Hyaluronic Acid - Feed Ingredient

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a glycosaminoglycan (GAG) naturally present in connective tissues, synovial fluid, and cartilage. It is known for its high water-binding capacity, which helps maintain joint lubrication and shock absorption. In equine nutrition, hyaluronic acid is commonly included in joint support supplements, either as an oral supplement or as an injectable product for veterinary use.

In horses, hyaluronic acid is primarily used to support joint function, particularly in performance horses subjected to repetitive joint stress. It is believed to contribute to maintaining synovial fluid viscosity, potentially aiding in joint mobility and reducing friction between cartilage surfaces. While injectable forms of hyaluronic acid have demonstrated benefits in clinical use, the efficacy of oral supplementation remains debated due to potential degradation during digestion. High molecular weight hyaluronic acid is often considered higher quality for oral joint supplements.