10 Toxic Ingredients to Watch Out for in Your Dog's Food

7. Ethoxyquin: A Controversial Preservative

Ethoxyquin is a synthetic antioxidant used in dog food to preserve fats and prevent spoilage. While effective, it has been the subject of controversy due to its potential health risks. Ethoxyquin is also used as a pesticide and has been linked to liver and kidney damage, as well as reproductive issues in animals. The long-term effects of ethoxyquin consumption are not fully understood, raising concerns about its safety in pet food. In response to these concerns, some pet food manufacturers have voluntarily removed ethoxyquin from their products or reduced its concentration. However, it may still be present in some brands, particularly those using fish meal, where it is often added during processing. To avoid this controversial preservative, choose dog foods that explicitly state they are ethoxyquin-free or use natural antioxidants like rosemary extract or mixed tocopherols.