Beneful Dog Food Review
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Beneful dog food, produced by Nestle Purina PetCare, is a top-selling brand but has faced criticism and class action lawsuits. Despite these, the food is considered good for dogs and meets their nutritional and taste expectations.
Are you wondering if Beneful dog food would be a good choice for your dog? We can give you the scoop on Beneful dog food with our unbiased review.
What We Consider in Our Dog Food Reviews
Our reviews are based on extensive research and years of professional knowledge of dog food brands. In order to remain objective, we do not accept gifts of free products or write sponsored posts on this site.
We’ve examined Beneful dog foods closely and graded the brand according to the PupJunkies.com standard.
Our criteria include ingredients, quality, customer experience, recall history, working with veterinary nutritionists to formulate the food, nutritional standards, research, and price.
When reading a dog food review, there are several factors you should consider to ensure you’re choosing the best option for your furry friend:
- Ingredient Quality: Look for reviews that delve into the quality of the ingredients. High-quality ingredients are essential for your dog’s health and wellbeing.
- Nutritional Value: Evaluate whether the nutritional content aligns with your dog’s specific dietary needs. This includes checking for balanced protein, fat, and carbohydrate levels.
- Potential Recalls: Be aware of any recall history associated with the product. A recall can indicate issues with safety or quality control.
- Meat Content: Pay attention to discussions about the meat content in the dog food. Ensure it meets your dog’s dietary requirements, as meat is often a primary source of protein.
Our comprehensive approach ensures that every aspect, from ingredient quality to customer experience, is thoroughly assessed. By keeping these factors in mind, you can make an informed decision that supports your dog’s health.
Beneful Dog Food: Top 5 Recipes Reviewed
| Product Name | Food Type | Protein | kcal/tray |
| Purina Beneful Healthy Weight with Real Chicken | Dry | 25% | 310 kcal/cup |
| Purina Beneful Superfood Blend With Salmon | Dry | 24% | 366 kcal/cup |
| Purina Beneful IncrediBites for Small Dogs | Dry | 27% | 366 kcal/cup |
| Purina Beneful Prepared Meals Beef Stew with Peas, Carrots, Rice & Barley | Wet | 11% | 271 kcal/tub |
| Purina Beneful Grain Free with Real Farm-Raised Chicken | Dry | 24% | 349 kcal/tray |
About Beneful Dog Food
Beneful, a popular dog food brand by Nestle Purina, has been the subject of several class action lawsuits, including one involving a dog’s death and others’ illnesses. The lawsuit was dismissed after the judge ruled that the plaintiff did not prove that Beneful caused the dog’s death, which was discovered to be caused by a heart tumor.
Beneful has made changes to their recipes based on customer feedback, including introducing meat as the first ingredient, removing added sugar, and removing propylene glycol, a controversial ingredient approved by the FDA.
Propylene glycol is a food additive that acts as a thickener and absorbs moisture, and is used in some foods to change the texture of the food. Beneful used propylene glycol to make some of the kibble pieces chewy, which dogs seem to like.
Nestle S.A., the largest food corporation in the world, and Nestle Purina PetCare are among the largest pet food manufacturers.
Sourcing And Manufacturing
Beneful is a pet food manufactured by Nestle Purina, which has 21 manufacturing plants in the United States. The company is known for its quality control, conducting 30,000 quality checks in a 24-hour production process.
The majority of ingredients used in Purina brand products are sourced from the United States, with a limited amount from China, primarily essential nutrients like taurine and B vitamins.
Nestle Purina PetCare has its headquarters in St. Louis, Missouri.
Recall History and Staying Informed
Dog food recalls are critical to ensuring the safety and health of our beloved pets. A recall typically occurs when a specific product is removed from the market due to safety concerns, such as contamination or potentially harmful ingredients. Staying informed about these recalls is essential for protecting your dog from products that could pose health risks.
Recalls
In March 2016, Beneful issued a voluntary recall of 10-ounce tubs of wet dog food due to potential insufficient vitamin and mineral levels. The recall was triggered by a single production line at one Purina facility, making it the only recall related to Beneful.
