Broccoli
Last updated: February 10, 2026
Table of Contents
Quick Summary
Broccoli Cruciferous vegetable rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
What It Is
Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) is a cruciferous vegetable providing vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants in dog food. Fresh broccoli contains approximately 89% moisture, 7g carbohydrate, 3g protein, minimal fat, and 2.6g fiber per 100g. Broccoli is exceptionally rich in vitamins C and K, folate, and minerals including potassium and manganese. It provides sulforaphane—a powerful compound with anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable alongside kale, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts. However, broccoli contains isothiocyanates—compounds that are safe in small amounts but can cause gastric irritation if consumed in large quantities. In dog food amounts (small quantities), broccoli is safe and beneficial.
Compare to Similar Ingredients
- vs. kale: Broccoli and kale are both cruciferous vegetables. Broccoli provides more sulforaphane (cancer-protective); kale provides more vitamins K and A. Broccoli has isothiocyanates (concern in large amounts); kale has oxalates (concern in large amounts). Both are nutrient-dense 'superfoods.' Both safe and beneficial in dog food amounts.
Why It's Used in Dog Products
Broccoli appears in dog food for exceptional micronutrient density—vitamins C, K, folate, and minerals. Sulforaphane provides potential anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory benefits. Signals premium whole-food ingredients and health-conscious formulation. Marketing appeal—'with broccoli' suggests superfood quality. In small amounts typically used, broccoli provides genuine nutritional benefits. Premium brands include broccoli for vitamins and antioxidants.
Nutritional Profile
Quality Considerations
When evaluating broccoli in dog products, it's important to understand antioxidant content, phytonutrients, and whole food nutrition. This ingredient's quality and appropriateness can vary significantly based on sourcing, processing, and the specific formula it's used in.
Very nutritious. Use in moderation (can cause gas, isothiocyanates in large amounts).
Potential Concerns
Broccoli's main consideration is isothiocyanates—compounds that can cause gastric irritation if consumed in large amounts (more than 25% of diet). In small amounts used in dog food, this is minimal concern. Large amounts of plain broccoli fed as meal replacement could cause digestive upset. Dogs should not receive more than 10% of diet as broccoli. Broccoli florets safer than stems (stems have more isothiocyanates). Otherwise, broccoli is safe and highly beneficial in food amounts.
Contraindications
- Broccoli should not exceed 10% of diet
- Very large amounts of broccoli could cause gastric irritation
Excellent whole-food ingredient in appropriate amounts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is broccoli safe for dogs?
Yes, broccoli is safe and highly beneficial for dogs in moderation, like the small amounts used in dog food. Broccoli is exceptionally nutrient-dense with vitamins C, K, folate, minerals, and sulforaphane (anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory compound). However, broccoli contains isothiocyanates that can cause gastric irritation if consumed in large amounts (more than 10-25% of diet). The small amounts in commercial dog food are completely safe and beneficial. Avoid feeding large amounts of plain broccoli as meal replacement. Broccoli florets are safer than stems. In dog food formulas, broccoli provides excellent nutritional value without significant risk.
Related Ingredients
Analyze Your Dog's Food
Want to know what's really in your dog's food, treats, or supplements? Paste the ingredient list to get instant analysis.
Try the Analyzer Tool