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You’ve seen it on the label: brewers rice. Is it a nutritious ingredient or just another cheap filler hiding in your dog’s bowl?
This humble byproduct sparks debate—but the real story is more complicated (and interesting) than you think.
What Is Brewers Rice (Really)?
Brewers rice is not some hopped-up grain leftover from beer production, despite what the name suggests. It’s made up of broken white rice fragments that are separated during milling.
These fragments don’t meet size or appearance standards for human rice packaging, so they’re diverted to animal feed—especially dog food.
So, where does the “brewer” part come in? Historically, these rice pieces were repurposed by breweries during fermentation, particularly in gluten-free beers, which helped the term stick.
Today, it’s far more common in pet food than in brewing.
Is Brewers Rice An Inferior Ingredient?
Part of the confusion around brewers rice may stem from cultural perception. It’s rarely consumed in Western countries but sold widely in Asia as a cheaper alternative to white rice.
That doesn’t make it low quality. In fact, brewers rice contains virtually all the nutrients of white rice—just in smaller pieces.
It’s often dismissed as a byproduct or filler, but neither label tells the full story. Brewers rice may be more affordable than intact white rice, but nutritionally, it’s not inferior.
Veterinarian Rebecca MacMillan BVetMed BSAVA PGCertSAM MRCVS explains: “Brewer’s rice is classed as a byproduct, which sounds bad, but it still contains exactly all the same nutrients that white rice contains. It is easy to digest, plus it contains a good source of energy, protein, and minerals (though white rice generally may not be as nutrient dense as whole grain or brown rice).”
She adds, “As brewer’s rice is cheap, it is often referred to as a ‘filler,’ but this doesn’t make it a junk item by any means.”
Just because something is considered a byproduct doesn’t mean it’s bad. In fact, some of the most nutritious and sought-after ingredients in dog food—like edible organ meats, tallow, and freeze-dried liver—are technically byproducts.
These are rich in essential nutrients and are now sold at premium prices. Brewers rice, while not as glamorous, falls into this same category. Yes, it’s a byproduct, but that doesn’t make it junk.
Benefits Of Brewers Rice In Dog Food
Brewers rice is commonly used in dog food as a carbohydrate source to provide energy. While it is not as nutrient-dense as whole grains or brown rice, it is easily digestible and can be a suitable ingredient for dogs with sensitive stomachs or specific dietary needs.
Interestingly, in scientific studies with rats, brewers rice has shown the potential to support liver and kidney health and may even help suppress colon cancer.
Here’s what it brings to the bowl:
- Easily digestible carbohydrates: Ideal for dogs with gastrointestinal sensitivities
- Low fiber content: Helpful during recovery from diarrhea or GI upset
- Trace nutrients: Includes potassium, protein, iron, vitamin B6, magnesium, and calcium
- Cost-effective: Supports affordability in both standard and prescription GI diets
Why Vets Choose It For Sensitive Stomachs
MacMillan notes, “I tend to prescribe a diet that contains a high proportion of brewer’s rice when I need to provide a highly digestible food for dogs with certain food intolerances, digestive disorders, or absorption problems (like exocrine pancreatic insufficiency).”
Real-Life Results: Our Personal Experience With Brewers Rice In Dog Food
My senior dog, Daisy, has become very picky with her food over the last couple of years. She refuses to eat kibble unless it has treats, soft food, or a wet topper mixed in.
Even then, some days, she will simply refuse her food. Trying new foods to get her to eat is now part of the routine, but it has led to some digestive issues.
The mix-and-match meals have resulted in nonstop tummy gurgles, some truly room-clearing gas, and more than a few frantic late-night bathroom trips. On my vet’s advice, I gave her easy-to-digest dog food with brewers rice to help settle her stomach. We have had good luck with Nature’s Recipe Easy-to-Digest Chicken, Barley & Brown Rice Recipe.
This recipe uses high-quality animal protein and natural fiber sources and has been very helpful in regulating Daisy’s stomach. It is an affordable option that is easy to find and uses quality ingredients. I like that there is some flavor variety, although not every recipe has brewers rice.
– Danielle DeGroot, Rescue Dog Mom & Canine Journal Writer
Common Myths About Brewers Rice
Brewers rice gets a bad rap—often labeled as cheap, nutritionally empty, or even unsafe. But much of that criticism is rooted in misunderstanding or misinformation.
Let’s clear the air on some of the most common myths:
- Brewers rice is just cheap filler. Reality: It provides energy, digestibility, and trace nutrients—especially useful in prescription GI diets.
- It has no nutritional value. Reality: While less nutrient-dense than whole grains, it still contains protein and carbohydrates.
- If it’s not fit for humans, it’s not good for pets. Reality: Broken rice is eaten widely in Asia—the perception is cultural, not nutritional.
- Brewers rice is just floor sweepings. Reality: That’s a myth rooted in fear, not fact. Brewers rice is a regulated byproduct of the rice milling process, not a dusty leftover.
Are There Any Concerns About Using Brewers Rice?
Brewers rice has its advantages, but like all ingredients, there are trade-offs — especially when it’s overused or not balanced with other nutrients.
1. Lack Of Whole-Grain Nutrients
Brewers rice is milled down to its core, leaving behind the bran and germ—two parts of the grain packed with essential nutrients. As a result, it’s missing many of the key health benefits whole grains offer, including:
- Antioxidants – The bran layer contains potent compounds like lignans and ferulic acid.
