Organic Trace Minerals Research Articles

Strategies of inorganic and organic trace mineral supplementation in gestating hyperprolific sow diets: effects on the offspring performance and fetal programming.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of trace mineral nutrition on sow performance, mineral content, and intestinal gene expression of neonate piglets when inorganic mineral sources (ITM) were partially replaced by their organic mineral (OTM) counterparts. At 35 d postmating, under commercial conditions, a total of 240 hyperprolific multiparous sows were allocated into three experimental diets: 1) ITM: with Zn, Cu, and Mn at 80, 15, and 60 mg/kg, respectively; 2) partial replacement trace mineral source (Replace): with a 30 % replacement of ITM by OTM, resulting in ITM + OTM supplementation of Zn (56 + 24 mg/kg), Cu (10.5 + 4.5 mg/kg), and Mn (42 + 18 mg/kg); and 3) Reduce and replace mineral source (R&R): reducing a 50% of the ITM source of Zn (40 + 24 mg/kg), Cu (7.5 + 4.5 mg/kg), and Mn (30 + 18 mg/kg). At farrowing, 40 piglets were selected, based on birth weight (light: <800 g, and average: >1,200 g), for sampling. Since the present study aimed to reflect results under commercial conditions, it was difficult to get an equal parity number between the experimental diets. Overall, no differences between experimental diets on sow reproductive performance were observed. Light piglets had a lower mineral content (P < 0.05) and a downregulation of several genes (P < 0.10) involved in physiological functions compared with their average littermates. Neonate piglets born from Replace sows had an upregulation of genes involved in functions like immunity and gut barrier, compared with those born from ITM sows (P < 0.10), particularly in light piglets. In conclusion, the partial replacement of ITM by their OTM counterparts represents an alternative to the totally inorganic supplementation with improvements on neonate piglet gene expression, particularly in the smallest piglets of the litter. The lower trace mineral storage together with the greater downregulation of gut health genes exposed the immaturity and vulnerability of small piglets.

The effect of trace minerals on the stability of retinol acetate, cholecalciferol and selenomethionine stability within premixes

This study compared the effect of an organic proteinate mineral source and an inorganic sulphate mineral source in relation to their effect on the stability of retinol acetate and cholecalciferol within simulated premixes, while comparing the stability of two different selenomethionine (SeMet) sources (selenium enriched yeast (SeYeast) and the chemically synthesised L-SeMet) in the presence of inorganic sulphate mineral sources within simulated premixes. Four vitamin-trace mineral premixes, two containing organic trace mineral sources in the form of proteinates and two containing inorganic trace mineral sources in the form of sulphates, were formulated so that, when added to a complete broiler feed at the appropriate inclusion rates, they contained the same amount of retinol acetate and cholecalciferol and varying levels of trace minerals (National Research Council recommended level, commonly used industry level or a reduced inclusion level). The two SeMet-trace mineral premixes were formulated to contain commonly used industry levels of vitamins and trace minerals. The two SeMet-trace mineral premixes differed in the source of SeMet. One premix contained chemically synthesised L-SeMet while the other contained SeYeast. The vitamin content of the four vitamin-trace mineral premixes was analysed after 14 and 84 days in storage by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography and the amount present within each of the premixes was compared to the quantity determined prior to storage. In general, the premixes formulated with the sulphate trace mineral source were found to have higher losses of retinol acetate and cholecalciferol than those formulated with the proteinate trace mineral source. The inclusion of the proteinate minerals at both National Research Council and reduced inclusion levels significantly (P≤0.05) increased the stability of both the vitamins when compared to the inorganic sulphate mineral sources included at commonly used industry levels. The SeMet content of the two SeMet-trace mineral premixes was analysed after 49 days in storage by high performance liquid chromatography – inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and the amount of SeMet present within each of the samples was compared to the quantity determined prior to storage. SeMet present within the SeYeast was found to be significantly more stable (P≤0.05) than the chemically synthesised L-SeMet.

