Understanding Moisture Content in Canned Pet Food

According to AAFCO regulations, the maximum moisture declared in a canned pet food diet shall not exceed 78% unless it is labeled as a stew, gravy, or broth and then may contain moisture in excess of 78% (AAFCO, 2015).This statement is why many companies market their products as stews because it allows them to load the cans up with water. Many of these brands are over 80% moisture and must use thickeners such as glutens, guar gum, xanthan gum powder, or carageenan to make the end product appear thick and presentable. High moisture levels allow the manufacturer to create very inexpensive canned products which can maximize profits. On the other hand, Nature’s Logic uses no artificial thickeners and guarantees a maximum of 72% moisture. Customers will find each can very dense in food with actual moisture levels in the 65% range. This lower moisture offering gives a consumer a lot more for their money. (Reference AAFCO Regulation PF4(f) Expressions of Guarantees).