Micro Minerals: Why More Isn't Better
There’s a common belief that when it comes to livestock supplements, more is better. But with micro minerals, overdoing it can do more harm than good.
The diagram below shows how different minerals interact. When one is out of balance, especially if it's over-supplied, it can block the absorption of others. This is especially true for copper, cobalt, and selenium. If fed well above requirements, these can even become toxic, leading to ill-thrift or mortalities. Quantities surplus to daily requirements will also be passed straight out the back end of livestock.
At Rod's, our focus is on producing balanced nutritional supplements, based on high levels of Macro Minerals. Studies show, that ad-lib feeding of Calcium and Magnesium, in the correct ratio, helps prevent most metabolic issues in Southern Australian livestock, so these elements are the foundation ingredients of our range along with a balanced level of critical microminerals.
Our products are formulated to satisfy daily mineral requirements, based on the Australian Feeding Standards. These products have been made in consultation with Australia's top independent ruminant nutritionists, to be offered ad-lib throughout the year, with minimal risk to livestock. We do not publish all of our trace mineral levels, as the perception, that more is better can have serious knock-on effects.
When trace mineral deficiency becomes evident, using organic forms of mineral supplementation can be safer and more effective. That’s why we use organics in our Ultra Loose Mix range, high quality organic minerals are more effectively absorbed in the rumen and are pre-bound to other compounds so they can’t interact with other minerals. This means you can feed lower levels of organic micro-minerals and have a better result, rather than feeding large quantities of inorganic minerals.
With micro minerals, more isn’t better. Getting the balance right is what matters.
