What are chelated minerals and why do they get bonus points?
Chelated minerals are bound to amino acids for better absorption. They're more bioavailable for cats than standard inorganic mineral forms - meaning more of the mineral actually reaches the cat's cells.
"Chelated" comes from the Greek word for claw - the mineral is essentially grabbed and held by an amino acid, making it easier for the digestive system to absorb and transport it.
Chelated vs standard minerals
Bound to an organic molecule (usually an amino acid) for easier absorption through the intestinal wall. The body recognises the amino acid carrier and brings the mineral along with it.
Examples on labels:
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Zinc proteinate
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Iron amino acid chelate
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Copper proteinate
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Manganese proteinate
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Zinc methionine complex
Basic salt forms that depend on stomach acid to break them down before they can be absorbed. Absorption rates are generally lower and more variable.
Examples on labels:
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Zinc oxide
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Ferrous sulfate
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Copper sulfate
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Zinc sulfate
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Iron oxide
Why it matters for scoring
Better mineral absorption means the cat actually benefits from the minerals in the food - not just what's listed on the label. It's a sign of investment in ingredient quality and formulation care.
Foods using chelated minerals earn bonus points under Rule 9. It's not the biggest scoring factor, but it's a meaningful signal about overall formulation quality.
Scan the bottom of the ingredient list for mineral forms. Seeing "proteinate" or "amino acid chelate" after mineral names is a good sign. "Oxide" or "sulfate" forms are the basic, cheaper alternatives.
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