Best Grain Free Dog Food for a Healthier, Happier Pup

Navigating grain free dog food options is essential for ensuring your canine companion’s lifelong wellness. Yet, selecting the proper nourishment for your furry friend can be daunting, especially when faced with dietary constraints like food allergies or other health conditions. However, fear not! Abundant alternatives exist, vetted by professionals, to cater to your pup’s specific needs.

From the satisfying crunch of grain-free kibble to the nourishing moisture of wet food and the convenience of freeze-dried options, we’ve meticulously compiled a diverse array of best grain free dog food recommendations.

However, the ultimate choice hinges on various factors, including affordability, storage convenience, and your dog’s palate preferences. Nevertheless, before embarking on any significant dietary changes, it’s advisable to seek guidance from your veterinarian, ensuring your furry family member receives the utmost care and nutrition.

The Best Grain Free Dog Food

We Feed Raw Turkey Patty

We Feed Raw Turkey Patty

We Feed Raw Turkey Patty

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We Feed Raw Turkey Patty is a grain-free option rich in turkey protein and suitable for dogs of all ages. Priced affordably, it offers a range of recipes to cater to various dietary preferences.

While some customers praise its positive impact on their pets’ health and happiness, others caution about potential ingredient inconsistencies. Always handle and store raw food products with care to ensure the safety of your furry friends.

Pros

High-quality turkey protein

Grain-free formula

Affordable price

Cons

It may not be suitable for all dogs

Requires proper handling and storage

Delving into our analysis of the We Feed Raw product line, Turkey Patty emerges as a star among six meticulously crafted frozen recipes.

  • Main ingredients: Turkey tails, turkey gizzards, turkey wings, turkey liver, vitamin + mineral mix
  • Meal Types: Grain-free
  • Price: $$
  • Design For: All Life Stages
  • Explore all six mouthwatering recipes.

This concoction from We Feed Raw is a testament to the excellence of turkey protein. A close examination of its dry matter label unveils a whopping 49% protein content, complemented by 25% fat and a modest estimated carb count of 18%… yielding a noteworthy fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 52%.

Here’s a glimpse into what one satisfied buyer had to say: “Our family swears by We Feed Raw, and for good reason! It’s been our go-to for years, keeping our beloved canines in prime health and high spirits with its balanced, top-notch ingredients. We couldn’t ask for more from a pet food company!”.

Wellness Core Grain-Free Kibble

Wellness Core Grain-Free Kibble

Wellness Core Grain-Free Kibble

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Wellness Core’s Ocean Formula offers a protein-packed blend featuring fish and fish meals as primary ingredients, ensuring a delectable and nutritious mealtime experience for your canine companion.

Pros

Protein-rich fish formulation

Affordable pricing

Balanced fat-to-protein ratio

High buyer satisfaction

Cons

Moderate carbohydrate content

Limited availability in some areas

Potential for fishy odor

It may not suit all dietary needs

Within our comprehensive Wellness Core product line review, Wellness Core Ocean Formula shines brightly among the 12 dry recipes featured.

  • Main ingredients: Whitefish, herring meal, salmon meal, menhaden fish meal, peas
  • Price: $$
  • Design For: Adult, weight loss, small breed, large breed, puppy, large breed puppy, senior
  • Browse through all 12 enticing recipes.

This Wellness formula predominantly sources its meat protein from fish and fish meal. Our meticulous dry matter label analysis unveils a protein content of 38%, accompanied by 17% fat and 38% estimated carbs… resulting in a noteworthy fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 44%.

A standout protein-rich choice.

Sample buyer review… “My furry friend adores this food! She’s never been a picky eater but dove right when I introduced this into her bowl. Mealtime excitement has never been more evident! I believe we’ve found her forever favorite!”

Raised Right Dog Food

Raised Right Dog Food

Raised Right Dog Food

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Raised Right’s Beef recipe stands out for its premium quality, utilizing fresh beef as its primary protein source.

