Royal Canin incorporates carrageenan into its pet food formulas primarily to leverage its beneficial properties as a food additive, contributing to the desired texture and stability of their products.
The Role of Carrageenan in Pet Food
Carrageenan is a common food additive derived from specific types of red seaweed. It is widely used in the food industry, including pet food, for its unique functional properties that enhance product quality and consistency.
Key Functions
Royal Canin utilizes carrageenan for two main purposes: thickening and emulsifying. These functions are crucial for creating high-quality, palatable wet pet food.
| Function | Description | Benefit in Pet Food |
|---|---|---|
| Thickening | Carrageenan adds body and viscosity to liquid ingredients, transforming thin liquids into richer gravies, sauces, or pâtés. | Creates the desired texture and consistency in wet pet food, making it more appealing and easier for pets to consume. |
| Emulsifying | It acts as an emulsifier, helping to combine ingredients that typically separate, such as fats and water. Carrageenan ensures these hard-to-mix components remain blended in a stable mixture without separation. | Maintains a uniform product throughout its shelf life, ensuring every serving has a consistent blend of nutrients and a pleasing appearance. |
By serving as both a thickener and an emulsifier, carrageenan ensures that wet pet food maintains a consistent, appealing texture and a stable composition. This contributes to better palatability for pets and a more uniform product experience for pet owners.
