Have you ever felt frustrated after trying supplement after supplement with little to show for it? You're not alone. Many horse owners have cupboards full of half-used tubs and bottles, each promising amazing results that never quite happened. We understand that disappointment – and that's exactly why EquiNectar was created differently.
EquiNectar is a breakthrough in horse nutrition. It combines modern enzyme technology with the proven benefits of traditional malt extract. But unlike many products on the market, every claim we make is backed by proper scientific research and independent testing. This isn't another "miracle cure" – it's a scientifically developed supplement designed to improve your horse's digestive health and gut bacteria, tackling the real challenges of feeding horses today.
The Science Behind EquiNectar: Where's the Proof?
EquiNectar Improves Nutrition
Nutrition is about taking in food and turning it into energy and essential nutrients needed for life. This process uses various nutrients like carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and fibre. EquiNectar helps improve this process by giving horses digestive enzymes. These enzymes are essential for breaking down feed, which helps horses absorb nutrients more effectively.
Why This Matters for Your Horse
Every horse owner knows the frustration of dealing with digestive problems, poor condition, or that nagging feeling that your horse isn't getting the most from their expensive feed. The truth is that many horses struggle to fully digest modern feeds, especially those high in starches and fructans. This is where science becomes practical.
Digestive enzymes are essential for breaking down food that horses eat. They speed up the chemical reactions that turn nutrients into substances the horse's digestive system can absorb. While horses naturally make these enzymes, the levels may not be enough for properly digesting large amounts of fructans (from grass) or starch (from grass, hay or feed). This is where EquiNectar helps by providing these essential enzymes, supporting the horse's natural digestive process.
EquiNectar Supports a Healthy Gut Microbiome
We've all heard about gut health in humans, but it's equally important for horses. The gut microbiome is a complex system within the digestive tract, made up of countless tiny organisms that play a crucial role in health, including digestion, immunity, and metabolism. A balanced gut microbiome is essential for overall health, and EquiNectar helps maintain this balance by creating the right conditions for good bacteria to thrive.
By improving digestion with enzymes, EquiNectar can help prevent undigested feed from reaching the hindgut, which can upset the microbiome balance and lead to health problems.
Research Evidence Supporting Digestive Enzymes
The effectiveness of adding digestive enzymes to a horse's diet is supported by various studies. These enzymes have been shown to significantly improve the digestion of nutrients, which can improve the overall health and performance of horses.
- A study published in the Journal of Equine Veterinary Science [1] shows the positive effects of enzyme supplements on digestibility and nutrient absorption in horses.
- Research in the Livestock Science [2] proves how enzyme supplements can improve the efficiency of fibre digestion, which is crucial for horse health.
- Further evidence is provided by a study in the Journal of Equine Veterinary Science [3], which shows that enzyme supplements can improve the breakdown and absorption of starch, a common part of horse diets.
EquiNectar Specific Research
EquiNectar's role in adding beneficial digestive enzymes to a horse's diet is backed by research specifically focusing on this supplement. But more importantly, these studies translate into real-world results that horse owners can see and feel.
- A study from BEVA's Equine Veterinary Journal [4] outlines the benefits of EquiNectar in supporting gut health and improving feed efficiency.
- Another Equine Veterinary Journal study [5] confirms these findings, emphasising EquiNectar's positive impact on the gut microbiome and overall horse wellbeing.
- Research published in Integrative Food, Nutrition and Metabolism [6] further explains EquiNectar's role in improving the horse gut microbiome, showing its usefulness in promoting a healthy digestive system.
What's Inside EquiNectar: Complete Transparency
Unlike many supplements that hide behind mysterious blends and vague ingredient lists, we believe in complete honesty. You deserve to know exactly what you're giving your horse and why each ingredient is included.
EquiNectar contains just three carefully chosen ingredients, each with a specific purpose:
1. Our Patented Enzyme-Rich Malt Extract
This is the heart of EquiNectar. It's made especially for us, using particular types of barley, malting them and then using a special low-temperature process to preserve the enzymes naturally found in barley malt. This process ensures that the beneficial enzymes stay active, providing maximum nutritional benefit to your horse.
2. MCT Oil
Medium-chain triglyceride oil is a type of easily digestible fat. MCTs are quickly absorbed and processed by the body, providing a fast source of energy. They've been shown to have potential benefits for metabolic health and may support the immune system.
