Which Wholesomes Recipes Are a Cut Above the Rest?
Wholesomes Dog Food has earned an impressive rating of 4.5 stars from our experts. Let’s delve into the details of the Wholesomes product line, which consists of 9 exceptional dry dog food options.
Each recipe is labeled with its AAFCO nutrient profile, providing important information about its suitability for different life stages. Whether it’s a Growth (puppy), Maintenance (adult), All Life Stages, Supplemental, or Unspecified formula, Wholesomes has got you covered.
Recipe and Label Analysis: Discover the Wholesomes Difference
To truly understand the quality of Wholesomes Dog Food, let’s take a closer look at their Chicken Meal and Rice recipe. This selection represents the entire product line and provides valuable insights into its composition and nutrient content.
The primary ingredient in this dog food is chicken meal, which is a concentrated source of protein, boasting nearly 300% more protein than fresh chicken. Brown rice, a complex carbohydrate that is easily digestible when cooked, follows as the second ingredient. Although rice primarily serves as an energy source for dogs, its nutritional value is limited.
Peas, the third ingredient, not only provide carbohydrates but are also a rich source of natural fiber. However, it’s important to note that peas also contribute about 25% protein, impacting the overall meat content of this dog food.
Rice bran, derived from whole grain rice, offers a fiber-rich outer layer that contains starch, protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals. The inclusion of chicken fat, derived from the process of rendering chicken, may sound unappetizing but is actually a high-quality ingredient due to its linoleic acid content.
Beet pulp, a controversial ingredient, is a fiber-rich by-product of sugar beet processing. While opinions on beet pulp vary, we believe it to be a reasonable addition in moderate amounts, offering potential benefits for intestinal health and blood sugar regulation.
As the list continues, we encounter rice, flaxseed, and a variety of other ingredients. However, it’s important to note that ingredients found lower on the list, aside from nutritional supplements, are unlikely to significantly impact the overall rating of this Wholesomes product.
Nevertheless, there are three notable exceptions worth mentioning. Firstly, there is no mention of probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria applied to the kibble’s surface to aid digestion. Secondly, this recipe includes sodium selenite, a less nutritionally superior form of selenium compared to selenium yeast. Lastly, chelated minerals are present in this food, which are minerals chemically attached to protein, enhancing their absorption. Chelated minerals are typically found in higher-quality dog foods.
Nutrient Analysis: Why Wholesomes Is a Wise Choice
Based on the ingredients alone, Wholesomes Dog Food is an above-average dry product. The dry matter analysis indicates a protein content of 27%, a fat level of 16%, and estimated carbohydrates of around 50%.
Across its product line, Wholesomes provides an average protein content of 27% and a mean fat level of 16%. These figures suggest that the overall carbohydrate content is approximately 50%, with a fat-to-protein ratio of roughly 58%.
Considering the protein-boosting effect of peas and flaxseed, it’s evident that Wholesomes provides a notable amount of meat in its dry products.
Our Verdict on Wholesomes Dog Food
Wholesomes is a grain-inclusive dry dog food that prioritizes named meat meals as the primary source of animal protein. With its exceptional quality and nutritional composition, Wholesomes earns a well-deserved rating of 4.5 stars.
You can confidently choose Wholesomes for your furry friend’s sensitive skin and stomach needs, as it emerges as a highly recommended option.
Wholesomes Dog Food Recall History
We strive to provide you with the most up-to-date and accurate information. As of August 2023, there have been several dog food recalls related to Wholesomes. These incidents remind us of the importance of staying informed about product recalls.
Here are some recalls associated with Wholesomes:
- Midwestern Pet Foods Recalls Multiple Dog and Cat Food Brands (3/28/2021)
- Deadly Dog and Cat Food Recall Expands: More Brands, Over 1000 Lots (1/12/2021)
- Sportmix Dog and Cat Foods Recalled Due to Deadly Mold Toxin (12/30/2020)
For a comprehensive list of all dog food recalls since 2009, you can visit our website.
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Discover More about the Wholesomes Brand
Explore additional Wholesomes dog food reviews on our website. We provide in-depth analysis and insights into various Wholesomes products, including their grain-free dry dog food.
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Last Update: June 9th, 2022