Nutritional Composition Analysis of Registered Commercial Equine Feeds in Costa Rica

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15517/vjees195

Keywords:

equine nutrition, horses, donkeys, guaranteed analysis, registered feeds

Abstract

The objective of this study was to characterize the nutritional profile of commercial compound feeds for equines registered with the Animal Feed Directorate (DAA-SENASA-MAG) in Costa Rica as of June 2025. Label information from 89 products was compiled and analyzed. The products were classified according to species (horses and donkeys) and physiological stage. The evaluated parameters included moisture, crude protein, ether extract, crude fiber, digestible energy, calcium, phosphorus, salt, and the calcium-to-phosphorus ratio. The results showed that most products fell within internationally recognized reference ranges. Crude protein ranged from 10 % to 33 %, with the highest values observed in feeds intended for foals. Digestible energy averaged 3,213 kcal/kg, consistent with the recommended ranges for different activity levels. Likewise, the calcium-to-phosphorus ratio (mean of 1.62:1) and salt content (0.1–1.5 %) remained within recommended intervals. In addition, most products included feeding recommendations adjusted according to body weight, in agreement with international guidelines. These findings provide a reference for the nutritional profile of commercial compound feeds for equines registered in Costa Rica and may serve as a useful resource for nutritionists, veterinarians, and producers in the selection and formulation of balanced equine diets.

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Author Biographies

  • Grethel Solano-Mora, Animal Production Department, Universidad Estatal a Distancia (UNED)

    Professor in the Animal Production Department, Universidad Estatal a Distancia (UNED), San José, Costa Rica.

  • Lisa Ortuño-Ibarra, Costa Rica Equine Welfare Association

    Executive Director, Costa Rica Equine Welfare Association, San José, Costa Rica.

  • German Vidaurre-Fallas, School of Physics, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica.

    Professor and Researcher at School of Physics, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica.

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Published

2026-08-05

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Vol. 20 No. 2 (2026): Nutrición Animal Tropical: July-December

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