11 Metal Amino Acid Chelates/complexes with Emphasis on Molecule Absorption and Efficacy Differences in Swine

Abstract The objective of this presentation will be to discuss differences in the molecular structures between various organic trace minerals (OTM) and inorganic trace minerals (ITM) and discuss how these properties impact stability, absorption, bioavailability and retention. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) lists several different categories of OTM including chelates, complexes and proteinates. Typical ligands include organic acids, amino acids, peptides and polysaccharides. It is widely known that bioavailability of ITM is low, primarily due to the presence of antagonisms such as phytate and/or fiber or excesses of other minerals. For this reason, inclusions of trace minerals (e.g. Zn, Cu, Mn, Fe) are often added in commercial livestock diets at 2–3-fold higher concentrations than recommended by NRC. Feeding highly bioavailable trace minerals is important. These minerals are required components of thousands of the proteins, enzymes and transcription factors that support a wide variety of biochemical processes in the cells and tissues of animals. These functions include gene regulation, cell growth and division, immune development and function, tissue development and integrity, reproduction and oxidative stress management. Low bioavailability of these trace minerals can reduce animal performance, immune function, reproductive performance and increase lameness. Numerous in vitro and in vivo methodologies have been used to compare bioavailability and demonstrate higher stability, tissue retention and digestibility of OTM vs ITM. Sow longevity is a key factor in commercial swine herd profitability. Reproductive problems and lameness are the most common reasons for premature sow culling from breeding herds. Compared to ITM, OTM reduced gilt and sow mortality 9–17% (P &amp;lt; 0.10), culling rate 20–35% (P &amp;lt; 0.01) and increased sow retention (through parity 3) 5–10%; (P &amp;lt; 0.01). Greater bioavailability translates to biological benefits to the producer, however, our findings demonstrate that not all OTM perform better than ITM.

PSIV-17 Effects of Trace Mineral Source and Level on Growth Performance and Carcass Characteristics of Grow-finish Pigs

Abstract Two experiments were conducted to determine the effects of trace mineral source and level for grow-finish pigs. In Exp. 1, 2,168 pigs (initial BW = 23.0 kg) were used in a 117-d trial. There were 5 treatments based on inorganic (sulfates and oxides) or organic (Alltech Bioplex, Lexington, KY) minerals supplemented at different levels as follows: 1) Industry inorganic (120 mg/kg Zn, 100 mg/kg Fe, 40 mg/kg Mn, 10 mg/kg Cu); 2) 100% NRC inorganic (60 mg/kg Zn, 60 mg/kg Fe, 2.2 mg/kg Mn, 4 mg/kg Cu); 3) 33% NRC organic (20 mg/kg Zn, 20 mg/kg Fe, 0.7 mg/kg Mn, 1.3 mg/kg Cu); 4) 66% NRC organic (40 mg/kg Zn, 40 mg/kg Fe, 1.5 mg/kg Mn, 2.6 mg/kg Cu); and 5) 100% NRC organic (60 mg/kg Zn, 60 mg/kg Fe, 2.2 mg/kg Mn, 4 mg/kg Cu). Selenium level was 0.30 mg/kg for all treatments. Treatment 1 had 14 replicates and the other treatments had 18 replicates. Pigs were weighed approximately every three weeks and carcass data was collected at the end of the trial. Data was analyzed with SAS MIXED procedure. There was no evidence for differences (P &amp;gt; 0.10) for overall ADG, ADFI, G:F, and final BW. Pigs fed 66% NRC organic had the highest (P &amp;lt; 0.05) percentage lean and loin depth. In Exp. 2, 1,188 pigs (initial BW = 25.9 kg) were used in a 120-d trial with two treatments: 1) Industry inorganic and 2) 66% NRC organic, with the same mineral levels as Exp. 1 and 24 replicates per treatment. There was no difference (P &amp;gt; 0.10) in growth performance. Similar to Exp. 1, pigs fed 66% NRC organic had higher (P &amp;lt; 0.05) percentage lean and loin depth. In conclusion, lower levels of organic trace minerals resulted in improved carcass characteristics without compromising growth performance.

