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How to Decipher Dog-Food Labels: Calorie and Fat Terms

What Is the Difference Between Light and Reduced-Calorie Dog Foods?

Dog-food products described as light, lite, or low calorie must meet specific calorie levels set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), while dog foods named “less” or “reduced calorie” must show a percent reduction in calories as compared to a product in the same moisture-content category. The following table shows the guidelines as set by AAFCO for both dog and cat foods for determining whether a product can use the term “light.”

Food Texture	Moisture Content	Dog Foods Maximum kcal ME/kg	Cat Foods Maximum kcalME/kg
Dry	less than 20% moisture	3,100	3,250
Semi-Moist	between 20 and 64% moisture	2,500	2,650
Canned	65% or more moisture	900	950

What Is the Difference Between Lean and Reduced-Fat Dog Foods?

Like light versus reduced-calorie foods, lean or low-fat dog-food products must meet specific fat levels set by AAFCO, and less-fat or reduced-fat dog-food products need to show a percent reduction in fat as compared to a product in the same moisture category. AAFCO guidelines for dog and cat foods with “lean,” “low fat,” or similar words are shown in the following table.

Food Texture	Moisture Content	Dog Foods Maximum % Crude Fat	Cat Foods Maximum % Crude Fat
Dry	less than 20% moisture	9	10
Semi-Moist	between 20 and 64% moisture	7	8
Canned	65% or more moisture	4	5

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The Role of Diet

Traditionally, owners of large-breed and mature/senior dogs have known that their dogs may be predisposed to common joint and skeletal conditions—problems that may affect their mobility and overall wellness. The good news is that specially formulated diets and dog care products can help promote skeletal and joint health and assist in maintaining healthy cartilage.

Special Nutrients

Including specific nutrients in your dog's diet can help maintain healthy joints. Optimal levels of vitamins and minerals are found in IAMS™ dog care products and promote the efficient production of cartilage.

Controlled Fat Levels

IAMS has formulas that are lower in fat and calories compared with our other adult maintenance formulas. Bones are the framework of the body, and the more weight added to the frame, the more stress joints experience. IAMS formulas such as IAMS™ ProActive Health™ Mature Adult are designed to help keep large-breed or mature dogs at an optimal weight to minimize joint stress.

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