L-Carnitine - Feed Ingredient

L-Carnitine is a naturally occurring, vitamin-like compound synthesized in the body from the amino acids lysine and methionine. It plays a critical role in energy metabolism by facilitating the transport of long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria, where they are oxidized for energy production. In equine feed and supplements, L-Carnitine is typically added in its stable, bioavailable form as a synthetic additive.

Although horses can endogenously synthesize L-Carnitine, supplementation may be considered under conditions of high metabolic demand, such as intense training or limited dietary precursors. It is sometimes included in specialized formulations for performance horses, breeding animals, or those with elevated energy requirements.