Confusion abounds in the reporting and interpretation of Non-Fiber Carbohydrates (NFC) and Non-Structural Carbohydrates (NSC) in equine diets. Several years ago, many forage and feed testing labs removed NSF reporting and added NFC, leading to confusion about the distinction between the two.
Non-Fiber Carbohydrates VS Non-Structural Carbohydrates
NSC, Non-Structural Carbohydrates, if reported by the forage testing labs, is either chemically measured in the lab or, more commonly, calculated mathematically. The calculation is typically WSC (water-soluble carbohydrates) plus Starch. Some testing labs use direct chemical analysis. Therefore, comparing NSC values reported by different testing labs may not lead to an accurate assessment. Many labs no longer include NSC reporting in their analysis reports. If the horse owner or equine nutritionist is interested in NSC and it is not reported in the analysis, the figure can be calculated by adding the percentages of reported WSC (water-soluble carbohydrates) and Starch.
NSC of Farrier’s Formula® Double Strength
For Farrier’s Formula® Double Strength, a lab has reported WSC at 5.8% and Starch at 4.2%; therefore, the sum of the two, or NSC, would be 10.0%. These numbers can vary slightly due to laboratory testing methodology.
The Advantage of Non-Fiber Carbohydrates Analysis
NFC, Non-Fiber Carbohydrates, is a better means of carbohydrate analysis than NSC. The two values are not the same. NFC is an estimate of carbohydrates that are readily digested and absorbed and includes pectin, a carbohydrate not counted in NSC values. NFC is calculated by subtracting the percentages of Crude Protein (CP%), Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF%), Crude Fat (Fat Ether Extract %), and Ash (Ash%) from 100. Laboratory NFC measurements in supplements and feedstuffs will likely replace NSC. The NFC measure is usually higher than the NSC.
NFC of Farrier’s Formula® Double Strength
There are no added sugars or molasses in Farrier’s Formula® Double Strength. The amount of NFC consumed per serving is insignificant when compared to the level consumed in the daily ration of hay – even if the hay is soaked. Farrier’s Formula® Double Strength is 12.2% NFC. Therefore, contains 10.4 grams of NFC per 1/2 cup (85 grams) at the recommended feeding level. As a comparison, a horse consuming 20 lbs. of grass hay with 15% NFC consumes 1,364 grams of NFC daily! Farrier’s Formula® Double Strength contributes an insignificant amount of carbohydrates when compared to the forage diet and/or most other feedstuffs and supplements.
Carbohydrate Content of Life Data® Products
