Assessment:
What Easy, Nutritious Grain-Free Recipes Get
Our best reviews?
Simply Nourish grain-free food earns highest advisor rating5 stars.
Simply Nourish's grain-free range includes3 dry dog foodlisted below.
Each recipe contains itsAAFCO Nutritional ProfileWhen available…Gline (dog),Mmaintenance (adult),Aall stages of life,Ssupplement oryouspecified.
| products | Assessment | AAFCO |
|---|---|---|
| Simply Nourish Grain Free Adult | 5 | M |
| Simply Nourish Small Breed Grain Free Adult | 5 | M |
| Simply Nourish Large Breed Grain Free Adult | 4.5 | M |
Recipe and label analysis
Simply Nourish Grain Free Adultwas selected as a representative of the rest of the line for a detailed recipe and nutrient analysis.
The label and nutrition facts below are calculated usingdry matter basis.
Simply Nourish Grain Free Adult
dry puppy food
Estimated nutrient content of dry matter
protein =30% | Fett =18% | carbs =44%
Ingredients: Boneless Chicken, Chicken Flour,dry peas, dehydrated potato, chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), ground flaxseed, natural flavoring,pea fiber, Dicalcium Phosphate, Dried Chicory Root, Dried Carrots, Dried Kale, Dried Squash, Dried Blueberries, Calcium Carbonate, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Niacin Supplement, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement , Thiamine Mononitrate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement), dl-methionine, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Potassium Chloride, Minerals (Zinc Sulfate, Iron Sulfate, Proteinate zinc, iron proteinate, manganese sulfate, copper sulfate, copper proteinate, manganese proteinate, calcium iodate,Natriumselenit), mixture of tocopherols and citric acid (preservatives), rosemary extract
Fiber (estimated dry matter content) =6.7%
Rotdenotes controversial item
| Estimated nutrient content | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Method | protein | Fett | carbohydrates |
| guaranteed analysis | 27% | 16% | O |
| dry matter basis | 30% | 18% | 44% |
| calorie weighted basis | 26% | 37% | 38% |
protein =26% | Fett =37% | carbs =38%
ingredient analysis
The first ingredient in this dog food isChicken. Despite being a quality product, raw chicken contains up to 73% water. After cooking, most of the moisture is lost, reducing the meat content to a fraction of its original weight.
After processing, this item would likely represent a minor portion of the total finished product content.
The second ingredient ischicken meal. Chicken meal is considered ameat concentrateand contains nearly 300% more protein than fresh chicken.
The third ingredient containsdry peas. Dried peas are a good source of carbohydrates. In addition, they are naturally rich infiber.
However, dried peas contain around 27% protein, a factor to consider when evaluating the meat content of this dog food.
The next ingredient isdried potato, a dehydrated product usually made from by-products of potato processing. In most cases, dried potatoes can contain around 10% dry matter protein, which may affect our estimate of the total meat content of this recipe.
The fifth point ischicken fat. This item is obtained by processing the chicken, a process similar to preparing soup, removing the fat from the surface of the liquid.
Chicken fat is rich in linoleic acid, an essential omega-6 fatty acid. Although it doesn't sound very appetizing, chicken fat is actually a high-quality ingredient.
The sixth ingredient islinseed, one of the best plant-based sources of healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Since they have been previously ground into a meal, flaxseeds are also rich insoluble fiber.
However, flaxseed contains about 19% protein, a factor that must be considered when assessing the actual meat content of this dog food.
Afternatural flavor, we foundpea fiber, a mixture of soluble and insolublefiberobtained from pea shells. Aside from the usual fiber benefits, this agricultural by-product offers no other nutritional value to a dog.
The ninth ingredient isDicalciumphosphat, probably used here as a dietary calcium supplement.
The tenth ingredient ischicory root. Chicory is rich ininulin, a starch-like compound made up of repeating carbohydrate units found in certain roots and tubers.
Inulin is not only a natural source ofsoluble fiber, there is also aprebioticUsed to encourage the growth of healthy bacteria in a dog's digestive tract.
From here, the list goes on to anumber of other items.
But to be realistic, the ingredients that are so far down the list (besides supplements) areprobably does not affectthe overall rating of this product by Simply Nourish.
Notable in 3exceptions…
First, this recipe containsNatriumselenit, AControversial form of the mineral selenium. Sodium selenite appears to be nutritionally inferior to the more natural source of selenium found in selenium yeast.