Why Staying Updated Matters
It’s crucial to keep an eye on recent dog food recalls to ensure your pet’s safety. Pet owners should regularly check websites that track dog food recalls. These resources provide timely updates on any products, including Purina and other brands, that may face recalls due to safety concerns.
How to Stay Informed
Visit Trusted Websites
Regularly visit websites dedicated to tracking pet food recalls. They offer comprehensive and current information on all brands.
Sign Up for Alerts
Consider subscribing to email alerts from these sites to get immediate notifications about any new recalls.
Consult with Your Vet
Vets can provide valuable insights and updates on pet food safety as part of your pet’s health check-ups.
How to Shield Your Dog from Harmful Dog Food
Protecting your dog from harmful food involves several proactive steps:
Choose Nutritious Options: Opt for dog food that adheres to recognized quality standards, such as the guidelines set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). This ensures the food meets basic nutritional requirements.
Stay Informed on Recalls: Be vigilant about dog food recalls by regularly checking reliable sites and sources. Websites dedicated to pet food safety often publish updates and alerts about products that might pose a risk.
Analyze Ingredients Thoroughly: Scrutinize ingredient lists on dog food packaging. Keep an eye out for harmful additives and prioritize products with wholesome, natural ingredients.
Read and Compare Reviews: Before purchasing, dive into reviews from trusted platforms. These reviews can reveal insights into the quality and safety of different dog food options.
By following these steps, you’ll be better equipped to ensure your dog’s meals are not only safe but also healthy.
What Kinds of Dog Food Does Beneful Offer?
Beneful currently offers dry dog food, canned/wet dog food, soft foods, food for puppies, food for small breeds, limited ingredient foods, food for senior dogs, healthy weight dog food, and dog treats. The brand includes more than a dozen dog foods (wet, soft, and dry) and treats/snacks for dogs.
Both grain-free and grain-inclusive foods are available. Popular Beneful products include the new Beneful Superfood Blend, Beneful Healthy Weight, Beneful Originals, Beneful IncrediBites canned food, and Beneful Medleys canned food, to name just a few.
Beneful: Top Five Recipes Reviewed
We’re taking a look at five of the top-selling Beneful dog foods as found on Chewy.com so you can get a good idea of what some of these different formulas are like.
PURINA BENEFUL HEALTHY WEIGHT WITH REAL CHICKEN DRY DOG FOOD
Product Info
- Protein: 25% Min
- Fat: 8% Min
- Fiber: 7.5% Max
- Moisture: 12% Max
Ingredients:
Purina Beneful Healthy Weight with Real Chicken Dry Dog Food is the bestselling Beneful dog food on Chewy.com. Real chicken is the first ingredient. If you’re concerned about your dog’s weight, this food has 10 percent fewer calories than Purina Beneful Originals.Here are the ingredients in this formula:
Chicken, Chicken By-Product Meal, Whole Grain Corn, Soybean Hulls, Barley, Whole Grain Wheat, Corn Gluten Meal, Soybean Meal, Rice, Poultry By-Product Meal, Glycerin, Egg And Chicken Flavor, Beef Fat Naturally Preserved With Mixed-Tocopherols, Oat Meal, Natural Flavor, Calcium Carbonate, Salt, Dried Apples, Dried Carrots, Dried Green Beans, Mono And Dicalcium Phosphate, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Iron Oxide (Color), vitamins and minerals …
Weight control dog foods sometimes contain questionable fibers. This might account for the soybean hulls as the fifth ingredient in this food. They are supposed to be filling for your pet so he won’t feel hungry between meals.
According to the dry matter basis (DMB), this food has 29.1 percent protein, 9.3 percent fat, and 10.5 percent fiber. This formula has an estimated 46 percent carbohydrates. It has 310 kcal/cup. This food is low in fat and very high in fiber.
Our rating for this food is 3.5.
