Hydrolysed animal proteins

Hydrolysed animal proteins are proteins which have been broken down into their constituent amino-acid building blocks. These molecules are then so small that they are not recognised by the dog's immune system and therefore cannot trigger an allergic response. For this reason hydrolysed proteins are often recommended for allergy prone dogs. The ingredient is controversial for several reasons: Firstly, the hydrolysis process uses acids or enzymatic action which are roundly criticised by natural feeding advocates. Secondly, during the breakdown of proteins monosodium glutamate (MSG) can be formed. MSG is classified as a food additive and flavour enhancer and has been linked with food addictions in humans but when added to foods in this way it does not need to be declared. The final issue with hydrolysed animal proteins is that you have no way of knowing what parts of what animals the protein comes from.