PSIII-11 Evaluating the Performance of Grow-finish Pigs Supplemented with Butipearl® Z and Kemtrace® Chromium During Natural Heat Stress Exposure

Abstract Heat stress (HS) severely impacts swine leading to compromised barrier integrity, diminished intestinal health and decreased performance. ButiPEARL® Z (BPZ) is an encapsulated formulation of zinc and butyrate shown to alleviate the impact of HS by improving intestinal health. KemTRACE® Chromium (KTCr) is an organic trace mineral shown to decrease the impact of stress and improve glucose utilization, leading to muscle growth and improved performance. To test the efficacy of BPZ and KTCr on mitigating stress from natural heat exposure, a grow-finish trial was conducted from June-September. There were four treatments: negative control (NC), NC+.45kg BPZ, NC+.91kg BPZ and NC+1.82kg BPZ. Three BPZ treatments were also supplemented with 200ppb KTCr. Pigs (n=480) were randomly assigned to 96 pens at 22.5kg. Performance was measured at d0, 28, 56 and at marketing. From d56 to market, ADFI was greater (P&amp;lt; 0.05) for 0.45kg and 0.91kg BPZ when compared to NC and 1.82kg BPZ (3.40 and 3.35 vs. 3.26 and 3.27kg, respectively). Therefore, relationships between ADFI day 56 to market and ADFI day 0 to market with BPZ level were curvilinear (P&amp;lt; 0.05). Both market weight and overall ADG tended (P&amp;lt; 0.10) to have curvilinear relationships with BPZ level. While not different, 0.45kg and .91kg BPZ supplemented pigs were .97kg and 1.25kg heavier, respectively, on marketing day compared to control. No differences (P &amp;gt;0.10) were observed for Feed:Gain. Part of the negative effects of HS include decrease in feed intake which contributes to intestinal damage and decreased performance. Data from this study show that both treatment combinations were able to improve feed intake and decrease stress which might have led to the improved weight gain at the end. The data provides evidence that the combination of BPZ and KTCr may alleviate the negative effects of HS and help with the performance of grow-finish pigs during heat stress.

Effects of different concentration of organic and inorganic trace minerals (zinc, selenium, and chromium) supplementation on expression of chTLR4 gene and humoral immune response in broilers.

Background and Aim:Poultry production is the fastest-growing livestock sector in developing countries. In the poultry diet, trace minerals (zinc [Zn], selenium [Se], and chromium [Cr]) are normally administered in the inorganic form which has been traditionally considered as the most cost-effective and easily available but organic forms of these trace minerals have a higher bioavailability, lower dietary inclusion and cause less environmental pollution as compared to inorganic form. This study aimed to investigate the effect of different concentrations of organic and inorganic forms of trace minerals (Zn, Se, and Cr) supplementation (0-35 days) on expression of chTLR4gene and humoral immune response in broilers.Materials and Methods:A total of 216 broilers were randomly divided into 12 groups and each group divided into three replicates consisting of six broilers each. T1 (R1, R2, and R3) group was kept as control. T2, T3, and T4 (R1, R2, and R3) groups were supplemented with inorganic form of Zn at 40 mg/kg of feed, organic form of Zn at 40 mg/kg of feed, and 50% organic form of Zn at 20 mg/kg of feed, respectively. T5, T6, and T7 (R1, R2, and R3) groups were supplemented with inorganic form of Se at 0.3 mg/kg of feed, organic form of Se at 0.3 mg/kg of feed, and 50% organic form of Se at 0.15 mg/kg of feed, respectively. T8, T9, and T10 (R1, R2, and R3) groups were supplemented with inorganic form of Cr at 2 mg/kg of feed, organic form of Cr at 2 mg/kg of feed, and 50% organic form of Cr at 1 mg/kg of feed, respectively. T11 and T12 (R1, R2, and R3) groups were supplemented with a combination of all three minerals from inorganic and organic forms, respectively.Results:Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction gene expression analysis revealed that in bursa of Fabricius, maximum upregulation of chTLR4 (3.0214 fold) was observed in T6 group, and in spleen, maximum upregulation of chTLR4 (3.2140 fold) was observed in T3 group as compared to control group. On day 35, the maximum plasma immunoglobulin G concentration was observed in organic trace minerals (OTMs) supplemented, whereas the minimum concentration was recorded in control group. On day 28 and 35, the overall mean heterophil:lymphocyte ratio showed a significant difference (p<0.05) between control and OTM supplemented groups. A significantly higher immune organ weight (spleen and bursa of Fabricius) was recorded in OTM supplemented group as compared to control and other supplemented group.Conclusion:Supplementation of organic form of Zn, Se, and Cr either alone or in combination increase humoral immune response and upregulation of chTLR4 gene expression in bursa and spleen indicates a beneficial effect of OTM in augmentation of immune system in broilers.

