Goji Berry

24 foods contain this ingredient

Fruit

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About Goji Berry

Goji berry is the dried fruit of Lycium barbarum, added to pet foods and treats as a flavorful, antioxidant-rich fruit inclusion.

Goji berries are used in pet foods and treats as a fruit-based source of antioxidants, carotenoids, fiber and phytochemicals that provide natural flavor and modest micronutrients; they are more commonly included for dogs and as a complementary ingredient in feline formulas rather than a primary nutrient source. In moderation they may help support antioxidant intake and eye health, but owners should note their sugar and calorie content, possible gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions, and consult a veterinarian before giving goji-containing products to pets with diabetes, pancreatitis, or those on certain medications.

Derived from: Dried fruit of Lycium barbarum (wolfberry), a nightshade-family shrub
Primary role: Antioxidant and flavor inclusion

Why it's used

Goji berries carry naturally occurring carotenoids such as zeaxanthin along with polysaccharides that researchers have studied for antioxidant activity. Pet food formulators typically use small amounts as a functional fruit inclusion that adds natural sweetness and color rather than as a core nutrient source.

Common concerns

Interaction with blood-thinning medication Published case reports describe elevated INR and bleeding in people taking warfarin after consuming Lycium barbarum juice or tea.
Nightshade family plant Lycium barbarum belongs to the Solanaceae (nightshade) family, the same family as tomatoes and potatoes, which is relevant background for owners tracking plant-family sensitivities in pets.
Sugar and calorie content in dried form Dried goji berries are concentrated in natural sugars compared to the fresh fruit, a consideration for pets that need calorie or carbohydrate intake monitored.
Limited pet-specific research Most available data on goji berry come from human clinical reports and in vitro or rodent studies, with little published research specific to dogs or cats.

Also relevant

Because goji berry has documented interactions with warfarin in human case reports, owners of pets on any long-term medication may want to mention goji-containing treats to their veterinarian.

3 sources cited

Common Questions

What category is Goji Berry?

Goji Berry is categorized as a fruit ingredient in the KibbleLab database.

Is Goji Berry part of an allergen group?

No allergen group is linked to Goji Berry in the KibbleLab database.

Which foods contain Goji Berry?

24 foods in the KibbleLab database contain Goji Berry, including Earth Animal, Health Extension, Little Bites.

Foods with Goji Berry

Alphabetical by brand. Scores run 0 to 10, higher is better, on published veterinary science.

Earth Animal