Preservatives - Feed Ingredient

Preservatives are additives used in feed and supplement formulations to prevent spoilage, extend shelf life, and inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms such as bacteria, molds, and yeasts. In equine nutrition, preservatives help maintain product safety and stability, especially in feeds with higher moisture content or ingredients prone to degradation.

Common preservatives in equine feeds include organic acids (such as propionic acid, formic acid, and acetic acid), their salts (e.g., calcium propionate), and antioxidants (like BHA, BHT, or tocopherols). Organic acids are often used to control microbial activity by lowering pH, while antioxidants prevent the oxidative rancidity of fats and fat-soluble vitamins.