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Beneful Dog Food Review (Dry)
The table below shows each recipe in the range including our rating and the AAFCO nutrient profile: Growth (puppy), Maintenance (adult), All Life Stages, Supplemental or Unspecified.
Recipe and Label Analysis
Beneful Originals with Farm-Raised Beef was selected to represent the other products in the line for detailed recipe and nutrient analysis.
Ingredients Analysis
The first ingredient in this dog food is beef. Although its a quality item, raw beef contains up to 73% water. After cooking, most of that moisture is lost, reducing the meat content to just a fraction of its original weight.
After processing, this item would probably account for a smaller part of the total content of the finished product.
The second ingredient is corn. Corn is an inexpensive and controversial cereal grain. And aside from its energy content, this grain is of only modest nutritional value to a dog.
The third ingredient is barley, which is a starchy carbohydrate supplying fiber and other healthy nutrients. However, aside from its energy content, this cereal grain is of only modest nutritional value to a dog.
The next ingredient is rice. Is this whole grain rice, brown rice or white rice? Since the word rice doesnt tell us much, its impossible to judge the quality of this item.
The fifth ingredient is wheat. Wheat is another cereal grain and subject to the same issues as corn (previously discussed).
Next, we find soybean meal, a by-product of soybean oil production more commonly found in farm animal feeds.
Although soybean meal contains 48% protein, this ingredient would be expected to have a lower biological value than meat.
The next ingredient is corn gluten meal. Gluten is the rubbery residue remaining once corn has had most of its starchy carbohydrate washed out of it.
Although corn gluten meal contains 60% protein, this ingredient would be expected to have a lower biological value than meat.
And less costly plant-based products like soybean meal and corn gluten meal can notably boost the total protein reported on the label a factor that must be considered when judging the actual meat content of this dog food.
The eighth ingredient is beef fat. Beef fat (or tallow) is most likely obtained from rendering, a process similar to making soup in which the fat itself is skimmed from the surface of the liquid.
Although it may not sound very appetizing, beef fat is actually a quality ingredient.
The ninth ingredient is oatmeal, a whole-grain product made from coarsely ground oats. Oatmeal is naturally rich in B-vitamins, dietary fiber and can be (depending upon its level of purity) gluten-free.
From here, the list goes on to include a number of other items.
But to be realistic, ingredients located this far down the list (other than nutritional supplements) are not likely to affect the overall rating of this Purina product.
With six notable exceptions
First, we find dried peas. Dried peas are a good source of carbohydrates. Plus theyre naturally rich in dietary fiber. However, dried peas contain about 27% protein, a factor that must be considered when judging the meat content of this dog food.
Next, we find iron oxide, a synthetic color additive used in industry to impart a reddish color to food and paint. In its natural form, this chemical compound is more commonly known as iron rust.
Were always disappointed to find any artificial coloring in a pet food. Thats because coloring is used to make the product more appealing to humans not your dog. After all, do you really think your dog cares what color his kibble is?
Next, we find no mention of probiotics, friendly bacteria applied to the surface of the kibble after processing to help with digestion.
We also note that the minerals listed here do not appear to be chelated. And that can make them more difficult to absorb. Chelated minerals are usually associated with higher quality dog foods.
Additionally, this recipe contains sodium selenite, a controversial form of the mineral selenium. Sodium selenite appears to be nutritionally inferior to the more natural source of selenium found in selenium yeast.
And lastly, this product includes menadione, a controversial form of vitamin K linked to liver toxicity, allergies and the abnormal break-down of red blood cells.
Since vitamin K isnt required by AAFCO in either of its dog food nutrient profiles, we question the use of this substance in any canine formulation.
Nutrient Analysis
Based on its ingredients alone, Purina Beneful Dog Food looks like a below-average dry product.
The dashboard displays a dry matter protein reading of 26.1%, a fat level of 13.6% and estimated carbohydrates of about 52.2%.
As a group, the brand features an average protein content of 28.3% and a mean fat level of 14.5%. Together, these figures suggest a carbohydrate content of 49.3% for the overall product line.
And a fat-to-protein ratio of about 51%.
Which means this Purina product contains
Above-average protein. Near-average fat. And near-average carbs when compared to other dry dog foods.
