Over the past few decades, how we feed our pets has undergone a significant transformation, with commercial pet foods becoming the norm. However, the rise in chronic degenerative diseases among pets has raised concerns about the ingredients in these products, especially Ethoxyquin—a synthetic antioxidant initially designed to prevent rubber degradation but now used as a preservative in pet foods.

This article delves into the dangers associated with Ethoxyquin in pet foods, referencing relevant studies and data to understand the issue comprehensively.

What is Ethoxyquin?

Ethoxyquin, originally created as a rubber stabilizer, is a synthetic antioxidant that gained popularity as a preservative in pet foods due to its ability to prolong shelf life and preserve nutritional integrity. However, concerns about its potential pet health risks have also grown significantly.

The Epidemic of Chronic Degenerative Diseases

The alarming increase in chronic diseases among pets, such as arthritis, tumors, allergies, dermatitis, heart failure, kidney issues, and liver pathologies, has raised questions about the role of pet food ingredients like Ethoxyquin. While multiple factors can contribute to these health problems, the timing of their rise alongside the popularity of commercial pet foods with additives like Ethoxyquin is concerning.

The Australian Difference

A striking contrast can be observed in the health profiles of Australian pets, which are traditionally fed diets rich in fresh meat, and North American pets, primarily consuming commercial kibbles and canned foods. This disparity underscores the potential impact of commercializing pet diets, especially those containing additives like Ethoxyquin, on pets’ health and longevity.

The Hidden Presence of Ethoxyquin

One of the most disconcerting revelations for pet owners is the concealed presence of Ethoxyquin in many commercial pet foods. Despite vigilant scrutiny of ingredient lists, Ethoxyquin often needs to be mentioned, as it is added by ingredient suppliers rather than directly by pet food manufacturers. This lack of transparency poses a significant challenge for consumers seeking honest labeling of pet food products.

A Dark History

Monsanto initially developed Ethoxyquin in the 1950s, a company known for producing Glyphosate, a pesticide designated by the World Health Organization as likely carcinogenic to humans. Monsanto’s history of legal battles related to Roundup® herbicide and the toxicity of Ethoxyquin on animals’ liver and kidneys raises concerns about its safety.

FDA’s Stance

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) plays a vital role in safeguarding pet and human health. However, the FDA’s response has been relatively muted concerning Ethoxyquin in pet foods. While aware of the concerns, the agency has not enforced stringent labeling requirements or demanded increased transparency from pet food manufacturers, leaving pet owners in the dark about potential risks.

Implications for Pet Owners

In light of these revelations, pet owners face a dilemma regarding the health and well-being of their beloved animals. To address this, pet owners can take the following actions:

• Awareness and Education: Educate themselves about pet food ingredients and the regulatory environment.
• Advocacy: Voice concerns and demand transparency from manufacturers and regulators to drive change in the industry.
• Exploring Alternatives: Consider alternative diets, such as fresh homemade meals or trusted organic brands emphasizing transparency and natural ingredients.

Conclusion

Our pets are cherished companions, and their well-being is of utmost importance. Concerns about Ethoxyquin and other additives in pet foods highlight the need for greater transparency, rigorous research, and an informed and proactive community of pet owners. It’s a collective call to action for improved standards, healthier choices, and a brighter future for our furry friends.

 

References:

1. Błaszczyk, A. et al. (2013). Ethoxyquin: An Antioxidant Used in Animal Feed. International Journal of Food Science, 2013. doi:10.1155/2013/585931.
2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Osteoarthritis in Cats: More Common than You Think. [Online]. Available at: www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/animal-health-literacy/osteoarthritis-cats-more-common-you-think.
3. Wall, T. (2020). Australia Feeds More Raw Pet Food; Canada Conventional. Petfood Industry. [Online]. Available at: www.petfoodindustry.com/news-newsletters/pet-food-news/article/15467150/australia-feeds-more-raw-pet-food-canada-conventional.
4. Environmental Protection Agency. EPA R.E.D. Facts. (2004). [Online]. Available at: https://archive.epa.gov/pesticides/reregistration/web/pdf/0003fact.pdf.
5. International Agency for Research on Cancer. IARC Monograph on Glyphosate. [Online]. Available at: www.iarc.fr/featured-news/media-centre-iarc-news-glyphosate/.
6. Feely, J. et al. (2020). Bayer Reaches Verbal Deal to Settle Up to 85,000 RoundUp Cancer Lawsuits. Fortune. [Online]. Available at: https://fortune.com/2020/05/25/bayer-roundup-cancer-lawsuit-settle.
7. Environmental Protection Agency. EPA R.E.D. Facts. (2004). [Online]. Available at: https://archive.epa.gov/pesticides/reregistration/web/pdf/0003fact.pdf.
8. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Labeling and Use of Ethoxyquin in Animal Feed. (2017). [Online]. Available at: https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/ingredients-additives/labeling-and-use-ethoxyquin-animal-feed.