As you may be aware, the FDA issued an alert on July 12, 2018 in regards to the potential connection between diet and cases of canine heart disease.
In a separate, but related matter, University of California Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine is conducting a study to better understand the impact of Taurine-deficient Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) in Golden Retrievers. On July 19, 2018 UC Davis issued a press release referencing the above study.
Based on the FDA alert and the summary of the ongoing studies there seems to be a focus on taurine and the potential link between diet and DCM.
Recently, media outlets have published headlines indicating a link between grain-free diets and DCM. This has caused many consumers to express concern about the safety of grain-free diets in general. While the headlines focus on grain-free and heart disease, the studies are specifically researching how dogs metabolize taurine and the impact of taurine on heart health.
It is important to note that Fromm has supplemented grain-free and grain-inclusive diets with taurine for several years. While we carefully watch for further FDA notifications and monitor the results of the various studies, we want our retailers and consumers to feel confident knowing Fromm, has and will continue to supplement recipes with taurine.
Pet parents can feed Fromm with confidence, knowing we are a family-owned-and-operated company that is dedicated to the health and well-being of pets and has been since we started producing pet food in 1949.
The Quick Answer
Yes, Fromm dog food does contain taurine. According to information from Fromm Family Foods, their pet foods contain taurine either naturally through ingredients, via supplementation, or both. This essential nutrient is included to support your dog’s heart, eye, brain, and digestive health.
What is Taurine and Why Should Dog Owners Care?
Taurine might sound like some fancy scientific term, but it’s actually super important for your furry friend’s health. As a dog parent myself, I was curious about this nutrient when I first heard about it, so I dug into the research
Taurine is an amino acid that plays several crucial roles in your dog’s body
- Supports healthy heart muscle function
- Maintains proper vision and eye health
- Contributes to brain development and function
- Helps with bile production for proper digestion
Without enough taurine, dogs can develop serious health issues like dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), which affects the heart muscles, or even experience vision problems. Pretty scary stuff, right?
Taurine in Dogs: Essential or Not?
Here’s where things get interesting. Unlike cats, dogs don’t technically need taurine in their diet because they’re supposed to make their own. Taurine is considered a “nonessential” amino acid for dogs, which is a bit confusing terminology.
What “nonessential” really means is that healthy dogs can produce taurine themselves IF they have access to two other amino acids:
- Methionine
- Cysteine
These are the building blocks dogs need to create their own taurine. Without these “essential” amino acids, dogs can’t make taurine and might become deficient.
Why Fromm Adds Taurine to Their Dog Food
Even though dogs can make their own taurine, Fromm understands that some dogs might need extra help. Certain breeds (especially larger breeds) and dogs with specific health conditions may not produce enough taurine on their own.
Fromm takes a proactive approach by ensuring their dog foods contain adequate taurine through:
- Natural sources from animal proteins
- Direct supplementation
- Sometimes both methods together
This approach helps ensure all dogs, regardless of their ability to synthesize taurine, get enough of this important nutrient.
How Fromm Ensures Adequate Taurine Levels
Fromm uses several strategies to make sure your pup gets enough taurine:
1. High-Quality Animal Proteins
Animal proteins naturally contain taurine, with some sources being richer than others. Fromm’s recipes typically include multiple animal protein sources, which contribute to the natural taurine content in their foods.
2. Supplemental Taurine
In addition to natural sources, Fromm adds supplemental taurine to many of their formulas. This ensures consistent levels across their product range.
3. Methionine and Cysteine
Fromm also ensures their foods contain adequate methionine and cysteine—the essential amino acids dogs need to produce taurine themselves. This dual approach supports your dog’s natural taurine production while also providing direct supplementation.
Taurine Content Across Fromm’s Product Lines
Fromm offers several product lines for dogs, including:
- Four-Star
- Gold
- Classic
- Chef’s Specials
While I can’t give exact taurine amounts for each formula (as these can vary), Fromm confirms that taurine is included across their product range either naturally, through supplementation, or both.
