When shopping for pet dental products, most pet parents want natural, safe, and effective solutions. But there’s growing confusion over what “natural” really means—especially when synthetic additives like Sodium Tripolyphosphate (STPP) are involved.
What Is STPP?
STPP is a synthetic phosphate salt, commonly used in cleaning products, processed meat, and some pet foods. In dental chews and toppers, it’s often added to bind calcium in the mouth, making it harder for tartar to form.
Is STPP Natural?
No. STPP is made through an industrial process involving phosphoric acid and sodium hydroxide. It does not occur naturally and cannot be classified as a natural ingredient under most definitions used by food and regulatory bodies.
Are There Health Concerns?
STPP is generally recognized as safe at controlled levels. But research shows that inorganic phosphate additives, like STPP, can alter mineral balance, increase phosphate loads, and may contribute to kidney stress in sensitive pets.
While the risk is low for healthy dogs in small amounts, long-term, daily exposure—especially in seniors or pets with kidney issues—raises questions.
Why We Don’t Use It
At FurFresh, we believe in true transparency and natural formulation. That’s why we never use synthetic phosphate salts like STPP. Instead, we rely on:
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Plant-based oral actives
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Natural enzymes and prebiotics
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Whole-food ingredients that support gut and dental health
Final Thoughts
When it comes to pet dental care, natural should mean natural. Always read ingredient lists, and don’t hesitate to ask brands how they define the term.
✨ Choose better for your furmily. Choose truly natural.
🔬 References & Further Reading
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The Source Matters: Effects of High Phosphate Intake from Eight Inorganic Phosphate Salts in Healthy Adult Beagle Dogs
Animals Journal (MDPI, 2021)
→ https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/11/12/3456 -
The Role of Sodium Polyphosphates in Oral Health Products
Veterinary Practice (2014)
→ https://www.veterinary-practice.com/article/the-role-of-sodium-polyphosphates -
Phosphorus and Sodium Contents in Commercial Wet Foods for Dogs and Cats
Veterinary Medicine and Science, Wiley Online Library
→ https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/vms3.183 -
Sodium Tripolyphosphate (STPP) — Ingredient Overview
FoodAdditives.net
→ https://www.foodadditives.net/phosphates/sodium-tripolyphosphate/ -
Ingredient Analysis: Sodium Tripolyphosphate (STPP)
Fellow.dog Ingredient Database
→ https://www.fellow.dog/ingredient/sodium-tripolyphosphate