Purina ONE True Instinct is a dry dog food line that aims to provide nutrition based on a dog’s natural instincts. This review focuses on the dry formulas, examining their ingredients, nutritional content, and overall suitability for canine diets. The product line features several recipes, with ratings generally falling around the 3-star mark, suggesting a decent but not exceptional quality. This range includes options like Purina One True Instinct High Protein with Real Beef and Salmon, and Purina One True Instinct with Real Chicken and Duck Puppy. While offering ingredient transparency and added vitamins and minerals, some recipes incorporate added colors, which is a point of concern for many pet owners.
Recipe and Label Analysis
To understand the Purina ONE True Instinct dry food line, a detailed analysis of one of its representative recipes, “Purina ONE True Instinct with Real Turkey and Venison,” provides valuable insights.
Purina ONE True Instinct with Real Turkey and Venison Ingredient Breakdown
The primary ingredient in this formula is turkey, a quality protein source. However, like all fresh meats, its water content means it constitutes a smaller portion of the finished product after processing. Following turkey is chicken meal, a concentrated protein source. Soy flour and soy flakes are also present, contributing to the protein content but potentially having a lower biological value compared to meat-based proteins.
Other notable ingredients include beef fat, a good source of energy, and grains such as wheat and corn. While these provide carbohydrates, they are considered less ideal than higher-quality protein and fat sources. Corn gluten meal and corn germ meal are also included, further boosting the protein count derived from plant-based sources.
Controversial Ingredients
A significant concern identified in this formula is the presence of caramel coloring. While approved by the FDA, this artificial coloring is used to make the kibble more appealing to humans and provides no nutritional benefit to dogs. Its inclusion is often seen as a sign of lower-quality ingredients or processing. Additionally, the minerals in this formula are not chelated, which may reduce their bioavailability for dogs. The absence of probiotics, beneficial bacteria that aid digestion, is also a drawback.
Nutrient Analysis
The Purina ONE True Instinct dry food line, based on an analysis of its ingredients, presents a profile that is generally average for dry dog foods. The estimated dry matter protein content typically hovers around 34.2%, with fat content at approximately 19.6%, and carbohydrates around 35%. This indicates above-average protein and fat levels compared to the average dry dog food, with below-average carbohydrates.
However, when accounting for the significant protein contributions from plant-based ingredients like soy flour and corn gluten meal, the actual meat content appears to be moderate. The fat-to-protein ratio is around 57%, which is considered healthy. For those seeking alternatives, exploring reviews on brands like Nutro large breed puppy can offer a comparison point.
Purina Dog Food Recall History
Purina has a history that includes dog food recalls. A comprehensive list of all dog food recalls dating back to 2009 is available for concerned pet owners to review.
Our Rating of Purina ONE True Instinct Grain Inclusive Dog Food
Purina ONE True Instinct is classified as a grain-inclusive dry dog food. It utilizes a moderate amount of named meat meal as its primary animal protein source. Based on these factors, the brand has earned an average rating of 3 out of 5 stars. While recommended, it comes with reservations, primarily due to the inclusion of artificial coloring and a reliance on plant-based protein boosters.
About Purina
Founded in 1894 by William H. Danforth, Purina is now owned by Nestle. The company sources its ingredients from various global locations, including the United States, Europe, Brazil, Australia, and New Zealand, reflecting its extensive supply chain.
Compare Purina ONE True Instinct Dog Food
Understanding how Purina ONE True Instinct stacks up against other highly recommended brands can be beneficial for pet owners.
A Final Word
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