We receive many questions about the differences between our regular Lucerne Mix and our new product, Hartog Digest. The most important difference between the two is that Hartog Digest, with the addition of POWERSTART®, protects and supports the gastrointestinal tract and is free from grains and molasses. The regular Lucerne Mix can be used as a (partial) replacement for roughage and concentrates, helping the horse to condition. Hartog Digest is not a substitute for a varied diet and contains insufficient nutrients such as vitamins and minerals to support a healthy lifestyle. By combining Hartog Digest with good-quality roughage and concentrates as needed, the nutrients from the total diet are better utilized.
Differences between Lucerne Mix & Hartog Digest:
Key Differences | ||
Properties | Lucerne mix | Digest |
Molasses-free | X | ✓ |
Doping-free | ✓ | ✓ |
Grain-free | ✓ | ✓ |
Low sugar and starch content | ✓ | ✓ ✓ |
Rich in fiber | ✓ | ✓ |
Slows down intestinal transit | ✓ | ✓ |
Slows down feed intake and stimulates saliva production | ✓ | ✓ ✓ |
Rich in naturally formed vitamins, minerals, and trace elements | ✓ | X |
Rich in easily digestible proteins (provides body, supports muscle building, and promotes responsible weight gain) | ✓ ✓ | X |
(Partial) replacement for concentrates | ✓ | X |
Promotes intestinal peristalsis | ✓ | ✓ |
Neutralizes stomach acid through increased saliva production and the presence of calcium | ✓ | ✓ |
Neutralizes stomach acid through additional addition of magnesium oxide | X | ✓ |
Protects the gastrointestinal mucous membrane through the addition of hydrolyzed tannins | X | ✓ |
Supports healthy growth of intestinal villi through the addition of butyrate | X | ✓ |
Source of omega-3 due to the addition of flaxseed oil | X | ✓ |
Stimulates production of digestive enzymes through the addition of prebiotics and yeast cultures | X | ✓ |
Anti-inflammatory | X | ✓ |
Reduces ammonia production | X | ✓ |
Supports oxygen transport in the bloodstream and helps reduce muscle tension and stiffness | X | ✓ |