- High levels of vitamins and minerals – Especially B vitamins, selenium, and magnesium.
- Insoluble fiber – Crucial for digestive regularity and gut health.
- Essential fatty acids – Found in the germ, along with vitamin E and beneficial phytochemicals.
Because of this, brewers rice may not be the best option for dogs who need added support for digestion, antioxidant protection, or heart health—areas where whole grains tend to shine.
2. Heavy Metals & Arsenic In Rice
Heavy metals in rice are a valid concern. Compared to other crops grown in polluted areas, rice tends to accumulate higher amounts of arsenic and mercury.
That said, the bran contains the highest concentration of heavy metals, which brewers rice does not have.
Still, moderation matters—especially for dogs on long-term rice-based diets. The researchers at NutritionFacts.org recommend reduced rice consumption in favor of other whole grains.
3. Glycemic Impact On Blood Sugar
Brewers rice has a high glycemic index, meaning it can cause blood glucose to rise quickly. This might not be ideal for dogs with diabetes or those prone to insulin resistance.
4. Limited Nutritional Diversity
Brewers rice lacks diversity in its nutrient profile and, if over-relied upon, can edge out more beneficial whole foods that would otherwise contribute fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats.
5. Excessive Reliance On Carbohydrates
According to Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), carbs are not essential for dogs. However, they’re commonly used in feed because they’re cheap and shelf-stable.
Some kibbles are composed of 40–60% carbohydrates, and that level—particularly from fast-digesting carbs like white rice—can contribute to weight gain, obesity, and blood sugar spikes, especially in sedentary or older dogs.
Brewers Rice vs Brown Rice vs White Rice vs Rice Hulls
Let’s clear up the confusion by taking a look at these common rice ingredients found in dog food:
| Rice Type | Contains Bran? | Nutritional Value | Digestability | Common Use In Dog Food |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brewers Rice | No | Moderate | High | Budget kibbles, GI & prescription diets |
| Brown Rice | Yes | High | Moderate | Premium foods |
| White Rice | No | Moderate | High | Sensitive stomach formulas |
| Rice Hulls | No (outer shell) | Very low (mostly fiber) | Low | Filler/bulk fiber |
From a nutritional perspective, brewers rice and white rice are nearly identical—the difference lies in shape and cost.
Brewers rice may actually be preferable in some cases, as it prevents food waste by reusing broken grains.
What Does AAFCO Say About Carbohydrates In Dog Food?
The AAFCO doesn’t require carbs in dog food, but many commercial diets include them as affordable energy sources. While dogs don’t need carbs to survive, carbs like brewers rice can help round out a well-balanced meal.
So, Should You Avoid Brewers Rice In Dog Food?
Not necessarily. It’s all about the context.
When brewers rice is paired with nutrient-dense proteins and veggies, it can be a smart addition. But if it’s the first ingredient, and there’s little else of substance? That’s worth reconsidering.
Look for:
- A variety of whole-food ingredients
- High-quality animal proteins
- Limited use of low-nutrient fillers like rice hulls
As with many dog food ingredients, it matters more how brewers rice is used and why it’s added.
Fun Fact: One Of The Oldest Dogs Ever Was Fed Rice Daily
A Border Collie named Bramble lived to age 25—one of the longest-lived dogs on record. Her daily diet? Brown rice, lentils, vegetables, soy, and yeast flakes. While Bramble’s plant-based menu was unconventional, her longevity encourages the idea that rice can be part of a healthy, long-term diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have more questions about brewers rice in your dog’s food? Here are some of the most commonly asked questions from curious pet parents—and the answers that clarify what’s fact and what’s fluff.
Don’t see yours? Ask us in the comments!
Why Is Brewers Rice Used In So Many Dog Foods?
It’s affordable, easy to digest, and provides quick energy—especially for dogs with GI conditions.
Is Brewers Rice The Same As White Rice?
Not exactly. They come from the same grain, but white rice is whole and unbroken, while brewers rice consists of fragments. Despite the size difference, their nutritional profiles are nearly the same.
Is Brewers Rice Safe For Puppies?
Yes, when part of a balanced formula approved for growth. Always choose food that meets AAFCO standards.
Can Dogs With Allergies Eat Brewers Rice?
Generally, yes. It’s gluten-free and unlikely to cause allergic reactions unless rice itself is a trigger.
Is Brewers Rice Sustainable?
Yes. It reduces food waste by repurposing broken rice that would otherwise be discarded.
Should I Avoid All Byproducts In Dog Food?
Not necessarily. Many byproducts—like liver, tripe, or tallow—are nutrient-rich and highly digestible. It’s about quality, not terminology.
Bottom Line
Brewers rice isn’t evil—it’s just misunderstood.
It may be a byproduct. It may be labeled a filler. But it’s an affordable, digestible, and useful ingredient in the proper context.
“When choosing a pet food, the general rule is to pick one that has good-quality meat-based protein sources at the top of its ingredients list, unless you have been otherwise instructed by your vet,” says MacMillan.
In short? Check the label, consider your dog’s needs, and don’t judge an ingredient by its fragments.
Keep Digging: More Dog Food Options Uncovered
Want to learn more about what goes into your dog’s bowl? Check out our related articles, including Best Kibble For Dogs With Sensitive Stomachs, Best Canned Dog Foods For Sensitive Stomachs, and Best Limited-Ingredient Dog Foods For Allergies.
