Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Real Salmon Recipe Review

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Review of Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Real Salmon Recipe

According to our data, this Merrick recipe provides complete & balanced nutrition for all life stages. In other words, this formula is AAFCO approved.

Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Real Salmon Recipe is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Cat Food Nutrient Profiles for all life stages.

Review of Ingredients

In our review of Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Real Salmon Recipe, we'll examine all 40 ingredients and highlight the nutritional contribution of each ingredient.

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.

  1. Salmon is a high-quality source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which support your cat's muscle development, healthy skin and coat, and overall well-being.

  2. Salmon meal is a high-quality protein source that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support your cat's healthy skin, coat, and overall well-being.

  3. Potato is a gluten-free carbohydrate that provides essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

  4. Pea is a nutrient-dense ingredient that provides a natural source of fiber, protein, and essential nutrients for a balanced diet and healthy digestion in your cat.

  5. Potato Protein is a high-quality, plant-based protein source that provides essential amino acids for your cat's muscle growth and maintenance.

  6. Sunflower Oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols) is a healthy fat source rich in omega-6 fatty acids that contribute to a shiny coat, healthy skin, and overall wellness. The added mixed tocopherols act as natural preservatives to maintain the oil's freshness.

  7. Pea fiber is a source of dietary fiber which can aid in digestion and help maintain a healthy weight in cats.

  8. Natural flavor enhances the palatability of the cat food, making it more appealing to finicky eaters.

  9. Ground Flaxseed is an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and lignans, which support your cat's skin and coat health, digestive system, and overall well-being.

  10. Dried Yeast Culture is a rich source of B vitamins, minerals, and essential amino acids that support your cat's overall health. It also contains prebiotics, which promote a healthy gut microbiome and support digestion.

  11. Salt is added in small amounts to cat food to help maintain electrolyte balance and support healthy nerve and muscle function.

  12. Dried organic alfalfa meal is a source of fiber that can help promote a healthy digestive system in your cat. It's also rich in various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K.

  13. Choline chloride is an essential nutrient that aids in maintaining cellular function and overall health in cats.

  14. The iron amino acid complex is a chelated form of iron, which is easier for cats to absorb, supporting healthy red blood cell function.

  15. Zinc Amino Acid Complex is a highly bioavailable form of zinc that supports various bodily functions in cats, including immune system health, skin and coat maintenance, and wound healing.

  16. Sodium Selenite is an important source of selenium, an essential trace mineral that plays a crucial role in your cat's antioxidant defense system. Selenium helps protect your cat's cells from damage and supports a healthy immune system, thyroid function, and overall health.

  17. Manganese amino acid complex is a chelated form of manganese that aids in bone development, enzyme function, and nutrient absorption.

  18. Copper amino acid complex is a highly bioavailable form of copper, an essential trace mineral that supports various body functions, such as the production of red blood cells, nerve function, and immune health.

  19. Potassium iodide is a source of iodine which is necessary for proper thyroid function in cats.

  20. Cobalt proteinate is a source of cobalt, a trace element that plays a crucial role in the formation of vitamin B12 in your cat's body.

  21. Cobalt Carbonate is an essential trace mineral that plays a vital role in the formation of vitamin B12, which supports your cat's metabolism, nervous system health, and red blood cell production.

  22. Phosphoric acid is used in small amounts as a pH adjuster and preservative to ensure optimal shelf life and safety for your cat's food.

  23. Taurine is an essential amino acid that plays a crucial role in your cat's heart function, vision, and reproduction. Cats cannot synthesize taurine in sufficient amounts, making it a vital addition to their diet.

  24. Yucca Schidigera Extract is a natural ingredient that helps reduce the odor of your cat's waste. It contains compounds that bind to ammonia, reducing its release and making the litter box more pleasant for both you and your cat.

  25. Vitamin E Supplement is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in supporting your cat's immune system, skin health, and overall well-being. It also acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting your cat's cells from damage caused by free radicals.

  26. A vitamin B12 supplement is an essential nutrient for your cat, supporting their nervous system, brain function, and red blood cell production.

  27. Vitamin A Acetate is a supplemental form of vitamin A that supports your cat's vision, immune system, and overall health.

  28. D-calcium pantothenate, also known as vitamin B5, is important for energy metabolism and the synthesis of important compounds in the body.

  29. Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is an essential nutrient that aids in energy metabolism and supports your cat's nervous system, skin, and coat health.

  30. Thiamine mononitrate is a source of Vitamin B1, essential for energy metabolism and nervous system function in cats.

  31. Riboflavin Supplement is a source of Vitamin B2, which supports your cat's energy production, metabolism, and overall well-being.

  32. Biotin is a B vitamin that helps support your cat's skin and coat health, as well as their metabolism and nervous system.

  33. Vitamin D3 Supplement is an essential nutrient that supports your cat's bone health and immune system. It helps regulate calcium and phosphorus levels, ensuring strong bones and teeth, and plays a crucial role in maintaining overall well-being.

  34. Folic Acid is a B vitamin that is essential for your cat's health. It plays a crucial role in DNA synthesis, cell division, and the production of red blood cells. A deficiency in folic acid can lead to anemia and other health problems, making it an important ingredient in cat food.

  35. Pyridoxine hydrochloride, also known as Vitamin B6, plays a vital role in your cat's metabolism, immune system function, and nerve health, ensuring their overall well-being.

  36. Dried Bacillus coagulans fermentation product is a type of probiotic that can help maintain a healthy digestive system in your cat.

  37. Dried lactobacillus plantarum fermentation product is a probiotic that aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, which is essential for your cat's overall wellbeing.

  38. Dried lactobacillus casei fermentation product is a probiotic used to promote a healthy gut flora, which can boost overall health and immunity in cats.

  39. The Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product is a probiotic ingredient that promotes healthy digestion and supports your cat's immune system. It helps maintain a balanced gut flora, contributing to your cat's overall well-being.

  40. Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product is a probiotic that helps maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in your cat's gut, aiding in digestion and supporting overall health.

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

Crude Protein (min) of 32.00%: The primary contributors to the crude protein content in this pet food are the deboned salmon and salmon meal, which are rich in animal proteins. Salmon meal, which is a concentrated form of protein because it is rendered and dried, likely contributes a significant portion of the protein content. Potato protein also adds to the overall protein percentage, albeit to a lesser extent compared to the animal sources.

Crude Fat (min) of 13.00%: The crude fat content is primarily derived from the deboned salmon, which naturally contains fish oils that are high in fats, especially omega-3 fatty acids. Additionally, sunflower oil, which is preserved with mixed tocopherols (a form of Vitamin E), also contributes to the fat content, providing essential fatty acids and helping to maintain the product's shelf life.

Crude Fiber (max) of 4.00%: The ingredients contributing to the fiber content include peas, pea fiber, and ground flaxseed. Pea fiber is a common source of dietary fiber in pet foods, and ground flaxseed not only contributes to the fiber content but also provides additional fats and nutrients. The organic dried alfalfa meal also adds to the fiber content, although it is lower on the ingredient list, suggesting it is present in smaller amounts.

Calories of 3538.00 per kg: The caloric content is a cumulative result of all the macronutrients (proteins, fats, and carbohydrates) present in the food. The high protein from the salmon and salmon meal, the fats from the salmon and sunflower oil, and the carbohydrates from potatoes and peas all contribute to the total caloric value. The salmon and sunflower oil are likely the most calorie-dense ingredients given their higher fat content.