The Influence of Packaging on Palatability and Shelf Life Stability of Horse Treats.
Authors: Francis Jesse M, Perry Erin B
Journal: Journal of equine veterinary science
Summary
Horse treat packaging substantially influences both product stability and equine consumption behaviour, according to research examining polyethylene and paper-based containers over a 12-month period. The study monitored moisture content, water activity, microbial proliferation (mould and yeast), pH and volatile organic acid profiles at regular intervals, whilst simultaneously conducting preference trials to assess palatability and intake volume. Paper packaging proved inferior for shelf life preservation, demonstrating significantly greater moisture and water activity fluctuations and visible mould contamination by month 12, whereas all treatments showed increased moisture content regardless of packaging type (P < 0.01). Although horses showed no significant preference for treats based on initial olfactory or gustatory response, a trend emerged suggesting poly-packaged treats maintained consumption appeal over time whilst paper-packaged options declined in acceptance (P = 0.09). For equine professionals formulating or recommending proprietary treats, polyethylene packaging appears the more reliable choice for maintaining both product integrity and sustained palatability across extended storage periods, particularly in humid or variable environmental conditions.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Use poly packaging rather than paper for horse treats intended for storage beyond a few months, as it better maintains moisture stability and prevents mold development
- •Paper packaging should be avoided for longer shelf-life products as it allows moisture infiltration and mold growth that may reduce horse palatability over time
- •While packaging type does not immediately affect horse preference, poly-packaged treats maintain acceptability better during extended storage periods
Key Findings
- •Moisture content and water activity increased significantly in all packaging treatments over 12 months (P < .01), with paper packaging showing greater fluctuation
- •Paper packaging showed visible mold growth by month 12 (P < .01), while poly and control treatments remained unaffected
- •Poly packaging showed a trend toward increased treat consumption over the study period, while paper packaging showed decreased consumption (P = .09)
- •No significant differences observed between packaging types for initial horse sniffing, consumption, or finishing behavior during preference testing