Question

What are naked oats, and how do they differ from whole and dehulled oats?

Answer

Structurally, naked oats contrast with whole oats in one notable way. The kernels of whole oats are tightly enveloped by husks; the husks of naked oats are loosely attached to the kernel and fall away during harvesting, leaving the kernel exposed. Nutritionally, the absence of husks increases the concentration and digestibility of some nutrients in naked oats, namely energy and fiber. The energy content in naked oats is similar to that of corn. The husks constitute the majority of the fiber found in whole oats. Without husks, naked oats are inherently lower in fiber. Naked oats should not be confused with dehulled oats.

While naked and dehulled oats have similar nutritional properties, they are not the same. The husk is mechanically removed during the processing of dehulled oats. As dehulled oats are relegated to more intense processing, kernels may be damaged, resulting in possible rancidity and refusal by the horse.

Whisked away with the husk of naked oats is the comfortable margin of safety whole oats afford horsemen. In switching from whole oats to naked oats, equivalent volumes should not be fed. Due to their energy density, naked oats should be fed in smaller quantities. A horse eating 10 pounds of conventional oats would derive the same amount of energy from approximately seven to eight pounds of naked oats. As with other energy-rich feedstuffs, overfeeding naked oats could lead to colic or laminitis. While care must be taken in how they are fed, naked oats are useful for horses with high energy needs.