When it comes to equine nutrition, one of the most overlooked yet highly beneficial components is alfalfa. Rich in protein, calcium, and digestible fiber, alfalfa is more than just another animal feed option—it’s a powerhouse forage for horses when chosen and administered correctly. While many horse owners are familiar with the typical uses of alfalfa in hay form, there is a range of alfalfa products that offer unique advantages depending on your horse’s specific needs.
Why Alfalfa?
Alfalfa is often referred to as the “queen of forages” for good reason. It offers:
High protein content: Essential for muscle development and repair.
Rich in calcium: Crucial for bone strength and metabolic functions.
Highly digestible fiber: Supports a healthy digestive system.
Palatability: Horses typically enjoy the taste, making it ideal for picky eaters.
Because of these attributes, alfalfa is especially valuable in forage form for horses with higher energy requirements, such as growing foals, lactating mares, and competitive performance horses.
Alfalfa Pellets: A Supplemental Powerhouse
Alfalfa pellets are made from ground alfalfa that is compressed into small, easy-to-feed forms. They are an excellent supplemental forage option, not a full replacement for primary forage sources.
Benefits of Alfalfa Pellets:
Consistent Quality: Bagged pellets offer uniformity, reducing the risk of mold or foreign material found in less-processed forage.
Convenience: Easier to store, measure, and transport compared to loose forage.
Digestibility: Fine texture improves digestion, which is especially beneficial for senior horses or those with dental issues.
While they don’t substitute for long-stemmed forage, alfalfa pellets are perfect for adding a nutrient boost on top of your horse’s regular diet. They work particularly well in ration balancers or when mixed with grains.
Feeding Tips:
Although not mandatory, soaking alfalfa pellets for 30 minutes or until softened is recommended, especially for horses prone to choking. Simply add water and allow the pellets to expand into a mash.
Alfalfa Cubes: The Premium Forage Solution
Alfalfa cubes are a premium, high-density forage productmade by compressing coarsely chopped alfalfa into cube form. This product is especially suited for high-quality performance horses that demand excellent nutrition.
Why Choose Cubes for High-Performance Horses?
Maximized Nutrient Density: Ideal for horses in intense training or competition.
Controlled Feeding: Helps maintain a precise feeding regimen.
Reduces Dust: Beneficial for horses with respiratory sensitivities.
These cubes are a legitimate forage replacement and can serve as a complete substitute for traditional hay, provided your horse receives adequate fiber in other forms.
Usage and Preparation:
Alfalfa cubes can be fed dry or soaked. Soaking the cubes for 30 minutes or until softened can prevent choking and aid digestion for horses with dental challenges or who bolt their food.
Specialized Use Cases for Alfalfa Products
For Senior Horses
Older horses often struggle with chewing and digesting long-stemmed forage. When soaked, alfalfa pellets offer a softer, more manageable texture that is easier for them to consume while still providing the essential nutrients they need.
For Horses with Ulcers
Alfalfa’s high calcium content can help buffer stomach acid, making it beneficial for horses prone to ulcers. Feeding a portion of alfalfa forage before exercise or travel can help reduce gastric irritation.
For Underweight Horses
If your horse needs to gain weight, alfalfa pellets and cubes can provide calorie-dense nutrition without requiring large volumes of forage. Combining these with a balanced concentrate can expedite healthy weight gain.
For Horses with Metabolic Issues
Alfalfa is a low-sugar legume and can be an excellent addition to the diets of horses that require low-sugar forage.
Storage and Handling Best Practices
Proper storage of alfalfa products is essential to maintaining their quality. Always store pellets and cubes in a cool, dry place. Bagged products should be sealed to prevent moisture contamination, which can lead to mold or spoilage.
Tips:
Use airtight containers for opened bags.
Monitor for pests.
Rotate stock to use older bags first.
Sustainability and Giving Back
At Greenway Animal Nutrition, we take pride in our commitment to sustainable agriculture and community support. Our forage products are not just a means to feed horses but a reflection of our dedication to quality, animal welfare, and environmental responsibility.
