Their is nothing magical about BIL-JAC food. It has chicken and chicken by-products and chicken liver. It smells and tastes fresh because it is fresh. You are right about bad reviews from some on this food. That is becuase they fall into the hype about many other foods. BIL-JAC has been a family business since the sixties and never part of any food recall. Maybe they could add a few goodies like some fruits and veggies but it's a good pellet type food, not really a kibble, but a raw pasterized dry. My almost NINE year old ROTTIE loves it, just don't overfeed.