Transparency and Science-Based Functional Ingredients: Separating Facts from Claims

Functional ingredients are all the rage in today’s pet supplements. Learn how to identify ones that have true value and real benefits!

Pet parents are surrounded by products claiming to support gut health, immunity, mobility, skin and coat, and more. From food to treats to supplements, the word “functional” appears everywhere. But not all functional ingredient claims are created equal. So how can pet parents confidently evaluate which ingredients truly deliver benefits and which are simply marketing buzzwords? Let’s explore this topic so you can select valuable products that are worth the investment and that actually support pet health.

Why Functional Ingredients Deserve a Closer Look

Functional ingredients provide something beyond basic nutrition. They’re included to support specific health outcomes, such as:

• Digestive balance
• Immune function
• Joint comfort

Because these ingredients are meant to have a biological effect, they should be supported by real scientific evidence, not just appealing language.

Here are three reasons why science and transparency matter when evaluating functional ingredients:

• Proving the ingredient actually works
• Ensuring short- and long-term pet safety and proper dosing
• Fostering confidence, trust, and consistency

3 Ways to Evaluate Functional Ingredients in Pet Food, Treats, and Supplements

1. Read the Ingredient Label Carefully

Labels offer valuable clues. While they may not reveal everything, pet parents can:

• Look for clearly named ingredients rather than vague descriptions
• Notice where functional ingredients appear in the ingredient list
• Be cautious of claims that sound too broad or too good to be true

Transparency starts with clarity. If it’s difficult to understand what an ingredient is or why it’s included, that’s a signal to dig deeper.

2. Look for Peer-Reviewed Research About the Ingredient

The strongest functional ingredients are supported by peer-reviewed research. This means the ingredient has been studied in controlled trials and evaluated by independent scientists. Peer review adds credibility and ensures the results are based on sound scientific methods, not opinions or anecdotes.

When a brand references published research, it shows a commitment to transparency and accountability.

3. Do Your Own Research Using Trusted Sources

As a pet parent, you don’t need to be a scientist! Seeking out trusted educational resources can help cut through the noise. Look for information from:

• Veterinary professionals
• University or academic research institutions
• Brands that openly share how ingredients are studied and used

Reliable sources focus on education rather than hype and explain both what an ingredient does and how it works.

Why Scientific Rigor Matters

Functional ingredients should be held to a higher standard because they are intended to support health beyond basic nutrition. For a company that produces or uses functional ingredients, rigor means:

• Studying ingredients in real pet diets
• Measuring meaningful health markers
• Repeating research to confirm results

When functional ingredients are backed by science, pet parents can feel more confident about what they’re feeding their dogs and cats.

Learn More: Evidence-Based Science You Can Trust

Plasma, the liquid component of blood, is a functional ingredient that’s becoming increasingly popular in pet products thanks to its highly digestible proteins and plethora of nutrients.

Curious about how plasma functional ingredients are studied and evaluated? APC’s consumer-focused Evidence-Based Science resource helps pet parents explore plasma ingredient function, research design, and real-world application in a clear and approachable way.

Explore our Evidence-Based Science page to learn more about plasma functional ingredients!

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Animal Wellness is North America’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.