Mixed Tocopherols and Common Preservatives in Dog and Cat Food: Is It Safe for Your Pets?
As pet parents, it’s essential to understand what’s going into our pets' daily meals and supplements. One ingredient you may have seen listed on the label is mixed tocopherols—but what are they, and are they safe for dogs and cats?
At Pet Releaf, we’re committed to transparency in everything we do—from our manufacturing process to our ingredient sourcing and product testing. So let’s break down what tocopherols are, why they’re used in pet food, and how to tell the difference between natural and synthetic versions.
What Are Mixed Tocopherols?
Mixed tocopherols are a type of preservative often used in pet food and treats to help extend shelf life. They are a form of Vitamin E, which is known for its antioxidant properties. But not all tocopherols are created equal—some are natural, while others are synthetic.
Are Mixed Tocopherols Safe in Dog and Cat Food?
Yes—when they’re natural. To keep our CBD-infused Edibites fresh for up to one year, we use a naturally derived version of mixed tocopherols (listed as Mixed Tocopherols-D Vitamin E) as a safe and effective preservative. This form of Vitamin E is widely recognized and used across the pet food industry.
Natural mixed tocopherols don’t just preserve—they provide added health benefits. As antioxidants, they help protect the body’s cells from oxidative damage. And best of all, they’re gentle on your pet’s system.
Natural vs. Synthetic Tocopherols: What's the Difference?
✅ Mixed Tocopherols-D (Natural Vitamin E)
This is the form we use in all of our Edibites. It’s plant-derived, easy to absorb, and free from common allergens like soy, dairy, corn, wheat, peanuts, tree nuts, and shellfish.
Natural tocopherols are more bioavailable—meaning your pet’s body actually recognizes and uses them. The liver produces transport proteins that selectively send the natural form of Vitamin E to tissues throughout the body, where it can perform its role as a powerful antioxidant.
❌ Mixed Tocopherols-DL (Synthetic Version)
Synthetic tocopherols are often petroleum-derived and offer no real health benefit to pets. While they can still act as preservatives, they are not easily absorbed and are often ignored by the body, meaning your pet misses out on the benefits of Vitamin E.
Are There Side Effects of Tocopherols in Pets?
Natural tocopherols are safe for pets and may even support overall wellness thanks to their antioxidant properties. However, synthetic versions don’t offer the same benefits and may be derived from lower-quality sources.
At Pet Releaf, we only use natural mixed tocopherols in our products. Every ingredient we use is carefully researched, tested, and selected for its safety and health benefits. Our commitment to quality means our ingredients are not only pet-safe but exceed human-grad standards—because our pets deserve the best.
Looking to learn more about the ingredients in our products?
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