What is the IAMS controversy

By Isabella Storyclaire

last updated November 18, 2024

Contributions sourced from

The Iams Cat Food Controversy

The Iams cat food company took a big hit in credibility when a PETA investigator accused them of animal cruelty in the name of profit. During an undercover investigation in 2002/2003, PETA claims it a hidden camera inside an Iams contracted testing facility.

The resulting video (mostly of dogs) showed evidence of alleged neglect and abuse. The undercover investigator even reported that animals had their vocal chords severed, and pieces of their flesh cut out.

PETA set up the Iams cruelty website to spread the word. They called for an Iams boycott which has gained some support from veterinarians, pet food stores, and animal shelters.

Pet food is big business, with some estimates (2007) at over 16 billion USD for the US pet food industry alone.

With big business comes big players, such as Mars, Del Monte, and Colgate-Palmolive either swallowing up smaller fish or marketing their own products.

Procter and Gamble purchased The Iams Company in 1999. Iams makes the Iams and Eukanuba pet food lines.

PETA states that since the 2002/2003 investigation, Iams has made some progress. They've severed ties with Sinclair Research Center (where the undercover investigation took place), and they've stopped or changed at least some of their practices.

According to PETA, however, they still have a long way to go, and continues to encourage no animal testing at all.

Update: The controversy seems to have lost its appeal. The cruelty website is now redirecting to the main PETA site, and most of their Iams pages have no content.

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Iams Proactive Health Dog Food Review (Dry)

The Iams product line includes the 14 dry dog foods listed below.

Each recipe includes its AAFCO nutrient profile: Growth (puppy), Maintenance (adult), All Life Stages, Supplemental or Unspecified.

Recipe and Label Analysis

Iams Proactive Health Minichunks Chicken & Whole Grain Rice was selected to represent the other products in the line for detailed recipe and nutrient analysis.

Ingredients Analysis

The first ingredient in this dog food is chicken. Although it is a quality item, raw chicken contains up to 73% water. After cooking, most of that moisture is lost, reducing the meat content to just a fraction of its original weight.

After processing, this item would probably account for a smaller part of the total content of the finished product.

The second ingredient is corn. Corn is an inexpensive and controversial cereal grain. And aside from its energy content, this grain is of only modest nutritional value to a dog.

The third ingredient is sorghum. Sorghum (milo) is a starchy cereal grain with a nutrient profile similar to corn.

Since it is gluten-free and boasts a smoother blood sugar behavior than other grains, sorghum may be considered an acceptable non-meat ingredient.

The next ingredient is chicken by-product meal, a dry rendered product of slaughterhouse waste. Its made from whats left of a slaughtered chicken after all the choice cuts have been removed.

On the brighter side, by-product meals are meat concentrates and contain nearly 300% more protein than fresh chicken.

The quality of this ingredient can vary, depending on the caliber of the raw materials obtained by the manufacturer.

The fifth ingredient is beet pulp. Beet pulp is a controversial ingredient, a high fiber by-product of sugar beet processing.

Some denounce beet pulp as an inexpensive filler while others cite its outstanding intestinal health and blood sugar benefits.

We only call your attention here to the controversy and believe the inclusion of beet pulp in reasonable amounts in most dog foods is entirely acceptable.

After the natural flavor, we find flaxseed, one of the best plant sources of healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Provided theyve first been ground into a meal, flax seeds are also rich in soluble fiber.

However, flaxseed contains about 19% protein, a factor that must be considered when judging the actual meat content of this dog food.

The next ingredient is dried egg product, a dehydrated form of shell-free eggs. Quality can vary significantly. Lower grade egg product can even come from commercial hatcheries from eggs that have failed to hatch.

In any case, eggs are easy to digest and have an exceptionally high biological value.

The ninth ingredient is chicken fat. This item is obtained from rendering chicken, a process similar to making soup in which the fat itself is skimmed from the surface of the liquid.

Chicken fat is high in linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid essential for life. Although it doesnt sound very appetizing, chicken fat is actually a quality ingredient.

From here, the list goes on to include a number of other items.

But to be realistic, ingredients located this far down the list (other than nutritional supplements) are not likely to affect the overall rating of this Iams product.

With four notable exceptions

First, caramel is a natural coloring agent made by caramelizing carbohydrates. Its used by pet food manufacturers to impart a golden brown tint to the finished product.

However, the concentrated version of this ingredient commonly known as caramel coloring has been more recently considered controversial and found to cause cancer in laboratory animals.¹

In any case, even though caramel is considered safe by the FDA, were always disappointed to find any added coloring in a pet food.