PURINA BENEFUL SUPERFOOD BLEND WITH SALMON DRY DOG FOOD
Product Info
- Protein: 24% Min
- Fat: 14% Min
- Fiber: 5% Max
- Moisture: 12% Max
Ingredients:
Purina Beneful Superfood Blend With Salmon Dry Dog Food features salmon as the first ingredient. This food contains ingredients that are popular for humans as “superfood” such as chia seeds, cranberries, and kale. It has no artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, or poultry by-product meal.Here are the ingredients in this formula:
Salmon, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Wheat, Barley, Rice, Oat Meal, Soybean Meal, Beef Fat Naturally Preserved With Mixed-Tocopherols, Canola Meal, Chia Seeds, Cranberries, Natural Liver Flavor, Calcium Carbonate, Salt, Soybean Oil, Dried Kale, vitamins and minerals …
This food has 27.3 percent protein and 15.9 percent fat, according to the dry matter basis (DMB). It has 5.7 percent fiber. Our estimate of the carbohydrates in the food came out to 43.2 percent, DMB. It contains 366 kcal per cup.
Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars.
PURINA BENEFUL INCREDIBITES FOR SMALL DOGS WITH REAL BEEF DRY DOG FOOD
Product Info
- Protein: 26% Min
- Fat: 13.5% Min
- Fiber: 4% Max
- Moisture: 12% Max
Here are the ingredients in this formula:
Purina Beneful IncrediBites for Small Dogs with Real Beef Dry Dog Food is specially formulated for small dogs and supports their higher metabolism. The kibble pieces in this food are also very small to make them easy for small dogs to chew. The kibble pieces are both soft and crunchy.You can take a look at the ingredients:
Beef, Whole Grain Corn, Barley, Chicken By-Product Meal, Corn Gluten Meal, Whole Grain Wheat, Rice, Beef Fat Preserved With Mixed-Tocopherols, Soybean Meal, Poultry By-Product Meal, Glycerin, Egg And Chicken Flavor, Oat Meal, Poultry And Pork Digest, Calcium Carbonate, Salt, Mono And Dicalcium Phosphate, Potassium Chloride, Dried Carrots, Dried Peas, Iron Oxide (Color), vitamins and minerals …
Some people will object to “digest” such as poultry and pork digest in the food but it is identified and not generic. Purina says that they use it for the taste.
Soybean meal is an issue for some people since it is a plant-based protein. It’s also been suggested that soy causes various problems for dogs ranging from mimicking estrogen to blocking the absorption of important nutrients.
According to the dry matter analysis for this food, it has 31.4 percent protein, 15.7 percent fat, 4.7 percent fiber, 40.1 percent carbohydrates, and 366 kcal per cup.
Our rating for this food is 3.5 out of 5 stars.
Purina Beneful Prepared Meals Beef Stew with Peas, Carrots, Rice & Barley Wet Dog Food
Product Info
- Protein: 10% Min
- Fat: 2% Min
- Fiber: 1.5% Max
- Moisture: 78% Max
Ingredients:
Purina Beneful Prepared Meals Beef Stew with Peas, Carrots, Rice & Barley Wet Dog Food is one of Beneful’s most popular wet foods. This formula has no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.Here are the ingredients in this formula:
Beef Broth, Beef, Wheat Gluten, Liver, Meat By-Products, Corn Starch-Modified, Peas, Carrots, Rice, Barley, Salt, Soy Flour, vitamins and minerals …
This stew comes in a 10-ounce tub so you can feed it to your dog as a complete meal or use it as a topper or his dry food. The tub has a resealable lid.
According to the dry matter analysis for this food, it has 50 percent protein, 9.1 percent fat, 6.8 percent fiber, 20.5 percent carbohydrates, and 271 kcal per 10-ounce tub.
Our rating for this food is 3.5 out of 5 stars.
