The term “Complete & Balanced” is often used in companion animal nutrition, but what does that mean exactly? And, why is it important?
“Complete” refers to the food containing the complete specification of nutrients as specified by an internationally accepted scientific organisation, for example, by The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). AAFCO is the authority that the Australian pet food industry uses as a reference for pet nutrition. A complete pet food is formulated to be fed as the sole feed and is capable of maintaining life and/or promoting growth or reproduction without any additional substance or supplement being consumed except water.
The complete specification of nutrients differs according to life stage as some nutrients are more specific for growth compared to adult/senior requirements and so on. Nutrients refer to all protein and essential amino acids as well as macro minerals such as calcium & phosphorous, potassium, sodium, chloride and magnesium. In addition, trace minerals including iron, zinc, copper, manganese, iodine and selenium. Fat content and essential fatty acids must be aligned with the life stage of the pet as well. Vitamins are specified in two main categories, firstly fat soluble vitamins such as vitamin A,D,E and K and water soluble vitamins, mainly B group vitamins, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, folic acid, vitamin B12 and finally but not included in the vitamin category, choline.
“Balanced” refers to all the above mentioned nutrients being balanced to a defined energy content or on a dry matter basis as recommended by recognised authorities in scientific establishments such as AAFCO.
Complete and Balanced pet foods are an essential requirement in any nutritional choice you make for your pet and some of the questions you may need to ask yourself to ensure if this statement is substantiated by a pet food is, Who formulated the pet food and what are their qualifications? Ensuring the food has been formulated by an appropriately qualified nutritionist (Board certified nutritionist or a Professor in Animal Nutrition with a PhD) will assist you make the right choice of nutrition for your beloved family member.
Cherish Pet Food has been formulated by Professor Emeritus Nick Costa (The Science tab on Cherish Pet Food Website) to include the complete array of nutrients compliant with AAFCO specifications listed in feeding tables for each life stage to ensure our range is balanced to dry matter to ensure that the Cherish Pet Food range is “Complete & Balanced” for dogs and cats and to nourish mind, body & spirit.
We take care of the science, so you can Cherish more moments together.
