Beet pulp is created when simple sugar is extracted from sugar beets to make refined sugar. Once the sugar has been extracted, the beet pulp is dehydrated and formed into pellets or powder and used in feed for livestock and pets. Because the pulp is high in fiber and calcium and low in sugar, it has become a popular ingredient for many feed manufacturers. Beet pulp contains a number of different nutrients that animals need in their diets.
Calcium
Beet pulp contains more calcium than many other feeds, including corn grain and oat bran. Calcium is important specifically in horse nutrition. According to Susan Garlinghouse, DVM, for every gram of phosphorous in horse feed, there needs to be at least as much calcium. This prevents calcium in the horse's bones from leeching. Horses that do not get enough calcium tire easily and can develop muscle cramps when riding.
Potassium
Like humans, horses and other animals require potassium for nerve function, muscle control and blood pressure. Pressed beet pulp contains potassium at approximately the same levels of other roughage. Adequate potassium levels are important for animals used in sport, because the nutrient contributes to overall strength and endurance.
Protein
Beet pulp contains 10 percent crude protein and 18 percent crude fiber. With this ratio, beet pulp is ranked in between the two categories of feed: forage feed and energy feed. The protein in beet pulp contains essential amino acids and is easily digested by animals. Because the pulp is also low in sugar, it is low on the glycemic index, making it an efficient fuel source for animals.
Fiber
The bulk of what makes up beet pulp is carbohydrates. Beet pulp is 81 percent carbohydrate and can be used to replace more expensive sources of calories in an animal's diet. The highly soluble fiber content in beet pulp also ensures that animals are able to digest the feed properly, breaking down the pulp into usable energy.
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