Pepsin is an enzyme that digests proteins (aka “proteolytic” enzyme) and is found in many popular digestive enzyme supplements for pets. Here at NWC Naturals, we do NOT add pepsin to our enzyme supplements for pets. This has led to some customers reaching out to ask, “why doesn’t Total-Zymes® contain pepsin?”
Why doesn’t Total-Zymes® contain pepsin?
Total-Zymes® only uses enzymes that are from non-animal sources like plants or fermentation. What the labels on those other brands don’t tell you is that pepsin is harvested by juicing the organs of slaughterhouse cadavers- dead pigs and cows. Disgusting, right? But does the wide use of pepsin mean that animal-based enzymes are more effective? No! Plant-based enzymes are very effective and can lead to wonderful results. For example, instead of using pepsin to digest proteins, Total-Zymes® contains FIVE different non-animal enzymes that all digest protein.
Total-Zymes® contains 5 different proteolytic enzymes:
- Protease 6.0
- Protease 4.5
- Protease 3.0
- Peptidase
- Bromelain
These plant-based enzymes offer better digestion with none of the bad side effects or allergic reactions to pork products!
What other enzymes are found in Total-Zymes®?
Amylase – breaks down sugar and starches.
Alpha-Galactosidase – breaks down carbohydrates such as vegetables and whole grains.
Beta-Glucanase – breaks down starches.
Diastase – (sometimes called maltase) the catalyst in the hydrolysis of disaccharide maltose to the simple sugar form, glucose.
Lipase – digest lipids or fats.
Cellulase – breaks down cellulose, an indigestible fiber found in many fruits and vegetables.
Pectinase – breaks down fruit and vegetable pectins and and facilitates the transportation of waste
Phytase – breaks down carbohydrates, specifically phytates in plants. It can increase mineral absorption and the bio-availability of iron, zinc, calcium, and magnesium.
Hemicellulase – breaks down carbohydrates, especially polysaccharides such as hemicelluloses which are found in plant foods.
Bromelain – a natural systemic enzyme.
Lactase – breaks down lactose.
Glucoamylase – breaks down carbohydrates, specifically polysaccharides, simple sugars.
As an added bonus, Total-Zymes® contains prebiotics to help with implantation and growth of the good guy bacteria in the gut. Do you have more questions about Total-Zymes®? Follow us on instagram @nwcnaturals to learn more!