There are three ways in which energy is expressed in relation to dog and cat food:
Gross Energy (GE) measured by the heat produced from burning a food.
Digestible Energy (DE) determined by feeding trials, it is the difference between the GE in a food, and the GE lost in feces.
Metabolizable Energy (ME) a measurement of actual utilization, it is the difference between the GE in the food, and GE lost in the feces and the urine. This may be determined using a calculation, and may be expressed as ME=X kcals (kilocalories or calories) per cup on packaging. This is the best way to determine available energy in a food.
Protein and carbohydrates provide equal amounts of energy in the form of calories, while fats supply 2-1/4 times the calories.
Contrary to the popular myth that excess energy in pet food causes hyperactivity, excess energy is stored as fat, or excreted in the urine.
“I was talking to the people at the local dog store and they suggested that I try NOW FRESH™ Grain Free and gave me a sample bag. His appetite is up, his coat looks amazing and he has even more energy at day care. We are so impressed with the food, thank you!”
- Carrie and Cliff
