Yes, Iams had contract
ed a company to do their testing for them years ago--2002/2003, it was investigated and reported by PETA. The company they
had a contract with actually conduct
ed the testing, not Iams--did they have knowledge of it, who knows? Iams has since then corrected the problem on their end and donated loads of money to the prevention of animal cruelty.
Many people choose not to support them because of their tainted past--their is no denying that the conditions that were uncovered were horrendous, to say the least. At least, people choose not to support the company in the way of buying their food...the company still pulls in business and support in many other ways though. Many are fooled into thinking that by boycotting their food they are sending the company a message on a large scale...not the case.
As far as the food itself, I'm not fond of and of the
Iams line, or Royal Canin. But that doesn't neccessarily mean that won't be the best match for YOUR dog.
While dogfoodreview.com has lots of valuable info, it is only written based on the opinions of the site editors, not long term, professional research. Your search for information regarding a quality food should not stop and start there. Another site I would suggest trying is:
Dog Food Review Ratings
It will link you to several sites that examine commerically manufactured foods, home cooking, raw feeding and dietary supplements.
Also, there is a sticky at the top of this section that has contact information for some of the more recommended products. (At least the YT recommended ones.) Many of the companies will send you free samples to try and coupons if you contact them and request them.
Do trial and error tests with food to see what YOU feel is best for YOUR dog. You will know that you have found a good match from the results you see in your little one.