Equine Nutrition

CBD and Hemp Based Feed Products

The American Horse Council has joined a letter to seek support for greater education and research on a topic that impacts many aspects of equine regulation and production, as well as the safety and well-being of horse owners and caregivers. Following discussions within the AHC concerning CBD usage in the equine feed sector, the industry made their concerns regarding the current interest in using hemp, including its derivatives and by-products (herein collectively referred to as “hemp”), in animal feed. It is our position that sufficient scientific research to support the safety and utility of hemp in animal feed must be completed prior to any Federal or state approval. We understand the importance of supporting the hemp industry, and yet we also believe it is simply too soon to know whether hemp is safe and effective for horses as marketed. Our goal is for more research to ensure the safety and well-being of the public, our animals and our industry. Scientific research is needed.

Instead of initiating statutory or administrative approval of hemp in animal feed at the state level, we recommend that state leaders and proponents of hemp in feed work through the defined regulatory pathways used for every animal feed ingredient. We urge state leaders to support research through universities or private labs so that the safety and utility of hemp can be fully understood before it is allowed for commercial purposes.