Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Treats Mini Jumpin' Stix - Venison & Sweet Potato Formula Review

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Review of Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Treats Mini Jumpin' Stix - Venison & Sweet Potato Formula

According to our most recent data, this product is intended for intermittent or supplemental feeding only.

Review of Ingredients

In our review of Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Treats Mini Jumpin' Stix - Venison & Sweet Potato Formula, we'll examine all 18 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. Venison is a lean, high-quality protein source that provides essential amino acids for your dog's muscle development and maintenance. It is also a novel protein, making it a good option for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.

  2. Water is an essential ingredient in wet dog food, providing hydration and helping to maintain the proper texture of the food.

  3. Dried sweet potato is a source of dietary fiber which aids in healthy digestion, and also contains vitamins like vitamin A and C.

  4. Dried potato is a gluten-free carbohydrate source that provides dogs with the energy they need for daily activities. It also contains essential vitamins and minerals, supporting overall health and well-being.

  5. Glycerin is a natural ingredient used as a humectant to help maintain the moisture content of dog food, keeping it fresh and palatable.

  6. Canola oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols) is a source of healthy fats that can help maintain a shiny coat and healthy skin. It's preserved with mixed tocopherols (forms of vitamin E) to maintain freshness.

  7. Gelatin is a natural source of collagen, which helps maintain healthy joints and promotes a shiny, healthy coat for your dog.

  8. While sugar can be found in small amounts in some dog food recipes, it is not considered an essential ingredient for dogs. Excessive sugar consumption can contribute to weight gain, dental issues, and other health problems in dogs. It is essential to provide a balanced diet with limited added sugars.

  9. Cane molasses is a natural sweetener that adds a touch of sweetness to your dog's food, making it more palatable and enjoyable.

  10. 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.

  11. Guar gum is a natural thickening agent derived from the guar bean, used to improve the texture of your dog's food. It also serves as a source of soluble fiber, which can help promote healthy digestion and support overall gastrointestinal health.

  12. Sorbic acid is a food-grade preservative used to maintain freshness and extend shelf life in dog food. It is generally recognized as safe for consumption in small amounts.

  13. Citric acid is a natural preservative that helps maintain the freshness and quality of dog food. It also acts as an antioxidant, which can help protect your dog's cells from damage caused by free radicals.

  14. Glucosamine hydrochloride is a vital supplement that supports joint health and mobility in dogs. It helps maintain the cartilage in joints, reducing inflammation and promoting overall joint comfort.

  15. Mixed tocopherols are natural antioxidants used to preserve the freshness of dog food, ensuring your pet receives the highest quality nutrients possible.

  16. Chondroitin sulfate is a vital component in maintaining healthy joints and cartilage in dogs. It helps to reduce joint inflammation, support joint mobility, and slow down the progression of arthritis.

  17. Natural smoke flavor adds a delicious, smoky taste to your dog's food, making it more enjoyable and enticing. This ingredient encourages a healthy appetite, ensuring that your dog receives the necessary nutrients for overall health and vitality.

  18. Rosemary extract is a natural antioxidant that can help protect your dog's body from the harmful effects of free radicals. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can support your dog's overall health and well-being, particularly in regard to joint health.

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

Crude Protein (min) of 26.00%: The main contributor to the crude protein content in this pet food is venison, which is the first ingredient listed and thus the most abundant in the formula. Venison is a high-quality source of animal protein that helps build and maintain the pet's muscles and overall body condition. Other minor contributors to the protein content may include gelatin, which is derived from animal collagen and can also be a source of protein.

Crude Fat (min) of 15.00%: The crude fat content is likely to come primarily from the canola oil, which is a source of dietary fats that provide energy and help with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Fats also contribute to the palatability of the food. The venison itself will also contribute some natural animal fats to the product.

Crude Fiber (max) of 4.00%: Dietary fiber in this pet food likely comes from the dried sweet potatoes and dried potatoes. These ingredients are less digestible plant-based components that aid in the digestive process. Fiber helps to maintain bowel health and regulate blood sugar levels. The guar gum, which is often used as a thickener or stabilizer, may also contribute to the fiber content.

It is important to note that while other ingredients like glycerin, sugar, cane molasses, and various preservatives and flavor enhancers do not directly contribute to these guaranteed analysis values, they are included for other functional, palatability, or preservation purposes. Glucosamine Hydrochloride and Chondroitin Sulfate are likely included for joint health support, but they do not contribute significantly to protein, fat, or fiber content.