Iodine Testing Considerations for Pet Food
Iodine is an essential trace element found in many food sources as well as the environment. AAFCO recognizes iodine as an essential nutrient for both dogs and cats at differing, species-specific levels.
Why iodine is important to pets?
- Necessary for proper thyroid function
- A healthy, functional thyroid is important for regulation of several core body functions
- Hormone regulation
- Maintaining temperature
- Growth and development
- Neuromuscular functions
Why should pet food be tested for iodine?
As an essential nutrient, it is required for sustaining life. The Association of American Feed Control Officials has both minimum and maximum allowable amounts of iodine, species and life stage specific. Too little or too much iodine present in a diet can be detrimental to the health and wellbeing of the pet.
Other Considerations for Analysis
- As iodine is naturally occurring in many pet food ingredient materials, analyzing ingredient inputs can be insightful as to the final level in the finished diet
- Ingredient materials that contribute iodine to a diet, such as fish or shellfish, can have natural variation in levels
- Research has indicated that adult cats are at higher risk for hyperthyroidism associated with iodine intake, so cat diets are of particular interest
Accurate, reliable results obtained by a validated method are an important part of ensuring pet food products meet the nutritional requirements for cats and dogs.
Start the Conversation
Eurofins Nutrition Analysis Center offers a robust validated method for Iodine by ICP-MS, covered under our A2LA Scope of Accreditation. Developed with the pet food industry and pet food ingredient supply chain in mind, this method is validated on dry kibble pet food, wet pet food, pet treats, pet dental chew products, as well as multiple ingredients such as raw meat and dry protein meals.
