Stabilizers

What are stabilizers?

Stabilizers are chemical or natural substances that ensure that the components of a product do not separate or change. For example, they prevent fat and water from separating in a cream or yoghurt or crystals from forming in an ice cream. Stabilizers can also affect the texture, taste and color of food.

There are many different types of stabilizers that are used depending on the product and manufacturer. Some examples are gelatine, pectin, carrageenan, xanthan gum, guar gum or locust bean gum. These substances are usually obtained from plant or animal sources. Other stabilizers are produced synthetically, such as sodium alginate or sodium citrate.

Why are stabilizers used in dog food?

Stabilizers are used in dog food for various reasons. Firstly, they are intended to improve the quality and appearance of the food. On the other hand, they are intended to extend the shelf life and prevent the growth of bacteria or mold. Stabilizers can also help to ensure that the food is better digested by the dog or that it has certain health benefits.

An example of a stabilizer in dog food is lecithin. This substance is obtained from soy or eggs and has several functions. It ensures that the fat in the food is evenly distributed and does not become rancid. It also helps with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins in the dog's intestines. Lecithin can also strengthen the immune system and inhibit inflammation.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of stabilizers for dogs?

Stabilizers are not fundamentally bad for dogs. They can even have positive effects, such as a better supply of nutrients or greater acceptance of the food. However, there are also some potential disadvantages or risks that you should be aware of.

One disadvantage is that stabilizers are often unnecessary or used in excessive amounts. This can result in the food being less natural or displacing other important ingredients. In addition, some stabilizers can trigger allergies or intolerances or disrupt the intestinal flora. Some examples of problematic stabilizers are carrageenan, which can promote inflammation, or xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.

Another disadvantage is that stabilizers are often not clearly declared or appear under different names. This makes it difficult for you as a dog owner to know what exactly is in the food and whether it is suitable for your dog. You should therefore always check the list of ingredients and contact the manufacturer if you have any doubts.

How can you find the right food for your dog?

Choosing the right food for your dog depends on many factors, such as their age, size, activity level and individual needs. In general, you should make sure that the food is of high quality and contains sufficient protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals.

Stabilizers are not necessarily an exclusion criterion for a good food, as long as they are used in moderate amounts and have no negative effects on your dog. However, you should also not place too much emphasis on stabilizers or be fooled by them. Ultimately, it depends on how your dog tolerates the food and whether he likes to eat it.