Antioxidant

Antioxidants are compounds that prevent oxidative damage by neutralizing free radicals. In dog food, antioxidants serve two purposes: preserving the food (preventing fats from going rancid in the bag) and supporting the dog's health (reducing oxidative stress in tissues). Common food preservative antioxidants include mixed tocopherols (natural vitamin E), rosemary extract, and ascorbic acid (vitamin C). Common nutritional antioxidants include vitamin E, vitamin C, selenium, and phytonutrients from blueberries, cranberries, and other fruit ingredients. Not all antioxidants are equal. Synthetic antioxidants like BHA and BHT are also preservatives but carry health concerns.