Corn

1,013 foods contain this ingredient

Grain Grains allergen group

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About Corn

Corn is a widely used cereal grain in pet food that supplies carbohydrate energy, some protein, and linoleic acid for skin and coat support.

Corn is commonly used in dog and cat foods as a digestible source of carbohydrates and calories, and it also provides some plant protein, fiber, B vitamins and minerals while helping with kibble structure and palatability. While generally safe and economical, corn is relatively high in starch and has an incomplete amino acid profile for obligate carnivores (cats), can be a source of mycotoxin contamination if poorly stored, and although true corn allergies are uncommon, some pets may be sensitive, so quality and proper formulation with animal proteins are important.

Related ingredients

Corn Distillers Dried Grain With Solubles Corn Flour Corn Germ Corn Gluten Corn Gluten Feed Corn Grit Corn Oil Corn Protein Corn Protein Concentrate Corn Protein Feed Corn Protein Meal Corn Silk Corn Starch Corn Syrup Dextrose High Fructose Corn Syrup Hydrolyzed Corn Gluten Hydrolyzed Corn Protein Maize Gluten Maltodextrin Modified Corn Starch Whole Grain Corn Yellow Corn

Derived from: cereal grain (Zea mays), used whole, ground, or as corn gluten meal
Primary role: carbohydrate energy source and binder in kibble

Why it's used

Corn is inexpensive relative to many other carbohydrate sources and processes well during extrusion, which helps kibble hold its shape. It also contributes linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid that supports skin and coat condition.

Common concerns

Mycotoxin contamination Corn can be a source of aflatoxin, a hepatotoxic mold byproduct from Aspergillus flavus, if the grain is drought-stressed, insect-damaged, or improperly stored, and aflatoxin has been behind some of the largest pet food recalls tied to grain ingredients, including cases with confirmed dog deaths.
Amino acid profile As a plant protein source, corn lacks a complete amino acid profile on its own and is generally paired with animal proteins to meet a dog's or cat's essential amino acid needs.
Food sensitivity True corn allergies are uncommon in dogs and cats compared to reactions to animal proteins, but individual sensitivities have been reported.

Also relevant

A 2020 to 2021 recall of corn-containing dog foods was linked to aflatoxin levels well above the FDA's 20 ppb action level, which is why manufacturers monitor incoming corn.

2 sources cited