Equine Milk and Meat: Nutritious and Sustainable Alternatives for Global Food Security and Environmental Sustainability—A Review

Abstract

Global hunger and malnutrition continue to pose significant challenges, entailing innovative and environmentally responsible practices to improve food security. Equine products offer a valuable opportunity to diversify diets and combat nutritional deficiencies. Equine milk, rich in bioavailable nutrients, essential fatty acids, and hypoallergenic properties, serves as an excellent dietary supplement; this aspect could be applied particularly in regions where conventional dairy is inaccessible or unsuitable due to allergies, lactose intolerance, or other health conditions. Similarly, equine meat, known for its high-quality protein content, low fat content, and essential micronutrients like iron and zinc, provides an affordable and sustainable protein source for food-insecure populations. The ability of equines to thrive on marginal lands, coupled with their lower environmental impact compared to traditional livestock (such as ruminants), underscores their potential within sustainable agricultural systems. This review examines the role of equine products in addressing global hunger, highlighting their nutritional benefits, environmental advantages, and the necessity for further research to tackle challenges related to versatility, cultural acceptance, and policy integration.