With an array of recipe choices and glowing recommendations, it’s a top contender for discerning pet parents seeking optimal nutrition for their furry companions.

Pros

Fresh, human-grade ingredients

Suitable for adult dogs

High protein content

Exceptional buyer recommendations

Cons

Limited availability in stores

Higher price point

Requires refrigeration

It may not suit all dietary needs

Raised Right Beef stands out as one of the 11 fresh recipes in our evaluation of the Raised Right product line.

  • Main ingredients: Beef, beef heart, carrots, beef liver, cranberries
  • Meal Types: Grain-free (featuring carrots and cranberries)
  • Profile: Maintenance
  • Ideal for: Adult dogs exclusively

The primary source of animal protein in Raised Right Beef comes from fresh beef. Upon dry matter label analysis, the formula demonstrates a protein content of 61%, fat content of 24%, and estimated carbohydrate content of 8%… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 39%.

Among the plethora of fresh, human-grade dog foods available, Raised Right Beef shines as one of the finest options on the market. Its extensive range of recipes can be particularly advantageous, especially for discerning eaters. It is highly recommended.

American Journey Grain-Free

American Journey Grain-Free

American Journey Grain-Free

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American Journey’s Beef and Sweet Potato recipe offers a balanced blend of protein sources, including deboned beef, chicken, and turkey meal.

Enriched with salmon oil and digestive support, it provides both nutritional value and affordability, making it a popular choice among pet owners seeking quality on a budget.

Pros

Rich in protein sources

Budget-friendly pricing

It contains beneficial salmon oil

Includes pre and probiotics

Cons

Moderate carbohydrate content

Limited variety of meat proteins

Availability may vary by location

Among the 17 dry recipes featured in our comprehensive American Journey product line review, American Journey Beef and Sweet Potato emerges as a standout option.

  • Main ingredients: Deboned beef, chicken meal, turkey meal, peas, chickpeas
  • Price: $$
  • Ideal for:  Puppy, large breed, senior, healthy weight
  • Explore all 17 available recipes.

This American Journey formulation primarily sources its meat protein from deboned beef, chicken, and turkey meals. Analysis of the dry matter label unveils a protein content of 36%, fat content of 16%, and estimated carbohydrate content of 41%… yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 44%.

Noteworthy is the inclusion of salmon oil, renowned for its abundance of healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Additionally, the formula incorporates both pre and probiotics to foster optimal digestion. It is highly recommended, especially considering its budget-friendly pricing.

A testimonial from a satisfied buyer reads: “This has become my preferred dry food choice. My dog was initially exceptionally selective when it came to his meals. After days of refusal, I introduced him to this formula upon a friend’s recommendation. Gradually, he embraced it, and now it’s a staple in his diet. Occasionally, I mix in other American Journey flavors for variety.”

And you can discover The Doggo Bio’s extensive guide to the best dry dog foods.

Taste of the Wild Grain Free Dog Food

Taste of the Wild Grain-Free Dog Food

Taste of the Wild Grain Free Dog Food

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Taste of the Wild’s High Prairie recipe features a protein-rich blend of buffalo, lamb, and chicken, providing essential nutrition for your furry friend.

With favorable buyer reviews and a balanced fat-to-protein ratio, it’s a standout choice for discerning pet parents seeking quality at an affordable price.

Pros

Abundance of meat protein

Affordable pricing option

Diverse recipe selections are available

Optimal fat-to-protein ratio

Highly recommended by buyers

Cons

Moderate carbohydrate content

Limited availability in stores

It may not suit all dietary needs

In our evaluation of the Taste of the Wild product line, Taste of the Wild High Prairie stands out as one of the 9 dry recipes featured.

  • Main ingredients: Buffalo, lamb meal, chicken meal, sweet potatoes, peas
  • Price: $
  • Ideal for: Puppy, adult, small breed, and more
  • Discover all 9 available recipes.

