Sodium inosinate
![A representation of E631](/fileadmin/_processed_/8/e/csm_9901030_macro-shot-of-medical-powder-from-open-capsules-or-pills_ffe9c57778.jpg)
Sodium inosinate is a flavor enhancer that is used in many foods. But what exactly is sodium inosinate and how does it affect dogs? In this article, you will find out what sodium inosinate is, where it is found, what its advantages and disadvantages are and what you should look out for when feeding your dog sodium inosinate.
What is sodium inosinate?
Sodium inosinate is the sodium salt of inosinic acid, an organic acid that belongs to the purines. Purines are components of DNA and RNA and are found in all cells. Sodium inosinate is used in the food industry as a flavor enhancer and has the European approval number E 631. Sodium inosinate mainly enhances the meat taste of food and is often used in combination with glutamic acid (E 620) to achieve a synergistic effect. This means that the two flavor enhancers reinforce each other's effect.
Sodium inosinate is produced biotechnologically with the help of microorganisms, which can sometimes be genetically modified. Sodium inosinate is permitted in a maximum amount of 500 mg per kilogram of food and is considered safe for humans. However, sodium inosinate can lead to intolerances or allergic reactions in some people. Sodium inosinate can also increase uric acid levels in the blood, which can be problematic for people with gout.
Where is sodium inosinate found?
Sodium inosinate is mainly found in salty foods that are supposed to have a meat flavor. These include, for example, soups, sauces, seasonings, ready meals, meat products, vegetable products and snacks. Sodium inosinate must be declared on the list of ingredients, either with the name or the E number. Sometimes it is simply referred to as inosinate.
What are the benefits of sodium inosinate?
The advantage of sodium inosinate is that it improves and intensifies the taste of food. This can mean that less salt or other seasonings are needed to prepare a tasty meal. Sodium inosinate also has an appetizing effect, which can be helpful for dogs that eat poorly or are sick.
What are the disadvantages of sodium inosinate?
Sodium inosinate also has some disadvantages that you should be aware of. On the one hand, sodium inosinate can lead to intolerances or allergic reactions in dogs, such as diarrhea, vomiting or skin rashes. Secondly, sodium inosinate can increase the uric acid level in the blood, which can lead to urinary stones or gout in dogs. Dogs have a higher uric acid level than humans and are therefore more sensitive to purines.
What should you watch out for when feeding your dog sodium inosinate?
If you feed your dog sodium inosinate, there are a few things you should bear in mind:
- Only feed your dog high-quality foods with sodium inosinate and avoid cheap products with lots of additives.
- Feed your dog only small amounts of food with sodium inosinate and not every day.
- Watch your dog for possible signs of intolerance or allergic reactions and stop feeding immediately if you notice anything.
- Make sure your dog always has enough water available to excrete the uric acid.
- Have your dog examined regularly by a vet to check the uric acid level in the blood and prevent possible urinary stones or gout.
Sodium inosinate is a flavor enhancer that is found in many foods. It has the advantage that it improves the taste and stimulates the appetite, but also has the disadvantage that it can lead to intolerances or allergic reactions. Sodium inosinate can also increase uric acid levels in the blood, which can lead to urinary stones or gout in dogs. If you feed your dog sodium inosinate, you should therefore take a few precautions and keep a close eye on your dog.
If you notice any signs of hypersensitivity or poisoning in your dog, you should see your vet immediately. We are not a substitute for a vet, but we try to be as accurate as possible. Every dog reacts differently and we recommend you get a second opinion or consult your vet if in doubt.
Stay healthy and take good care of your four-legged friend!😊
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