Dry Matter Calculator (Pet Food)

Dry matter basis removes water content from nutritional calculations, allowing accurate comparison between foods with different moisture levels. This is essential when comparing wet food (75-80% moisture) to dry food (10% moisture).

Use the formula: Dry Matter % = (As-Fed % × 100) ÷ (100 - Moisture %). For example, if protein is 26% as-fed and moisture is 10%, then dry matter protein = (26 × 100) ÷ (100 - 10) = 28.9%.

Moisture content is listed in the guaranteed analysis section of pet food labels. Dry foods typically contain 8-12% moisture, while canned foods contain 75-85% moisture.

Yes, that's exactly what this calculator is designed for. By converting both foods to dry matter basis, you can directly compare their nutritional content regardless of moisture differences.

Guaranteed analysis shows minimum percentages for protein and fat, and maximum percentages for fiber and moisture. These are regulatory requirements but actual values may be higher than minimums listed.

Carbohydrates are estimated by subtracting protein, fat, fiber, ash, and moisture from 100%. This gives a reasonable approximation, though actual carbohydrate content may vary slightly.

Including ash (mineral content) provides more accurate results if available on the label. If ash isn't listed, the calculator will estimate it as part of the remaining dry matter content.

Yes, adding water to dry food is generally safe and can help with hydration. However, this changes the as-fed percentages, so use dry matter basis calculations to understand the actual nutritional content.