Animal sourced enzyme vs Plant based enzyme: Which one is the best?

Animal sourced enzyme vs Plant based enzyme

Which one is the best?

24 Jan 2025 | Chin

Introduction Enzymes are essential biological molecules that catalyze various biochemical reactions, including digestion. For pet owners, enzyme supplements can address digestive challenges and improve nutrient absorption, contributing to overall wellness for pets. A 2023 study found that canine food supplemented with enzymes significantly enhanced nutrient digestibility and availability (Front. Vet. Sci., 2023). Currently in the market, there are two sources of enzyme, namely Plant based and animal based enzymes.

What Are Animal-Based Enzymes?

Animal-based enzymes, commonly referred to as pancreatic enzymes, are sourced from the pancreas of animals like porcine or cows (bovine). These enzymes are primarily digestive aids and come with specific considerations:

Strictly Digestive Function Animal-based enzymes are designed to assist digestion but do not offer systemic benefits. They address acute digestive issues, and normally they are higher in concentration.
For unique needs Pancreatic enzymes are often prescribed by veterinarians for acute situations such as pancreatitis, and first line for EPI. The enzymes act as a temporary fix and relief of digestive issues.
Waiting Period for Action Pancreatic enzymes require a waiting period to activate, normally about 30-45mins (Fieker et at., 2011), delaying their digestive aid. This can be inconvenient for pets with immediate needs.

What Are Plant-Based Enzymes?

Plant-based enzymes are derived from natural sources such as fungi, yeast, or other plants, by means of extraction or through fermentation. These enzymes provide multiple benefits and are increasingly popular in pet health. Key aspects include:

Digestive and Systemic Benefits Plant-based enzymes not only assist in breaking down food but also support systemic health. They work beyond the digestive system, aiding in reducing inflammation and improving overall cellular function.
Immediate Action Plant-based enzymes start working as soon as they are ingested. This eliminates the need for a waiting period, ensuring quick relief and improved digestion for pets.
Safety and Flexibility Plant enzymes are gentle on pets’ systems and come with minimal side effects. Their flexibility in formulation allows tailored enzyme blends to meet specific pet needs, including digestive and systemic health goals.
Temperature Stability Plant-based enzymes remain effective across a wide range of temperatures and pH levels, making them reliable for pets with varying digestive conditions.
Ethical and Sustainable Derived from non-animal sources, plant enzymes align with environmentally conscious and cruelty-free practices. This makes them an appealing choice for ethically minded pet owners.

Concerns about animal based enzyme.

Animal based enzymes are commonly used to solve acute GI issues among pets. While it is commonly used, there are also some concerns raised by pet owners, especially since it is used for long term, for example:

Health Risks and Ethical Concerns While this condition is rarely reported, however, in a study, animal-sourced enzymes carry potential risks, including the transfer of animal bone diseases, viruses and side effects (Frericks et al., 2024). Additionally, the manufacturing process raises ethical and sustainability concerns.
Species-Specific Limitations Despite claims, the digestive enzymes of cows or pigs do not perfectly match the prey of dogs and cats. This discrepancy limits their suitability as a long-term solution for companion pets.

So, which Enzyme Type Is Better for Companion Pets?

It is matter of how pet parents want to use the enzyme supplementation-long run or short term. Both enzyme types are effective for digestion support. However, plant-based enzymes provide advantages that make them a superior choice for long-term supplementation or pet parents looking for enzymes suitable for long-term usage.

Animal-based enzymes are still important especially for acute digestive emergencies, as prescribed by a veterinarian. However, for chronic digestive issues or systemic health improvement, plant-based enzymes provide the benefit needed.

What we have in Petsrejoice wellness?

Enzyme Miracle®- Combination of systemic and digestive enzyme formulation made from plant sources suitable for long-term digestive support. It will improve digestion in the short-term and will work to improve overall systemic health of dogs and cats.

Enzyme Miracle

Comparison of enzymes (comparing with Enzyme Miracle ®):

	Enzyme Miracle	Brand N	Alpteses	Brand L (Drug)	Brand P (Drug)
Price	RM135 (For 100 scoops) 1-2 months	RM149 1-2 months	RM72/30 sachets	Near RM499 (60 Capsules)	RM900 12 oz
Protease	Protease 4.5 136,500 USP Protese 6.0 26,000 USP	22100 USP	375,000 USP	75000 USP	388,000 USP
Lipase	500 USP	84 USP	1000 USP	30000 USP	71,400 USP
Amylase	168,000 USP	111,360 USP	99,600 USP	77812.5 USP	400,000 USP
Others	Three other enzyme, copper, Manganese, Calcium, Magnesium	Probiotics	N/A	N/A	N/A

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