Dry Matter Calculator

%
From guaranteed analysis on the food label.
%
E.g., protein percentage as listed on label.
Biology

Compare pet food nutrients on a dry matter basis to make accurate comparisons between wet and dry food.

Formula

Dry Matter % = (As-Fed % ÷ (100 − Moisture %)) × 100
  • Dry matter basis removes the effect of water content for fair comparison.
  • Wet food (75–80% moisture) and dry food (10–12% moisture) can now be compared.
  • Example: 8% protein in wet food with 78% moisture = 36.4% protein DM.

Wet food: 78% moisture, 8% protein

Inputs
  • Moisture Content: 78 %
  • Nutrient (As-Fed Basis): 8 %

DM = 100 - 78 = 22%. DM basis = 8/22 × 100 = 36.4%.

Frequently asked questions

Why use dry matter basis?
Water dilutes nutrient percentages in wet food. DM basis removes this effect for fair comparison.
What moisture does dry kibble have?
Typically 8–12%.