Next, we note the use ofToughnessin this meal. Taurine is an important amino acid associated with healthy heart muscle function. Although taurine is not normally considered essential in dogs, some dogs have been shown to be deficient in this critical nutrient.
As taurine deficiency is more common in pets eating a grain-free diet, we see its presence in this recipe as a positive addition.
And finally, this food containschelated minerals,mineralschemically bound to proteins. This makes them easier to catch. Chelated minerals are usually found in better dog foods.
nutrient analysis
When checking the ingredients panel, Simply Nourish Grain Free looks like apremium dry puppy food.
The panel shows adry matter30% protein value, 18% fat content andestimated carbsof about 44%.
As a group, the brand has an average protein content of 30% and an average fat content of 18%. Together, these numbers indicate acarbohydrate contentof 44% for the entire product line.
And a fat to protein ratio of about 59%.
This means that this Simply Nourish line of products…
Above average protein. Above average fat. And below average carbs compared to other dry dog foods.
Even taking into account the protein-boosting effects of dried peas, dried potatoes and flaxseed, this sounds like the profile of a dry food that still contains asignificant amount of meat.
Our review of Simply Nourish grain-free dry food
Simply Nourish Grain Free is adry puppy foodconsumes a significant amount ofcalled meat mealas the dominant source of animal protein and therefore deserves the label5 stars.
Enthusiastically recommended.
Simply Nourish grain-free dog food recall history
The following automated list (if any) contains all of themdog food recallsin connection with Simply Nourish through February 2023.
- Simply nurture dog food souvenir (15.08.2021)
- PetSmart recalls certain batches of Simply Nourish dog treats (08.10.2014)
You can see a complete listall dog food recalls since 2009 here.
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More Simply Nourish brand reviews
The following Simply Nourish dog foodsassessmentsare also published on this site:
- Simply Nourish (dry) dog food review
- Simply Nourish Essentials Dog Food Review (Canned)
- Simply Nourish Reviews for Grain Free Dog Food (Cup)
- Simply Nourish Limited Ingredient Diet Dog Food Review (Dry)
- Simply Nourish Shreds Dog Food Review (Canned)
- Simply Nourish Source Dog Food Review (dry)
a final word
Dog Food Advisor does not accept cash, gifts, samples or other inducements in exchange for special consideration in preparing our reviews.
However, we do receive a referral fee from online retailers (like Chewy or Amazon) and perishable pet food sellers when our readers click through to their websites. This helps cover the cost of running our free blog. Thank you for your support.
For more information visit ourDisclaimer and Disclosurebook page.
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references
11/29/2022 Last update
FAQs
Why do vets not recommend grain-free dog food? ›
Your vet may recommend against grain-free dog food because it lacks ingredients that contain critical nutrients for dogs. Heart health is big for dogs, and grains help support heart health. If your dog eats grain-free dog food, they're not getting those nutrients which can lead to poor heart health.
Why is Simply Nourish discontinued? ›Wet Noses Natural Dog Treat Company recalled approximately 51,000 packages of Simply Nourish dog food due to it containing elevated levels of vitamin D, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA advised consumers to immediately stop feeding the products to their pets.
Has Simply Nourish dog food had any recalls? ›August 13, 2021 — Wet Noses Natural Dog Treat Company of Monroe, Washington, is recalling approximately 51,000 packages of Simply Nourish frozen dog food due to it elevated levels of Vitamin D.
What happened to Simply Nourish dog food? ›Company Announcement. August 13, 2021, Wet Noses Natural Dog Treat Company of Monroe, Washington is recalling approximately 51,000 packages of Simply Nourish frozen dog food, due to it containing elevated levels of Vitamin D. Consumers should stop feeding the products listed below to their dogs.
Do dogs really need grain free food? ›There is no medical or physiologic basis to feed dogs or cats a grain-free diet. If a dog or cat has a specific food allergy there may be some medical reason to limit the carbohydrate source which can be done for some animals by feeding a grain-free food. The grain-free fad started as a result of an anti-corn concern.
Is grain free better or worse for dogs? ›Grain-free diets replace grains such as rice and corn with potatoes or legumes (beans, peas, and lentils) as a carbohydrate source. No study has ever shown grain-free to be superior to grain-inclusive diets.
Is Simply Nourish dog food made in China? ›Simply Nourish is an US-based dog food, manufactured by American Nutrition. They manufacture in three locations: Woodland, WA, Ogden, UT, and Hazelton, PA. American Nutrition was founded in 1972. They are a quality and trusted manufacturer, and consistently meet USDA, FDA, and AAFCO standards.
