Dried Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Extract

Dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation extract is a dried enzyme preparation made by growing the bacterium Bacillus subtilis. It supplies enzymes, not live bacteria. Tufts veterinary nutritionists say there is no proof that extra enzymes help digestion in pets with a normal pancreas, and that some side effects have been reported with enzyme supplements. A cat with digestive or pancreatic disease should have its diet reviewed by a veterinarian.

Source: sites.tufts.edu

It is added for its digestive enzymes. Bacillus subtilis produces enzymes that break down starch and protein, and makers add the extract on the idea that it helps a cat digest grain and other plant ingredients. Most enzymes lose activity in the heat used to make dry food, and their benefit in pet food has not been shown.

The extract carries enzymes, while the product carries the bacteria. Dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation extract is the enzyme material collected from the culture. Dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation product is the dried bacterial culture itself, used as a probiotic. Both come from the same species, which is why the names look almost the same. Pettings scores them on separate pages.

For cats with a normal pancreas, there is no proof they do. Tufts veterinary nutritionists explain that enzymes are needed in exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, an uncommon condition where the pancreas cannot make enough of them. A study in dogs found no change in nutrient digestibility from plant or animal enzyme supplements. Cats with suspected pancreatic problems need testing by a veterinarian.

Source: sites.tufts.edu

Pettings gives dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation extract 3 out of 5 and lists it as a probiotic or enzyme ingredient. It appears on 8 of the 149 dry cat foods we list. The score reflects the ingredient on its own and does not depend on where it sits in the ingredient list. Each food's page shows how it scores overall.