Cellulase - Feed Ingredient

Cellulase refers to a group of enzymes responsible for breaking down cellulose, a complex polysaccharide abundant in plant cell walls. Derived primarily from microbial sources such as fungi or bacteria, cellulase enzymes hydrolyze cellulose into simpler sugars, making otherwise indigestible fiber more accessible to digestion. These enzymes are frequently included in animal feed additives to enhance nutrient utilization and improve feed efficiency.

In equine nutrition, cellulase supplementation is intended to assist horses in digesting fibrous plant material, potentially enhancing the availability of energy and nutrients from forage-based diets. Horses naturally possess microbial populations within their hindgut capable of fermenting fiber; however, supplemental cellulase may support improved digestion, especially in horses with compromised gut function or older horses with reduced digestive efficiency.