Here's the letter a member of the yahoo group sent hills to ask about the preservative (Ethoxyquin) that's harmful...
Dear Sir/Madam: I'm writing on behalf of myself and a support group of
some 116 members for liver compromised dogs that I own and run. We have a
collective question about the Hill's L/D and K/D dry lines
specifically. Typically, these two foods are the most recommended and prescribed for liver-compromised dogs due to the low protein content. However, many of us are concerned as to why Hill's would still be using Ethoxyquin in
their dry food formulations of the L/D and K/D at all as this is an hepatotoxic substance and is not good for ingestion even in healthy pets. Would
Hill's PLEASE provide us with the reasoning behind this ingredient being used
when there are other alternative preservatives available for formulation
that would be much healthier and safer for our liver-compromised dogs such
as mixed tocopherols? To further our inquiry, Ethoxyquin is listed and
> identified as a hazardous chemical under the criteria of the OSHA
Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910, 1220). The Chemical Toxicology of
Commercial Products says that ethoxyquin has a toxic rating of 3 (on a
scale of 1 to 6, with 6 being super toxic requiring less than 7 drops to
produce death). At that level it can slowly develop depression, convulsions,
coma and death; skin irritation and liver damage. Naturally, we are
concerned about the use, cumulative or otherwise, of this ingredient being used
in a product that has been formulated for pets with special health
considerations and dietary needs. We would appreciate your input and look forward to your response. Thank you. |