The YSI 2700 biochemistry analyser, which features enzyme technology, measures dextrose in extruded cereal products used in the production of pet food.
A pet's diet is complete if it provides adequate amounts of all required nutrients and all nutrients must be present in the proper proportions.
Balance is crucial, because excesses of some nutrients may cause deficiencies of others, according to YSI.
The completeness and balance of a diet can be determined by comparing the composition of the diet with the pet's nutrient requirements.
However, regardless of the composition of the diet, it is essential that the nutrients are digestible.
This factor is measured by comparing the level of undigested nutrients found in the pet waste.
Even if a diet is complete, balanced and digestible, it must also be palatable enough to be eaten in sufficient quantities needed to support normal function.
All conventionally produced dry dog foods, even grain-free dog foods, contain starches and therefore the manufacturer needs to maintain the physical quality of the food while ensuring that the food is as digestible as possible.
Once the optimum level has been determined, the dextrose levels are measured during the manufacturing processes.
The company claims that it is also critical to pet food that the starches are cooked adequately and, with the YSI 2700, there is no risk of a batch of feed being shipped that is not within the percentage cook specifications.
Measurements are virtually unaffected by colour, turbidity, density, pH or the presence of reducing substances.