As a part of specific enzymes, these nutrients fulfil essential roles in different biological processes, related to immunity, fertility, production, and clawhealth. When milk production is high, a considerable amount of trace minerals is also secreted with the milk, leaving less minerals available for the cow’s metabolic process. Roughages will usually not contain enough trace minerals to fulfil requirements, especially not for high-producing animals. Therefore, supplementation of trace minerals to the diet is needed to avoid deficiencies and associated health issues. For this supplementation, different sources of trace minerals are available. Characteristics such as solubility and bioavailability can differ between sources and, to guarantee an optimal and safe trace mineral supply, it’s important to choose a high quality trace mineral source.
Smart hydroxy trace minerals – a top quality source
Trace mineral sources with weak bonds, such as sulphates, are highly soluble in water and will easily release their active trace mineral. Released trace minerals are reactive and can degrade other nutrients, form complexes reducing their uptake, or exhibit antimicrobial actions. Good rumen health is required for optimal performance of dairy cows. Soluble trace element sources, which already release their reactive compound in the rumen, are a possible risk for this rumen health.
Hydroxy trace minerals are characterised by a low solubility in neutral pH environments such as the rumen. Thanks to their crystalline structure with strong intramolecular bonds, the hydroxy trace minerals provide a low reactivity in the rumen. Only after passage through the acidic environment of the stomach, hydroxy trace minerals become soluble. Their active elements release slowly during passage in the intestinal tract, where they can be absorbed by the animal. This slow release ensures less reactivity and complex formation, and an optimal availability for the animal.
