In its latest report from July 2023, the Federal Consumer Protection Agency in Mexico (PROFECO) evaluated the quality of 41 brands of dry dog food available in the Mexican market. This study aimed to help pet owners make better choices by analyzing the nutritional content, ingredient quality, digestibility and accuracy of labeling of each brand.
PROFECO conducted a thorough analysis, combining lab and in-vitro digestibility tests to assess how effectively dogs can absorb nutrients from each product. The agency measured the levels of protein, fat, fiber, and moisture to verify that brands meet essential nutritional standards, especially those set by Mexico’s NOM and the AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) guidelines, which define minimum nutrient levels for pets. The study also looked at whether the labeling was truthful and matched what was in the food.
Brands that scored high
Several brands stood out for meeting high standards in nutrition and transparency. For instance, Royal Canin, Eukanuba, Hill’s Science Diet, Purina Pro Plan, Kirkland Signature (Nature’s Domain) and Member’s Mark earned positive reviews. These brands offer reliable nutrition for dogs and ensure consumers receive the quality promised on the label. They also received praise for clear labeling that reflects the actual content of the food, meaning what shoppers see on the label is what they get in the bag.
Few brands with room for improvement
A key focus of the study was label transparency, ensuring brands only claim features they fully meet. Out of the 41 brands tested, 15 had issues with either nutritional content or labeling accuracy. Common issues included less protein than claimed, more fiber or ash than indicated, and inaccurate net weights.
Some brands didn’t even meet the minimum protein levels recommended for maintenance by AAFCO. This lack of transparency could mean that dogs aren’t getting the nutrients they need from these products, raising concerns about the quality of certain options.
Final PROFECO’s recommendations
PROFECO recommended choosing brands that are upfront about their ingredients and meet basic nutritional needs. They advise pet owners to prioritize products that follow NOM or AAFCO guidelines, as these standards ensure balanced nutrition. For those looking for quality on a budget, Member’s Mark is noted as an affordable yet trustworthy option.
With this study, PROFECO continues to provide valuable insights for Mexican pet owners, guiding them in making informed decisions for their pets’ health and wellbeing.