Soy Protein Concentrate
Last updated: February 11, 2026
Table of Contents
Quick Summary
Soy Protein Concentrate Processed soy protein (65-72% protein) used to boost protein percentages. Common allergen and inferior to meat.
What It Is
Processed soy protein (65-72% protein) used to boost protein percentages. Common allergen and inferior to meat.
Compare to Similar Ingredients
- vs. soy protein isolate: Both are concentrated soy proteins. Soy protein concentrate is 70% protein with some fiber and carbs retained, while soy protein isolate is 90%+ protein with almost everything else removed.
- vs. wheat gluten: Both are concentrated plant proteins used as protein boosters. Soy protein concentrate is 70% protein from soybeans (allergen for some), while wheat gluten is 75-80% protein from wheat (allergen for many).
Why It's Used in Dog Products
Manufacturers include soy protein concentrate in dog food, treats, and supplements for several reasons:
- Cheap protein source
- Increases protein percentage
- Plant-based protein
- Cost reduction
Quality Considerations
When evaluating soy protein concentrate in dog products, it's important to understand protein density, amino acid profile, digestibility, and sourcing quality. This ingredient's quality and appropriateness can vary significantly based on sourcing, processing, and the specific formula it's used in.
Processed plant protein with inferior amino acid profile. Common allergen. Contains anti-nutritional factors. Used to inflate protein numbers without meat. Less processed than soy protein isolate but still concerning.
Potential Concerns
While soy protein concentrate can be appropriate in dog nutrition, pet owners should be aware of allergies, protein digestibility, and quality variations between named and generic sources. Individual dogs may respond differently to the same ingredient based on their health status, age, and sensitivities.
Red flag - cheap plant protein used instead of meat. Common allergen with incomplete amino acids and anti-nutrients. Used to hit protein targets without expensive meat. Avoid foods listing this prominently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is soy protein concentrate safe for dogs?
Soy Protein Concentrate should be used with caution or avoided. Processed plant protein with inferior amino acid profile. Common allergen. Contains anti-nutritional factors. Used to inflate protein numbers without meat. Less processed than soy protein isolate but still concerning.
What does soy protein concentrate do in dog food?
Processed soy protein (65-72% protein) used to boost protein percentages. Common allergen and inferior to meat. Dog food manufacturers include this ingredient to provide cheap protein source and provide increases protein percentage.
Can soy protein concentrate cause allergies in dogs?
Any protein source can potentially trigger allergies in sensitive dogs. Signs of food allergies include itchy skin, ear infections, digestive issues, and excessive paw licking. If your dog shows these symptoms, consult your veterinarian about an elimination diet to identify the trigger ingredient.
How much soy protein concentrate should be in dog food?
Quality dog foods typically list primary protein sources like soy protein concentrate within the first 3-5 ingredients. The exact percentage varies by formula, but protein-focused foods generally contain 25-35% total protein for adults, and 28-40% for puppies or performance dogs. Check the guaranteed analysis rather than relying solely on ingredient order.
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