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Merrick · Purrfect Bistro Grain Free · Savory Chicken & Sweet Potato Recipe

Dry food · Adult Maintenance

E

Furry PI's verdict

Our investigation turned up real problems with Merrick Grain Free. It contains phosphoric acid. To be fair, chicken leads the ingredient list — the right start for an obligate carnivore. On balance, most cats are better served by stronger options — the app can suggest better-graded foods of the same type.

What's concerning

  • Contains phosphoric acid — an ingredient our database flags as genuinely problematic for cats.
  • A high carbohydrate load for an obligate carnivore — a cat's natural prey is almost carb-free.
  • A modest share of calories comes from protein.

What works

  • Chicken leads the ingredient list — the right start for an obligate carnivore.
  • No grains on the label.

The grade is only the cover of the case file. The free app shows the full 100-point breakdown, every flagged ingredient, and better-graded alternatives for your cat.

Open the full investigation — free

Nutrition from the label (as fed)

Protein38%
Fat16%
Fiber3%
Moisture12%
Ash*8%
Carbs (estimated)*23%

Label: guaranteed analysis (min/max). * not printed on the label — carbs are calculated, ash/moisture estimated from typical values. How these numbers translate into calories from protein vs carbs — and how this food scores on each pillar — is shown in the app.

Quick answers

Is Merrick Grain Free grain-free?
Yes — no grains appear on the ingredient list.
What are the first ingredients in Merrick Grain Free?
The label opens with chicken, chicken meal and cassava root flour. Ingredients are listed by weight, so the first few carry the most.
Does it contain artificial colours or preservatives?
None appear on the ingredient list.

More from Merrick

Grades come from a fixed, formula-based method — the same for every food, never paid for. About Furry PI

Furry PI analyses food labels and isn't a substitute for veterinary advice.