What is the difference between Powder, Pellet, Paste and Liquid Supplements?

What is the difference between Powder, Pellet, Paste and Liquid Supplements?

Once upon a time, most supplements came in powder form. However, in recent times more and more are being manufactured as a pellet. Together with pastes and liquids, there are now a lot of options! So how do you choose the right one for your needs?   

Some ingredients, whether natural or synthetic, are better suited to certain forms. It really comes down to what form retains the best quality and nutritional value. In some circumstances powders work better and sometimes a pellet is a better fit, so the option may not be available to choose from. But in areas such as electrolytes, we are spoiled for choice! Lets take a look at the pros and cons of different supplementation forms.  

Powders  

• Easily added to the feed or mash 

• May have options to add to water, or even mixed into a paste 

• Cost effective due to their lower processing pressures and steps 

• Palatable with flavourings often added for better smell and taste 

• Can be sifted out by picky eaters, causing feed wastage 

• Can be left at the bottom of the feed bin if not thoroughly mixed 

• Can be blown away or dispersed when feeding 

Pellets 

• Easily added to feed or mash 

• Not as easily sifted out of feed 

• Can be added to even the smallest ration 

• Highly palatable, again with flavourings often added 

• Can contain binders to help form the pellet, which can sometimes include the likes of millrun. 

• Manufacturing process does involve ingredients being pressurised and often exposed to heat. This can alter nutritional profiles of ingredients which are reflected in formulations and sometimes even larger dosage sizes. 

Pastes 

• Commonly used as a top up for your regular supplements such as Calm Pastes or Electrolytes 

• More targeted for specific needs 

• Not generally given daily 

• Delivers a direct, precise dosage 

• Some horses may be slightly ‘sour’ after a paste, and not eat or drink for a short period of time.  

• Some horses tend to hold the paste in their mouth and not swallow – this can cause wastage and distress.  

Liquids 

• Are oil or water based 

• Allow accurate dosing via a syringe 

• Can be delivered direct over the tongue, or added into feed or water 

• Like a paste, may be taken sourly if over the tongue.  

Choosing the most appropriate supplement is a very individual choice. There are many things to take into consideration, your horse’s needs, other feeds that may be included in their ration, if they are picky eaters that sift feed or if they are on agistment and you need something easy and simple. It’s also worth noting if you soak or feed your horse a damp feed to add the supplements right before feeding. Some supplement quality may degrade when soaked for prolonged periods.  

Confused about supplements? You can reach out to our nutrition division at any time for support! Book a support call HERE or submit your diet for analysis HERE