Formula Change? You Tell Me!

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

So I bought a new bag of Jack's food and the minute I opened it, I thought it looked noticeably darker. The aroma was slightly different, too, and the texture seemed grittier, like it had a coating of some kind.

Called the company and asked if they had changed the formula, they said no. There can just be variations in the color. I knew better, but I was out of food, so I used it. Within a day or two, Jack got loose, very bulky stools and other digestive symptoms. I returned the food for another new bag, and this one looks dark and different too. The Best By date and lot number are different, but very close. I called the company again and told them there was definitely something wrong with the food. They said they would send me coupons and a prepaid envelope to send them some samples so they can see what is going on.

In the meantime, i had to go on a quest to find food for JD; my local store had a much larger bag than I normally buy with a slightly older date and lot number, and when I explained the situation to the store manager, she gave it to me. (Thank you, Pet Supplies Plus!)

Brought it home, opened it, and Eureka! It's the same color as it's always been, same texture, same smell.  

This newest bag will last us about a month. After that, I don't know what we'll do. if the company doesn't come back to me with a good explanation, I guess we'll have to find JD a new food, which with his issues is an extremely daunting prospect. 

Meanwhile, I put some of each food in a dish and took a photo. You tell me this is the same food: 

[Rosemary (Ro) and Enzo]

Wow! Certainly looks completely different. What food?

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Wellness Simple Solutions Salmon/Potato. He's been eating it for a couple of years, ever since Natural Balance was sold, and it's been great for him. There's almost nothing else on the market with so few ingredients and such a good macronutrient profile for dogs with digestive issues, so I am just praying they will discover the problem and fix it. 

[sandy b]

Definitely darker!

[Ricki and Tara (doodle)]

Yes, totally different. Of course Jack is the expert and he's already given his opinion!  Hoping you don't have to start looking for a new food. :(

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Me too, Ricki. Really hoping. 

[F, Calla & Luca]

The color is certainly different. These color differences are noticeable from one variety of Acana to another like Grasslands versus Wild Prairie. But this is weird. I hope Jack is all better.

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Thanks, F, he's not 100% back to normal yet, but I'll get him there. :) 

[Rae]

Totally different! What brand is it? I just hate it when you call and are told "nothing has changed". I know you must have done tons of research so you're probably much more knowledgable than the person answering the phone! Let us know what you find out!

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Wellness Simple Solutions Salmon/Potato. I've been very happy with this food and this company, so I'm hoping I'll get some answers. And you can be sure you guys will be first to know what they are. :)

[Stella]

Definitely looks like it is coated in some sort of oil.

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

That's what I thought too, Stella, maybe they put too much fat or oil in the batch. 

[Malenie Piscetelli]

Wow!!! That's definitely different food and color!!!