Rootlab Dry Dog Food is a pet food line with a 3-star rating — around 31% of all the pet food we review fall in this tier.
They seem to have nutrition ratio similar to a common pet food, and contain mainly named ingredents. We think they are fine, and it might be great to give your pets some extra meaty food or treats.
What We like
Use Organic Minerals to Improve Absorption
No Potential Allergens like Corn, Soy, Gluten, and Dairy products
What We Concern
More than 37% Carbs
Include Plant Protein in Top 5 ingredients
Numberous Controversial Ingredients
Seems No Probiotics to Aid Digestion
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
RootLab Invasive Asian Carp & Barley
1️⃣Anchovy and Sardine Meal🍚Carbs:45%
3
RootLab Invasive Green Crab & Egg
1️⃣Crab🍚Carbs:45%
3
RootLab With Cricket
1️⃣Sorghum🍚Carbs:40%
3
Tips
Recipes have similar ratings., and some of the recipes contains grains.
Recipe to review
To rate Rootlab Dry Dog Food, we will take one representative recipe to evaluate the nutrition, ingredients and meat content of this product line.
We have chosen RootLab With Cricket.
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 RootLab With Cricket
Protein
25%
Fat
14%
Fiber
5.5%
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
28%
Fat
15% or more
16%
Carbs
Less than 28%
40%
Fiber
Less than 5%
6.3%
Join our discussion group with other pet owners
We answer and discuss any questions about cats and dogs, food selection, other pet owners will share their experience too!
40 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
0 units
🌋 Indigest
4 units
⁉ Uncertain
3 units
Organic Minerals Seems to Include
Probiotics Seems Not Included
Prefer
Concerned
Notice
Neutral
Click an ingredient to see the detail
Sorghum
Carbs
A type of gluten-free grain, high in carbs and with a similar level of protein as quinoa.
NeutralAn acceptable filler with higher nutrition value compared to rice, corn, and wheat.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Canola Meal
Plant Protein Concentrate
🌋
A ground meal made of canola seed after oil extraction. It contains around 36% plant-based protein.
ConcernedHigh 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.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestUnpalatable for most animals, it also contains a high content of plant-based protein which is hard for digestion.
⁉
UncertainN/A
Dried Egg Product
Animal Protein
A processed form of eggs, a less expensive option compared to whole eggs. It could mean anything from egg yolk, white, and eggshell.
ConcernedA less preferable egg ingredient that is made of unspecified egg parts - which quality is concerned.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Cassava Root Flour
Carbs
Known as tapioca, a starchy ingredient that is high in carbs and used as a filler in grain-free pet food.
NeutralAn acceptable, inexpensive filler without gluten.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Crickets
Insect Protein
Cricket is a considered a complete protein source, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids. More research are required to make a solid conclusion about crickets for dogs/cats.
NeutralA novel insect protein with great digestibility and biological value.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Beef Fat Preserved With Mixed-tocopherols
Fat
The layer of fatty acid at the top similar to the one you see while cooking a beef soup. It is one of the quality animal-based fat sources with higher omega 6s.
PreferA high-quality animal fat with high digestibility and biological value.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Pea Protein
Plant Protein Concentrate
🌋
Extracted protein from pea in a dry process. It contains 45 - 55% protein, which will significantly boost up the overall protein content of pet foods.
NoticeHigh 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.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestThe process will concentrate the level of oligosaccharides, which is a 3 - 5 carbon short-chain sugar that is indigestible by dogs / cats. It offers much less biological value (less absorbed by the body) to pets compared to animal protein.
⁉
UncertainN/A
Pea Starch
Carbs, Plant Protein
🌋
The starchy part of peas after protein is extracted for pea protein products. It mainly consists of carbs and around 13% plant-based protein.
ConcernedA controversial filler with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Dried Yeast
Plant Protein Concentrate
Made from fungus and often used to make beer, a rich source of minerals such as selenium. B-complex vitamins, and chromium. It contains around 40% protein.
ConcernedA controversial ingredient, some believe it can support the immune system, while others say it can be linked to allergies and bloating. However, no scientific research can provide a concrete conclusion.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Dried Beet Pulp
Carbs
The leftover pulp after sugar is extracted from sugar beets, contains higher fiber and less sugar compared to whole beets.
ConcernedControversial - Some say it is a good dietary fiber source, some believe it is just an inexpensive filler.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Natural Flavor
Food Additive
Made of extracts from plant or animal sources to improve the taste of food.
ConcernedContrary to its name, natural flavors are highly processed and contain many chemical additives.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Mono Phosphate
Supplement
An inorganic form of phosphate, has 5 - 15% less absorption rate compared to the organic form. Phosphorus is essential for various body functions, especially critical to maintain normal metabolism.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Mono And Dicalcium Phosphate
Supplement
🌋⁉
A supplement for calcium and phosphorus. It is mainly used to improve the texture of pet foods. It is also found in some toothpaste as a polishing agent.