PURINA BENEFUL GRAIN FREE WITH REAL FARM-RAISED CHICKEN DRY DOG FOOD
Product Info
- Protein: 24% Min
- Fat: 13% Min
- Fiber: 5% Max
- Moisture: 12% Max
Ingredients:
Purina Beneful Grain Free with Real Farm-Raised Chicken Dry Dog Food includes chicken as the first ingredient. This grain free food contains no grain, wheat, or glutens but it does contain several soybean ingredients.Here are the ingredients in this formula:
Chicken, Pea Starch, Cassava Root Flour, Chicken Meal, Soybean Germ Meal, Soybean Meal, Canola Meal, Beef Fat Naturally Preserved With Mixed-Tocopherols, Dried Beet Pulp, Poultry And Pork Digest, Soybean Oil, Mono And Dicalcium Phosphate, Salt, Blueberries, Dried Pumpkin, Dried Spinach, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Calcium Carbonate, vitamins and minerals … Iron Oxide (Color), Garlic Oil
Pea starch is the second ingredient. If you are concerned about nutritional dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), it’s best if pea products are kept to a minimum or not used at all.
According to the dry matter analysis for this food, it has 27.3 percent protein, 14.8 percent fat, 5.7 percent fiber, 44.2 percent carbohydrates, and 349 kcal/cup.
Our rating for this food is 3 out of 5 stars.
Ingredients to Avoid in Dog Food for Pet Safety
When selecting dog food, it’s crucial to steer clear of certain ingredients to ensure your pet’s health and safety. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to avoid:
- Artificial Preservatives
These include chemicals like BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin. Linked to potential health risks, these artificial preservatives are best excluded from your pet’s diet. Opt for natural preservative options such as vitamin C (ascorbate) or vitamin E (tocopherols). - Low-Quality Protein Sources
Ingredients such as by-products or meals that don’t specify the protein source should raise a red flag. For instance, “chicken by-product meal” can include undesirable parts of the animal. Ensure the food contains named meat sources like “chicken” or “beef.” - Fillers and Additives
Corn gluten meal and wheat gluten often serve as fillers, adding bulk without nutritional value. These can lead to digestive issues and provide little benefit. Choose foods with wholesome grains or grain-free options, focusing on ingredients like sweet potatoes or brown rice. - Artificial Colors and Flavors
These additives might make food visually appealing but offer no nutritional benefit and may even cause allergic reactions. It’s best to go for products that are free from synthetic dyes and flavors. - Sweeteners
Ingredients like corn syrup and sugar are unnecessary in a dog’s diet and can contribute to obesity and dental issues. Look for foods that avoid these sweeteners.
By prioritizing high-quality proteins and whole, natural ingredients, you can provide a diet that supports your dog’s health and vitality. Look for reputable brands known for transparency and quality ingredients, ensuring a safe and nutritious choice for your furry friend.
How Much Does Beneful Dog Food Cost?
Beneful is moderately priced. It costs a little more than some other grocery store brands but it is less expensive than most premium dog food brands. Beneful achieves a balance between nutrition and cost by carefully selecting its ingredients.
While it incorporates whole grains like wheat and corn, which may not be the most nutrient-dense options, it makes a point to include real meat as a primary component in many recipes.
This ensures that pets receive the protein necessary for muscle maintenance and overall health.
With an average of 23% protein and 42% carbohydrates, Beneful meets basic nutritional needs without breaking the bank. This blend is particularly appealing to pet owners searching for budget-friendly options that still provide essential nutrients for their dogs.
Although some may have concerns about the use of certain lower-cost ingredients, Beneful remains a viable choice for many, balancing affordability with the essential dietary needs of active dogs.
Understanding the Pros and Cons of Purina Beneful Dog Food
When it comes to feeding your furry friend, Purina Beneful offers certain advantages, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious pet owners. However, like any other dog food, it also comes with its share of considerations.
Advantages
Affordability: One of the main attractions of Purina Beneful is its cost-effectiveness. For pet owners prioritizing budget over premium ingredients, this dog food provides an economical way to ensure their dogs get sufficient protein and basic nutrition.
Balanced Diet: Despite using cost-effective ingredients, it generally meets the dietary needs of dogs. It balances essential nutrients required for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, which is particularly appealing for owners seeking a nutritious option without breaking the bank.