We work closely with farmers, researchers, and veterinarians to ensure that every bag we produce meets the highest standards. Our company culture is deeply rooted in giving back, whether it’s through local charity partnerships or educational outreach programs that empower horse owners with the knowledge they need to succeed.
Choosing the Right Alfalfa Product for Your Horse
Every horse is different, and so are their nutritional requirements. When deciding which alfalfa product to incorporate into your horse’s diet, consider:
Age and Life Stage: Foals, adult horses, and seniors all have different needs.
Activity Level: A competitive jumper will have different nutritional needs than a pasture companion.
Health Conditions: Digestive issues, dental problems, or metabolic disorders influence the type of forage to use.
Feeding Routine: Whether you feed multiple times a day or only once or twice, your schedule may influence whether you use pellets or cubes.
A consultation with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist can also help tailor a feeding program that maximizes the benefits of alfalfa products.
Invest in Your Horse’s Health
Alfalfa products offer versatile, nutrient-rich options for every type of horse. From supplemental pellets to premium cubes, these forage forms provide targeted benefits that can enhance your horse’s health, performance, and well-being. When used correctly, alfalfa products can become an indispensable part of your equine feeding program.
At Greenway Animal Nutrition, we recognize that high-quality feed is essential for maintaining healthy, well-nourished horses. That’s why we offer premium forage products designed to meet the needs of horse owners, breeders, and trainers. Whether you’re caring for a high-performance racehorse, a trusted riding companion, or a herd on your farm, our diverse selection of forage pellets and cubes provides a reliable feeding solution.
Reach out to us today! Experience the Greenway difference and see how our dedication to quality, sustainability, and animal health can support your horse’s journey.
When it comes to equine health, nutrition is the cornerstone of overall well-being. Every horse owner, trainer, and breeder understands that maintaining peak condition in horses takes more than regular exercise and routine veterinary care. What often makes the real difference is what’s on the menu.
Understanding Forage: The Core of Equine Diets
Forage is the natural and primary food source for horses. In the wild, horses graze on a wide variety of grasses, herbs, and shrubs throughout the day. This continuous grazing supports their digestive health, behavioral needs, and nutritional balance. Modern domesticated horses, whether they are show jumpers, racehorses, or leisurely companions, still thrive on diets rooted in variety and high-quality forage.
Unlike other livestock, horses have a unique digestive system designed for the consistent intake of fibrous plant material. That’s why forage for horses isn’t just filler; it’s fundamental.
Not All Forage Is Created Equal
While hay remains a common form of forage, it’s important to look beyond the traditional and embrace the diversity available in the form of pellets and cubes. These processed forms of forage retain the nutritional integrity of grasses and legumes while offering convenience, consistency, and cleanliness.
At Greenway Animal Nutrition, we emphasize premium-quality foragein cube and pellet form. Unlike loose hay, which can vary greatly in quality and often harbors dust or mold, our bagged forage products are carefully processed to ensure safety, shelf stability, and optimal nutrition.
Cubes: A Must for High-Performance Horses
For horses in intense training or competition, cubed forage offers the density and quality required to fuel performance. Cubes provide larger fiber particle sizes, promoting longer chewing time and increased saliva production, which aids in digestion and reduces the risk of gastric ulcers.
High-quality cubes, made from alfalfa, timothy, or blends of legumes and grasses, deliver a nutrient-rich punch that performance horses rely on. When soaked for 30 minutes or until softened, cubes are also gentler on teeth and suitable for senior horses or those with dental challenges.
Pellets: A Valuable Supplement
While not a replacement for a full forage ration, forage pellets are excellent supplements. They offer a controlled and concentrated source of forage that is easy to measure and mix into daily rations. Pellets are ideal for topping off the diet when additional fiber or nutrients are needed, or during travel and competitions when access to regular forage may be limited.
