Dry Matter Basis Calculator
Compare pet foods beyond the moisture.
Food Label Inputs
Dry Matter Comparison
Nutrients on an equal-moisture basis
Higher protein alone does not establish better nutritional quality or suitability.
Ask the manufacturer for typical analysis.
Complete Nutrient Breakdown
| Nutrient | Food A as-fed | Food B as-fed | Food A DMB | Food B DMB |
|---|
NFE is an approximation by difference, not measured digestible carbohydrate. Ash is required; no zero assumption.
Understanding dry matter
Convert as-fed percentages to a dry matter basis (DMB):
DMB % = as-fed % ÷ (100 − moisture %) × 100
Example (Food B protein):
8 ÷ (100 − 78) × 100 = 36.4%
Interpreting label estimates
Minimum protein/fat and maximum fiber/moisture guarantees are not an exact measured composition. Combining these bounds creates a point estimate, not a guaranteed DMB bound. Typical analysis from the manufacturer is more suitable for comparisons.
NFE = 100 − (moisture + protein + fat + crude fiber + ash). It is a rough residual, not a direct measurement of total or digestible carbohydrate. Missing values or an inconsistent total prevent an NFE estimate.
Frequently asked questions
Why compare on a dry matter basis?
It removes the dilution effect of water when comparing nutrient percentages in wet and dry foods. It does not show calories, digestibility, ingredient quality or whether a food is complete and balanced.
What if ash is not on the label?
Leave it blank and ask the manufacturer for typical analysis. Other known nutrients can still be converted, but NFE cannot be estimated without ash. This tool does not silently treat missing ash as zero.
Does higher protein mean better food?
No. Nutritional suitability also depends on species, life stage, health, energy, digestibility and the complete nutrient profile. A higher calculated protein percentage is not a food-quality ranking or medical recommendation.
Sources & References
AAFCOModel pet food regulations and definitions for nutritional adequacy and labeling.
WSAVAGlobal nutritional guidelines and resources for companion animals.Independent references, not endorsements. Use species- and life-stage-appropriate nutrition information with your veterinarian. Formula reference: FDA guidance on comparing pet foods.
Compare pet foods beyond the moisture.