July 2005

Will Your Grain Stand Up To Inspection?

Judging the quality of your whole grain is easy: Use Only USDA Grade 1.

If your horse picks around at your plain grain, question its quality immediately.

Last month, we explained the advantages to feeding plain grains. However, it’s key that you choose good-quality grains. The easiest way to do this is to insist on buying only grains that are USDA grade 1.

USDA grades are based on the weight/bushel, presence of heat damaged or broken kernels and foreign material. The lowest grade, not suitable for feeding to any animal, under any circumstances, is “sample grade.” Grade 1 is the best grade. Never feed grains with a grade of 3, 4 or 5 to a horse (there are four USDA grades for oats and five for corn). Our table (see sidebar) list the characteristics of oats and corn.…