Pellets can be soaked to enhance palatability and safety, especially for horses prone to choke. However, soaking is not a mandatory requirement and can be adjusted based on individual needs and management preferences.
The Importance of Variety in Forage for Horses
One of the greatest gifts you can give your horse is a variety of forage. Here’s why:
1. Balanced Nutrition
Different types of forageoffer different nutrient profiles. While alfalfa is high in calcium and protein, grass hays like timothy or orchard grass provide lower protein levels but excellent fiber content. Mixing various forage types ensures a broader spectrum of nutrients and supports overall health.
2. Mental Stimulation and Satiety
Variety in forage encourages natural foraging behavior. Horses are instinctively curious eaters and benefit from exploring different tastes and textures. This mental stimulation reduces boredom and stress, which can lead to behavioral issues such as cribbing or weaving.
3. Digestive Health
The equine digestive tract is long and sensitive. Consistent fiber intake from diverse sources helps maintain gut motility, fosters a healthy microbiome, and reduces the risk of colic. Offering multiple types of forage, especially in different physical forms like cubes and pellets, can further enhance digestive resilience.
4. Weight Management
Not all horses require the same caloric intake. Some need high-energy forage, while others thrive on more fibrous, low-calorie options. A varied forage plan allows you to tailor your feeding strategy to individual horses without compromising on fiber intake.
5. Adaptability and Transitioning
Sudden changes in diet can upset a horse’s stomach. Introducing a variety of forage types early on builds flexibility into their digestive systems, making transitions smoother if changes are necessary due to supply issues, travel, or health conditions.
Selecting the Right Forage for Your Horse
Choosing the right forage means considering several key factors:
Activity Level: Active horses require more energy-dense forage like alfalfa cubes, while easy keepers may benefit from grass-based cubes or pellets.
Age and Dental Health: Senior horses or those with dental issues do better with soaked cubes or pellets.
Allergies and Sensitivities: Some horses may react to certain forage types. Introducing a variety can help identify and eliminate problem ingredients.
Availability and Storage: Bagged cubes and pellets are easier to store, portion, and manage, particularly in variable weather conditions.
Forage First: A Mantra for Equine Wellness
At its core, the concept of “forage first” prioritizes the horse’s natural needs. It means respecting their physiology, honoring their instincts, and feeding with purpose. Animal feed as a whole has its place, especially for other livestock, but forage for horses is the foundation upon which every other aspect of equine care should be built.
Whether your horse is a weekend trail partner or a national-level competitor, forage diversity helps ensure a well-rounded diet, robust digestion, and vibrant health.
Our Commitment at Greenway Animal Nutrition
At Greenway Animal Nutrition, we recognize that high-quality feed is essential for maintaining healthy, well-nourished horses. That’s why we offer premium forage products designed to meet the needs of horse owners, breeders, and trainers.
We believe in giving back, not just to animals but also to the people who care for them. Every product we produce reflects our values: quality, integrity, and service. When you choose Greenway Animal Nutrition, you partner with a team dedicated to equine health and community support.
Partner with Us
If you’re ready to enhance your horse’s diet with reliable, top-tier forage, we invite you to explore our product offerings today. Whether you’re caring for a high-performance racehorse, a trusted riding companion, or a herd on your farm, our diverse selection of forage pellets and cubes provides a reliable feeding solution.
Don’t settle for ordinary. Give your horse the gift of nutritional variety with Greenway Animal Nutrition. Reach out to us today! Let us help you feed better, live better, and ride stronger.
For centuries, horses and livestock have relied on alfalfa as a cornerstone of their diets. Known for its dense nutrient profile, palatability, and digestibility, alfalfa has been an agricultural staple. In recent years, one particular form of this time-tested plant has been making waves in the equine and livestock community: dehydrated alfalfa. With increasing awareness about animal health and performance optimization, dehydrated alfalfa is being recognized not just as a feed option but as a premium forage solution. But what exactly is it, and why is it gaining so much popularity?
