Rating
Type
Hot Extruded / Dry
Grain
Grain Inclusive
Origin
United States
Recipes
1
Is Ben’s Best Dry Dog Food Good?
Ben’s Best Dry Dog Food is a pet food line rated in ( 1 to 1.5 stars ) — accounts for 7% of all the pet food we review.
They seem to have a certain level of carbs, and contain ingredients we highly concern. We do not recommend this pet food.
What We like
- None
What We Concern
- Relatively Low Level of Protein
- More than 37% Carbs
- Include Plant Protein in Top 5 ingredients
- Majority of Ingredients lead to our Concern
- Seems No Organic Minerals
- Seems No Probiotics to Aid Digestion
- Contain Potential Allergens like Corn, Soy, Gluten, and Dairy products
- Include Ingredients that might be Related to Poor Digestion
- Contain Ingredients that might be Uncertain
「Chief of Food」Fat Hill
Recipes Rating
Recipes could have different ingredients in the same product line. We rate each recipe and list them from higest to lowest ratings.
Higher protein and lower carbs recipes are rated higher
Recipe and 1st Ingredient
Rating
Grain Free
BEN'S BEST 21%
1️⃣Meat and Bone Meal 🍚Carbs：53% 1
Tips
There is only one recipe in the line. There is no other flavors as we can see.
Recipe to review
To rate Ben’s Best Dry Dog Food, we will take one representative recipe to evaluate the nutrition, ingredients and meat content of this product line.
We have chosen BEN'S BEST 21%.
Nutrition Label
Pet food show guaranteed analysis on their labels. It includes moisture and does not reflect the level of carbs — which we prefer lower for dogs and as low as possible for cats.
From the label of BEN'S BEST 21%
Protein
21%
Fat
8%
Fiber
4.5%
Carbs
?%
Calculate the dry value (no moisture) on a dry matter basis will help us to estimate the carbs level and other nutrition without water — so we can get a better idea about the ratio.
(We think the ideal nutrition profile would be Protein > Fat > Carbs)
| Nutrition | Our Ideal | Dry Value | Like? |
| Protein | 30% or more | 24% | |
| Fat | 15% or more | 9% | |
| Carbs | Less than 28% | 53% | |
| Fiber | Less than 5% | 5.1% |
Ingredients Overview
33 ingredients are listed on the label. We research their quality to pet and use our best judgement to group them in the proportion of Prefer, Concerned, and Notice ingredients in the bar chart.
♨ Allergen
8 units
🌋 Indigest
6 units
⁉ Uncertain
5 units
Organic Minerals Seems Not Included
Probiotics Seems Not Included
Prefer
Concerned
Notice
Neutral
Click an ingredient to see the detail
Meat Meal
Animal Protein ⁉
The dehydrated form of meat from unnamed animals, contains up to 400% more protein than the fresh form.
Notice Unspecified animal products from unknown sources. Its quality is highly concerned, often seen in low quality pet foods.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain Could be made from any animals, including "4-D animals" (dead, diseased, disabled, or dying prior to slaughter). Contaminated meats can lead to severe illnesses.
Bone Meal
Animal Protein ⁉
Dehydrated form of bone from unknown animal sources, usually added to boost up calcium and phosphorous content of pet foods.
Notice Unspecified animal products from unknown sources. Its quality is highly concerned, often seen in low quality pet foods.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain Could be made from any animals, including "4-D animals" (dead, diseased, disabled, or dying prior to slaughter). Contaminated meats can lead to severe illnesses.
Ground Yellow Corn
Carbs ♨🌋
A grain that is often referred as "cheap filler" in pet foods, mainly due to its high carbs content and low to moderate nutrition profile.
Concerned A controversial filler with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.
♨
Allergen One of the most reported ingredients to be the likely cause of allergies. This could be due to the undiscovered contaminants within corns. Contrary to the real situation, studies show that the chance of getting corn allergy is 14% and only accounts for 3% of allergies.
🌋
Related to Digest It is high in cellulose, which is an insoluble fiber that is hard to digest.
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Wheat Middlings
Carbs ♨🌋
The fine particles of wheat bran, wheat shorts, wheat germ, wheat flour, and some of the waste from the tail of the mill. Other than carbs and fiber, it does not contain important nutrients for dogs / cats.
Notice An inexpensive filler with gluten, with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.
♨
Allergen Contains gluten, which is one of the most common allergens that can cause skin rashes, itchiness, and irritation.
🌋
Related to Digest Gluten intolerances can cause damage to the gastrointestinal tract, may result in diarrhea and discomfort stomach.
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Corn Gluten
Plant Protein Concentrate ♨🌋
Produced during wet milling of corn by separating protein from the starch. It contains 60% of protein, a relatively inexpensive source to boost up the protein level of pet foods.
Notice High level of plant-based protein is not easy to digest and offers less biological value. Good quality pet foods should obtain sufficient protein from animal sources.
♨
Allergen Made with corn, which is one of the most reported ingredients to be the likely cause of allergies. This could be due to the undiscovered contaminants within corns. Contrary to the real situation, studies show that the chance of getting corn allergy is 14% and only accounts for 3% of allergies.
