Hill s Science Diet Adult Chicken & Barley Recipe Dry Dog Food 35 lb bag
Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This dog food contains beneficial ingredients like chicken, cracked pearled barley, and flaxseed, which provide high-quality protein, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids. However, the presence of soybean meal and natural flavors detracts from its overall quality, as these ingredients are less bioavailable and lack transparency. The product is moderately processed, which limits its score despite the inclusion of some whole grains and animal-based proteins.
Key ingredients 11
FlaxseedVery Good
Flaxseed is a source of omega-3 fatty acids and dietary fiber. It supports heart health and provides anti-inflammatory benefits. Its inclusion enhances the nutritional profile with essential fatty acids.
Benefits
Provides omega-3 fatty acids that support heart health and offer anti-inflammatory benefits.
ChickenGood
Chicken is a high-quality source of protein that supports muscle maintenance and growth. It provides essential amino acids necessary for overall health. As a primary ingredient, it indicates a focus on animal-based protein sources.
Benefits
Rich in essential amino acids and provides a high-quality protein source for muscle maintenance and growth.
Cracked Pearled BarleyGood
Cracked pearled barley is a whole grain that provides dietary fiber and essential nutrients. It supports digestive health and provides a steady release of energy. Its inclusion indicates a focus on whole grains for carbohydrate sources.
Benefits
Provides dietary fiber that supports digestive health and offers a steady release of energy.
Brown RiceGood
Brown rice is a whole grain that offers fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It supports digestive health and provides a source of complex carbohydrates. Its use indicates a preference for whole grains over refined grains.
Benefits
Rich in fiber and essential nutrients, supporting digestive health and providing complex carbohydrates.
Soybean OilNeutral
Soybean oil is a common source of fat in pet foods, providing essential fatty acids. In pet food, it is considered neutral due to its role in providing energy and essential fats. It is not penalized as heavily as in human diets.
Risks
High omega-6 content may promote inflammation when consumed in excess.
Benefits
Provides essential fatty acids and energy, contributing to a balanced diet.
Whole Grain CornNeutral
Whole grain corn is a source of carbohydrates and provides some fiber. It is a common ingredient in pet foods for energy. Its use is neutral as it offers basic nutritional value without significant benefits or risks.
Risks
Potential allergen for some pets, but generally safe for most.
Benefits
Provides carbohydrates and some fiber, contributing to energy needs.
Corn Protein MealNeutral
Corn protein meal is a plant-based protein source used to boost protein content. It is less bioavailable than animal proteins but provides essential amino acids. Its inclusion is neutral as it supports protein levels without significant benefits.
Risks
May not provide as complete an amino acid profile as animal-based proteins.
Benefits
Contributes to overall protein content, providing essential amino acids.
Chicken MealNeutral
Chicken meal is a concentrated source of protein made from rendered chicken parts. It provides essential amino acids and supports muscle maintenance. Its use is neutral as it is a processed form of protein but still beneficial.
Benefits
Provides a concentrated source of protein and essential amino acids.
Chicken FatNeutral
Chicken fat is a source of energy and essential fatty acids. It enhances flavor and provides necessary fats for a balanced diet. Its inclusion is neutral as it supports energy needs without significant additional benefits.
Benefits
Provides energy and essential fatty acids, enhancing flavor and nutritional balance.
Natural FlavorsBad
Natural flavors are added to enhance taste but lack transparency in their composition. They can mask the quality of the underlying ingredients. Their use is penalized due to potential undisclosed additives.
Risks
Lack of transparency may hide undesirable additives or allergens.
Soybean MealBad
Soybean meal is a plant-based protein source that is less bioavailable than animal proteins. It may contain anti-nutritional factors that affect digestion. Its use is penalized due to lower protein quality compared to animal sources.
Risks
May contain anti-nutritional factors affecting digestion and nutrient absorption.
Benefits
Provides a source of protein, though less bioavailable than animal-based proteins.
Processing
Processed Foods
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