Thats because coloring is used to make the product more appealing to humans not your dog. After all, do you really think your dog cares what color his food is?

Next, this recipe contains fructooligosaccharide, an alternative sweetener² probably used here as a prebiotic. Prebiotics function to support the growth of healthy bacteria in the large intestine.

In addition, this recipe contains sodium selenite, a controversial form of the mineral selenium. Sodium selenite appears to be nutritionally inferior to the more natural source of selenium found in selenium yeast.

And lastly, the minerals listed here do not appear to be chelated. And that can make them more difficult to absorb. Chelated minerals are usually associated with higher quality dog foods.

Nutrient Analysis

Based on its ingredients alone, Iams Proactive Health Dog Food looks like an above-average dry product.

The dashboard displays a dry matter protein reading of 28%, a fat level of 16% and estimated carbohydrates of about 49%.

As a group, the brand features an average protein content of 28% and a mean fat level of 15%. Together, these figures suggest a carbohydrate content of 49% for the overall product line.

And a fat-to-protein ratio of about 54%.

Which means this Iams product line contains

Above-average protein. Near-average fat. And near-average carbs when compared to a typical dry dog food.

Even when you consider the protein-boosting effect of the flaxseed, this looks like the profile of a kibble containing a notable amount of meat.

Our Rating of IAMS Grain Inclusive Dog Food

Iams Proactive Health is a grain-inclusive dry dog food that uses a notable amount of named by-product meal as its dominant source of animal protein, thus receiving 4 stars.

Is Iams Cat Food Good Or Bad For Your Cat?

Theres a lot of controversy surrounding IAMS cat food. For one, its been linked to a number of recalls and is being criticized for its ingredients. Its high fiber content, taurine, and omega-3 fatty acids are all positive aspects, but some pet owners have concerns about its ingredients.

Fillers

Iams cat food is one of the most popular brands of pet foods. Its a mid-priced brand that produces a variety of diets for dogs and cats.

Founded by Paul Iams in 1946, the companys mission is to offer healthy, balanced diets for pets. Today, it offers a wide range of diets from high-protein to urinary tract health based products.

The company also has a variety of wet and dry foods available. They are sold at a number of major retailers and specialty pet stores.

Although the Iams line of pet food has received primarily positive reviews, the brand has experienced some trouble in recent years. One of the biggest problems was a 2007 pet food recall.

Omega-3s

Omega-3s in Iams cat food are important for your pets health. This type of fatty acid can reduce hair loss, and improve the overall health of your cats skin. They also help with inflammation and blood clotting.

The first ingredient in Iams salmon recipe is salmon, which is high in omega-3 fatty acids. Flaxseed meal is another source of omega-3s. It balances the omega-6 fatty acids and gives your kitten the nutrients she needs to grow strong and healthy.

Aside from omega-3s, other ingredients in Iams cat food provide your cat with the nutrients she needs. These include calcium, potassium, and fiber. Each formula is tailored to different stages of your cats life. For example, senior cats will need a different food to help with joint and bone support.

Taurine

Whether or not taurine in Iams cat food is good or bad for your cat is dependent on your pets needs and how you choose to feed him or her. Keeping a close eye on what your pet is eating is important so you can avoid any unexpected health problems.

Taurine is an essential amino acid that your cat needs for a variety of functions. It is especially important for a cats heart, eyes, and digestive system. When the body lacks enough of this amino acid, it can cause many problems.

If your cat is showing signs of a taurine deficiency, you may want to give him a supplement. This will help to correct the problem if caught early. However, you should always check with your veterinarian to see if it is safe to give your pet.

Fish oil

Fish oil is a high quality source of Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. These are essential for promoting a healthy skin and coat, and they help support strong bones and muscles. A diet that provides these nutrients will also help your cat maintain a healthy weight.

Iams is a popular cat food brand, and it is available in a variety of varieties. You can choose from foods for kittens, adult cats, and senior cats. Some foods may contain additional supplements like fish meal or EPA.

The ingredients in Iams are wholesome, and the formulas are designed to meet AAFCO nutrient profile specifications. However, you should be aware that some of the more expensive food may have less-than-wholesome ingredients.

High fiber

Adding high fiber cat food to your cats diet is a great way to help with a number of issues. It can prevent constipation, help with diarrhea, and even manage weight problems. The added fiber also benefits your cats immune system and digestive system.

Traditionally, cats have been fed little to no fiber. Luckily, many commercial cat foods now contain high amounts of fiber. However, you should still discuss this with your veterinarian.

