Every ingredient list is evaluated against the same criteria, every time. Grades reflect a combination of factors weighted by their impact on overall nutritional quality.

• PrimaryProtein source quality — Real named meats (chicken, salmon) rank highest. Named meat meals (chicken meal) rank moderate. By-products and unnamed sources (animal fat, meat and bone meal) rank lowest. Position matters: ingredients are listed by weight, so protein in the first position signals a meat-forward formula.
• PrimaryControversial and harmful additives — BHA, BHT, ethoxyquin, propylene glycol, artificial colors (Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 2), and sodium selenite at high levels. The presence of any known harmful additive significantly lowers the grade.
• ModerateFiller content — Corn, wheat, soy, and brewers rice as top ingredients indicate a formula that prioritizes cheap volume over nutrition. These are not inherently dangerous but signal lower quality when they dominate the ingredient list.
• ModerateNutritional completeness signals — Omega fatty acids, probiotics, chelated minerals (zinc proteinate vs. zinc oxide), named fat sources (chicken fat vs. animal fat), and identifiable fruits and vegetables all contribute positively.
• MinorRecall history and brand transparency — Brands with repeated recalls or vague labeling practices may receive a note, though this does not override ingredient-level analysis.

• AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) — the U.S. standard-setting body for pet food ingredient definitions, labeling rules, and nutritional adequacy profiles.
• Peer-reviewed veterinary nutrition research on ingredient safety and bioavailability.
• Established ingredient watchlists for artificial preservatives, chemical additives, and dyes with documented health concerns in peer-reviewed literature.
• KibbleIQ's own curated database of 52+ analyzed products across 31 brands — spanning ultra-premium to budget grocery brands — used to calibrate grading consistency.

• KibbleIQ is powered by Claude, an AI model built by Anthropic — the same AI trusted by researchers, developers, and professionals worldwide.
• Every product is evaluated against the same criteria, every time — no human bias, no brand favoritism, no pay-for-placement.
• The AI cross-references ingredients against known safety data, nutritional science, and AAFCO standards to produce a consistent, repeatable grade.
• Our analysis improves continuously as we expand our database and refine our methodology.

• KibbleIQ is not a substitute for veterinary advice. Always consult your vet for diet decisions, especially for pets with health conditions, allergies, or specific life-stage needs.
• Grades reflect ingredient quality analysis based on current nutritional science — not guaranteed health outcomes for any individual pet.
• Nutritional science evolves. Our methodology will evolve with it.
• A high grade does not mean a food is right for every pet. A low grade does not mean a food will harm your pet. Grades are one tool to help you make more informed choices.

• KibbleIQ has zero financial relationships with any pet food manufacturer, retailer, or brand.
• Grades cannot be purchased, influenced, or negotiated.
• No sponsored content, no affiliate-driven recommendations, no ads.
• This tool exists for one reason: to help pet owners see what is actually in their pet's food.