3. Potassium Sorbate
This is a common food preservative used to maintain freshness and extend shelf life. It's safe for consumption and helps ensure that EquiNectar remains stable and effective over time.
The Complete Enzyme Profile
The enzyme profile of EquiNectar is one of its key features. These enzymes play crucial roles in breaking down various parts of your horse's diet, potentially improving digestion and nutrient absorption. The main enzymes in EquiNectar include:
Amylase: This enzyme helps break down starches into simpler sugars. In horses, which evolved to digest mainly forage, additional amylase can help with the digestion of grain-based feeds.
Fructanase: This enzyme helps break down fructans, a type of complex sugar found in many types of forage. High levels of fructans can sometimes cause digestive upset in horses, so fructanase may help reduce this problem.
Phytase: Phytase helps release nutrients, particularly phosphorus, that are locked up by phytic acid in plant-based feeds. This can improve the overall nutrient availability from the diet.
Xylanase: This enzyme helps break down plant cell walls, specifically targeting a component called xylan. By doing so, it can help release nutrients that would otherwise be locked away.
Cellulase: Cellulase breaks down cellulose, a major part of plant matter and a significant part of a horse's natural diet. Whilst horses produce some cellulase through bacterial fermentation in their hindgut, additional cellulase may support more efficient digestion.
Beta-glucanase: This enzyme helps break down beta-glucans, which are found in grains like barley and oats. Beta-glucans can make digestion more difficult, so breaking them down may improve overall digestion.
These enzymes work together to support efficient digestion of various components in your horse's diet, potentially leading to better nutrient use and digestive health.
Malt Extract: Ancient Nutrition, Modern Benefits
History and Nutritional Profile
Malt extract, the primary ingredient in EquiNectar, has a rich history and an impressive nutritional profile. Its use dates back to ancient Egypt, where it was valued not just as a food, but for its nutritional and medicinal properties.
The process of malting involves sprouting barley grains under controlled conditions. This activation process triggers enzymes within the grain, which begin to break down complex starches into simpler carbohydrates. The result is a nutrient-rich substance that offers more than just energy.
What's Actually In It
Nutritionally, malt extract is a complex food with a range of beneficial components:
Carbohydrates: Whilst plain malt extract typically contains about 90% carbohydrates (mostly in the form of maltose), EquiNectar is specially formulated to contain 65% carbohydrates. These provide a source of energy and serve as food for beneficial gut bacteria. The lower carbohydrate content in EquiNectar allows for a more balanced nutritional profile.
B Vitamins: Malt extract is an excellent source of B vitamins, including:
- Thiamine (B1): Important for energy metabolism and nervous system function
- Riboflavin (B2): Crucial for cellular function and metabolism
- Niacin (B3): Supports energy production and DNA repair
- Pantothenic acid (B5): Essential for fatty acid synthesis and energy production
- Pyridoxine (B6): Important for protein metabolism and red blood cell formation
- Folate (B9): Crucial for DNA synthesis and cell division
- Vitamin B12: Supports nerve function and red blood cell formation
These vitamins play vital roles in energy metabolism, nervous system function, and overall cellular health.
Amino Acids: Malt extract contains a range of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins. These include both essential amino acids (which must be obtained from the diet) and non-essential amino acids. Amino acids are crucial for various bodily functions, including muscle maintenance, enzyme production, and tissue repair.
Essential Minerals: Key minerals found in malt extract include:
- Magnesium: Important for muscle and nerve function, as well as bone health
- Potassium: Crucial for heart function, fluid balance, and muscle contractions
- Selenium: An antioxidant mineral that supports immune function
- Zinc: Important for immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis
- Iron: Essential for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production
Natural Antioxidants: Malt extract is rich in various natural compounds, which have powerful antioxidant properties. These include:
- Ferulic acid: A powerful antioxidant that may have anti-inflammatory effects
- Flavan-3-ols: Including catechins and epicatechins, known for their antioxidant activities
- Other phenolic acids: Such as vanillic acid, p-coumaric acid, and syringic acid
These compounds contribute significantly to the antioxidant capacity of malt extract.
Scientific Validation of Malt Extract Benefits
Research has shown that malt extract has significant antioxidant activity, both in laboratory tests and in animal studies. This antioxidant capacity, mainly from its natural compounds, may help support overall health by fighting oxidative stress.
