Brewer's yeast for horses: Why this natural all-rounder should not be missing from your feed

If you're looking for a natural, effective, and proven feed supplement for your horse, then you should take a closer look at brewer's yeast for horses. This multi-talented product is not only an excellent source of B vitamins, amino acids, minerals, and trace elements, but also supports your horse's digestion, metabolism, immune system, and skin and coat—all in a natural way.

In this article, you will learn why pure brewer's yeast, especially in the form of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, is a valuable component of modern horse feeding, how it works, when it makes sense to use it, and what you should look for when choosing a top product.

What is brewer’s yeast anyway?

Brewer's yeast is a byproduct of beer production and is produced by fermentation with the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. It contains not only abundant B vitamins but also essential amino acids such as methionine, lysine, threonine, tryptophan, and cystine. It also boasts valuable minerals, trace elements, and other nutrients that are particularly important in horse feeding.

In contrast to brewer's spent grain, another by-product of beer brewing, brewer's yeast is used as a single feed or supplementary feed specifically to promote feed utilization, intestinal health and general vitality of horses.

Why brewer's yeast is useful for horses

Many horse owners are familiar with the problem: poor feed conversion, dull coat, sensitive skin, digestive disorders, or problems with shedding. This is where brewer's yeast comes in. Thanks to its high content of natural ingredients, it can support your horse in a variety of ways:

1. Supports digestion and feed utilization

The yeast cultures contained in brewer's yeast help stabilize the balance of the intestinal flora. A treatment with pure brewer's yeast can work wonders, especially for gastrointestinal problems, digestive disorders, or after a worming treatment. It promotes the colonization of the intestines with "good" bacteria, allowing your horse to absorb nutrients better.

2. Strengthening the immune system

A healthy gut also means a strong immune system. Since around 70% of immune cells are located in the gut, regular feeding of brewer's yeast supports your horse's entire immune system—especially important during the cold, wet season or during periods of increased stress.

3. Promotes skin and coat

Especially during shedding or when experiencing skin problems, your horse can benefit from a feed supplement containing brewer's yeast. The B vitamins it contains, especially biotin, strengthen the coat, make the coat shiny, and make the skin more resilient.

The most important nutrients in brewer's yeast for horses

A look at the composition shows why brewer's yeast is a true natural wonder:

• B vitamins (e.g. B1, B2, B6, B12, biotin): important for nerves, skin, coat and energy metabolism

• Amino acids (such as lysine, methionine, threonine, tryptophan): support muscle building and regeneration

• Trace elements (such as zinc, selenium, copper): for strong hooves, skin and a good immune system

• Minerals (e.g. calcium, magnesium, phosphorus): essential for bones and muscles

• Yeast cells : promote digestion and bind harmful substances

• Nutrients in high availability: are easily absorbed and utilized

This combination makes brewer's yeast a top product in modern horse feeding – whether for leisure horses or sports enthusiasts.

How much brewer's yeast for your horse?

The optimal amount depends on the form (powder, pellets, liquid), the product, your horse's weight, and the intended purpose. For a large horse, the recommended daily amount is usually between 30 g and 100 g of pure brewer's yeast – depending on the B vitamin content and other ingredients.

It's best to follow the manufacturer's instructions and start with a smaller amount to test tolerance. For sensitive horses or those with gastrointestinal problems, combining the product with linseed oil or grain-free horse feed may also be beneficial.

Brewer’s yeast in combination – more than just a single feed

Many feed manufacturers now offer supplements with a clever combination of brewer's yeast, linseed oil, minerals, vitamins, and even probiotics. Such products are particularly practical because they address several of your horse's needs at once—for example, for skin problems, coat changes, or during training.

If you prefer an alternative form, such as a liquid feed supplement, you'll also find suitable options with readily available active ingredients. Pay attention to natural ingredients, tested quality, and positive reviews from other horse owners.

When is the use of brewer’s yeast particularly useful?

• In case of coat change or skin problems

• After illnesses, worming treatments or antibiotics

• For stress-prone or old horses

• For poor hooves or dull coat

• To promote digestion in sensitive gastrointestinal tract

• As support for metabolic problems

What you should pay attention to when buying

Not all brewer's yeast for horses is the same. When purchasing, consider the following:

• Pure brewer's yeast without additives

• Highest possible concentration of Saccharomyces cerevisiae

• Comprehensible composition with information on ingredients

• Good reviews from other users

• Transparent declaration (e.g. origin of yeast, form of administration)

• Ideal: Combination with other nutrients or as a complete feed

Conclusion: Brewer’s yeast is more than just a feed additive

Whether as a cure or long-term, brewer's yeast for horses is a true all-rounder in feeding. It promotes digestion, stabilizes metabolism, and supports your horse's skin, coat, and overall health. Thanks to its high content of B vitamins, amino acids, minerals, and other nutrients, it is a valuable addition to the daily ration.

If you want to do something good for your horse—especially during stressful periods or during the coat change—try brewer's yeast. You'll notice the difference, and your horse will thank you with health, shine, and zest for life.