FDA When there are Health Risks

Excerpt from an October, 1994 FDA Consumer Bulletin

by David A. Dzanis, D.V.M., Ph.D

`When There Are Health Risks`

If there is scientific evidence showing an ingredient or additive presents a health risk to animals, FDA's Center for Veterinary Medicine can prohibit or require manufacturers to modify its use in pet food. For example, propylene glycol is used as a humectant in semi-moist pet foods, giving these products their unique texture and taste. It was affirmed GRAS (generally recognized as safe) for use in human and animal food before the advent of semi-moist foods.

It was known for some time that propylene glycol caused a red blood cell disorder in cats called Heinz body formation, but it could not be shown to cause overt anemia or other clinical effects. However, recent reports of scientifically sound studies show that propylene reduces red blood cell survival time, renders red blood cells more susceptible to oxidative damage, and has other adverse effects in cats consuming the substance at levels found in semi-moist food. Therefore, the center is working to amend the regulations to expressly prohibit the use of propylene glycol in cat foods.

Another somewhat controversial pet food additive is ethoxyquin. Ethoxyquin was approved as a food additive more than 30 years ago as an antioxidant chemical preservative in animal feeds. A few years ago, the center began receiving reports from dog owners attributing myriad adverse effects to the presence of ethoxyquin in dog food. The reported effects include allergic reactions, skin problems, major organ failure, behavior problems, and cancer. However, there is little available scientific data to support these contentions (1), or to show other adverse effects in dogs at levels approved for use in dog food. As such, there is no sound scientific basis to warrant a change in the regulatory status of ethoxyquin at this time.

--D.A.D.

David A. Dzanis is a veterinary nutritionist with FDA's Center for Veterinary Medicine.

There is enough evidence to suggest that Ethoxyquin and related chemicals such as, BHA, BHT, and Propyl Gallate contribute to health problems of our pets and require closer study by the FDA.

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