Taste of the Wild High Prairie primarily sources its meat protein from buffalo, lamb meal, and chicken meal. Upon dry matter label analysis, the formula reveals a protein content of 36%, fat content of 20%, and estimated carbohydrate content of 36%… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 56%.

It is an excellent choice for your canine companion. Wholeheartedly recommended.

A satisfied customer shares their experience: “My furry friends adore it. I purchased the bag while still having some of their previous food left, and they would eagerly inspect the new bag. They wouldn’t touch their old food once I served it to them. They can tell the difference and prefer Taste of the Wild. I’m delighted to see them so happy.”

Orijen Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Orijen Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Orijen Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

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Orijen’s Six Fish recipe features a protein-rich blend of whole Atlantic mackerel, herring, monkfish, and redfish, ensuring optimal nutrition for your canine companion.

With glowing buyer reviews and a balanced fat-to-protein ratio, it’s a solid choice for pet owners seeking premium quality and exceptional performance from their dog’s diet.

Pros

Abundant in fish protein

Varied recipe options are available

High-quality ingredients sourced

Balanced fat-to-protein ratio

Receives enthusiastic recommendations

Cons

Higher price point

Limited availability in stores

Moderate carbohydrate content

Within our examination of the Orijen product line, Orijen Six Fish emerges as one of the 9 dry recipes featured.

  • Main ingredients: Whole Atlantic mackerel, whole Atlantic herring, monkfish, Acadian redfish, flounder
  • Ideal for: Large breed puppy, adult, senior, puppy, weight loss
  • Price: $$$
  • Explore all 9 available recipes.

Orijen Six Fish derives its primary animal protein from whole Atlantic mackerel and herring, alongside monkfish and redfish. Upon dry matter label analysis, the formula showcases a protein content of 43%, fat content of 21%, and estimated carbohydrate content of 28%… yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 47%.

A reliable selection within the grain-free product line. Wholeheartedly recommended.

A satisfied customer shares their experience: “I’ve consistently fed my German Shepherds Orijen, so naturally, when my boyfriend and I welcomed an 11-month-old German Shepherd, I opted for this food again. It truly stands as the finest on the market!

My dogs have always boasted magnificent coats and healthy teeth with this food. The Six Fish variant even aids in reducing shedding. Our dog, involved in protection training and competitions, requires high protein sustenance to match his energy, and this brand delivers precisely that. I adore this food!”

Dr. Tim’s Grain Free Dog Food

Dr. Tim's Grain-Free Dog Food

Dr.Tim’s Grain Free Dog Food

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Dr. Tim’s Salmon and Pork RPM offers a balanced blend of protein sources, featuring salmon and pork meals to provide essential nutrition for your beloved pet.

With favorable buyer reviews and a balanced fat-to-protein ratio, it’s a trustworthy choice for pet owners seeking quality and affordability in their dog’s diet.

Pros

Rich in salmon and pork protein

Affordable pricing option

Balanced fat-to-protein ratio

Includes quality ingredients

Highly recommended by buyers

Cons

Moderate carbohydrate content

It may not suit all dietary needs

Availability may vary by location

In our exploration of Dr. Tim’s product line, Dr. Tim’s Salmon and Pork RPM is one of the 3 dry recipes featured.

  • Main ingredients: Salmon meal, pork meal, dried white potatoes, dried field peas, tapioca
  • Meal types: Several grain-inclusive formulas
  • Price: $$
  • Discover all 3 available recipes.

Dr. Tim’s Salmon and Pork RPM primarily source its animal protein from salmon and pork meals. Upon dry matter label analysis, the formula exhibits a protein content of 36%, fat content of 20%, and estimated carbohydrate content of 36%… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 56%.

An esteemed grain-free brand. Wholeheartedly recommended.

A satisfied customer shares their experience: “We’ve experimented with numerous products on the market. Our eldest female struggled with severe skin allergies. Then, a friend recommended this food to us. Upon researching, we discovered its potential to address our girl’s allergies and provide our sporting retrievers with the necessary protein, energy, and carbs.