Some of the most common health issues that affect cats include diabetes, urinary issues, and excess weight gain. If you suspect that your cat is experiencing any of these, it is best to visit the vet for further testing and treatment.

Recalls

Procter & Gamble (P&G) has recalled several different types of Iams pet food. These recalls are the result of the companys routine testing of certain ingredients, which found that they may contain potentially harmful levels of thiamine.

The CDC recommends handling all types of pet foods with care and caution. Using contaminated pet food can lead to serious illnesses for animals and humans.

Pets can also be infected with bacteria that can cause food poisoning. The ASPCA has published a list of pet food recalls and a helpful FAQ on how to handle contaminated pet food.

Procter & Gamble issued a voluntary recall on some lots of Iams cat food. P&G advised that consumers who have this product should discard it immediately. It is also suggested that consumers wash their hands before and after preparing the food.

Is Iams a good or bad pet food?

I wrote this article because many of my clients were confused about Iams dog and cat food. I personally believe that it is a good quality food. Iams doesn't pay me any money to say that, and in fact, my clinic doesn't even sell Iams so I have no reason to be swayed in my opinion.

I generally find that if an animal has a healthy coat, and solid, reasonably sized stools that they are on a good food. Most animals on Iams meet these criteria.

So what is the controversy about?

Do a search on the Iams company and you will find comments like this:

Iams tortures animals
Iams does horrible testing on animals
Iams was charged with animal cruelty and ordered to shut down

So many people are boycotting Iams because of these accusations. I needed to know the truth because I am recommending Iams to my clients.

What does PETA say?

PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) have brought forth some serious accusations against Iams. In 2003 PETA launched a website called www.IamsCruelty.com. The site includes a video of dogs being mistreated in a research center. PETA claims that an undercover PETA agent obtained a job at an Iams research facility and found the following:

Iams dogs dumped on cold concrete flooring after having huge chunks of muscle cut out of their thighs.
Terrified animals forced to live in cramped, unsanitary cages in dungeon-like rooms.
Dogs surgically debarked
Animals subjected to unregulated temperatures during extreme weather and other forms of cruelty.
At least 27 dogs were deliberately killed

This certainly doesn't sound good! So, I started my thorough investigation of these allegations.

What do the newspapers say?

Did you know that you can do a search of newspaper archives dating as far back as the 1800's on Google News? When I discovered this I went to work searching for evidence of Iams being charged with cruelty. I found LOTS of condemning articles. But...there was a pattern. Every single one of these news reports was written by PETA.

I spent a long time looking for independent sources, and that's when I uncovered a news report from ABC Money News. You can read it by following the link, but here are the interesting points:

COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) - A Callaway County animal research lab has agreed to pay a $33,000 civil penalty after investigators alleged the company committed nearly 40 violations of the federal Animal Welfare Act.The U.S. Department of Agriculture filed the complaint against Sinclair Research Center in October 2006, more than three years after animal rights activists targeted the lab in an undercover sting.Among the alleged violations found by Agriculture Department inspectors: failing to provide sheep with appropriate pain relief during surgery; inadequate training of employees for animal handling and care; failure to vaccinate research dogs and cats; and keeping animals in cages smaller than the legal limits.In a Feb. 28 settlement, Sinclair Research agreed to pay the fine and to 'cease and desist' from further violations of federal law.

So there were animal welfare issues after all!

Was it Iams that was charged?

This is where it gets interesting. The charge was against Sinclair Research Facility, a lab that was not owned by Iams, but one of many labs that Iams contracted to do some research.

On my search through the news archives I found a news article from the Columbia Daily Tribune that stated that:

Iams, a unit of Procter & Gamble, said in a news release that Sinclair did not meet its strict guidelines for animal treatment and that it had removed 19 dogs used in nutritional testing.

So Iams had 19 dogs at the 130 000 square foot facility . Once Iams realized that the facility was not treating animals in a manner that was up to their standards they pulled those dogs. Iams was never charged with anything.

A few other perspectives

Here are some quotes from some well known veterinary and animal-related groups regarding this situation:

American Kennel Club (AKC):

On May 27, 2001, a British tabloid paper ran an article making inflammatory and disparaging allegations against The Iams Company. The unsubstantiated piece was apparently sparked by a British animal extremist group that in the past has promoted boycotts against Procter and Gamble, Iams parent company. AKC accepts The Iams Company response to these allegations posted on their web site and we support The Iams Company. Throughout our association with Iams we have found them to be committed to the betterment of dogs and responsible dog ownership, two goals the AKC shares.