77 Trace elements in whole blood and mane hair of horses fed varying sources and levels of trace elements

There has been interest in using hair as a marker for mineral status in horses, but there is a lack of quality research to develop a method to do so. The objectives of this study were to determine if dietary supply of minerals would affect blood and mane hair element concentrations and if there would be a relationship between blood and mane hair element concentrations. Nine mature geldings were used in a replicated 3 × 3 Latin square design. All horses had ad libitum access to forage and 3 dietary treatments were provided by a soybean meal pellet: organic trace minerals (ORG), inorganic trace minerals (ING), and no added trace minerals (CON). The ING and ORG pellet provided the same amount of Co, Cu, Mn, Se, and Zn (between 100 and 380% of NRC requirements), but varied in source and CON provided levels of minerals between 15 and 170% of NRC requirements depending on the mineral. There were 3 21-d treatment periods, including a 5-d washout, so each horse received each treatment. Before the first period, a 3 to 4 cm section of mane hair at the poll was clipped close to the skin. On the last day of each treatment period, blood and mane hair were collected. Mane hair was clipped from the same poll area so only new hair growth was collected. Hair and blood were analyzed for Co, Cr, Cu, Mn, Se, Pb, and Zn using ICP-MS. Data were analyzed using ANOVA with treatment, period, and square replicate as effects. The effect of mane hair color on mineral concentration was evaluated using an ANOVA with hair color as the main effect (black, n = 5; chestnut, n = 3; 1 gray, not included). Means were separated using LSD test. Correlations between hair and blood elements were made using Pearson correlation coefficients. Blood Co tended to be lowest in CON compared with other treatments (P = 0.071). Blood Cr tended to be greatest (P = 0.107) and blood Se was greatest (P < 0.05) in ORG compared with CON, with ING not different from either group. Hair Co was greatest in ORG compared with ING, but CON was not different from either (P < 0.05). Hair Cr tended to be greatest in CON compared with ING, with ORG not different from either (P = 0.102). Hair Pb was greatest in CON compared with the other treatments (P < 0.05). The only correlation between blood and hair was a weak trend for blood Co to be correlated with hair Co (r = 0.347; P = 0.076). Across all treatments, black hair had greater concentrations of Se and lower concentrations of Zn than chestnut hair (P < 0.05). While this study did not find correlations between hair and blood, mineral level and source did alter blood and hair concentrations of certain elements independently, and hair color influences mineral deposition.

