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As more horse owners shift away from grain-based feeds in favor of species-appropriate, whole food diets, the question often arises: which forage pellets are best?

On the surface, forage pellets may seem simple—ground hay formed into easy-to-feed pellets. But understanding how they’re processed, what forage species are used, and how they impact your horse’s physiology is critical.

At Wholehearted Harmony, we believe in informed feeding. Below is what every horse owner should know when choosing forage pellets.

Why Forage Pellets?

Horses are obligate foragers with a digestive system designed for near-constant intake of fibrous plant material. Forage pellets:

• Provide a consistent source of fiber to support gut motility and microbial health.

• Eliminate grains, soy, molasses, and fillers common in processed feeds.

• Offer a clean, versatile base for whole food and herbal supplementation.

Important: Always soak pellets before feeding to avoid choke risk.

Comparing Forage Pellet Options

Timothy & Orchard Grass Pellets (Recommended)

These are true forage-based pellets, made by grinding mature, harvested grass (ideally at the correct growth stage), steaming it, and forming it into pellets.

• Timothy Pellets:

  • Lower in protein (~8%) and calories.

  • High in digestible fiber.

  • Suitable for mature horses, easy keepers, and those with metabolic issues.

• Orchard Grass Pellets:

  • Slightly higher in protein (10-12%) and calories.

  • Similar calcium-to-phosphorus balance to timothy.

  • Higher digestibility due to softer fiber structure.

Why Choose These:
Both are species-appropriate and support digestive health without excessive protein or energy. Ideal as a forage base for most horses.

Alfalfa Pellets (Caution Advised)

Alfalfa is a legume, not a grass, and presents distinct concerns:

• High Protein Content: Excess protein (>16%) can contribute to metabolic load, especially in non-working horses.

• Calcium Overload: High calcium levels disrupt the natural calcium:phosphorus ratio, potentially contributing to developmental orthopedic issues in young horses.

• Phytoestrogens: Alfalfa contains isoflavones—plant compounds with estrogen-like effects. Over time, these can disrupt hormonal balance in both mares and geldings.

• Digestive Risk: If fed dry, alfalfa pellets swell significantly and can cause choke. They must be soaked thoroughly.

While small amounts may benefit certain horses (under veterinary guidance), alfalfa should not be the foundation of a forage-based diet.

Beet Pulp Pellets (Avoid)

Though often recommended, beet pulp is not true forage and presents several problems:

• By-Product Status: Beet pulp is the fibrous waste leftover after sugar extraction, often involving chemical processing.

• GMO Concerns: Most sugar beets are genetically modified, making non-GMO sources rare and costly.

• Imbalanced Minerals: High calcium, low phosphorus levels can disrupt mineral balance.

• Digestive Issues: Being an insoluble fiber, beet pulp provides bulk but limited functional nutrition.

• Processing Residues: Chemical agents are often used during extraction, leaving behind undesirable residues.

Beet pulp does not mimic natural forage and offers little beyond empty fiber.

What to Look for in Forage Pellets

• Single-Ingredient Forage: Timothy, Orchard, or Teff grass—nothing else.

• Soy-Free & Grain-Free: Avoid pellets containing added oils, binders, or fillers.

• Certified Organic (When Possible): Minimizes pesticide exposure.

• Minimal Processing: Choose products that use low-temperature drying and avoid chemical additives.

• Always Soak: To prevent choke and aid digestibility.

Why It Matters: Feeding as Nature Intended

Horses are not designed to consume grains, industrial by-products, or synthetic additives. They are designed to consume whole plants—clean forage, natural minerals, and supportive herbs.

A forage pellet base mimics the horse’s natural intake pattern while offering a consistent, customizable feeding foundation. Layering synergistically blended herbs and food-based supplements onto this base allows you to support true health from the inside out.

Remember:

• A shiny coat and weight alone do not equal health.

• Healing begins within—nourish at the cellular level.

Final Thoughts

Feeding is more than calories—it’s information for your horse’s body. Choose forage wisely. Know where your nutrients are coming from. And always question convenience-based feeds marketed as "complete."

At Wholehearted Harmony, we’re here to help you feed with knowledge and intention.