Thiamine degradation in canned cat foods – Have we solved the problem?

A quick overview of the issues associated with thiamine losses in canned cat foods and various steps that have been attempted to resolve this issue are provided.

Greg Aldrich, Ph.D.

October 31, 2022

Vitamin B1 capsule. Pill with thiamine. Dietary supplements. 3d illustration

Vitamin B1 capsule. Pill with thiamine. Dietary supplements. 3d illustration

Thiamine is an essential nutrient for cats; unfortunately adequate fortification in canned cat foods can be a challenge. | Bet_Noire I iStock.com

Thiamine fortification in canned foods for cats continues to be an issue. Since this topic was last covered in this column (December 2009) there have been several recalls. There has also been some research to help solve this issue. The investment by ingredient and pet food companies has produced several graduate student theses, peer-reviewed original research publications, at least one review paper on the subject, and has been the topic of at least two research symposia at scientific conferences. Despite these efforts, thiamine degradation in canned cat foods has not been solved. A quick, easy or consistent solution remains elusive.

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