However, when you consider the protein-boosting effect of the corn gluten meal, soybean meal and dried peas, this looks like the profile of a kibble containing a moderate amount of meat.
Our Rating of Beneful Dog Food
Purina Beneful includes both grain-inclusive and grain-free dry dog foods using a moderate amount of named meat and by-product meals as its primary source of animal protein, thus receiving 2.5 stars.
Recommended with Reservations
Beneful Originals With Natural Salmon Review
While the first few ingredients typically dominate the recipe's composition, ingredients in small quantities can still have a meaningful impact on the overall nutritional profile of the recipe.
Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals that support your dog's immune system, brain function, and skin and coat health.
Whole grain corn is a wholesome carbohydrate source that provides your dog with the energy they need to stay active and healthy, while also delivering essential nutrients.
Whole grain wheat is a source of wholesome fiber, promoting good digestive health, and it also provides essential nutrients like protein and B vitamins.
Soybean meal is a plant-based protein source that provides essential amino acids for your dog's muscle growth and overall health, while also being highly digestible.
Barley is a nutritious, fiber-rich grain that helps promote healthy digestion and provides essential nutrients for your dog's overall health. It is also a great source of energy, vitamins, and minerals.
Chicken by-product meal is a concentrated source of protein that provides essential amino acids for your dog's growth, maintenance, and immune system support. It's made from the clean parts of the chicken, such as the neck, feet, and viscera, which are rich in nutrients.
Oatmeal is a highly digestible and nutritious source of carbohydrates that provides your dog with energy, fiber, and essential nutrients for a healthy digestive system and overall well-being.
Rice is a carbohydrate source that is easy to digest and provides quick energy for dogs. It can also serve as a dietary fiber, supporting gut health.
Beef Fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols) is a source of energy and fat-soluble vitamins, and tocopherols help keep the fat fresh and rancid-free.
Corn gluten meal is a by-product of corn processing that serves as an alternative protein source for dogs. It is rich in essential amino acids, and it can also provide energy and support healthy skin and coat for your pet.
Egg Flavor enhances the taste of the dog food, making it more palatable and enticing for dogs to eat.
Natural flavor is added to dog food to enhance its taste and make it more appealing to your pet. This can help encourage your dog to eat a balanced and nutritious diet, supporting their overall health and well-being.
Natural chicken flavor is a dog food ingredient used to enhance the taste and aroma of the product, making it more appealing to your pet. It is derived from real chicken and does not contain any artificial additives or chemicals. This natural flavoring helps encourage your dog to eat and enjoy their meals.
Soybean oil is a plant-based source of healthy fats in dog food. Rich in omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E, soybean oil helps support your dog's skin and coat health, as well as their immune system. It also provides energy for active dogs and assists in nutrient absorption.
Calcium carbonate is a valuable source of calcium, an essential mineral for strong bones and teeth, and for supporting proper muscle function in your dog.
Monocalcium phosphate is a source of calcium and phosphorus, two essential minerals that help support your dog's healthy bones, teeth, and overall growth. It also aids in proper nerve function and energy metabolism.
While salt is a necessary component of a dog's diet, providing essential minerals such as sodium and chloride for proper cellular function, it should be provided in moderation to avoid health issues like hypertension or kidney damage.
Dicalcium phosphate is a calcium and phosphorus supplement that helps to support the development and maintenance of strong bones and teeth in dogs.
Glycerin is a natural ingredient used as a humectant to help maintain the moisture content of dog food, keeping it fresh and palatable.
Dried sweet potato is a source of dietary fiber which aids in healthy digestion, and also contains vitamins like vitamin A and C.
Dried green bean is a nutritious, low-calorie source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber that supports your dog's digestion and overall well-being.
Dried carrot is a natural source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can support your dog's immune system, vision, and overall health. This ingredient is also high in dietary fiber, which can promote healthy digestion and help maintain a healthy weight.
Potassium chloride is an essential mineral supplement that helps maintain your dog's electrolyte balance and supports healthy nerve and muscle function.
Annatto color is a natural colorant derived from the seeds of the achiote tree, it is generally considered safe for dogs, but does not provide significant nutritional benefits.
Vegetable juice color is a natural coloring agent derived from vegetables, providing a visually appealing appearance to dog food without the use of artificial colors or preservatives.
