflow?
If a 'screening nutritional assessment' identifies nutritional 'risk factors', what is the IMMEDIATE next step in the nutritional assessment workflow?
In an 'extended evaluation checklist', which category of assessment is MOST directly related to a pet's ability to physically consume and process food?
In an 'extended evaluation checklist', which category of assessment is MOST directly related to a pet's ability to physically consume and process food?
Which of the following blood parameters, typically assessed in an 'extended evaluation', is MOST indicative of a patient's long-term protein status and potential chronic malnutrition?
Which of the following blood parameters, typically assessed in an 'extended evaluation', is MOST indicative of a patient's long-term protein status and potential chronic malnutrition?
If a nutritional assessment workflow concludes with 'No issues' identified after a screening evaluation, what is the MOST appropriate and recommended course of action in a general wellness visit?
If a nutritional assessment workflow concludes with 'No issues' identified after a screening evaluation, what is the MOST appropriate and recommended course of action in a general wellness visit?
What is the ULTIMATE, overarching goal of integrating nutritional assessment as the '5th vital sign' in veterinary medicine, beyond individual patient care?
What is the ULTIMATE, overarching goal of integrating nutritional assessment as the '5th vital sign' in veterinary medicine, beyond individual patient care?
Flashcards
AAFCO
AAFCO
Organization that makes recommendations for animal feed/food labels.
FDA's Role in Pet Food
FDA's Role in Pet Food
Ultimate regulatory authority of pet food charged with enforcing federal laws.
State Dept of AG
State Dept of AG
Secondary regulatory authority of pet food charged with enforcing state laws.
Required Label Info
Required Label Info
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Product Name/Brand Name
Product Name/Brand Name
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Intended use
Intended use
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Pet Nutrition Facts include
Pet Nutrition Facts include
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Calorie Content
Calorie Content
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'Light', 'Low Calorie', 'Low fat'
'Light', 'Low Calorie', 'Low fat'
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Guaranteed Analysis
Guaranteed Analysis
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'As fed' basis
'As fed' basis
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DM in food
DM in food
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Nutritional Adequacy Statement
Nutritional Adequacy Statement
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Ingredient list
Ingredient list
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Name/Mailing Address
Name/Mailing Address
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Quantity Statement
Quantity Statement
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Feeding directions
Feeding directions
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Handling & Storage
Handling & Storage
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Organic Labeling
Organic Labeling
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Natural (Pet Food Labeling)
Natural (Pet Food Labeling)
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"Holistic" pet food
"Holistic" pet food
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"Human-grade" pet food
"Human-grade" pet food
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Purpose of Nutritional Assessment
Purpose of Nutritional Assessment
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Screening Evaluation
Screening Evaluation
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Nutritional assessment
Nutritional assessment
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Documentation in medical records
Documentation in medical records
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Body Condition Scoring (BCS)
Body Condition Scoring (BCS)
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Muscle Condition Score (MCS)
Muscle Condition Score (MCS)
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Extened evaluation
Extened evaluation
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Screening Evaluation step
Screening Evaluation step
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Changes in food intake
Changes in food intake
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Study Notes
- Pet food label analysis, by Ally Spitz, DVM covers labeling requirements, regulations and nutritional assessment for optimal pet care.
Learning Objectives
- Describe the entity that controls pet food labeling
- Define which information is mandated on pet food labels
- Interpret information on pet food labels
Who Regulates Pet Food?
- The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) makes recommendations for animal feed and food labels.
- The FDA and State Departments of Agriculture regulate pet food.
- The FDA has ultimate regulatory authority and enforces federal laws, through inspections, investigations, approval of GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) substances, and random testing
- The State Dept of AG is secondary in authority and enforces state laws, through inspections, investigations, and random testing.
- The USDA assists the FDA and State Department of Agriculture in investigations within their jurisdiction but has no pet food regulatory authority.
- AAFCO defines ingredients, writes label laws, and sets nutritional requirements, but has no regulatory authority.
Labeling Requirements
- Pet food label modernization is being implemented from 2024 to 2030
- Labels require product and brand names, intended use, and a quantity statement
- Pet nutrition facts must include familiar household units, calorie content, and calorie sources, plus a guaranteed analysis
- Labels require a nutritional adequacy statement per AAFCO
- Labels must list ingredients and the name and address of the manufacturer
- Include guidance on feeding plus optional handling and storage instructions
Label Components
- Net weight or volume indicates the amount of product in the package
- The ingredient list provides information on what the product contains
- Feeding directions are provided to guide pet owners on how much to feed their pet.
- The name and address of the manufacturer/distributor are required for contact purposes.
- Handling and storage are provided, though optional.
- Intended use should state complete food for the species, complete food for puppies/kittens, or something like a Veterinary Diet for [Species].
- Pet Nutrition Facts includes calorie counts derived from protein, fat, and carbohydrate plus information on guarantees and a nutritional adequacy statement.
Pet Nutrition Facts Box
- The Pet Nutrition Facts box needs to include a familiar household unit and its metric weight.
- The calorie statement must be present.