A full factorial design to investigate interactions of variable essential amino acids, trace minerals and vitamins on Atlantic salmon smoltification and post transfer performance

To contribute in knowledge for the development of safe, efficient and sustainable functional salmon diets, we ran a feeding trial applying a 23 full factorial design to investigate combined effects, on Atlantic salmon smoltification and post transfer performance, of variable supplementation levels of essential amino acid (Lys, Met, Thr and Arg), essential trace mineral (Zn, Fe and Se) and vitamins (E, C and astaxanthin as provitamin A) premixes in low fishmeal diets, using crystalline amino acids, organic trace minerals and synthetic vitamins, respectively. The nutrient levels used in our study were chosen to meet the known requirements of fish reflecting the variation in commercial feeds. Fish performance, nutrient digestibility, skin, and intestinal health were evaluated in Atlantic salmon parr-smolt, the latter by means of qPCR, global transcriptomics, and immunohistochemistry. The results revealed the potential for significant improvement of salmon post smoltification growth by simultaneous dietary level increase of Met, Lys, Thr and Arg (5% higher body weight increase). Significantly negative effect on fish post transfer growth and survival (22.5 % lower body weight growth and 2.6 times higher mortality) was observed in the high dietary vitamin supplementation treatments which was not present in the simultaneous high trace mineral and vitamin supplementation treatments (8% higher body weight increase and 2.8 times lower mortality in the high trace mineral supplementation treatments). In the high trace mineral supplemented dietary treatments was also observed improved FCR (8.5 %) and a further improvement in performance was seen in the treatments with simultaneous high essential amino acid and trace mineral supplementation levels (12.6 % higher body growth increase). Redox-sensitive gene and extracellular matrix components’ gene transcription effects and compensatory mechanisms on protein and energy metabolism, immune modulation, skin repair systems and erythropoiesis were observed by transcriptomic and histological analyses in response to the variable dietary essential nutrient levels.

Effects of Different Patterns and Sources of Trace Elements on Laying Performance, Tissue Mineral Deposition, and Fecal Excretion in Laying Hens.

Simple SummaryThis study aims to investigate the effects of laying performance, tissue mineral deposition, and fecal excretion from laying hens fed dietary treatments with different patterns and sources of trace elements including zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), and selenium (Se). A total of 864 healthy laying hens with similar laying rate (Roman, 26-week-old) were randomly divided into nine treatments, with six replications of 16 birds per replication, including a control treatment (basic diet without added extra trace minerals) and four patterns with different element sources (inorganic mineral or organic mineral): 1. NRC (1994) recommended level pattern (NRC-L pattern); 2. NY/T 33-2004 recommended level pattern (NY/T-L pattern); 3. 50% NRC (1994) recommended level (50% NRC-L pattern); 4. the ratio of minerals in the blood of laying hens was taken as the supplement proportion of trace elements, and Zn was supplemented depended on the NRC recommended level pattern (TLB pattern). The results indicated that supplemental trace elements improved laying rate, liver, kidney, pancreas, spleen, pectorals muscle, and tibia mineral concentrations (Zn, Fe, Cu, Mn, Se). Patterns affected the tissue and fecal mineral concentrations. In addition, supplementation of the minerals with organic trace elements increased tissues and fecal mineral concentration than those with inorganic minerals. In conclusion, diet supplemented with the organic trace minerals of 50% NRC-L pattern for laying hens promoted optimum laying performance, mineral deposition, and reduced mineral excretion.This study was conducted to investigate the effects of different patterns and sources of Zn, Fe, Cu, Mn, and Se on performance, mineral deposition (liver, kidney, pancreas, spleen, pectorals muscle, and tibia), and excretion of laying hens, then to find an optimal dietary supplemental pattern of trace elements in laying hens. A total of 864 healthy laying hens with similar laying rate (Roman, 26-week-old) were randomly divided into nine treatments, with six replications of 16 birds per replication, including a control treatment and four patterns with different element sources (inorganic or organic): (1) Control treatment (basic diet without added extra trace minerals, CT); pattern 1, NRC (1994) recommended level (NRC-L): (2) inorganic minerals of NRC-L pattern (IN), (3) organic minerals of NRC-L pattern (ON); pattern 2, NY/T 33-2004 recommended level (NY/T-L): (4) inorganic minerals of NY/T-L pattern (IY), (5) organic minerals of NY/T-L pattern (OY); pattern 3, 50% NRC (1994) recommended level (50% NRC-L): (6) inorganic minerals of 50% NRC-L pattern (IHN), (7) organic minerals of 50% NRC-L pattern (OHN); pattern 4, the ratio of minerals in blood of laying hens was taken as the supplement proportion of trace elements, and Zn was supplemented depended on NRC recommended level (TLB): (8) inorganic minerals of TLB pattern (IB), (9) organic minerals of TLB pattern (OB). Two weeks were allowed for adjustment to the conditions and then measurements were made over eight weeks. Supplementation of trace elements led to increased daily egg weight (p < 0.05). Patterns of minerals in diets affected the content of liver Mn, pancreas Mn, tibia Mn, and the tissues Se (p < 0.05). Sources of minerals had positive effects on daily egg weight (p < 0.05), the concentrations of liver Fe, kidney Cu, tissues Se (except spleen), and fecal Se (p < 0.05). In conclusion, diet supplemented with the organic trace minerals of 50% NRC-L pattern (OHN) in laying hens promoted optimum laying performance, mineral deposition, and reduced mineral excretion.

