NexGard™ Small 2-4kg Flea, Tick and Mites Chew

Summary

Afoxolaner is an isoxazoline insecticide and acaricide used in oral flea and tick preventatives. It works by blocking chloride ion channels in the nervous systems of parasites, causing uncontrolled neurological activity that rapidly kills fleas and ticks.

Manufacturer Benefits

Artificial Beef Flavour, Beef Flavouring, Beef Flavoured Substance, Simulated Beef Flavour

Summary

Beef flavour is a palatant derived from animal sources, designed to mimic the taste and aroma of beef. Its primary purpose is to enhance the palatability of pet food, encouraging consistent consumption. Rather than using whole beef, beef flavour is typically produced through natural or artificial flavouring compounds, ensuring safety, stability, and uniformity in the final product.

Manufacturer Benefits

Beef flavour is included as a palatability enhancer to increase the appeal of the product to dogs. It provides a cost-effective way to impart a desirable taste without the need for actual beef content.

Glycerin, Glycerine, 1,2,3-Propanetriol, E422

Summary

Glycerol is a naturally occurring compound derived from plant or animal fats and oils. In pet food, it serves primarily as a humectant, helping to retain moisture and improve texture. Glycerol is not used in its raw, unrefined state; instead, it is utilised in a purified, food-grade form to ensure safety and optimal absorption in pet diets.

Manufacturer Benefits

Glycerol is included as a humectant to retain moisture and improve the texture of pet food products, helping to prevent them from drying out. It also acts as a cost-effective preservative, extending shelf life by inhibiting microbial growth.

Polyethylene Glycol 400, PEG 400, Polyoxyethylene 400, E1521

Summary

Macrogol 400 is a synthetic compound derived from petroleum, classified as a polyether. It is primarily used in pet food as a laxative agent to support digestive health and promote regular bowel movements. Macrogol 400 is not used in its raw chemical form; instead, it is utilised as a purified, pharmaceutical-grade compound to ensure safety and effective absorption in pets.

Manufacturer Benefits

Macrogol 400 is included as a humectant to maintain moisture content and optimise texture stability in pet food formulations. Its use can also aid in preventing ingredient clumping and extending product shelf life.

Polyethylene Glycol 4000, PEG 4000, E1521, Poly(ethylene Glycol) 4000

Summary

Macrogol 4000 is a synthetic compound derived from ethylene glycol, classified as a polyethylene glycol. It is included in pet food primarily as a laxative agent to support digestive health and promote regular bowel movements. Macrogol 4000 is not used in its raw chemical form but is specifically formulated for safe ingestion and optimal efficacy in gastrointestinal function.

Manufacturer Benefits

Macrogol 4000 is included as a functional ingredient to act as a laxative or stool-softening agent, supporting digestive health and regularity in pets. Its use can help manage or prevent constipation, particularly in specialised or veterinary diets.

Polyoxyl 15 Hydroxystearate, PEG-15 Hydroxystearate, Polyethylene Glycol 660 Hydroxystearate, Eumulgin H 15

Summary

Macrogol 15 Hydroxystearate is a synthetic compound derived from the esterification of macrogol (polyethylene glycol) and hydroxystearic acid, both of which are of chemical origin. It is primarily used as an emulsifier to stabilise fat and water mixtures in pet food. This ingredient is not used in its natural form but is specifically manufactured to optimise safety, consistency, and absorption.

Manufacturer Benefits

Macrogol 15 Hydroxystearate is included as an emulsifier to improve the stability and uniformity of fat and oil components in pet food formulations. Its use helps optimise product texture and shelf life without significantly impacting palatability or nutritional value.

Corn Starch, Zea Mays Starch, E1401, Cornflour

Summary

Maize starch is a carbohydrate ingredient derived from the endosperm of maize (corn) kernels, making it a plant-based component. It serves primarily as a source of easily digestible energy and acts as a functional binder in pet food formulations. Maize starch is utilised in its processed, refined form rather than as whole maize, ensuring consistency, digestibility, and suitability for pet nutrition.

Manufacturer Benefits

Maize starch is included as a cost-effective carbohydrate source that provides energy and helps bind kibble, optimising texture and processing efficiency. Its neutral flavour and label-friendly profile also support product stability and consumer acceptance.

Polyvinylpyrrolidone, PVP, E1201, Polyvidone

Summary

Povidone is a synthetic polymer derived from the chemical polymerisation of vinylpyrrolidone. It is not of animal or plant origin but is manufactured for use in various industries, including pet food. Its primary function is as a binder, helping to hold kibble and treats together. Povidone is not used in its raw chemical form but as a purified, food-grade compound to ensure safety and efficacy.

Manufacturer Benefits

Povidone is included as a binder and stabiliser to improve the texture and consistency of pet food products. It also helps maintain ingredient dispersion and product uniformity during processing and storage.

Soy Protein, Soybean Protein, Glycine Max Protein, E416

Summary

Soy protein is a plant-derived ingredient extracted from soybeans, commonly used in pet foods for its high protein content and amino acid profile. Its primary purpose is to provide a digestible, meat-free protein source that supports muscle maintenance and overall health. Soy protein is not used in its whole bean form but is processed and isolated to optimise digestibility and nutritional value.

Manufacturer Benefits

Soy protein is included as a cost-effective, highly digestible plant-based protein source to help meet protein requirements while managing formulation costs. It also provides functional benefits in texture and binding, supporting product consistency.

Medium Chain Triglycerides, Miglyol 812, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, E472c

Summary

MCT oil is a plant-derived ingredient extracted primarily from coconut or palm kernel oil, consisting of medium-chain triglycerides. It is included in pet food for its easily digestible energy source, supporting metabolism and cognitive function. MCT oil is utilised in its refined liquid form, not as a whole food, to optimise absorption and ensure safety for pets.

Manufacturer Benefits

MCT oil is included as a functional fat source to provide easily digestible energy and support metabolic health in pets. It may also be used to enhance palatability and differentiate the product in the premium segment for marketing purposes.