Chemical Preservatives in Dry Pet Foods
Compilation of Related Studies and Observances

DEPARTMENT OF Pathology, NAGOYA CITY UNIVERSITY MEDICAL SCHOOL, Japan. A recent study was completed to determine the toxicology of BHA, BHT, Ethoxyquin and Propyl Gallate. The following is an overview of the findings:

Ethoxyquin -~ Pronounced kidney carcinogenesis
Significantly increased the incidence of stomach tumors
Enhanced bladder carcinogenesis
Significantly increased number of colon tumors

BHA - Causes squamous-cell carcinomas in stomachs of rats and hamsters. (Cancers of this type are among the most lethal and fastest acting, the swiftest effects being seen among animals with light colored fur. Many white cats die within months after getting squamous cell black tumor on their skin.)

Enhanced stomach and urinary bladder carcinogenesis

BHT- Promoted urinary bladder carcinogenesis could be a promoter of thyroid carcinogenesis

The study noted that BHA and other such antioxidants, particularly propyl gallate and ethoxyquin, showed additive effects in inducing stomach hyperplasia and cytotoxicity.

According to Dr. Wendell 0. Belfied, D.V.M, practicing veterinarian for 26 years, co-author of ""How to Have a Healthier Dog and The Very healthy Cat", and founder of the first Orthomolecular Veterinary Hospital In the United States, both BHA and BHT are known to cause liver and kidney dysfunction and are banned in some European countries. He adds that ethoxyquin is suspected of causing cancer and that propylene glycol, another common pet food Ingredient (closely related to anti-freeze), causes the destruction of red blood cells.

ETHOXYQUIN was often listed as simply "E" on pet food labels.

Some dog food makers fail to list ethoxyquin on their labels but when pressured to disclose the facts, will admit it's use.

Ethoxyquin Is manufactured by Monsanto who requires employees handling the substance to wear eye and respiratory protection. Containers are marked with ~ skull and crossbones and prominently display the word, UPOISON.17 Etnoxyquin Is listed and Identified as a hazardous chemical by OSHA. Ethoxyquin has a rating of "3,' In the Chemical Toxicology of Commercial Products listings (on a scale of 1 to 6, with 6 being super toxic requiring less than 7 drops to cause death.)

The Department of Agriculture lists ethoxyquin as a pesticide. It Is also used a rubber preservative. Based on body weight, the FDA allows ethoxyquin to be used in pet foods at a rate of 300 times higher than permitted as residue in beef, port, etc. consumed by humans.

Monsanto issues a disclaimer regarding use of ethoxyquin, stating that, Although, the Company makes no representations as to the completeness of accuracy thereof... (users must) make their own determination as to it suitability.. Monsanto will not be responsible for damages of any nature whatsoever..."


CHEMICAL PRESERVATIVES IN CAT FOODS:
Who is using what kind?

ALPO beef BHA
American Nutrition -- Atta Cat Cuisine dinner BHA
Blue Mountain~- Special Menu BHA
Friskies - Fancy Feast: Savory Salmon; Turkey and Giblets BHA
Friskies - Senior Ethoxyquin
Friskies - Poultry Platter, Ocean fish, BHA
Chefs Blend Gourmet Kitten formula BHA
Heinz - 9 Lives; Real Liver & Chicken; Real Tuna and Eggs BHA

HILLS SCIENCE DIET
Feline Maintenance Light; Feline Growth, Propylgallate
Feline Maintenance BHA & Ethoxyquin

IAMS - Less Active for Cats; Normally Active for Cats;
Kitten Formula BHA & Ethoxyquin
Kasco - Cat Food Propylgallate
Nutro-Max Cat; Adult; Kitten, Lite Ethoxyquin
Ralston Purina - Alley Cat; Cat chow Original BHA
Kitten Chow, Kit'N Kaboodle; Meow Mix; BHA
Deli Cat BHA
One Cat formula; Cat Chow Special C&e; Cat Chow Mature Ethoxyquin
Rockford Farms - Main Dish Brand - Moist Meals,
Gourmet Feast; Beef; Tuna BHA
Royal Canin - Wayne's Kit Kat Glow BHA
Whiskas - Original; Poultry; Seafood; Expert BHA