Sainfoin for horses – benefit or pitfall?

Sainfoin is a legume that is increasingly being highlighted as an interesting feed for horses. It is similar to alfalfa in structure and nutritional content, but has a few special properties that make it exciting – and controversial.

Nutritional content of sainfoin

• Crude protein: approx. 17%

• Sugar: about 5%

• Starch: approximately 3%

This makes it a fiber-rich and relatively protein-rich source, which in theory could be a good supplement for many horses.

Tannins – what's special about sainfoin

Sainfoin contains so-called condensed tannins . These plant substances have been the subject of research because they can:

• Bind proteins in the feed and make them more “bypass”-friendly in ruminants.

• Affect the intestinal system and microorganisms.

• Have an inhibitory effect on certain intestinal parasites in horses.

A study has shown that when horses were fed a feed mixture with 70% sainfoin, the development of strongylus larvae was inhibited and a reduction in the number of eggs was observed.

Disadvantages – tannins as antinutrients

At the same time, tannins are not only positive. There is well-documented knowledge that they can bind minerals such as iron, zinc, copper and calcium, making them more difficult for the horse to absorb.
In the long term, this can lead to an imbalance in the mineral supply, especially if sainfoin makes up a larger part of the feed plan.

Our recommendation

Although sainfoin may seem appealing due to its possible antiparasitic effect, we see a real risk in using it as a main protein source.

👉 Therefore, we do not recommend using sainfoin as a primary feed for horses.
In small quantities, it can act as a supplement, but should never replace a well-thought-out feeding plan based on roughage analysis and correct mineral supply.

Conclusion

Sainfoin is an exciting feed ingredient, but also a good example of how nature's solutions can have both advantages and disadvantages. Because tannins can impair the absorption of vital minerals, we believe that the potential disadvantages outweigh the benefits.

If you have a horse that has challenges with parasites, the solution should be found in collaboration with your veterinarian and not solely through feeding tannin-containing plants.