There are different sources of selenium that can be used to enrich the diet, including inorganic forms such as sodium selenite, but also organic forms such as selenized yeasts or pure L-selenomethionine. Organic selenium (in the form of L-selenomethionine) is preferred as it can be stored in animal proteins, like meat, eggs, colostrum and milk, and can efficiently be transferred to the offspring (Figure 1). L-selenomethionine therefore ensures a safe deposit of selenium inside the animal, which can further be used during times of stress or lower selenium intake.

Figure 1

All other forms of selenium cannot be stored into animal protein, and will only be used for the synthesis of selenoenzymes. L-selenomethionine is considered as the most effective form of selenium. Data on different animal species such as in aquaculture, equine, pets, pigs, poultry and ruminants, confirm all that L-selenomethionine, compared to other forms of selenium, allows for an optimal selenium status and enrichment of animal products with selenium.