CHIA DE GRACIA – FEED / FODDER INGREDIENT
Average nutrients:
Energy 524 kcal per 100 g: protein 21.2 g, fiber 33.7 g, fat 31.4 g, vitamin A 44 IU, B1 0.89 mg, B2 0.2 mg, B3 11.2 mg, vitamin E 29 mg.
Directions for use:
Whole chia seed:
- Horse 500 kg: 0.5–1.5 dl per day
- Ponies: 1 tbsp–0.75 dl per day
- Dog: 1 tsp–2 tbsp per
Ground chia seeds:
- Horse: 500 kg: 1.5–3 dl per day
- Ponies: 2 tbsp–1.5 dl per day
- Dog: 1 tsp–3 tbsp per day
1 dl of whole seed weighs approx. 80 g; crushed meal approx. 40 g.
If a horse tends to react to feed changes, it is recommended to start the first week with half the dose to help the horse adjust to the new feed. If needed, the daily dose can be divided into multiple meals. After this initial adjustment period, a maximum dose is recommended for 14–20 days.
After the adjustment phase, chia can be fed at an amount that suits the individual. For many horses, a maintenance dose of about half of the maximum dose is sufficient. If needed, the dose can be temporarily increased, for example during diarrhea, severe itching due to summer eczema, or when changing hay quality.
For sand removal, chia can be used as a short course at double dosage (seed approx. 2 dl, crushed approx. 4 dl) for 1–2 weeks.
Larger amounts can be divided between different feeding times.
Some horses—such as older horses or those that easily lose muscle mass, competition horses, horses suffering severely from summer eczema, and individuals with gastric ulcers or other intestinal issues—benefit from a higher maintenance dose.
Chia seeds are recommended to be fed either soaked as-is or soaked mixed into other feed. The seeds absorb a large amount of water. Chia swells and forms a gel in just a few minutes. Chia is not recommended to be soaked in hot water, as hot water may damage the fatty acid composition of the seeds.
For dogs, the seeds should be cracked either dry or soaked, using a blender, before adding to food. When soaked, the seeds keep in the refrigerator for about one week. Seeds can be soaked in any liquid. If the horse’s/dog’s condition worsens, stop feeding and consult a veterinarian if needed. There are no known allergies to chia, but as with any nutrient, an individual can become sensitized.
Chia seeds are a 100% gluten-free, additive-free natural product. No doping withdrawal time.
Storage: Store ground chia seed in a cool place; store whole seeds at room temperature, protected from moisture and strong sunlight.