Selenium source and level on performance, selenium retention and biochemical responses of young broiler chicks

BackgroundSelenium (Se) has been recognized as an essential micronutrient for nearly all forms of life. In recent decades, broiler responses to dietary Se supplemental levels and sources have received considerable attention. On environmental grounds, organic trace mineral utilization in practical broiler feeds has been defended due to its higher bioavailability. In such feeds, trace minerals are provided simultaneously in the same supplement as inorganic salts or organic chelates, a fact commonly ignored in assays conducted to validate organic trace mineral sources. The current assay aimed to investigate growth and biochemical responses, as well as Se retention of growing chicks fed diets supplemented with organic and inorganic Se levels and where the trace minerals (zinc, copper, manganese, and iron) were provided as organic chelates or inorganic salts according to Se source assessed. In so doing, a 2 × 5 factorial arrangement was used to investigate the effects of sodium selenite (SS) and selenium-yeast (SY) supplemented in feeds to provide the levels of 0, 0.08, 0.16, 0.24, and 0.32 mg Se/kg.ResultsChicks fed selenium-yeast diets had body weight (BW), and average daily gain (ADG) maximized at 0.133 and 0.130 mg Se/kg, respectively. Both Se sources linearly increased (P < 0.05) the glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity in chick blood but higher values were observed in sodium selenite fed chicks (P < 0.05). Both Se sources influenced thyroid hormone serum concentrations (P < 0.05). Chicks fed SY exhibited greater retention of Se in the feathers (P < 0.05). Relative bioavailability of selenium yeast compared with SS for the Se content in carcass, feathers, total and Se retention were, 126, 116, 125 and 125%, respectively. SY supplementation resulted in lower liver Se concentration as Se supplementation increased (P < 0.05).ConclusionsBased on performance traits, the supplemental level of organic Se as SY in organic trace minerals supplement to support the maximal growth of broiler chicks is 0.133 mg Se/kg.

Nutritional Intervention Strategies Using Dietary Antioxidants and Organic Trace Minerals to Reduce the Incidence of Wooden Breast and Other Carcass Quality Defects in Broiler Birds.

