Category_Uutiset · energia · energiantarve · hevoset · kilpahevoset · maissi · raviurheilu · rehut ·Feb 11, 2024

In Europe, the use of corn as horse feed is low

It is probably clear to everyone that optimal nutrition for horses is an essential part of horse care and the selection of appropriate feed is key to maintaining a horse's health and performance. The horse is extremely sensitive to digestive and intestinal issues. In Finland and the Nordic countries in general, the most popular feed grains are species that are easy to grow here, such as oats and barley. In addition to grains, the most popular feeding products are so-called complete feeds, i.e. a universal mixture that can meet a horse's nutritional needs at once. Complete feeds usually include, in addition to grains, molasses, green meal, wheat bran, hulls, oil, and mineral and vitamin supplements. Instead, corn is a widely cultivated grain worldwide, which has also gained popularity as horse feed. In Finland, corn is not exactly a feed option for horses, but corn also has its advantages and is worth trying. For example, Biohansa's product offering includes Super Corn feed . The advantage of corn pellets is the high proportion of crude fiber, which has a high energy density and a relatively low protein content. This releases energy slowly and evenly into the large intestine.

Properties of corn as feed

Corn is a versatile grain that has found its place in horse nutrition around the world, mainly due to its high energy content. Horses, especially those competing in demanding sports such as galloping or trotting, benefit from the high energy provided by corn. It is suitable in small quantities mainly for feeding sport horses or as a raw material for compound feed. In industrially produced feeds, corn is usually processed, which significantly improves the digestibility of the starch. Corn contains almost the same amount of fat as oats. However, the protein content varies. In horse feeds, corn is most often used whole or chopped, or as one of the raw materials in commercially produced horse feeds. The use of corn as horse feed is most common in North America, where corn is a staple grain. In the United States, the widespread use of corn dates back a long time due to its ubiquity and affordability. In contrast to North America, the use of corn as horse feed is less common in Europe. European horse feeding relies more on the already mentioned traditional grains, such as oats and barley, which are more widely grown here. Compared to oats and barley, however, corn has special nutritional properties. Corn has a high starch content, which makes it a quick and effective source of energy. It is precisely because of this energy that it is mainly used as feed for horses in intensive training and competition. The high starch content of corn is not suitable for all horses, especially those prone to metabolic problems or digestive sensitivities. Corn contains a reasonable amount of protein and other essential nutrients. Its fat is also rich in essential linolenic acid. Linolenic acid, also commonly known as omega-6 fatty acid , is an important nutrient for horses. It is important for the construction of cell membranes and also contributes to the health of the skin and coat.

What is corn suitable for feeding?

As mentioned, corn is an excellent source of energy for horses with higher than average workloads or high energy requirements. Corn can be used in a variety of forms, but the easiest way is as a commercially prepared feed mix or pellet. This gives you the flexibility to feed your horse according to their individual needs and, if necessary, use corn as an energy supplement alongside other feeds. For example, corn pellets can be an essential part of a balanced diet, as long as they are properly incorporated into your horse’s diet. Although corn is less widely used in Europe, as oats and barley dominate horse nutrition, it is a good option for horse owners who want to meet the energy needs of high-performance horses. Understanding nutritional differences and taking into account the needs of individual horses are also key factors when making decisions about including corn in a horse's diet. Discover all of Biohansa's feed products via this link . Remember to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media to receive information about new products and current topics directly to your email. Also give us feedback on what topics you would like to read about on Biohansa's blog! Sources: Other grains | Horse Information Center

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Properties of corn as feed

What is corn suitable for feeding?