Corn is a common ingredient in many pet foods, both for dogs and cats. But is it beneficial, or could it be harming your pets? The answer depends on who you ask. While pet owners and breeders often express concerns, those in favor of corn—typically those with vested interests in the pet food industry—tend to support its use.
Let’s break down some of the most common myths about corn in pet food and reveal the truth behind this controversial ingredient.
The Real Reason Corn Is in Pet Food
Before diving into the myths, it’s essential to understand why corn is so prevalent in pet food. The truth is, corn is not included because it’s particularly nutritious; rather, it’s a cost-effective ingredient that plays a critical role in the kibble-making process.
Corn and other starchy carbohydrates are crucial for gelatinization, a process necessary for producing kibble. This makes corn an inexpensive source of calories, helping to keep pet food affordable. However, the nutritional benefits of corn are often overstated or misunderstood.
Myth #1: Corn Is a Superior Source of Energy
One of the most common arguments in favor of corn is that it provides a superior source of energy for pets, especially for working dogs. However, this is misleading. While corn is a carbohydrate, meat provides both protein and fat, the latter being a more concentrated and efficient energy source. For cats, obligate carnivores, meat-derived energy is even more critical.
Science shows that ounce-for-ounce, meat contains significantly more energy than corn. So, if you want to fuel your dog’s or cat’s active lifestyle, prioritize meat over corn.
Myth #2: Corn Is Highly Digestible
Corn is often claimed to be highly digestible, but this is only true when it has been processed into a fine meal or flour and then cooked. In its whole grain form, corn is difficult for both dogs and cats to digest. While finely ground corn can be broken down by the digestive system, this doesn’t mean it’s nutritionally valuable.
The pet food industry’s claim that corn is “99% digestible” can be misleading. This statistic refers to the digestibility of processed corn, not its overall nutritional value.
Myth #3: Corn Does Not Cause Allergies
Supporters of corn-based pet foods often assert that corn is one of the least allergenic ingredients. Some studies suggest a low incidence of corn allergies in dogs and cats, but the reliability of these studies is questionable due to the challenges in accurately diagnosing food allergies in pets. Many actually attribute corn as the leading factor in allergies in pets and once removed from the diet, the symptoms are gone.
Additionally, while corn might not be the most common allergen, it still cannot be entirely dismissed. Many pet owners, breeders, and veterinarians have reported corn and other grains as potential allergens. Moreover, the quality of the corn used in pet foods is a concern. Contaminants like storage mites and their droppings, aflatoxin, a highly toxic mold spore often found in bulk grains, are known allergens.
Myth #4: Corn Has a Low Glycemic Index
The glycemic index (GI) measures how much a food raises blood sugar levels. A lower GI is generally better for maintaining stable blood sugar. Here’s how corn compares to other common pet food ingredients:
- Corn meal: 69
- Brown rice: 55
- Corn: 53
- Oatmeal: 49
- Wheat: 41
- Barley: 25
- Chicken: 0
- Beef: 0
Contrary to industry claims, corn does not have a particularly low glycemic index. This is especially important for cats, who are more prone to insulin sensitivity and diabetes. A diet high in corn or other high-GI ingredients can contribute to unhealthy blood sugar spikes.
Myth #5: Corn Has a High Biological Value
Biological value (BV) refers to how well a protein source is utilized by the body. Corn’s protein content is often touted as valuable, but when compared to other ingredients, it falls short. Both dogs and cats require high-quality proteins, ideally from animal sources, which provide a complete amino acid profile. Corn’s protein is inferior to the protein found in species-specific animal proteins, which is more suited to the dietary needs of both species.
Myth #6: Corn Is Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Corn is often praised for its vitamin and mineral content, but when compared to other ingredients, corn’s nutrient profile is unremarkable. The Nutrient Balance Completeness Score, which measures how complete a food is in terms of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, ranks corn below many other ingredients. For example:
- Brown rice: 33
- Corn: 34
- Barley: 36
- Oats: 43
- Quinoa: 45
- Wheat: 48
- Potato: 51
- Peas: 53
- Sweet potato: 55
- Spinach: 91
Compared to vegetables like spinach or even other grains, corn’s contribution to a balanced diet is minimal. Both dogs and cats benefit more from diets rich in varied, high-nutrient ingredients.
Myth #7: Corn Provides Essential Omega-6 Fatty Acids
Some proponents of corn in pet food argue that it’s a good source of essential omega-6 fatty acids, which are important for maintaining healthy skin and a shiny coat in dogs and cats. While it’s true that corn contains linoleic acid, a type of omega-6 fatty acid, this benefit is often overstated.
The issue lies in the balance between omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in your pet’s diet. While omega-6 fatty acids are necessary, an excess without sufficient omega-3s can lead to inflammation, contributing to conditions like arthritis, allergies, and skin problems in both dogs and cats.
High levels of corn in pet food can skew this balance, especially if the diet lacks sufficient omega-3 sources like fish
The Bottom Line
Corn’s primary role in pet food is not due to its superior nutritional qualities but because it’s an inexpensive filler that helps reduce production costs. While it makes pet food more affordable, it’s misleading to suggest that corn is included for its health benefits.
For pet owners seeking the best for their dogs and cats, it’s important to prioritize high-quality ingredients, particularly those rich in animal proteins and low in unnecessary fillers like corn. Understanding the truth about corn in pet food can help you make informed choices, ensuring your pets receive the nutrition they truly need.
Make the Switch to a Healthier, Corn-Free Diet for Your Pet
Now that you’ve learned the truth about corn in pet food, it’s time to take action. Your dog or cat deserves a diet that’s rich in high-quality ingredients, providing them with the nutrition they need to thrive. Corn may be a common filler, but it’s far from the best choice for your pet’s health.
Why settle for less when you can give your pet more? Explore our range of premium, corn-free pet foods, crafted to support optimal health, digestion, and vitality. Packed with real protein sourced from chicken, egg, fish, lamb, along with wholesome vegetables, and balanced nutrients, these products offer everything your pet needs without the unnecessary fillers
