As concerns around Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs continue to make headlines, you’re likely navigating conflicting information, especially when it comes to using pulse ingredients like pea protein and starch. PURIS is here to support you with science-backed insights so you can make informed, responsible sourcing decisions.
Your goal is to create high-quality, nutritious pet food; pulse-based ingredients can play a vital role in achieving that. With questions about safety on the rise, it’s more important than ever to have transparent, evidence-based information you can trust.
Understanding DCM & How Pulses Got a Bad Rap
Canine DCM is when the heart muscle enlarges and weakens, limiting its ability to pump blood effectively. While traditionally associated with genetic predispositions in large breeds, a 2018 FDA investigation raised concerns about a possible link between grain-free diets and increased DCM cases.
Because many grain-free formulations replaced grains with ingredients like peas, lentils, and chickpeas, pulse-based ingredients were quickly—and broadly—called into question. However, those early reports were based mainly on anecdotal veterinary case submissions and blood test data, not peer-reviewed science.
Scientific Evidence Now Challenging the Early Assumptions
Emerging research has provided insights into the safety of pulse ingredients in canine diets:
- A 2024 study published in the Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition found that whole blood and plasma nutrient levels are unreliable indicators of cardiac nutrient status. This means that many early conclusions about diet and DCM may have been based on flawed markers.
- A University of Guelph study published in The Journal of Nutrition observed no negative impacts on heart function in dogs fed diets with up to 45% inclusion of pulse ingredients over 20 weeks. This confirmed that dogs consuming pulse-inclusive diets maintained appropriate amino acid profiles, supporting their nutritional adequacy.
These studies underscore that, when properly formulated, canine diets containing pulse ingredients like pea protein and pea starch are safe and do not inherently pose a risk for DCM in dogs.
Legal Context and Industry Implications
In early 2024, a $2.6 billion lawsuit was filed against Hill’s Pet Nutrition. The suit alleges that Hill and its academic partners influenced the FDA’s investigation into grain-free diets and DCM by submitting skewed case data that disproportionately targeted pulse-containing diets.
This legal development highlights the importance of basing ingredient sourcing and formulation decisions on robust scientific evidence rather than anecdotal reports or unverified associations.
What This Means for Pet Food Buyers
As an ingredient buyer, your sourcing choices shape pet nutrition—and your brand’s exposure to both market and legal risks. Here's what to consider:
- Prioritize scientific rigor: Use ingredients backed by comprehensive research and clinical studies. Seek expertise from animal nutrition professionals.
- Demand Transparency and Data: Seek detailed nutritional profiles and safety data from ingredient suppliers. Choose suppliers who prioritize transparency, traceability, and quality.
- Engage in Open Communication: Maintain ongoing dialogue with industry stakeholders to stay informed about emerging research and regulatory developments.
PURIS's Commitment to Pet Health
At PURIS, our mission is to provide sustainable, plant-based ingredients that meet the highest safety and nutrition standards. Our pea protein and starch are produced with meticulous attention to quality, ensuring they are suitable for inclusion in pet diets.
By embracing a science-based approach, we can collectively ensure that pet diets are both nutritious and safe, supporting the health and longevity of our canine companions.
*Blog banner photo features PURIS employees' dogs!