American Veterinary Medical Association:

The AVMA recently became aware that on May 27, 2001, a British tabloid published an article that placed nutritional research conducted by Iams in an unfavorable light. We have reviewed the article, Iams' response to that article, and several scientific reports describing the research against which allegations were made and have concluded that the portrayal in the tabloid reflects claims that are sensationalist. Much of what the tabloid relates is misleading and irresponsible when some of the same preventive protocols and diagnostic tests conducted have been used to save and improve the lives of millions of animals.

American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA):

The American Animal Hospital Association has read the article that appeared in the UK Sunday Express regarding research conducted by The Iams Company, and has reviewed Iams' response. We strongly support the need for scientific research in order to meet the health and welfare needs of humans and animals and believe that research carried out under the guidelines and requirements of the Animal Welfare Act is proper and appropriate.Research that has been conducted in the past by The Iams Company has contributed to the body of knowledge that helps veterinarians provide high-quality medical care for animals.

Canadian Federation of Humane Societies:

Since partnering with The Iams Company to launch Canada's first national Be Kind to Animals Week, the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies has received a number of questions from our supporters across the country regarding the pet food manufacturer's animal research practices.Many of these concerns arose from reports by various animal rights organizations, which recounted horrifying acts of cruelty in Iams research laboratories: invasive surgical procedures, dogs with no environmental enrichment, and general disregard for the animals. The CFHS believes that this information strongly misleads readers by passing decade-old information as current, or by omitting certain facts, thus distorting the truth.The Iams Company has been open and honest with the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies, answering all of our questions and allaying our concerns about their research policy. We are confident that their actions support their words: They are committed to helping dogs and cats live long, healthy lives. In the past, the Iams Company was involved in a broader range of research involving animals. However, their current research policy and its enforcement clearly meet and even exceed USDA guidelines and satisfy the CFHS' expectations for animals in research. The CFHS commends, for example, the fact that The Iams Company does not purposely breed in diseases in animals, nor do they fund or conduct studies that lead to the euthanasia of cats and dogs. Their research is limited to procedures equivalent to nutritional or medical studies acceptable on people. These strict research guidelines are applied not only to their own facilities, but also all of their external facilities. Finally, we believe The Iams Company is leading the way in offering quality environmental enrichment to the animals in their carestandards that they hope to share with other corporations and organizations to create international guidelines for environmental enrichment.

Does Iams test on animals?

Yes, Iams does do research. Here is a link in which Iams describes its Animal Studies Policy. The key points are:

The dogs and cats in Iams' studies allow them to create foods that truly improve the health and well-being of millions of cats and dogs.
Iams makes sure that the research animals are happy and healthy with plenty of playtime and attention for their entire lives. To that end, respected animal welfare organizations helped them develop this policy.
Iams only uses animals in studies if there are no non-animal alternatives.
Iams does not fund studies that require the loss of life of cats or dogs.
Iams conducts studies in three kinds of locations: pet owners' homes, their Pet Health & Nutrition Center and locations where dogs and cats are already living (e.g. assistance dog organizations, kennels, etc). They test their foods with healthy pet cats or dogs in their homes or with pets who already have specific diseases or conditions.

But, Dr. Marie, Is the food good?

Did you know that it is almost impossible to read a dog food label and decide whether it is a good food or not? A current trend in society now is to brandish certain things such as preservatives or corn as bad. I personally don't believe either are bad. Preservatives are there to preserve the foods from going bad! I have seen many dogs on "holistic" preservative free foods that have gotten sick because of mold in the food. I don't know why we think corn is so awful. Yes, corn is a binder/filler. But, if there was no corn then there would have to be starch or some other non-food substance. I eat corn and I am ok with my dog eating corn.

As stated above, I find that animals fed Iams seem to be healthy and have a good coat. My own dog Joey was fed Iams chunks for his entire 15 year life and was a very healthy boy.

Summary:

PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) accused Iams of cruelty to animals. An undercover PETA agent obtained a job at a research facility and filmed a disturbing video.
The research facility (Sinclair Research Center) was eventually fined $33,000 for violations of the animal welfare act.
PETA sensationalized these charges making it look like Iams was torturing animals.
The Iams company removed the 19 dogs that were at the Sinclair Research Center and cut ties with the facility.
Iams does nutritional studies in animals but does them in a safe, and humane manner.
The belief that preservatives and corn are bad has stemmed from internet rumor and not fact. I believe this internet rumor was started by PETA, but I have no proof for that belief.

So, in conclusion. I believe that Iams is a good quality food.

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