Understanding Dehydrated Alfalfa
Dehydrated alfalfa is exactly what it sounds like: alfalfa that has been harvested and then rapidly dried using specialized equipment. This process locks in the plant’s nutrients, reduces spoilage, and enhances shelf life, making it an incredibly convenient and nutritious option. The alfalfa is then processed into pellets, which makes it easy to handle, store, and feed.
What sets dehydrated alfalfa apart from traditional forage options is its consistency and cleanliness. Unlike traditional bales of hay, which can be variable in quality and susceptible to mold, dust, and contaminants, dehydrated alfalfa products offer a cleaner, more controlled alternative. For horse owners and trainers, this consistency is crucial.
Forage vs. Feed: Why the Distinction Matters
In the equestrian world, the terms “feed” and “forage” are not interchangeable. Forage refers to the primary source of roughage in a horse’s diet—its cornerstone. Feed typically refers to grains and concentrates, which are used to supplement but not replace forage.
Dehydrated alfalfa pellets fall firmly in the forage category. Pellets serve as a fantastic supplement to an existing forage regimen but should not replace the main forage source.
Forms of Dehydrated Alfalfa: Pellets
Alfalfa Pellets: An Excellent Supplement
Pellets are small, cylindrical forms of dehydrated alfalfa. These are ideal for horse owners looking to supplement their horse’s existing forage without making a complete dietary overhaul. Easy to measure and feed, pellets can be mixed with other feed components for enhanced nutrition. While they should not replace forage entirely, they are a perfect complement.
Nutritional Benefits of Dehydrated Alfalfa
Dehydrated alfalfa is more than just a convenient option—it’s a nutritional powerhouse. Here are some of the benefits:
High Protein Content: Essential for muscle repair and development, especially in growing foals, lactating mares, and performance horses.
Rich in Calcium: Supports strong bones and proper metabolic function.
Excellent Fiber Source: Promotes digestive health and gut motility.
Natural Vitamins and Minerals: Includes vitamins A, D, E, and trace minerals, contributing to overall well-being.
Consistent Quality: Controlled processing ensures each batch meets high standards, reducing the risk of nutritional imbalances.
Convenience and Storage Advantages
Another reason dehydrated alfalfa is becoming a go-to forage solution is its convenience. Bagged pellets are easy to store, transport, and feed. There’s no need to wrestle with cumbersome hay bales or worry about spoilage from moisture. For stable managers and individual horse owners alike, the ease of use can significantly streamline daily routines.
The consistent size and weight of bagged dehydrated alfalfa products also make it easier to monitor feed intake. This helps ensure horses are receiving the correct nutritional amount tailored to their age, weight, and activity level.
Why Soaking is Recommended
While soaking is not mandatory, it is highly recommended, especially for horses prone to choking or with dental issues. Soaking pellets for about 30 minutes until they soften reduces the risk of digestive blockages and ensures smoother consumption. This small step can make a big difference in animal safety and health.
Soaked alfalfa also releases a pleasing aroma that many horses find enticing. This increases palatability and encourages better intake among picky eaters.
Ideal for All Horse Types
From competitive racehorses to casual trail riders and senior equines, dehydrated alfalfa offers versatile benefits. Its consistent nutrition, ease of digestion, and customizable feeding options make it suitable for various needs:
High-performance horses benefit from alfalfa due to their higher energy demands.
Older horses often require softened forage, making soaked pellets an excellent option.
Young, growing horses gain essential nutrients to support bone and muscle development.
Horses with allergies or sensitivities benefit from the dust-free, clean processing of dehydrated alfalfa.
A Responsible, Giving-Back Culture
At Greenway Animal Nutrition, we recognize that high-quality forage is essential for maintaining healthy, well-nourished horses. That’s why we offer premium forage products designed to meet the needs of horse owners, breeders, and trainers. But beyond just providing top-tier products, our company culture is rooted in giving back. We believe in supporting our community, promoting sustainable practices, and helping our customers care for their animals with confidence.
