Bean

About Bean

Beans are legume ingredients used in pet foods mainly as a source of plant protein, complex carbohydrates and soluble and insoluble fiber, and they also supply vitamins and minerals like folate and iron; they can be helpful in dog diets for added fiber and as a carbohydrate or meat extender but are not a complete protein source for obligate carnivores such as cats. Properly cooked and processed beans can support digestive health and weight management, but raw or undercooked beans contain anti-nutritional factors (e.g., lectins) that are reduced by cooking, and excessive bean content may cause gas, digestive upset, added carbohydrates, or sodium concerns in canned varieties, so formulations should balance them with animal proteins and monitoring for individual intolerances.