Which straight feed provides energy?

• A. Oats
• B. Beet pulp
• C. Chaff
• D. Grass

Answer: (C)

Energy in horse feeds mainly comes from starch-rich cereals and sugars, with fats contributing extra, while roughages provide fiber and bulk with lower energy per kilogram. A straight feed is a single-ingredient concentrate used to supply energy without mixing with other components. Among common straight feeds, cereals like oats are known for their high starch content and easy digestibility, making them a primary source of readily available energy for work or competition. Beet pulp also provides energy, but mainly through fermentable fiber and at a slower rate; it’s often used to boost digestible energy without adding more starch. Grass and chaff are roughages with lower energy density in comparison; grass supplies energy as forage, while chaff is primarily a fiber source. So, when aiming to deliver energy with a straight feed, the energy-dense option to rely on is the cereal grain.