PS7-3. Performance of Rice Protein Concentrate as Complementary Protein Sources in Extruded Dog Diets.

Abstract In response to the global call for diversified and sustainable protein sources to support nutritional needs in pet applications, rice protein concentrate [RPC] (Beneo; crude protein: 84%, crude fat: 5%, crude fiber: 3%) was assessed for palatability, nutrient digestibility, and stool quality in adult dogs. The RPC was included at 0%, 2.5% and 5%, in chicken-based extruded dog diets (formulated to 35% crude protein, 17% crude fat, 4% crude fiber). The study was approved by the facility’s Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee. A standard 2-bowl palatability test over a 2-day period was executed (n = 30 dogs each) to determine intake ratios between 0%, 2.5%, and 5% RPC diets. Total tract nutrient digestibility was evaluated (n = 8 dogs per diet) with 5 days of diet acclimation followed by 5 days of total fecal collection. Stool quality was evaluated on a 1 to 5 scale, with 2.5 being well-formed. Palatability data were analyzed using pair t-test. Statistical significance was set at 5% type 1 error rate. All digestibility and stool quality data were analyzed using a one-way ANOVA in Minitab. LS means were separated using Tukey’s HSD, and significance was defined as P < 0.05. Palatability was improved (P < 0.05) with inclusion of RPC 2.5%. Fat digestibility was different between diets (P < 0.05). Dry matter, protein, fiber, and ash digestibility and stool quality were similar between diets (P > 0.05). Rice protein concentrate showed merit as a potential protein ingredient source that improves palatability and maintains dry matter, protein, fiber, and ash digestibility and stool quality when replacing animal proteins in adult dog foods.