A study by Phillips et al. showed that replacing refined sugars with antioxidant-rich alternatives like malt extract could significantly increase daily antioxidant intake. They calculated that this substitution could provide an antioxidant increase equivalent to consuming a serving of berries or nuts. This suggests that malt extract could be a nutritious alternative to refined sugars in the diet.
Moreover, malt extract has been shown to have prebiotic properties, meaning it can support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. This could have positive implications for digestive health and overall wellbeing.
Product Safety and Certification: Setting the Gold Standard
EquiNectar stands apart in the horse supplement market through our commitment to the highest safety and quality standards. Unlike many supplement companies, we have achieved multiple prestigious certifications that prove our dedication to excellence and safety.
BETA NOPS Certification
EquiNectar is certified under the BETA NOPS (Naturally Occurring Prohibited Substances) scheme. This certification is crucial for horse owners involved in competitive disciplines, as it provides assurance that our product has been tested and verified to be free from naturally occurring prohibited substances that could result in positive drug tests.
The BETA NOPS scheme represents the gold standard in horse supplement safety for competition horses. This certification means:
- Independent testing for prohibited substances
- Rigorous quality control processes
- Complete traceability throughout the supply chain
- Peace of mind for competitive riders and trainers
UFAS Certification
We are also proud holders of UFAS (Universal Feed Assurance Scheme) certification. UFAS is a comprehensive assurance scheme that covers the entire feed supply chain from farm to feed trough. This certification demonstrates our commitment to:
- Food safety and traceability
- Quality management systems
- Risk assessment and control
- Environmental responsibility
- Animal welfare considerations
UFAS certification is particularly significant as it's recognised across Europe and provides assurance to horse owners that our manufacturing processes meet the highest industry standards.
FEMAS Certification
Our latest achievement is FEMAS (Feed Materials Assurance Scheme) certification, which we obtained in 2025. FEMAS is a highly respected UK-based certification scheme that provides assurance on the safety and quality of feed materials. This certification covers:
- Hazard analysis and critical control points (HACCP)
- Good manufacturing practices
- Supplier approval and monitoring
- Product testing and verification
- Continuous improvement processes
Why These Certifications Matter to You
If you've ever worried about what you're actually putting into your horse, or been concerned about drug testing if you compete, these certifications address your real concerns:
Peace of Mind for Every Horse Owner: Independent third-party auditing ensures objective assessment of our processes and products – no cutting corners or false claims.
Continuous Monitoring: These schemes require ongoing compliance, meaning we maintain high standards consistently, not just when someone's watching.
Supply Chain Integrity: From raw material sourcing to final product delivery, every step is monitored and controlled – you know exactly what you're getting.
Competitive Sport Confidence: Our certifications provide peace of mind for riders competing at all levels, from local competitions to international events.
Quality Assurance: Horse owners can be confident they're providing their horses with a supplement that meets the highest industry standards – no more gambling with unknown products.
The Reality Check: Most supplement companies don't even attempt to achieve one of these certifications, let alone all three. The process is rigorous, expensive, and time-consuming – but we believe your horse deserves nothing less than the gold standard.
The fact that we hold all three major certifications – BETA NOPS, UFAS, and FEMAS – shows our exceptional commitment to quality and safety. Very few supplement companies achieve this level of certification, making EquiNectar a truly premium choice for discerning horse owners.
Is EquiNectar Right for Your Horse?
The Honest Answer: If you're tired of wasting money on supplements that promise everything and deliver nothing, EquiNectar offers something different – proven results backed by science and certification.
Given the comprehensive evidence presented, EquiNectar stands as a valuable supplement for horses, particularly those facing challenges with digestion or gut health imbalance. Whether your horse struggles with:
- Poor digestion of rich feeds
- Seasonal grass-related issues
- General poor condition despite good feeding
- Competition stress affecting gut health
- Recovery from illness or antibiotics
EquiNectar's enzyme support system can make a real difference.
Real Stories from Real Horse Owners:
Read more of our customer testimonials and EquiNectar success stories here.
The Bottom Line
We know you've heard it all before – amazing claims, miracle ingredients, revolutionary breakthroughs. The difference with EquiNectar is that we can prove what we claim. Every statement is backed by research, every ingredient has a purpose, and every batch is certified to the highest standards.
EquiNectar represents a new approach in horse nutrition, combining enzyme technology with traditional malt extract benefits while maintaining the highest safety standards through comprehensive certification. As horse nutritional science evolves, there is growing recognition of the complex relationship between diet, gut microbiome, and overall health.