Signs Your Dog Might Need More Taurine
Even with a good quality food like Fromm, some dogs might need additional taurine support. Here are some signs to watch for:
- Unexplained lethargy or weakness
- Coughing or difficulty breathing
- Vision problems
- Heart issues (diagnosed by a vet)
If you notice any of these symptoms, please consult your veterinarian. They might recommend additional taurine supplementation or a different dietary approach.
The DCM Scare and Taurine Connection
Around 2018-2019, there was significant concern in the pet food industry about a potential link between grain-free diets and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs. Some research suggested taurine deficiency might play a role.
Fromm responded proactively to these concerns by:
- Reviewing their formulations
- Ensuring adequate taurine levels
- Providing transparency about their ingredients and manufacturing processes
While research is ongoing, Fromm’s approach to taurine supplementation helps address these concerns for pet parents.
Comparing Fromm to Other Dog Food Brands
When it comes to taurine content, not all dog foods are created equal. Here’s how Fromm compares:
- Premium brands (like Fromm): Usually contain added taurine and high-quality animal proteins with natural taurine
- Mid-range brands: May contain some taurine but might rely more on dogs’ ability to synthesize it
- Budget brands: Often contain lower-quality proteins and may not supplement with taurine
Fromm falls firmly in the premium category, with their commitment to including taurine across their product lines.
Frequently Asked Questions About Taurine in Fromm Dog Food
Is taurine listed on Fromm dog food labels?
Yes, if taurine is added as a supplement, it will be listed in the ingredients. Natural taurine from meat sources won’t be listed separately as it’s part of the protein ingredients.
Do grain-free Fromm formulas have enough taurine?
Yes, Fromm ensures adequate taurine in both their grain-inclusive and grain-free formulas, addressing concerns about potential taurine deficiency in grain-free diets.
Can puppies get enough taurine from Fromm puppy food?
Absolutely! Fromm formulates their puppy foods with growth and development in mind, including appropriate taurine levels for young dogs.
Should I add extra taurine supplements if I feed Fromm?
For most healthy dogs, the taurine in Fromm dog food is sufficient. However, always consult your veterinarian about your specific dog’s needs, especially if they have heart or vision concerns.
My Personal Experience with Fromm and Taurine
I’ve been feeding my two Labradors Fromm for about three years now. When I first heard about the DCM concerns, I was naturally worried. I did my research and even spoke with my vet about taurine levels in their diet.
What gave me peace of mind was learning that Fromm actively addresses taurine needs in their formulations. My older Lab had some heart concerns last year, and our vet specifically mentioned that the taurine in his diet was a positive factor in supporting his heart health.
Tips for Ensuring Your Dog Gets Enough Taurine
While Fromm does a good job providing taurine, here are some additional tips:
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Rotate proteins: Different animal proteins contain varying levels of taurine. Fromm’s Four-Star line makes it easy to rotate between different protein sources.
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Consider wet food: Sometimes wet food can contain higher natural taurine levels. Fromm offers both dry and wet options.
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Taurine-rich treats: Organ meats like heart are naturally high in taurine and make great occasional treats.
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Regular vet checks: Your vet can identify early signs of taurine-related issues during regular checkups.
Conclusion: Fromm Takes Taurine Seriously
So, does Fromm dog food have taurine? The answer is a definitive yes. Whether through natural sources, direct supplementation, or both, Fromm ensures their dog foods contain appropriate levels of this important amino acid.
As a pet parent, it’s reassuring to know that Fromm understands the importance of taurine for canine health and takes a proactive approach to including it in their formulations. This attention to nutritional detail is just one of the many reasons why Fromm has earned a loyal following among discerning dog owners.
If you’re concerned about taurine in your dog’s diet, Fromm offers a solid option that addresses this nutritional need while also providing high-quality ingredients across their product range.
Remember, while taurine is important, it’s just one component of a balanced diet. Fromm’s holistic approach to pet nutrition ensures your dog gets all the nutrients they need for a healthy, happy life.
Have you noticed improvements in your dog’s health since switching to a taurine-rich diet like Fromm? I’d love to hear your experiences!
