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Dry Matter Basis Formula:
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Dry Matter Basis (DMB) is a method of comparing pet food nutrient levels after removing the moisture content. Since different pet foods contain varying amounts of moisture, comparing them on an "as fed" basis can be misleading. DMB standardizes the comparison by showing what the nutrient percentage would be if all moisture were removed.
The calculator uses the dry matter basis formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula mathematically removes the moisture content to show the "true" concentration of nutrients in the food.
Details: Comparing pet foods on a dry matter basis is essential for accurate nutritional analysis. A food with 10% protein and 70% moisture actually has more protein concentration than a food with 12% protein and 10% moisture when compared on a dry matter basis.
Tips: Enter the nutrient percentage as shown on the pet food label and the moisture percentage (typically found in the Guaranteed Analysis section). Both values must be percentages between 0-100, with moisture less than 100%.
Q1: Why can't I just compare the "as fed" numbers?
A: Because moisture content varies widely (from 6% in dry kibble to 80% in canned foods), "as fed" percentages don't reflect the actual nutrient density.
Q2: Where do I find the moisture content?
A: Look in the Guaranteed Analysis section of the pet food label. It's often listed near the bottom.
Q3: What nutrients should I compare?
A: Protein, fat, and fiber are the most important nutrients to compare on a dry matter basis.
Q4: Does this work for all pet foods?
A: Yes, this calculation works for dry kibble, canned food, raw food, and any other pet food format.
Q5: How does dry matter basis relate to caloric content?
A: While DMB shows nutrient concentration, calories are also affected by moisture content. Higher moisture foods will have fewer calories per gram.