Soybeans are one of the most versatile crops in animal nutrition. In horse feed, different parts of the soybean can be processed into very different ingredients, each with its own nutritional role. In Fiskens Ultra Low GI, three forms of soy are used together: soybean hulls, soybean meal, and full-fat soy. Here’s why.
Soybean Hulls - Cool, Low GI Energy
Soybean hulls are the outer seed coat of the soybean. While not rich in protein or fat, they are an excellent source of digestible fibre.
Key benefits
- High fibre energy: Supports the hindgut, providing slow, steady energy release.
- Low starch and sugar: Safer than grains for horses with laminitis, EMS or insulin resistance.
- Gut health: Promotes microbial activity and stable fermentation.
- Non-heating: Provides condition without behavioural “fizz.”
Typical nutritional profile
- Crude fibre: 35–40%
- Crude protein: 10–12%
- Fat: 1.5–3%
- Digestible energy: ~2.5–3 Mcal/kg
- Starch: <2%
Soybean Meal - High-Quality Protein
Soybean meal is produced after oil is extracted from soybeans. It is one of the most widely used protein supplements in animal nutrition.
Key benefits
- Rich in protein: Typically 44–48% crude protein.
- Excellent amino acid profile: Particularly high in lysine, supporting muscle repair and topline development.
- Consistent quality: Provides a reliable protein source across batches.
- Balances low-protein fibres: Complements ingredients like beet pulp and soy hulls.
Typical nutritional profile
- Crude protein: 44–48%
- Crude fibre: ~6%
- Fat: 1–2%
- Digestible energy: ~3.0 Mcal/kg
- Starch: <5%
Full-Fat Soy - Energy + Protein + Omega Oils
Full-fat soybeans are heat-treated whole beans. Unlike soybean meal, they retain their natural oil, providing both protein and fat.
Key benefits
- Dual energy source: Supplies both protein and oil-based calories.
- High in fat (15–20%): Provides cool, slow-release energy.
- Omega-6 fatty acids: Support coat condition and overall energy balance.
- Useful for weight gain: Helps maintain condition without high starch.
Typical nutritional profile
- Crude protein: 36–40%
- Fat: 15–20%
- Crude fibre: ~6%
- Digestible energy: ~3.5–3.7 Mcal/kg
- Starch: <5%
Why All Three Work Together in a Low GI Feed
In Fiskens Ultra Low GI, these soy ingredients are carefully balanced:
| Ingredient | Role in the feed | Key benefit for horses |
|---|---|---|
| Soybean hulls | Fibre energy source | Low GI, cool energy, gut health |
| Soybean meal | Protein supplement | Builds muscle, topline, growth |
| Full-fat soy | Protein + fat source | Extra condition, omega oils, slow energy |
Together, they:
- Provide low-GI energy without starch spikes.
- Support muscle, recovery, and topline with quality protein.
- Deliver healthy fats for condition and performance.
- Help manage horses prone to laminitis, EMS, or “hot” behaviour.
Takeaway
Soy ingredients aren’t all the same. In Fiskens Ultra Low GI, hulls, meal, and full-fat soy each play a unique role: fibre for safe energy, meal for protein quality, and full-fat soy for balanced calories and condition. Combined, they create a feed that supports digestive health, performance, and metabolic stability - all at a genuinely low glycaemic index.
Fiskens Nutritional Science
Fiskens feeds are formulated in collaboration with qualified equine nutritionists for optimal performance and balance. With over 60 years of expertise in equine nutrition, Fiskens is a trusted leader in developing scientifically-backed feed solutions that support horse health and performance across all disciplines.