Whether you’re caring for a high-performance racehorse, a trusted riding companion, or a herd on your farm, our diverse selection of forage pellets and cubes provides a reliable feeding solution. Each product is crafted with care, backed by research, and aimed at improving the lives of animals and their caretakers.
Discover the Greenway Difference
Dehydrated alfalfa is more than a trend—it’s a smart, forward-thinking choice for modern animal care. With its exceptional nutritional profile, convenience, and adaptability, it’s no wonder more horse owners and trainers are turning to this innovative forage solution.
Greenway Animal Nutrition is proud to be at the forefront of this movement. Our products are trusted by professionals and loved by horses. If you’re ready to elevate your feeding strategy with premium dehydrated alfalfa forage, we’re here to help.
Explore our full range of forage cubes, pellets, and bedding options. Let’s work together to keep your horses healthy, happy, and thriving.
When it comes to crafting the ideal diet for your horse, the choices can feel overwhelming. From various forage types and grains to specialized supplements and feeding schedules, horse owners have plenty of decisions to make. Among the most talked-about components of equine nutrition is alfalfa horse feed. Highly regarded for its rich nutrient profile and palatability, alfalfa can play a key role in supporting equine health. But is it the best base for your horse’s diet?
Understanding Alfalfa
Alfalfa is a perennial legume that boasts a high protein content, dense energy, and rich mineral levels, especially calcium. It is commonly processed into various forms for equine consumption, including:
These products are often used to supplement an equine diet, particularly when higher caloric intake is needed, such as for performance horses, lactating mares, or underweight animals.
Importantly, alfalfa in bagged form differs significantly from loose or baled hay. Bagged forage offers greater convenience, consistent nutritional value, reduced dust, and less spoilage. This makes it especially attractive to horse owners managing large barns or traveling with performance animals.
Is Alfalfa a Complete Feed?
One common misconception is that alfalfa alone can serve as a complete diet. However, despite its nutritional density, alfalfa is not a complete feed. It lacks the balance of nutrients required for long-term equine health, particularly the proper ratios of phosphorus to calcium and key trace minerals like zinc and copper.
To ensure a well-rounded equine diet, alfalfa could be combined with:
Grass hay or pasture for fiber and variety
Grains or concentrates for balanced energy
Vitamin and mineral supplements to meet full nutritional needs
Nutritional Benefits of Alfalfa
When used appropriately, alfalfa horse feed can be a powerful ally in your horse’s nutrition plan. Here are some of its key benefits:
1. High-Quality Protein
Protein is essential for muscle repair, tissue growth, and overall vitality. Alfalfa contains 14-20% crude protein, far exceeding most grass hays. This makes it ideal for:
Growing foals
Pregnant or lactating mares
Hard-working performance horses
2. Energy-Dense
Alfalfa is naturally energy-rich, providing more calories per pound than grass hay. This supports horses that need help maintaining weight, especially during training, illness recovery, or winter months.
3. Calcium-Rich
Calcium is critical for bone development and muscle function. Alfalfa contains more than double the calcium found in grass hay, which can be advantageous for growing horses and mares producing milk.
4. Palatability
Most horses love the taste of alfalfa. Its sweetness and texture can entice picky eaters, making it easier to maintain healthy eating habits.
Potential Drawbacks of Alfalfa
Despite its advantages, alfalfa horse feed is not without its caveats. It’s essential to understand where caution is warranted:
1. Imbalanced Calcium to Phosphorus Ratio
The high calcium content of alfalfa can lead to imbalances if it is not paired with phosphorus-rich feeds. An ideal calcium-to-phosphorus ratio for horses is around 2:1; alfalfa often exceeds this, requiring careful dietary adjustment.
2. Not Ideal for Easy Keepers
Horses that gain weight easily (“easy keepers”) may not need the extra calories from alfalfa. Feeding them high-energy alfalfa could lead to weight gain.
