Buckwheat - Feed Ingredient

Buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum) is a broadleaf plant cultivated for its seeds, which are used as a grain substitute despite not being a true cereal grain. The seeds are triangular in shape and rich in starch, protein, and bioactive compounds such as rutin. Buckwheat is also notable for its relatively balanced amino acid profile compared to many cereal grains.

In animal nutrition, buckwheat may be included in equine feeds as a source of digestible energy and protein. The whole seed can be fed raw or processed (e.g., roasted or ground), and its use is more common in specialty or alternative feed formulations.