This food has truly been a blessing. We’ve raised several young dogs on this diet, and they thrived. I can’t praise this food enough for what it’s done for our dogs. With 4 Labradors, an Aussie, and a small rescue dog, they all adore this food! Thank you, Dr. Tim’s!”

Canidae Grain-Free Pure

Canidae Grain-Free Pure

Canidae Grain-Free Pure

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Canidae’s Pure Real Lamb and Pea Recipe offers a nutritious blend of protein sources, primarily from lamb and poultry meals, ensuring optimal health for your furry friend.

Its grain-free formulation and favorable buyer reviews make it a top choice for pet owners seeking quality and value in their dog’s diet.

Pros

Abundant lamb and poultry protein

Affordable pricing option

Balanced fat-to-protein ratio

Free of grains

Positive buyer testimonials

Cons

Moderate carbohydrate content

Availability may vary by location

Within our Canidae Pure product line examination, Canidae Grain-Free Pure Real Lamb and Pea Recipe stand among the 10 dry recipes featured.

  • Main ingredients: Lamb, turkey meal, chicken meal, sweet potatoes, garbanzo beans
  • Meal types: Adult, puppy, weight loss, senior
  • Price: $$
  • Explore all 10 available recipes.

Canidae Pure Real Lamb and Pea Recipe predominantly sources animal protein from lamb and poultry meal. Upon dry matter label analysis, the formula reveals a protein content of 36%, fat content of 20%, and estimated carbohydrate content of 36%… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 56%.

It is an exceptional choice, free from grains.

A satisfied customer shares their experience: “My dog has always been a selective eater, even from a young age. Consequently, she struggled to maintain a healthy weight for her age and breed. I opted to switch to a higher quality brand of dog food than what I had been feeding her.

This specific dog food boasts a rating of 4.5 / 5 on a popular dog food rating site. It comprises excellent ingredients and costs less than most brands offering similar quality. My dog adores this food. I have never seen her more eager to eat, except perhaps for cheese or boiled chicken.”

Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Grain-Free

Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Grain-Free

Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Grain-Free

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Honest Kitchen’s Dehydrated Chicken formula boasts genuine human-grade ingredients, ensuring optimal nutrition for your furry companion.

Its convenient rehydration process and absence of fillers or preservatives make it a top choice for pet owners seeking quality and purity in their dog’s diet.

Pros

Made with genuine human-grade ingredients

Nutritionally complete and balanced

Rehydrates to four times the weight

Free of preservatives, fillers, GMOs

Highly recommended by buyers

Cons

Higher price point

Moderate protein content

Potential for chicken allergies

Availability may vary by location

Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Chicken is one of 8 dehydrated recipes examined in the Honest Kitchen product line.

  • Main ingredients: Dehydrated chicken, organic flaxseed, dehydrated potatoes, dehydrated sweet potatoes, dried apples
  • Other options: Fish, Beef, Turkey, and more
  • Price: $$$$
  • Discover all 8 available recipes.

This Honest Kitchen formula primarily derives its meat protein from dehydrated chicken. Upon dry matter label analysis, the recipe showcases a protein content of 26%, fat content of 16%, and estimated carbohydrate content of 49%… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 63%.

Crafted with genuine human-grade (not feed-grade) ingredients, this formula is nutritionally complete and balanced for all breed sizes.

The product expands to four times its packaged weight with warm water, yielding forty pounds of dog food from a 10-pound box. Free from preservatives, fillers, GMO ingredients, corn, wheat, or soy. Enthusiastically recommended.

A satisfied customer shares their experience: “I transitioned my dogs from kibble to rehydrated food. They no longer experience digestive issues, and most notably, their scratching has significantly reduced.

They adore it! However, I may eventually need to switch from chicken due to potential food allergies. My three small dogs adore it, and so far, we haven’t had to spend $150 monthly on allergy shots. So, it’s worth the investment.”