3. Risk of Enteroliths
In certain regions, especially those with hard water, excessive alfalfa intake has been linked to the formation of enteroliths (intestinal stones). Moderation and hydration are crucial to reduce this risk.
4. Overfeeding Concerns
Feeding alfalfa as the bulk of a horse’s diet may lead to nutrient excesses or digestive imbalances. Always consult with an equine nutritionist to tailor the right feeding plan.
Bagged vs. Loose or Baled Alfalfa
When purchasing alfalfa, you may encounter different product forms. Here’s how bagged alfalfa and forage compare to traditional loose or baled hay:
Bagged Forage Products:
More consistent quality: Nutritional content is easier to manage
Low-dust: Beneficial for horses with respiratory sensitivity
Convenient to store and transport
Longer shelf-life
Cleaner feeding: Less contamination from dirt or debris
Loose/Baled Hay:
Variable nutrient content depending on harvest and storage
Bulkier and harder to manage
Higher risk of mold or spoilage if not stored properly
Bagged forage products like alfalfa pellets or cubes from reputable providers offer peace of mind. Their consistency, safety, and ease of use make them an excellent addition to a comprehensive feeding program.
When Is Alfalfa the Right Choice?
There are several scenarios where alfalfa can be especially beneficial:
1. Performance Horses
Horses engaged in intensive work burn more calories and need quicker muscle recovery. The high protein and energy content of alfalfa can support performance demands.
2. Underweight Horses
Alfalfa is a great option for safely putting weight on a horse. Its digestibility and calorie density support healthy weight gain without overfeeding grains.
3. Seniors with Dental Issues
Alfalfa pellets are easy to chew and digest. Older horses with worn teeth or dental problems may thrive on soaked forage pellets or cubes.
4. Lactating Mares and Growing Foals
These groups have high nutritional needs. Alfalfa helps meet the increased demand for protein and calcium during these critical stages.
5. Horses with Allergies to Grass Hay
Some horses develop sensitivities to grass hay. Alfalfa can provide an alternative roughage source while maintaining dietary fiber.
When to Use Alfalfa with Caution
While alfalfa horse feed is versatile, it should be limited or avoided in certain cases:
Obese or low-activity horses: Alfalfa could contribute to unwanted weight gain.
Horses in phosphorus-rich feeding programs: Excess calcium from alfalfa can unbalance the diet.
For these horses, a forage blend that includes lower-calorie grass hays may be more appropriate, with alfalfa used only in small, targeted amounts.
How to Incorporate Alfalfa Horse Feed into a Balanced Diet
If you decide that alfalfa is a good fit for your horse, here are a few tips for safe and effective use:
1. Start Slowly
Always introduce alfalfa gradually to avoid gastrointestinal upset. Mix it with your horse’s current forage and increase over time.
2. Balance the Nutrients
Pair alfalfa with other feed components to balance its high calcium and protein content. This might include grass hay, oats, or vitamin-mineral supplements.
3. Monitor Body Condition
Adjust feeding based on your horse’s body condition score (BCS). If weight gain becomes an issue, reduce the amount or switch to a lower-calorie forage base.
4. Soak Forage Pellets or Cubes
If feeding forage pellets or cubes, soak them in water for easier digestion and to prevent choke, especially in senior horses or those who bolt their food.
5. Work with a Nutritionist
A professional equine nutritionist can help fine-tune your horse’s diet to meet specific goals, whether for performance, recovery, or maintenance.
Choose Quality with Greenway Animal Nutrition
At Greenway Animal Nutrition, we recognize that high-quality feed is essential for maintaining healthy, well-nourished horses. That’s why we offer premium forage products designed to meet the needs of horse owners, breeders, and trainers.
Whether you’re caring for a high-performance racehorse, a trusted riding companion, or a herd on your farm, our diverse selection of alfalfa horse feed, including forage pellets, cubes, and meal, provides a reliable and convenient feeding solution. Our products are carefully formulated and packaged to ensure consistency, safety, and top-tier nutrition for your equine partners.