NoticeA risky supplement that can cause health issues, backed by research studies.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestIt does not absorb any water, almost insoluble, and becomes very hard in digesting.
⁉
UncertainStudies show that it can cause the formulation of kidney stones.
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.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Sunflower Oil
Fat
The oil derived from sunflower seeds, high in either omega 6 and 9 fats, low in saturated fat and is packed with natural anti-oxidant vitamin E.
NeutralAn acceptable source of fat from plants.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Potassium Chloride
Supplement
An inorganic form of potassium, which offers 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body. It is essential for important functions like nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and carbon dioxide / oxygen transport.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
L-lysine Monohydrochloride
Supplement
One of the essential amino acids that dogs and cats cannot produce by themselves therefore must be obtained from the diet. Usually, pet foods with a high amount of meat and legumes do not require this supplement as they are high in lysine naturally.
NeutralA safe supplement to improve the completeness of essential amino acids profile (the building block of protein).
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Fish Oil
Fat
⁉
An oil extracted from unspecified fish, a source of animal fats.
NoticeUnspecified animal products from unknown sources. Its quality is highly concerned, often seen in low quality pet foods.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainUnnamed fish products could source from sick, deadly animal bodies. It is a potential risk for severe illness.
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.
ConcernedA controversial ingredient that might cause health issues, unnecessary for the risk.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/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.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Niacin
Supplement
Known as vitamin B3, essential to maintain healthy GI tracts, skin/coat, and nervous system.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Vitamin A Supplement
Supplement
Supplement of vitamin A, it is essential for healthy skin, normal vision, and immune function.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
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.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Thiamine 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.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Vitamin B-12 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.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Riboflavin Supplement
Supplement
A synthetic supplement for vitamin B2. which is vital for the body's metabolism and health.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Pyridoxine Hydrochloride
Supplement
A synthetical supplement of vitamin B6, which is an essential element for nearly every part of metabolism.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/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.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex
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.
NoticeA risky supplement that can cause health issues, backed by research studies.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainRepeated or long-term consumption may produce cumulative health effects involving organs or biochemical systems.
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).
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Biotin
Supplement
A water-soluble vitamin B that is important for maintaining healthy skin, coat, and nails.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Zinc Proteinate
Supplement
An organic form of zinc, which is vital in skin function and wound healing, cell replication, the structure and function of biological membranes. Compare to inorganic form, it has 5 - 15% more absorption rate to the body.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Manganese Proteinate
Supplement
An organic form of manganese that has 5 - 15% higher absorption rate than the inorganic form. It is essential for normal metabolic function with the body.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/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.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Copper Proteinate
Supplement
An organic form of copper, which is important for the production of blood cells, hair coat color pigmentation, and maintaining the nervous system. Compare to inorganic form, it has 5 - 15% more absorption rate to the body.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Calcium Iodate
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.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/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.
ConcernedA food additive that is likely to be safe but unnecessary.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Dl-methionine
Supplement
Added to balance the amino acids profile of pet foods with limited amounts of meat protein. Meat / fish naturally contains methionine, which does not require extra supplements. It is sometimes used to help support urine acidification.
ConcernedA safe supplement to improve the completeness of essential amino acids profile (the building block of protein). However, it could imply the lack of meat protein - usually in lower quality pet foods.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Taurine
Supplement
An essential amino acid (building blocks of protein) to maintain a healthy brain and heart functions.
PreferA safe supplement to improve the completeness of essential amino acids profile (the building block of protein).
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
L-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate
Supplement
Supplement for vitamin C, which can help to prevent oxidative damages by radicals, maintain healthy skin, and boost the immune system.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Tips
We find 9 Concerned and 4 Notice ingredients from RootLab With Cricket. Check from the above list to view the details.
Concerned
Canola Meal
Dried Egg Product
Pea Starch
Dried Yeast
Dried Beet Pulp
Natural Flavor
Salt
Sodium Selenite
Dl-methionine
Notice
Pea Protein
Mono And Dicalcium Phosphate
Fish Oil
Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex
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
28%
in dry matter
By 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 to medium !
It looks like it contains some amount of meat. Your furbabies would prefer something with more meat!
Rootlab 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 3 recipes, the group has an average of 26% protein, 16% fat and 43% carbohydrate.
(Protein and Fat: Prefer Higher丨Carbs: Prefer Lower)
Protein is -4 (%) less than ideal
Fat is 1 (%) higher than ideal
Carbs is 15 (%) higher than ideal
What does it mean?
Overall,Rootlab 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:
Similar nutrition ratio as a common pet food
Clear, named animal products as main ingredient
Low to medium level of meat content
Based on these, we can conclude Rootlab Dry Dog Food is a pet food line with a 3 star rating.
Do we recommend Rootlab Dry Dog Food ?
It is a fine pet food, and it might be great to give your pets some extra meaty food or treats.
The review is entirely our own view and opinon. It is for informational reference only and not a purchase advice.
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!"