Question

Can I use bread yeast in my racehorse’s feed for better digestion?

Answer

Baker’s yeast (also known as bread yeast) and brewer’s yeast are different strains of the species Saccharomyces cerevisiae, an approved feed ingredient for horses. Brewer’s yeast is more commonly used as an equine feed additive.

Saccharomyces cerevisiae and its close relative Saccharomyces boulardii may improve digestive health and function in horses. Supplementation with yeast increases dry matter and fiber digestibility, and supplementation may be most beneficial for horses receiving poor-quality hay in their diets.

Other possible advantages of yeast supplementation in racehorses include higher feed intakes, improved feed digestion and utilization, and upgraded gastrointestinal health. For more information about yeast supplementation, click here.

Racehorses fed large amounts of concentrate may be at greater risk of developing hindgut acidosis that, in turn, can have a negative impact on feed digestibility and performance. RiteTrac and EquiShure were specifically developed by KER to overcome some of the nutrition and health challenges faced by high-performance horses. These can be used in combination with or in place of yeast products. In Australia, look for these research-proven digestive aids.