🌋
Related to Digest A high dose of plant-based protein is hard for digestion and offers much less biological value (less absorbed by the body) to pets compared to animal protein.
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Hominy Feed
Carbs ♨🌋
A by-product of the dry-corn milling process and represents about one-third of the starting corn quantity. It is high in carbs and provide low to moderate nutrition profile.
Concerned A controversial filler with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.
♨
Allergen One of the most reported ingredients to be the likely cause of allergies. This could be due to the undiscovered contaminants within corns. Contrary to the real situation, studies show that the chance of getting corn allergy is 14% and only accounts for 3% of allergies.
🌋
Related to Digest It is high in cellulose, which is an insoluble fiber that is hard to digest.
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Corn Distiller’s Dried Grains With Solubles
Carbs, Plant Protein ♨
Commonly used as a replacement for soybean meal in animal feed due to its high protein and fiber content. It contains around 27% of plant protein.
Concerned A controversial filler with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.
♨
Allergen One of the most reported ingredients to be the likely cause of allergies. This could be due to the undiscovered contaminants within corns. Contrary to the real situation, studies show that the chance of getting corn allergy is 14% and only accounts for 3% of allergies.
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Soybean Meal
Plant Protein Concentrate ♨🌋
Made by milling soybeans, it contains around 45% protein, is a relatively inexpensive source to boost up the protein level of pet foods.
Notice High level of plant-based protein is not easy to digest and offers less biological value. Good quality pet foods should obtain sufficient protein from animal sources.
♨
Allergen Soy is one of the most reported allergens, causing itchy skin, hair loss, and excessive scratching.
🌋
Related to Digest Legume contains oligosaccharides, which is a 3 - 5 carbon short-chain sugar that are indigestible by dogs / cats.
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Wheat Flour
Carbs ♨🌋
The most common inexpensive filler in lower-grade pet foods. Other than carbs and fiber, it does not contain important nutrients for dogs / cats.
Notice An inexpensive filler with gluten, with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.
♨
Allergen Contains gluten, which is one of the most common allergens that can cause skin rashes, itchiness, and irritation.
🌋
Related to Digest Gluten intolerances can cause damage to the gastrointestinal tract, may result in diarrhea and discomfort stomach.
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Animal Fat
Fat ⁉
Leftover fat during the production of unknown animal meat meal.
Notice Unspecified animal products from unknown sources. Its quality is highly concerned, often seen in low quality pet foods.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain Could be made from any animals, including "4-D animals" (dead, diseased, disabled, or dying prior to slaughter). Contaminated meats can lead to severe illnesses.
Calcium Carbonate
Supplement An inorganic form of calcium, it is essential in the formation of bones / teeth and different cellular functions. Compare to organic form, it has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.
Neutral A safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Animal Digest
Animal Protein ⁉
A broth of unspecified parts of unspecified animals after a long process of cooking. It is mainly used to improve the flavor of pet foods.
Notice Unspecified animal products from unknown sources. Its quality is highly concerned, often seen in low quality pet foods.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain Could be made from any animals, including "4-D animals" (dead, diseased, disabled, or dying prior to slaughter). Contaminated meats can lead to severe illnesses.
Salt
Others Mainly added to enhance the flavor, might cause kidney and blood pressure issues in a larger dose. High-quality pet foods should get a sufficient amount from raw meat, additional salt is not necessary.
Concerned A controversial ingredient that might cause health issues, unnecessary for the risk.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Choline Chloride
Supplement Vital molecule for various functions in the body, lack of choline can result in weight loss, vomiting, and fatty liver.
Neutral A safe supplement for potential health benefits.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Ferrous Sulfate
Supplement An inorganic form of iron. It is essential for the transport and movement of oxygen around the body. Compare to organic form, it has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.
Neutral A safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Zinc Oxide
Supplement An inorganic form of zinc, which is vital in skin function and wound healing, cell replication, the structure and function of biological membranes. Compare to organic form, it has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.
Neutral A safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Vitamin E Supplement
Supplement Supplement for vitamin E, which is an important antioxidant that protects oxidative damages on cellular membranes by free radicals. A deficiency will result in symptoms like anorexia, depression, and dermatitis.
Neutral A safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Silicon Dioxide
Food Additive A natural compound made of silicon and oxygen, a food additive as an anti-caking agent to prevent clumping.
Neutral A harmless food additive.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Sodium Selenite
Food Additive An inorganic selenium supplement. It remains controversial as the long term effect of consuming it is not known, and there is a much safer organic alternative available.
Concerned A food additive that is likely to be safe but unnecessary.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Copper Sulfate
Supplement An inorganic form of copper, which is important for the production of blood cells, hair coat color pigmentation, and maintaining the nervous system. Compare to organic form, it has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.
Neutral A safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Niacin Supplement
Supplement Known as vitamin B3, essential to maintain healthy GI tracts, skin/coat, and nervous system.
Neutral A safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Vitamin B12 Supplement
Supplement Supplement for vitamin B12, which is vital for carbon transfer and propionate metabolism. A deficiency will result in symptoms similar to gastrointestinal disorders, such as diarrhea and weight loss.