Let us help you create a feeding program that supports strength, performance, and long-term health. Reach out to us today and discover how our high-quality forage products can make all the difference in your horse’s life.
For horse owners, trainers, and stable managers, choosing the right feed can mean the difference between an underperforming animal and a thriving, high-performing one. Among the many supplemental feeds available, bulk alfalfa pellets have become a preferred choice due to their convenience, nutritional profile, and cost-efficiency, especially when purchased in large quantities.
However, buying in bulk comes with its own set of considerations. Proper storage, handling, and feeding techniques are critical to preserving freshness, maintaining nutrient quality, and preventing waste.
What Are Bulk Alfalfa Pellets?
Alfalfa pellets are a compressed, high-fiber feed product made from premium alfalfa hay. These pellets are milled and formed into uniform pellets that are easy to feed and measure.
Not a Primary Feed, but a Powerful Supplement
It’s important to note that alfalfa pellets should serve as a supplemental forage, not as the sole source of nutrition. While they provide excellent protein and fiber, horses also require a diversified diet that includes long-stem forage like hay cubes or pasture. Alfalfa pellets are best used to enhance the diet, support weight gain, or provide consistent nutrition during travel or winter months when pasture is limited.
The Benefits of Buying Alfalfa Pellets in Bulk
1. Lower Cost Per Pound
Purchasing bulk alfalfa pellets is more economical than buying smaller bags or single units. Bulk tote buying reduces per-pound costs, especially when sourced from suppliers like Greenway Animal Nutrition, which offers premium forage products at competitive prices for volume purchases.
2. Convenience and Consistency
With a steady supply on hand, you don’t have to make frequent feed runs or worry about running out during critical feeding periods. It also means your horses receive a consistent source of nutrition, which can reduce digestive issues or feeding stress.
3. Space Efficiency
Bagged and toted alfalfa pellets take up less space than other options and can be stacked neatly in barns or feed rooms. This makes them ideal for facilities with limited storage or for those who want to streamline their inventory management.
Smart Storage: How to Keep Your Bulk Alfalfa Pellets Fresh
Improper storage can turn your cost-saving feed investment into a loss. Alfalfa pellets are durable, but they are still vulnerable to moisture, heat, pests, and UV exposure. Here are some tips to keep your feed in top condition:
1. Store in a Dry, Cool Environment
Moisture is the number one enemy of alfalfa pellets. Always store the pellets in a well-ventilated, dry location, away from barn wash areas or direct ground contact. A pallet on a concrete or raised wooden floor is ideal.
2. Use Airtight Storage Containers
For smaller portions, consider transferring the pellets into airtight feed bins with sealing lids. This provides a secondary layer of protection from rodents, insects, and humidity.
3. Elevate and Rotate
If you’re storing multiple bags, stack them on pallets or risers to avoid direct floor contact. Rotating your inventory (first in, first out) helps ensure you’re always using the oldest stock first and prevents spoilage.
4. Protect from Sunlight and Heat
Exposure to UV light and high temperatures can degrade the nutrient content of alfalfa pellets. Keep bags out of direct sunlight and avoid placing them near machinery or walls that radiate heat.
5. Inspect Regularly for Mold or Pests
Even the best storage systems can fail occasionally. Perform regular checks for unusual odors, mold, insects, or rodent activity. Discard any feed that shows signs of contamination immediately.
Feeding Tips: Maximizing the Nutritional Benefits
1. Hydrate Before Feeding (When Needed)
Some horse owners prefer to soak alfalfa pellets in water before feeding, especially for older horses or those with dental issues. Soaking prevents choking and helps with hydration. Add warm water and let the pellets absorb it for 15-30 minutes to create a mash.
2. Measure Precisely
Just like any supplement, it’s important to measure the feed according to your horse’s weight, age, and activity level. Overfeeding can lead to excess weight, while underfeeding may result in nutritional gaps.
