1. What is the Royal Canin Energy Equation?

The Royal Canin Energy Equation calculates the gross energy (GE) content of pet food based on its macronutrient composition. It provides an estimation of the energy value using specific coefficients for protein, fat, and carbohydrates.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Royal Canin energy equation:

Where:

• \( Protein \) — Protein content (g/100g)
• \( Fat \) — Fat content (g/100g)
• \( NFE \) — Nitrogen-free extract (g/100g)
• \( CF \) — Crude fiber (g/100g)

Explanation: The equation uses specific energy coefficients: 5.7 kcal/g for protein, 9.4 kcal/g for fat, and 4.1 kcal/g for carbohydrates (NFE + CF).

3. Importance of GE Calculation

Details: Accurate energy calculation is crucial for formulating balanced pet diets, ensuring proper nutrition, and maintaining optimal pet health and weight management.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter protein, fat, NFE, and CF values in g/100g. All values must be non-negative. The calculator will compute the gross energy content in kcal/100g.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is Gross Energy (GE)?
A: Gross Energy represents the total energy content of food before accounting for digestibility and metabolic utilization.

Q2: How accurate is this equation?
A: The equation provides a good estimation of gross energy, though actual metabolizable energy may vary based on digestibility and other factors.

Q3: What is Nitrogen-Free Extract (NFE)?
A: NFE represents the carbohydrate content calculated by difference: 100 - (moisture + protein + fat + ash + fiber).

Q4: Why different coefficients for different nutrients?
A: Different macronutrients provide different amounts of energy: fats provide more energy per gram than proteins or carbohydrates.

Q5: Can this be used for all pet foods?
A: This equation is specifically designed for Royal Canin pet food formulations and may not be directly applicable to other brands without adjustment.