Nutrition
Guaranteed analysis
Definition
The guaranteed analysis is a required panel on pet food labels showing minimum crude protein and fat plus maximum crude fiber and moisture percentages.
Extended explanation
This panel provides a standardized way to compare foods, though it has limitations. Values are listed on an as-fed basis, meaning moisture content heavily influences the numbers. A wet food with 8% protein is not lower quality than kibble with 26% protein once you account for the water difference by converting to dry-matter basis.
Some premium brands voluntarily list additional nutrients like omega fatty acids, glucosamine, or taurine. The guaranteed analysis does not reveal ingredient quality, digestibility, or bioavailability. For the full picture, combine this information with the ingredient list, AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement, and your pet's actual health outcomes including weight, coat condition, and stool quality.