The Maillard Reaction in Dog Food is Dangerous

The Maillard Reaction in Dog Food is Dangerous

Erica
3 minute read

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The Maillard reaction in dog food is dangerous.  It is a chemical reaction that occurs during the heating processing of pet food, when sugar reacts in a non-enzymatic way with amino acids in proteins, lipids or DNA. The result is food that is more palatable and looks more appealing, however, it can reduce the bioavailability of the food itself, increase the amount of AGEs found in the found and literally creates carcinogens.  The Maillard Reaction in dog food is dangerous. 

When pet food is manufactured at high temperatures, the Maillard reaction occurs and significantly reduces the bioavailability of the food, by negatively impacting how the nutrients in the food are utilized and absorbed.  Specifically, when the Maillard reaction occurs, the process compromises the amino acids, such as Lysine in the food, making it impossible for your dog to absorb these essential nutrients that your dog needs to live.  Since amino acids must be obtained from food or supplements, the Maillard reaction is especially concerning because it depletes the food of essential nutrients your dog needs to live.  The Maillard reaction in dog food is dangerous. 

In addition to the reduction of bioavailability, the Maillard Reaction also contributes to the formation of Advanced Glycation End (AGEs) products found in the food itself.  AGEs are also referred to as glycotoxins, which are harmful oxidative compounds that accumulate in tissues over time, causing stress and inflammation, and in turn increase the risk of developing diseases like obesity, cancer, heart disease and diabetes in both humans and dogs. The accumulation of AGEs in the body is associated with "atherosclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, end stage renal disease, rheumatoid arthritis, sarcopenia, cataracts, and other degenerative ophthalmic diseases, Parkinson’s disease, vascular dementia and several other chronic diseases." The Maillard reaction in dog food is dangerous. 

Coupled with the formation of AGEs and reduction of bioavailability of essential amino acids, the Maillard reaction can also create carcinogens, namely Acrylamide. "Acrylamide was shown to be a neurotoxicant, reproductive toxicant, and carcinogen in animal species."  Consumption of Acrylamide is harmful.  The Maillard Reaction in dog food is dangerous. 

If you want to keep your dog healthy and thriving, avoid feeding kibble.  Feeding food that has been cooked and prepared at lower temperatures like home-cooking or raw food is a much healthier alternative.  Click here for our home-cooked recipe and here for our recommended raw food brands. 

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