Ollie Fresh Grain-Free Turkey Recipe

Ollie Fresh Grain-Free Turkey Recipe

Ollie Fresh Grain-Free Turkey Recipe

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Ollie’s Fresh Turkey formula offers a balanced blend of fresh turkey and organic meat, ensuring optimal nutrition for your canine companion.

With customized feeding plans and convenient delivery, it provides the benefits of a homemade diet without the hassle. Despite the higher cost, it’s enthusiastically recommended by pet owners seeking quality and convenience in their dog’s diet.

Pros

Made with fresh, quality ingredients

Scientifically balanced diet

Highly recommended by buyers

Cons

Higher price point

Requires freezer storage

It may not suit all dietary needs

Ollie Fresh Turkey is one of 5 fresh recipes featured in the Ollie product line.

  • Main ingredients: Turkey thigh, pumpkin, turkey liver, turkey heart, carrot
  • Other options: Beef, chicken, lamb
  • Price: $$$
  • Explore all 4 available recipes.

This Ollie formula primarily sources animal protein from fresh turkey and turkey organ meat. Our dry matter label analysis unveils a protein content of 39%, fat content of 25%, and estimated carbohydrate content of 28%… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 64%.

The company tailors each feeding plan according to your dog’s age, weight, activity level, and other pertinent factors and then recommends a precise portion size based on the required calorie intake to maintain your dog’s optimal weight.

Delivered fresh to your doorstep on a flexible schedule, the diet should be stored in your freezer and thawed as needed in your refrigerator.

It is an outstanding grain-free choice, ideal for those seeking a scientifically balanced diet that closely resembles homemade meals without the hassle. While there may be more economical options, it comes highly recommended.

A satisfied customer shares their experience: “Our 10-year-old Australian Shepherd had persistent skin issues and was rejecting his dry food. Switching to Ollie has been transformative. Dexter no longer suffers from constant itching and eagerly anticipates daily meals. He’s livelier and full of energy, bounding around like a puppy. We couldn’t be happier with Ollie!”

For further details, explore The Doggo Bio’s comprehensive guide to the best dog foods for Australian Shepherds.

Merrick Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Merrick Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Merrick Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

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Merrick’s Grain-Free Real Salmon with Sweet Potato formula offers a nutritious blend of protein sources, primarily from salmon and salmon meals.

Its diverse formula selection and positive buyer reviews make it a top choice for pet owners seeking quality and variety in their dog’s diet.

Pros

Abundant salmon protein sources

Wide range of formula options

Affordable pricing for quality

Balanced fat-to-protein ratio

Highly praised by buyers

Cons

Moderate carbohydrate content

Availability may vary

It may not suit all dietary needs

In our exploration of the Merrick Grain-Free product line, Merrick Grain-Free Real Salmon with Sweet Potato is one of the 12 dry recipes reviewed.

  • Main ingredients: Deboned salmon, salmon meal, whitefish meal, sweet potatoes, potatoes
  • Design for: Puppy, adult, weight loss, senior
  • Price: $$
  • Discover all 12 available recipes.

Merrick Grain-Free Real Salmon with Sweet Potato primarily sources animal protein from salmon and salmon meal. Upon dry matter label analysis, the recipe showcases a protein content of 36%, fat content of 16%, and estimated carbohydrate content of 40%… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 44%.

It is an excellent choice, boasting a variety of formulas—a top selection among grain-free options.

A satisfied customer shares their experience: “My Goldendoodle wasn’t particularly enthusiastic about his previous food when transitioning from puppy to adult… After reading stellar reviews about Merrick, I decided to try it. My pup loves it and devours every bit.”

For more information, explore The Doggo Bio’s comprehensive guide to the best dog foods for Goldendoodles.