The Choice is Yours: Continue the cycle of disappointment with unproven products, or invest in a supplement that combines scientific rigour with real-world results. Your horse deserves the difference that proper research and certification can make.
More Evidence and Ongoing Research
Please bookmark the Science of EquiNectar page and check back regularly for updates on our continuing research programme.
References
- Mohammadabadi et al (2018) Journal of Equine Veterinary Science - Effect of Natuzyme Enzyme on Fecal Digestion and Fermentation of Wheat Straw and Alfalfa Hay in Arabian Horses
- Murray et al (2018) Livestock Science - The effect of enzyme treatment on the nutritive value of lucerne for equids
- Kholif et al (2015) Journal of Equine Veterinary Science - In Vitro Assessment of Fecal Inocula From Horses Fed on High-Fiber Diets With Fibrolytic Enzymes Addition on Gas, Methane, and Carbon Dioxide Productions as Indicators of Hindgut Activity
- Proudman et al (2014) Equine Veterinary Journal - Faecal Microbiome of the Thoroughbred Racehorse and Its Response to Dietary Amylase Supplementation
- Proudman et al (2014) Equine Veterinary Journal - Characterisation of the faecal metabolome and microbiome of Thoroughbred racehorses
- Snalune et al (2019) Integrative Food, Nutrition and Metabolism - Modulation of the equine microbiome by pasture and feed supplements: A metabolomics approach
- J. A. Delcour and R. C. Hoseney, "Principles of Cereal Science and Technology," AACC International, 2010.
- M. D. Mumme and W. T. Stonehouse, "Effects of medium-chain triglycerides on weight loss and body composition: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials," J. Acad. Nutr. Diet., vol. 115, no. 2, pp. 249-263, 2015.
- E. J. Pyler and L. A. Gorton, "Baking Science & Technology," Sosland Publishing, 2008.
- J. D. Pagan, "Carbohydrates in equine nutrition," Kentucky Equine Research, Inc., 1998.
- A. D. Ellis and J. Hill, "Nutritional Physiology of the Horse," Nottingham University Press, 2005.
- P. H. Selle and V. Ravindran, "Microbial phytase in poultry nutrition," Anim. Feed Sci. Technol., vol. 135, no. 1-2, pp. 1-41, 2007.
- L. R. Bedford and G. G. Partridge, "Enzymes in Farm Animal Nutrition," CABI Publishing, 2010.
- J. L. Julliand et al., "Characterization of the equine microbial ecosystem," Anim. Feed Sci. Technol., vol. 178, no. 1-2, pp. 1-9, 2012.
- B. A. Rowe et al., "Effect of β-glucan supplementation on the physiological responses of horses to repeated bouts of exercise," J. Equine Vet. Sci., vol. 34, no. 11-12, pp. 1316-1321, 2014.
- I. S. Hornsey, "A History of Beer and Brewing," Royal Society of Chemistry, 2003.
- D. E. Briggs, "Malts and Malting," Springer Science & Business Media, 1998.
- C. W. Bamforth, "Brewing Materials and Processes," Academic Press, 2016.
- J. Zempleni et al., "Handbook of Vitamins," CRC Press, 2013.
- G. Wu, "Amino acids: biochemistry and nutrition," CRC Press, 2013.
- J. J. Strain and K. D. Cashman, "Minerals and Trace Elements," Wiley-Blackwell, 2009.
- M. Dvořáková et al., "Characterization of malt extract phenolic acids by HPLC with different detection methods," J. Inst. Brew., vol. 114, no. 4, pp. 275-281, 2008.
- Y. Qingming et al., "Antioxidant activities of malt extract from barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) toward various oxidative stress in vitro and in vivo," Food Chem., vol. 118, no. 1, pp. 84-89, 2010.
- K. M. Phillips et al., "Total antioxidant content of alternatives to refined sugar," J. Am. Diet. Assoc., vol. 109, no. 1, pp. 64-71, 2009.
- G. R. Gibson and M. B. Roberfroid, "Dietary modulation of the human colonic microbiota: introducing the concept of prebiotics," J. Nutr., vol. 125, no. 6, pp. 1401-1412, 1995.
This evidence supports the claims made about EquiNectar's effectiveness in improving horse nutrition and supporting a healthy gut microbiome. The inclusion of EquiNectar in a horse's diet, backed by our comprehensive certification programme, can make a significant difference in their overall health and wellbeing.
Share: