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Before you assume that by-products in kitten food are a bad thing, here are some facts. In common usage, a by-product is something that is just that—a side product from the making of another product. By-products are not by definition poor quality. For instance, gingerbread cookies wouldn’t be the same without molasses, which is a by-product of sugar manufacture.
In relation to IAMS™ kitten and cat foods, by-products are generally parts of the animals that are not the muscle meat preferred by most consumers. The term refers only to the anatomic parts included, not to the nutritional quality of the parts.
While many may not be used to eating these animal parts themselves, it is important to realize that many of the items included in by-products (e.g., organ meats) may be higher in essential nutrients—amino acids, minerals, and vitamins—as well as more palatable to pets than the skeletal muscle meat.
In addition to nutritional benefits, inclusion of these ingredients in pet foods reduces waste and likely has environmental benefits as the livestock industry does not have to produce additional animals just to satisfy the needs for muscle meats to feed pets as well as people. Feeding these nutrient-rich, tasty parts to pets may prevent them from being wasted.
Much of the consumer confusion and discomfort surrounding by-products most likely stems from the marketing strategies of some pet food brands and perhaps from the ingredient name “by-product” itself.
It is important to keep in mind that most ingredients in pet foods can vary greatly in quality. In addition, quality cannot be assessed purely on the basis of the ingredient list. All by-products are not the same quality. Neither is all muscle meat. There are very high-quality by-products as well as poor-quality chicken and chicken meal.
Purchasing food only from reputable manufacturers who are very selective about their suppliers, have full-time, qualified nutritionists, and perform analytical testing to ensure that every ingredient, as well as the finished product, meets their exact nutrient specifications, will help avoid problems due to poor-quality ingredients.
Now you can give your cat a fresh meal with every peel. With two individual portions in each tray, it’s easier than ever to give your cat the fresh, delicious wet food they want.
IAMS PERFECT PORTIONS recipes are made with antioxidant and vitamin E to support a healthy immune system.
Every tray includes high-quality protein like salmon or chicken, with no grain and artificial preservatives.
Our meals balance nutrition and taste, so you can feel good about feeding your cat a delicious meal they'll love.
IAMS PERFECT PORTIONS cat food isn’t just enjoyable for your cat. You’ll love the way our convenient and carefully designed PERFECT PORTIONS trays leave less mess than canned cat food and eliminate messy leftovers.