Is Simply Nourish dog food linked to heart disease? ›Warning Due to this being a grain-free food that contains legumes or potatoes this Simply Nourish recipe may be implicated in the FDA's ongoing investigation into diet-related Dilated Cardiomyopathy (or DCM), a potentially fatal heart condition.
Is all Simply Nourish grain free? ›...
Simply Nourish Grain Free Adult.
| Nutrient Type | % Composition |
|---|---|
| Carbs | 38 |
Our puppy loves these treats. She could take or leave food and treats, but goes crazy for these. You can buy them at Petsmart for $8 a bag, so don't waste your money here. These are great dog treats, however they are around $10 per bag at Petsmart for the same size bag.
What is the healthiest dog food with no recalls? ›
- Acana. ...
- Annamaet Petfoods. ...
- Blackwood Slow Cooked Pet Nutrition. ...
- Canine Caviar. ...
- Eagle Pack. ...
- Holistic Select. ...
- Jinx. ...
- Nature's Logic.
- BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole)
- BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene)
- Ethoxyquin.
- Nitrates/Nitrites.
- Propyl Gallate.
- Carrageenan.
- MSG.
- Sodium Hexametaphosphate.
(WVLT) - A nationwide pet food recall has been issued due to possible salmonella contamination, according to the Food and Drug Administration. The recall involves more than 50 different products distributed to retailers nationwide and online with expiration dates ranging from April 2022 through September 2022.
Does PetSmart own Simply Nourish? ›Simply Nourish Dog Food is a high-quality pet food brand that uses high-quality ingredients. It is manufactured by PetSmart – a company offering dog and cat food. It also provides canned varieties, treats, and chews. All the Simply Nourish dog food formulas are made with real meat or fish as their first ingredient.
What dog food was recalled that was making dogs sick? ›Purina recall: Pro Plan Vet prescription dog food linked to sicknesses.
What are the disadvantages of grain free dog food? ›- Not suitable for older and less active dogs. ...
- Most are still rich in carbohydrates from non-grain ingredients. ...
- It is a little bit more expensive. ...
- Getting your dog to adapt to a new diet.
Symptoms that are frequently associated with grain allergies include red, itchy skin, hair loss associated with constant scratching and chewing, ear infections, and inflamed pads on the underside of paws, often combined with obsessive licking.
Is Simply Nourish lamb and oatmeal good for dogs? ›It is a good source of B vitamins and amino acids to support your pet's overall well-being. The fifth ingredient is Lamb Meal. Lamb meal is the rendered, ground, and dried meat from a young sheep. In pet food, lamb meal can be an important source of protein fat, vitamins, and minerals.
Is Royal Canin food from China? ›Royal Canin is a French manufacturer of cat and dog food.
Where is Costco dog food made? ›Q: Where are the Kirkland Signature Pet Foods made? A: All of the dry foods are made by Diamond Pet Foods in five company owned manufacturing facilities, all in the United States. Two are located in Arkansas, California, one in Missouri and one in South Carolina.
What are three things you should never feed your dog? ›
- Chocolate. ...
- Avocados. ...
- Onions and Garlic. ...
- Grapes and Raisins. ...
- Milk and other Dairy Products. ...
- Macadamia Nuts. ...
- Sugary foods and drinks. ...
- Caffeine.
Increasing numbers of dog have been developing nonhereditary heart disease that has been linked to diets that are free of grain and high in legumes like peas and lentils.
What are the disadvantages of grain-free dog food? ›- Not suitable for older and less active dogs. ...
- Most are still rich in carbohydrates from non-grain ingredients. ...
- It is a little bit more expensive. ...
- Getting your dog to adapt to a new diet.
Leaving grains out of your dog's diet, however, might be a far greater health risk than keeping them in. According to a warning from the Food and Drug Administration released last week, grain-free food might be giving dogs a life-threatening heart problem called dilated cardiomyopathy, or DCM.
Could grain-free diets damage my dogs heart? ›Increasing numbers of dog have been developing nonhereditary heart disease that has been linked to diets that are free of grain and high in legumes like peas and lentils.
Do dogs poop more on grain free food? ›Yes, some dogs will have more frequent elimination on grain free, that's not necessarily a bad thing. My dog with allergies does best on Nutrisca grain free kibble, however she does have more frequent small bowel movements (3/4 as opposed to 1/2).