What is chicken digest?

Chicken digest is a generic term used for the processed liquid extracted from chicken by-products through enzymatic digestion. It is commonly utilized in the production of dry pet foods, specifically cat and dog food, as a palatable nutritional supplement. Chicken digest generally offers a rich concentration of proteins and other essential nutrients, including amino acids and minerals.

The process of producing chicken digest involves the controlled enzymatic hydrolysis of chicken by-products, such as meat scraps, bones, connective tissues, and organs, in the presence of water. During hydrolysis, the enzymes break down the complex proteins, fats, and other compounds into simpler, more digestible forms. This enzymatic process makes the nutrients within the by-products more bioavailable and easier for pets to assimilate and utilize.

Once the enzymatic hydrolysis is complete, the resulting liquid is filtered and concentrated to remove undigested solids. The concentrated chicken digest is then added to pet food recipes as a liquid ingredient, typically in small quantities due to its high nutritional value.

Chicken digest serves multiple functions in pet food formulas. Firstly, it provides a valuable source of highly digestible proteins, contributing to the overall protein content of the food. Secondly, it enhances the palatability and flavor of the food, appealing to the pet's natural taste preferences. Thirdly, chicken digest also supplies additional essential nutrients, such as amino acids, minerals, and vitamins, supporting the overall health and well-being of pets.

It is worth noting that the quality of chicken digest can vary based on the source and processing methods employed by different pet food manufacturers. Therefore, it is essential to select pet foods that use high-quality, consistent sources of chicken digest to ensure the safety and nutritional value of the product.