Zinc sulfate is a source of the essential mineral zinc, which supports your dog's immune system, skin and coat health, and overall growth and development.
Ferrous sulfate is an important source of iron for dogs, a mineral essential for red blood cell production, oxygen transportation, and overall vitality. Adequate iron intake supports your dog's immune system and energy levels.
Manganese sulfate is a source of manganese, an essential trace mineral that plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy bones, joints, and metabolism in dogs. It also supports the production of collagen, which is vital for healthy skin, coat, and connective tissues.
Copper sulfate is an essential trace mineral that supports various bodily functions in dogs, including immune system health, skin and coat maintenance, and red blood cell production.
Calcium iodate is a source of iodine, an essential trace mineral that supports your dog's thyroid function and overall metabolism. It helps maintain proper hormone production and is crucial for overall health and well-being.
Sodium selenite is a form of selenium, a necessary trace mineral that supports immune function and thyroid health in dogs.
Vitamin E supplement is an essential nutrient that helps support your dog's immune system, skin health, and overall wellness.
Niacin, also known as Vitamin B3, is essential for a dog's metabolism and energy production, and supports healthy skin and coat.
Vitamin A Supplement is important for supporting vision, immune function, and skin health in dogs.
Calcium pantothenate is a source of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) that helps support your dog's energy metabolism and nervous system function.
Pyridoxine hydrochloride is a source of vitamin B6, which is essential for your dog's nervous system function, immune health, and red blood cell production.
Vitamin B12 Supplement is an essential vitamin that helps support brain function and the formation of red blood cells.
Thiamine mononitrate is a form of vitamin B1 that helps support your dog's nervous system function, energy metabolism, and overall health.
Vitamin D3 supplement is an essential vitamin that supports bone health, immune function, and overall well-being in dogs. It helps regulate calcium and phosphorus balance in the body, promoting strong and healthy bones.
Riboflavin supplement is a source of Vitamin B2, which is crucial for your dog's energy production, cell function, and overall growth and development.
Menadione sodium bisulfite complex is a synthetic form of vitamin K, which plays a vital role in blood clotting and bone metabolism for your dog's overall health.
Folic acid is a crucial B-vitamin that aids in the synthesis of DNA and supports healthy cell growth. It's essential for maintaining your dog's overall health, particularly during periods of rapid growth.
Biotin is a B-vitamin that's important for maintaining healthy skin, coat, and nails in dogs.
Choline Chloride is an essential nutrient that aids in brain and liver function, muscle movement, and supports healthy metabolic processes.
Carmine color is a natural food coloring derived from insects. It is used to make the food more appealing to the pet owner but does not offer any nutritional benefits to the dog.
L-lysine monohydrochloride is an essential amino acid that is crucial for protein synthesis, tissue repair, and the production of antibodies. It's a beneficial supplement that supports your dog's overall health.
The Crude Protein content of 23.00% in Beneful Originals With Natural Salmon is primarily contributed by salmon, which is the first ingredient and a high-quality source of protein. Other ingredients that add to the protein content include soybean meal, chicken by-product meal, corn gluten meal, and egg and chicken flavor. These are all protein-rich ingredients that help meet the minimum protein requirement for the product.
Crude Fat at a minimum of 13.00% is likely derived from the salmon, which contains natural fish oils that are high in fat. Additionally, beef fat preserved with mixed-tocopherols, soybean oil, and to some extent, the chicken by-product meal, contribute to the overall fat content. These ingredients provide essential fatty acids and help in maintaining a healthy coat and skin for pets.
The Crude Fiber maximum of 4.00% is relatively low, indicating that this food is not extremely high in fiber. The fiber present comes from whole grains like whole grain corn, whole grain wheat, barley, and oatmeal, as well as from the dried vegetables such as sweet potatoes, green beans, and carrots. These ingredients provide the necessary fiber to aid in digestion and intestinal health.
The caloric content of 3658.00 kcal/kg is a measure of the energy provided by the food. This energy comes from the combination of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates present in the ingredients. The main contributors to the calorie count are the macronutrients: proteins (from the meats and meals), fats (from the salmon and oils), and carbohydrates (from the various grains and vegetables).
Estimates are based on average prices and caloric requirements.