- The calorie contents come from protein, fat, and carbohydrate.
- Guarantees also must be listed.
- Labels should feature a nutritional adequacy statement.
'Light' Claims on Pet Foods
- Calorie statements are mandatory on pet foods.
- "Light," "Lite," "Low Calorie" & "Low Fat" claims must follow AAFCO guidelines on kilocalories.
- Cat food labled as light should not exceed 3250 kcal ME/kg as fed when dry, and 950 kcal ME/kg as fed when wet.
- Dog food labled as light should not exceed 3100 kcal ME/kg as fed when dry, and 900 kcal ME/kg as fed when wet.
Guaranteed Analysis
- "As fed" or "As is" includes percentages for crude protein (minimum), crude fat (minimum), total carbohydrate and dietary fiber (maximum), and moisture (maximum)
Dry Matter Basis
- The dry matter (DM) of food contains almost all nutrients like protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals.
- % dry matter= 100 - % water
- DMB% = (AFB%/DM%) x 100
Nutritional Adequacy Statement
- The nutritional adequacy guarantees that the pet food meets established nutritional levels for the animal
Ingredients
- Pet food ingredients are listed in descending order by predominance of weight.
- The ingredient "meat" or "meat by-products" are qualified to specify the animal source unless the meat is from cattle, swine, sheep, goats, or a combo.
- Ingredients from horses shall be specifically listed as "horsemeat" or "horsemeat by-products".
- Meat or meat by-products can only include beef, sheep, pork or goat meat
- Chicken is considered poultry
Ingredient Percentages
- A product labeled with 100% of a particular ingredient must be comprised entirely of that meat
- "95% Beef” must have 95% of that meat
- Entrees can have 25-94% of the listed ingredient(s)
- A product "with" an ingredient must have 3-24% of the listed ingredient(s)
- A "flavor" must be recognizable to the pet at =<3%
Name And Mailing Address
- A complete mailing address of the manufacturer or distributor is required on pet food labels.
Quantity Statement
- Quantity should be clearly stated on pet food packaging
Feeding Directions
- Feeding directions provide guidance on how much food to give an animal
Handling and Storage
- A "Voluntary" statement, detailing handling and storage information, may be on the label
- If a business uses this, it will need a bold header containing "Handling and Storage Instructions"
Nutritional Assessment
Learning Objectives
- Describe the purpose of nutritional assessment
- Detail how to assess the animal, their diet, and feeding management
- Preform Body Condition Scoring and Muscle Condition Scoring
- Collect a diet history and calculate energy requirements for dogs and cats
- Contrast the difference between screening and extended evaluation
- Recommend monitoring of a nutrition plan
Purpose of Nutritional Assessment
- Determining a nutritional assessment is an important checklist, providing a simple technique to identify problems
- The assessment leads to interpretation and opportunities for action and improvement in patient care.
- Nutritional assessment aids in optimal diet choices, obesity treatment, managing medical conditions, and improving performance.
Screening Evaluation
- A screening evaluation should only take a few minutes to preform
- It's a component of history taking and physical examination
- The two main outcomes are, that nutritional risk factors are present, or they are not.
- If risk factors are not present, no further action is required.
- Extended nutritional assessment is required if risk factors are present.
Circle of Nutrition
- Assess the animal (who you feed).
- Assess the diet (what you feed).
- Assess the feeding management (how you feed).
Medical Records
- Medical Records containing relevant documentation should be kept available for each patient
- Records should be filled with Temperature, Respiration, Pulse, Weight, MCS, BCS, Current food, Chief complaint, History and Dietary recommendation.
Body Condition Scoring
- BCS uses a 9-point scale (shown) in order to determine body condition.
- BCS uses a 5-point scale (shown) in order to determine body condition.
- The process uses vision and hands
Muscle Condition Scoring (MCS)
- MCS is determined by palpation over the temporal bones, scapulae, ribs, lumbar vertebrae and pelvic bones to check for wasting.
Obtaining A Diet History
- Diet History includes: Type of food, how much is given, the number of feeds, and when they started.
Screening Evaluation Risk Factors
- Risk factors are "optional" to preform when there is: extremely low or high activity level, multiple pets in a household, in the case of Gestation, Lactation, a Growth period, and when the patient is Age of >7 years
- Medical record risk factors are "mandatory" when: There is a History, Altered Gl function (vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, flatulence, constipation), Previous or ongoing medical conditions/disease, Medications and/or dietary supplements, Unconventional diet, Snacks, treats, table food > 10% of total calories and Inadequate or inappropriate housing
- "Physical examination" factors are "mandatory": Body condition score (BCS), Muscle condition score (MCS), Unexplained weight change, Dental abnormalities or disease, Poor skin or hair coat and New medical conditions / disease
Terms for Pet Food
- Terms listed "organic" and "natural" are legally defined, unlike terms.
- "Holistic" and "human-grade".
- Organic is defined pet foods that are 95-100% organic and in compliance with USDA standards.
- Natural is defined as when there are no chemically synthesized ingredients except added vitamins, minerals, and trace nutrients.
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