Nulo Freestyle Grain Free Dog Food

Nulo Freestyle Grain-Free Dog Food

Nulo Freestyle Grain Free Dog Food

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Nulo’s Freestyle Adult Salmon and Peas recipe provides a balanced blend of protein sources, primarily sourced from salmon, turkey meal, and menhaden fish meal.

Its small kibble size and wholesome ingredients make it a top choice for pet owners seeking quality and safety in their dog’s diet.

Pros

Rich in salmon and turkey protein

Highly praised by buyers

Award-winning formulation

Cons

Higher price point

Moderate carbohydrate content

It may not suit all dietary needs

In our examination of the Nulo Freestyle product line, Nulo Freestyle Adult Salmon and Peas is one of the 9 dry recipes reviewed.

  • Main ingredients: Deboned salmon, turkey meal, menhaden fish meal, whole peas, sweet potato
  • Design for: Puppy, small breed, adult, senior, and more
  • Price: $$$
  • Explore all 9 available recipes.

Nulo Freestyle Adult Salmon and Peas primarily derives its meat protein from salmon, turkey meal, and menhaden fish meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals a protein content of 33%, fat content of 18%, and estimated carbohydrate content of 41%… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 53%.

Wholeheartedly recommended.

A satisfied customer shares their experience: “I’m a dedicated fan of Nulo food for my four-legged companions. It consistently ranks high compared to other foods within the same price range. Notably, it has never been subject to a recall and has garnered numerous awards. My pets adore it. The kibble size is perfect for their small mouths, and they eagerly consume every morsel. With no grains and only wholesome ingredients, this is a definite winner…”

Weruva Grain-Free Canned Dog Food

Weruva Grain-Free Canned Dog Food

Weruva Grain-Free Canned Dog Food

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Weruva’s Funky Chunky Chicken Grain and Gluten-Free recipe offers a nutritious blend of chicken and wholesome ingredients, making it an exceptional choice for discerning pet owners.

Its high protein content and positive buyer reviews make it a top pick for those seeking quality and palatability in their dog’s diet.

Pros

Abundant chicken protein source

Variety of wet food options

Exceptional grain-free formulation

Positive buyer testimonials

High protein content

Cons

Higher price point

Moderate fat content

It may not suit all dietary needs

Availability may vary

Weruva Funky Chunky Chicken Grain and Gluten-Free is among the 14 wet recipes featured in our Weruva product line review.

  • Main ingredients: Chicken, chicken broth, pumpkin, carrot, green pea
  • Other options: Diverse meat selections
  • Price: $$$
  • Explore all 14 available recipes.

Weruva Funky Chunky Chicken primarily sources its animal protein from chicken. Our dry matter label analysis indicates a protein content of 64%, fat content of 10%, and estimated carbohydrate content of 18%… yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 15%.

A standout grain-free wet dog food option.

A satisfied customer shares their experience: “We recently transitioned to this wet food due to our pup’s digestive issues, and it’s been a game-changer. The nutritionist suggested eliminating grains, and this choice proved perfect. Its resemblance to real human food, delightful aroma, and our dog’s enthusiasm earn it two thumbs up!”

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Frequently Ask Question

Conclusion

In conclusion, the debate surrounding grain free dog food continues to provoke discussion and scrutiny within the pet community. 

While grain-free diets may benefit some dogs, such as addressing specific dietary sensitivities or allergies, pet owners must approach this dietary choice carefully. Recent research has raised concerns about the potential risks associated with certain ingredients used in grain-free formulations, highlighting the importance of consulting with veterinarians and staying informed about evolving nutritional guidelines tailored explicitly to grain free dog food. 

Ultimately, the well-being and health of our canine companions should remain the top priority. Whether opting for grain-free or traditional diets, providing balanced nutrition tailored to the individual needs of each dog is crucial for ensuring their long-term health and happiness.

Please be aware that the information presented is intended purely for educational purposes and should not be considered a substitute for professional guidance. We strongly advise consulting with a veterinarian or a pet nutrition specialist regarding any concerns about your dog’s dietary or health needs.

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