WHAT IS CRUDE FIBER VS. TOTAL DIETARY FIBER? To summarize, while crude fiber has traditionally been used to declare the fiber content in pet food, it primarily accounts for only insoluble fibers, omitting important soluble fibers. Total dietary fiber includes both soluble and insoluble fibers, providing a more comprehensive and accurate representation of the fiber sources included in pet food. Therefore, consumers may see a higher value for fiber on their pet food label. This update to pet food labels enhances the nutritional information available to consumers.
Figure 2. Crude fiber captures only a limited subset of insoluble fiber, whereas total dietary fiber encompasses the full range of both soluble and insoluble fiber components.