3. Pair with Long-Stem Forage
Alfalfa pellets are not a substitute for long-stem forage like hay cubes or pasture. Horses require long fibers to maintain proper gut motility and to support chewing behavior, which encourages saliva production, essential for digestion.
4. Balance with Other Feed Sources
Because alfalfa is relatively high in calcium and protein, it’s essential to balance your horse’s diet, especially for growing horses or those prone to kidney issues. Work with an equine nutritionist to ensure your feed plan is well-rounded.
Who Can Benefit Most from Bulk Alfalfa Pellets?
Alfalfa pellets are incredibly versatile and beneficial for a range of horses and farm animals. Here’s a breakdown of how different groups benefit from bulk pellet use:
1. Performance Horses
Horses engaged in strenuous work require more protein and energy. Alfalfa pellets are a convenient way to supplement their caloric intake and keep muscles strong.
2. Senior Horses
Older horses often have trouble chewing or digesting coarse hay. Hydrated pellets provide a softer, easier-to-digest alternative that still delivers essential nutrients.
3. Underweight or Recovering Horses
If your horse is underweight or recovering from illness, alfalfa pellets are a safe, effective way to promote weight gain and boost condition without the risks associated with high-grain diets.
4. Broodmares and Foals
Pregnant or lactating mares, as well as foals, require extra nutrients. Alfalfa provides quality protein and calcium, helping support growth and milk production.
5. Farm Animals
While this article focuses on horses, many other animals—goats, rabbits, and even cattle—can benefit from supplemental alfalfa pellets in their diet, as long as it’s part of a balanced nutrition plan.
Bulk Buying Tips: How to Save Money Long-Term
Investing in bulk alfalfa pellets can be a smart financial move—if you do it strategically. Here are some additional cost-saving tips:
1. Partner With Other Horse Owners
Consider forming a feed co-op with neighboring horse owners or small farms. Pooling your orders can reduce shipping costs and increase your buying power, potentially qualifying for wholesale discounts.
2. Take Advantage of Seasonal Promotions
Many feed suppliers offer discounts during off-peak seasons. Stocking up during these times can provide significant savings, provided you have adequate storage.
3. Keep Detailed Feed Records
Maintaining a feeding log helps track usage, waste, and expenses. Over time, this data can guide smarter purchasing decisions and help you fine-tune your feeding strategy.
Why Choose Greenway Animal Nutrition?
At Greenway Animal Nutrition, we understand that your animals are more than just livestock—they’re partners, companions, and athletes. That’s why we’ve made it our mission to provide high-quality forage solutions that support health, performance, and well-being.
We specialize in premium bagged forage, including bulk alfalfa pellets, designed to meet the diverse needs of horse owners, trainers, and breeders across the country. Our products are carefully processed to retain maximum nutrition, ensure consistency, and offer superior shelf life.
Whether you’re managing a herd of show horses, rehabilitating a rescue, or just looking for a smarter way to supplement your animal’s diet, Greenway has a solution for you.
A Smarter Way to Supplement
Bulk alfalfa pellets offer a practical, economical, and nutritious way to enhance your horse’s diet when used correctly. From minimizing feed waste and reducing your cost per pound to ensuring your animals have access to consistent, high-quality nutrition, the benefits are clear. Just remember to treat pellets as a supplemental feed, not a complete replacement, and to follow best practices for storage and feeding.
With the right approach, bulk alfalfa pellets can become an essential part of your barn’s feeding strategy, saving you money while supporting the health of your animals.
Ready to Make the Smart Choice?
At Greenway Animal Nutrition, we recognize that high-quality feed is essential for maintaining healthy, well-nourished horses. That’s why we offer premium forage products designed to meet the needs of horse owners, breeders, and trainers. Whether you’re caring for a high-performance racehorse, a trusted riding companion, or a herd on your farm, our diverse selection of forage pellets, cubes, and meal provides a reliable feeding solution.
Contact us today to discover how we can help you feed smarter, store easier, and save more.