Variety: The wet dog food variety pack is ideal for those looking to diversify their pets’ diet. Offering a range of flavors, it helps in catering to different taste preferences, ensuring most dogs find something they love.
Concerns
Ingredient Quality: Some pet owners have raised concerns about the inclusion of lower-quality ingredients to maintain affordability. While it does meet many dogs’ dietary needs, some owners prefer higher-quality ingredients for their pets.
Packaging Issues: The packaging can sometimes be challenging to open and close, leading to potential messes during feeding times. This inconvenience can make feeding a little more troublesome than it should be.
Dietary Sensitivities: Not all dogs may find the flavors appealing, and there are reports of dietary sensitivities to certain ingredients. If your dog has specific allergies or sensitivities, it’s crucial to review the ingredient list carefully.
Suitability: While excellent for many pets, it might not be suitable for dogs with certain medical conditions or those with beef sensitivities. It’s always essential to consider your dog’s unique health needs when selecting a dog food.
Ultimately, the decision to use Purina Beneful depends on balancing the need for affordability with your pet’s individual dietary requirements. It offers significant value for those who prioritize cost-effectiveness and variety, but it’s wise to weigh these benefits against potential concerns based on your dog’s specific needs.
Overall, Is Beneful Dog Food A Good Choice?
Beneful Originals Dry dog food is a balanced, nutritious option that provides dogs with essential nutrients and a variety of flavors and textures. It is rich in animal protein, supporting muscle maintenance and overall health.
The food is preserved with mixed-tocopherols, which keep it fresh and deliver vitamin E. Beneful Originals Dry dog food is suitable for dogs that tolerate grains, as many of its products contain wholegrain cereals like wheat and corn.
However, it is not suitable for pets with grain allergies or sensitivities. Beneful offers an affordable choice for households seeking more economical pet food options, as it uses lower-cost ingredients and does not have specific grain-related dietary restrictions.
Overall, Beneful Originals Dry Dog Food offers a balanced and enjoyable meal for dogs.
Understanding the Significance of Dry Matter in Dog Food
When evaluating the nutritional quality of dog food, the concept of dry matter is essential. It refers to the portion of the food that remains after all the water content has been removed. By focusing on dry matter, pet owners can better assess the actual nutritional components, including proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, that contribute to their dog’s diet.
Why is this important?
- Accurate Nutritional Comparison: Water content can vary widely across different types of dog food, especially between wet and dry varieties. By converting nutrients to a dry matter basis, you can compare the nutritional value of various dog foods on a level playing field.
- Informed Purchase Decisions: Understanding dry matter allows you to make informed decisions when choosing between brands like Purina, Blue Buffalo, or Royal Canin. You can evaluate which offers the highest quality nutrition based on your pet’s specific needs.
- Optimal Health Management: Knowing the dry matter content helps ensure your dog is receiving adequate nutrition for their age, size, and activity level, thus contributing to their overall well-being and longevity.
By focusing on dry matter, pet owners can see beyond marketing claims and identify the most nutritionally beneficial options for their furry friends.
Can Human Food Be Harmful to Dogs, and Which Ingredients Should Be Avoided?
Yes, human food can indeed pose risks to dogs. Some common ingredients found in our kitchens can be particularly dangerous for them.
For instance, chocolate, onions, and garlic are well-known for their toxicity to dogs and should be kept out of reach. Always consult your veterinarian before introducing any new human food to your dog’s diet to ensure it aligns with their nutritional needs.
When it comes to choosing dog food, it’s important to be selective to ensure your pet’s health and well-being. Steer clear of products containing artificial preservatives like menadione, as well as low-quality protein sources such as chicken by-product meal.
Fillers, including corn gluten meal, should also be avoided. Opting for dog foods rich in high-quality protein and minimal questionable ingredients will support your dog’s overall health and ensure they receive the nutrition they need.
Where Is Beneful Dog Food Sold?
You can buy Beneful dog foods from Chewy.com and other online retailers. Beneful is also sold in grocery stores.
