At Equisign Tack and Feed, we’re always looking to bring you high-quality, horse-friendly forage options — and sainfoin is one you may not have heard of before. If your horse thrives on fibre, but you’re looking for something a little different from alfalfa or grass-based products, sainfoin could be just what you need.
Let’s break down what sainfoin is, how it compares to alfalfa and grass, and which horses it might suit best.
What is Sainfoin?
Sainfoin (pronounced “san-foyn”) is a flowering legume, like alfalfa, but with a few unique qualities that make it ideal for sensitive or performance horses. It’s naturally high in fibre, highly palatable, and grown without the need for nitrogen-based fertilisers, making it a more sustainable choice.
Key benefits of sainfoin:
- High in fibre but lower in protein than alfalfa
- Contains natural tannins, which support digestion and gut health
- A non-bloating legume (unlike clover or lush grass)
- Ideal for horses with sensitive stomachs or metabolic conditionsLow sugar/starch: Often lower in non-structural carbohydrates (NSC), making it suitable for laminitic or metabolically sensitive horses.
Sainfoin vs. Alfalfa vs. Grass
Each forage type offers different benefits. Here’s how they stack up:
| Feature | Sainfoin | Alfalfa | Grass-Based Forage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protein content | Moderate | High | Low to moderate |
| Calcium levels | Balanced | High | Moderate |
| Palatability | Very palatable | Palatable | Varies by source |
| Digestive impact | Gut-friendly tannins | Can irritate sensitive stomachs | Generally gentle |
| Allergy risk | Rare | Some horses can be allergic | Rare |
| Suitable for laminitics | Yes (in moderation) | Sometimes too rich | Often safest when low in sugar |
Why Tannins Matter
One of the standout benefits of sainfoin is its high tannin content — but not the kind that makes your mouth pucker! These natural condensed tannins have been shown to:
- Improve protein digestion in the small intestine, rather than excess fermentation in the hindgut (which can cause gas or discomfort).
- Help protect gut lining from parasites and irritation Tannins can bind to proteins on parasite surfaces or interfere with their metabolism.
- Reduce the risk of bloat and digestive upset
- Act as natural antioxidants, supporting immune health and may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, particularly in hard-working or metabolically challenged horses.
For horses with sensitive digestion or those recovering from illness, tannins can offer gentle support while still delivering quality nutrition.
Which Horses Can Benefit from Sainfoin?
Sainfoin is suitable for:
- Horses with ulcers or sensitive stomachs
- Ponies and horses prone to laminitis
- Veterans who need easy-to-digest fibre
- Competition horses needing a natural performance boost
- Horses that can’t tolerate alfalfa or are allergic
Meanwhile, alfalfa may still be the better choice for:
- Horses in hard work or with high calorie demands
- Those needing extra condition and muscle support
- Animals without sensitivity to high protein or calciumHere are some nutritional analysis figures from our three most popular brands
Nutritional Analysis
| Nutrient | Emerald Green Grass Pellets | Emerald Green Alfalfa Pellets | Simple System Sainfoin Pellets |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crude Protein (%) | 12.0 | 18.0 | 19.3 |
| Crude Fibre (%) | 25.0 | 30.0 | 25.2 |
| Crude Fat (%) | 2.5 | 3.5 | 1.94 |
| Ash (%) | 7.0 | 9.7 | 8.9 |
| Sugar (%) | 7.5 | 8.9 | 6.71 |
| Starch (%) | 3.0 | 5.0 | 3.0 |
| Digestible Energy (MJ/kg) | 9.5 | 10.7 | 10.5 |
Mineral Content
| Mineral | Emerald Green Grass Pellets | Emerald Green Alfalfa Pellets | Simple System Sainfoin Pellets |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calcium (%) | 0.60 | 1.37 | 1.71 |
| Phosphorus (%) | 0.25 | 0.29 | 0.19 |
| Magnesium (%) | 0.20 | 0.21 | 0.22 |
| Potassium (%) | 1.80 | 1.90 | 1.37 |
| Sodium (%) | 0.10 | 0.14 | 0.05 |
| Sulphur (%) | 0.30 | 0.35 | 0.18 |
| Copper (mg/kg) | 5.0 | 6.90 | 7.0 |
| Iron (mg/kg) | 150 | 145 | 927 |
| Manganese (mg/kg) | 20 | 25 | 31 |
| Zinc (mg/kg) | 20 | 22.4 | 21 |
| Selenium (mg/kg) | 0.10 | 0.14 | 0.48 |
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Pellet for Your Horse
- Emerald Green Grass Pellets are a great choice for good-doers, laminitic, or metabolically sensitive horses. They are lower in protein and calcium, and provide a moderate energy source with a gentle fibre profile. Ideal for maintaining weight without overfeeding nutrients.
- Emerald Green Alfalfa Pellets offer a high-protein, high-calcium option suitable for performance horses, growing youngsters, lactating mares, or horses needing to gain condition. However, they may not suit horses prone to metabolic issues or those needing a low-calcium diet.
- Simple System Sainfoin Pellets strike a unique balance: high protein, natural anti-parasitic tannins, and a moderate sugar/starch level. They’re excellent for horses with digestive sensitivities, past colic or ulcers, or those who need natural parasite support. With higher iron and selenium, they may also complement mineral-deficient forage diets—but may need to be balanced with lower-iron feeds in iron-overload.Available at Equisign Tack and Feed
We stock sainfoin, alfalfa, and a range of grass-based forage options, so whatever your horse’s needs, we’ve got you covered.
Not sure which is right for your horse or pony? We can tailor our advice to suit you. Whether your horse needs gentle support, a new fibre source, or a natural digestive boost, we’re here to help.
Pop in-store or get in touch — and let us help your horse feel their best, from the inside out.