Neutral A safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Manganous Oxide
Supplement An inorganic form of manganese that has 5 - 15% less absorption rate than the organic form. It is essential for the transport and movement of oxygen around the body.
Neutral A safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
D-calcium Pantothenate
Supplement An organic form of calcium, it is essential in the formation of bones / teeth and different cellular functions. Compare to inorganic form, it has 5 - 15% more absorption rate to the body.
Neutral A safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Vitamin A Supplement
Supplement Supplement of vitamin A, it is essential for healthy skin, normal vision, and immune function.
Neutral A safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Vitamin D3 Supplement
Supplement Supplement for vitamin D3 (animal-derived), which is essential for calcium homeostasis - to maintain a constant concentration of calcium. A deficiency will result in osteopenia (lower bone mass).
Neutral A safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Menadione Dimethylpyrimidinol Bisulfite
Supplement ⁉
The synthetic form of vitamin K3, it has been banned as a supplement for humans (toxic in large doses), but still consider "OK" for use in pet foods.
Notice A risky supplement that can cause health issues, backed by research studies.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain Repeated or long-term consumption may produce cumulative health effects involving organs or biochemical systems.
Ethylenediamine Dihydroiodide
Supplement ♨
An industrial waste with trace iodine. It is mainly used to supplement iodine in pet foods.
Notice A controversial supplement that could be linked to certain health issues.
♨
Allergen Studies show that it may cause allergic reactions in humans, but the research on pets is still limited.
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Pyridoxine Hydrochloride
Supplement A synthetical supplement of vitamin B6, which is an essential element for nearly every part of metabolism.
Neutral A safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Thiamin Mononitrate
Supplement An organic form of thiamine, has 5 - 15% more absorption rate than the inorganic form. It is important for energy production and glucose metabolism.
Neutral A safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Riboflavin Supplement
Supplement A synthetic supplement for vitamin B2. which is vital for the body's metabolism and health.
Neutral A safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Biotin
Supplement A water-soluble vitamin B that is important for maintaining healthy skin, coat, and nails.
Neutral A safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Folic Acid
Supplement A synthetic form of folate, which is also known as vitamin B9. It plays an important role to support the body's functions, such as cell growth.
Neutral A safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
Allergen N/A
🌋
Related to Digest N/A
⁉
Uncertain N/A
Tips
We find 5 Concerned and 10 Notice ingredients from BEN'S BEST 21%. Check from the above list to view the details.Concerned
- Ground Yellow Corn
- Hominy Feed
- Corn Distiller’s Dried Grains With Solubles
- Salt
- Sodium Selenite
Notice
- Meat Meal
- Bone Meal
- Wheat Middlings
- Corn Gluten
- Soybean Meal
- Wheat Flour
- Animal Fat
- Animal Digest
- Menadione Dimethylpyrimidinol Bisulfite
- Ethylenediamine Dihydroiodide
Estimated Meat Content
Some pet food uses high plant protein ingredients to boost up the overall protein level — to make it looks like it includes a lot of meat, which is more appealing for customers.
Therefore, protein level itself cannot tell the quality and how much animal ingredients (more digestible than plants) is in the pet food.
Check if protein is overrated by plant protein boost up
Count of Plant Protein
2 / 7 (29%)
in top 7 ingredients Protein Level
24%
in dry matterBy looking at the plant protein in top ingredients and compare with the total protein level, we will try to estimate how much animal ingredients is used in the pet food as Meat Content.
Meat Content
Based on my "godly" guess, the meat content might be Low !
It looks like it contains a limited amount of meat. Your furbabies would prefer something with more meat!
Ben’s Best Dry Dog Food Product Line Review
To make a conclusion about the whole product line, we will consider all recipes and their average nutrition ratio.
Recipes Average Compares to Ideal Level
In the total of 1 recipe, the group has an average of 24% protein, 9% fat and 53% carbohydrate.
（Protein and Fat: Prefer Higher丨Carbs: Prefer Lower）
- Protein is -6 (%) less than ideal
- Fat is -6 (%) less than ideal
- Carbs is 25 (%) higher than ideal
What does it mean?
Overall,Ben’s Best Dry Dog Food has an carbs level higher than our preferred level.
Conclusion
Throughout the review, we have 3 major opinons about this pet food line:
- Nutrition ratio, mainly the level of carbs raises our attention
- Ingredients might be worth to take a second look
- Low level of meat content
Based on these, we can conclude Ben’s Best Dry Dog Food is a pet food line with a 1 star rating.
Do we recommend Ben’s Best Dry Dog Food ?
There are several things make us concerned, so we do not recommend it. If there is a very strong reason for you to choose it, try to mix with other pet food with higher meat to enrich the diet.
The review is entirely our own view and opinon. It is for informational reference only and not a purchase advice.
「Chief of Food」Fat Hill
Has an unusual obsession with the taste and ingredients of food, over 5+ years experience in professional eating. As the Chief of Food, he will tell you the truth about food.
"Stay Hungry, Stay Foolish, and Stay Hungry again!"
