Nutrient Levels
The nutrient level is also known as the guaranteed analysis. It provides the minimum and maximum levels of some of the nutrients, four of which are required on every label. These four are: Protein – shown as a minimum %, Fat – shown as a minimum %, Fiber – shown as a maximum %, and Moisture – shown as a maximum %.
The minimum amount guarantee provides the lowest amount of the nutrient in the food, not the actual amount. For example, the minimum fat guarantee may be 8%, but legally the product can contain 15% fat or more. Similarly, a product with a maximum guarantee of 5% fiber may actually only contain 1%. Additionally, because moisture levels will vary from product to product, it makes it difficult for consumers to compare products.
