BHA, BHT and Ethoxyquin in Dog Food

October 20, 2011 | By

Whether or not you know what BHA, BHT and ethoxyquin are, they do not sound like appetizing items to be found in food. BHA which stands for butylated hydroxyanisole, BHT is the abbreviation for butylated hydroxtoluene and ethoxyquin are all food preservatives. These preservatives extend the shelf life of the dog food commonly found in your local grocery store.

BHA and BHT

These two additives are used to preserve the oils in fact in food product. Since they are antioxidants they are added to the food so that the oxygen will interact with the anti oxidants rather than the fats and oils. By doing so, it helps to extend the life of the food. It prevents the fat from getting rancid and allows the food to stay on the shelf longer.BHA, BHT and Ethoxyquin in dog food

BHA and BHT are fat soluble substances. In other words, it requires fact it will be stored in the fat until it is eventually eliminated from the system. Fat soluble substances hang around just a bit longer than water soluble substances.

Are BHT and BHA safe?

According to the FDA these two additives are safe but there are studies that have shown that large quantities of these compounds have caused tumors in lab animals. This leads to the question, what qualifies as a large quantity? These additives are in dog food. Dogs range in size from the 5 pound Yorkie to large and imposing Mastiffs. At what point are we harming our animals?

What is Ethoxyquin?

Ethoxyquin is another additive used in dog foods to extend shelf life. Just like BHA and BHT it also has antioxidant qualities which serve to preserve the fats and oils in the food. The problem with this additive is that there is even more concern as to how safe this is for a dog’s daily diet.

According the article Pet Food: The Lowdown on Labels on the Food and Drug Administration website, the FDA has asked the dog food manufacturers to voluntarily reduce their maximum amount of ethoxyquin in their foods. Because of the “…suspected link to suspected link to liver damage and other health problems in dogs.” They requested manufactures to reduce the level of this additive while further testing is being done. If there is a suspected link to liver damage, instead of making it a voluntary request, it should be removed until proven safe.

And there’s more

The above additives are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to additives and chemicals being used in dog food. Did you ever wonder what “meal” is on the dog food nutrition label? There’s no wonder that dogs are suffering from ailments such as arthritis, all types of cancers and uncomfortable skin conditions.

Possible Food Solutions for Healthier Dogs

  • Solution #1: Read dog food labels. Natural anti-oxidants such as Vitamin E and Vitamin C slow down the oxidation process without the possible unhealthy side effects. They don’t work as well as BHA, BHT and Ethoxyquin which means the shelf life is shorter, but wouldn’t you prefer to feed your dog fresh safe food?
  • Solution #2: Make your own dog food. Tap in on the experience of one who has been preparing homemade dog food for over 6 years. Not only is it cost effective (fewer ailments and vet visits), homemade dog food is healthier for your dog. If you choose to make your own dog food, you’ll notice things like your dog having more energy, a shinier coat, reduction in skin irritations and better breath just to name a few of the benefits.

Take Control of Your Dog’s Health

 

Filed in: Dogs

About the Author: Jerri Townsend is a dog lover and has used the recipes found in the Dog Food Secrets program. This program improved her dog's health, energy and appearance (not to mention he smells better too).