Wooden breast (WB) is a degenerative myopathy seen in modern broiler birds resulting in quality downgrade of breast fillets. Affected filets show increased toughness both before as well as after cooking and have decreased water holding capacity and marinade pick up compared to normal fillets. Although the exact etiology is unknown, the circulatory insufficiency and increased oxidative stress in the breast muscles of modern broiler birds could be resulting in damage and degeneration of muscle fibers leading to myopathies. Three independent experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of various dietary interventions on the incidence of WB when birds are exposed to oxidative stress associated with feeding oxidized fat and mild heat stress. Feed additives such as dietary antioxidant [Ethoxyquin (ETX)], mineral methionine hydroxy analog chelate (MMHAC) of Zn, Cu, and Mn, and organic selenium (Org Se) were tested at recommended levels. In experiment 1, ETX reduced (P < 0.05) the incidence of severe WB induced by oxidized fat diet. The magnitude of improvement in percentage of normal (no WB) filets and reduction in muscle lipid peroxidation was greater (P < 0.05) when ETX and MMHAC were fed together as shown by experiment 2. In birds exposed to mild heat stress (Experiment 3), feeding MMHAC by itself reduced (P < 0.05) tissue damage by reducing incidence of tibial head lesions, skin scratches, breast blisters, in addition to increasing the incidence of normal (no WB) fillets. When MMHAC was combined with ETX and Org Se, further improvement (P < 0.05) in normal (no WB) filets was observed. In summary, under different oxidative stress conditions, dietary intervention programs that contain ETX, MMHA-Zn, -Cu, and -Mn and Org Se can improve performance and increase carcass integrity, reducing problems, such as WB, either independently or with additive effect. This effect is most likely attained by simultaneously improving the exogenous and endogenous antioxidant status, reducing oxidative stress, and improving tissue healing process of the bird.

Effect of replacing inorganic trace minerals at lower organic levels on growth performance, blood parameters, antioxidant status, immune indexes, and fecal mineral excretion in weaned piglets.

Organic trace minerals (OTMs) have the potential to replace inorganic trace minerals (ITMs), but the degree to which the dietary levels can be reduced is not well defined. This study aimed to investigate the effect of replacing of ITMs with lower levels of OTMs on growth performance, blood parameters, antioxidant status, and immune indexes in weaned piglets. The experiment was conducted in a subtropical city in Guangdong Province in South China (subtropical climate) from July to September 2018. A total of 600 pigs with an average initial BW of 8.90kg were allotted by gender and weight to 5 treatments with 6 replicate pens per treatment. Experimental treatments: (A) Control group (a basal diet with iron, copper, manganese, and zinc from sulfates and sodium selenite providing commercially utilized levels in China of 150, 25, 40, 150, and 0.5mg/kg, respectively). (B) 1/2 ITM group (inorganic trace minerals providing 1/2 control group levels). (C) 1/2 OTM group (1/2 control group trace mineral levels with manganese, iron, zinc, and selenium from Sel-Plex® and Cu from Bioplex®). (D) 1/3 ITM group (1/3 control group trace mineral levels from inorganic forms). (E) 1/3 OTM group (1/3 control group trace mineral levels from organic forms). The results suggest no significant effects of trace mineral sources or levels, on average daily gain (ADG) and average daily feed intake (ADFI) among different treatments during the entire experiment. The level of zinc in serum was significantly decreased in the 1/3 ITM group. The 1/3 OTM group had a significantly higher (P < 0.05) immunoglobulin G (IgG) level in serum. Fecal mineral excretion decreased significantly (P < 0.05) when decreased dietary levels of trace minerals were included at 1/2 and 1/3 levels regardless of sources. Fecal concentrations of zinc excretion were lower (P < 0.05) with 1/2 OTM supplementation than 1/2 ITMs. The present study shows that replacing high doses of ITMs with low concentrations (1/3) of OTMs does not adversely affect the growth performance of piglets. At low levels, total replacement of ITMs with OTMs improved IgG and reduced fecal excretion of copper, zinc, iron, and manganese, thereby mitigating environmental pollution.

Effect of Dietary Supplementation of Organic Trace Minerals at Reduced Concentrations on Performance, Bone Mineralization, and Antioxidant Variables in Broiler Chicken Reared in Two Different Seasons in a Tropical Region

Two experiments were conducted to study the performance, antioxidant activity, and bone mineral variables in broilers fed organic trace minerals (OTM) at lowered concentrations in the diet. In experiment 1, a total of 1500 day-old broiler male chicks were randomly distributed into six groups with 10 replicates of 25 chicks each and housed in floor pens (1.90 × 1.22m). One group was fed the maize-soybean meal-based control diet, supplemented with inorganic trace mineral (ITM) premix containing Mn, Zn, Fe, Cu, Se, and Cr at 50, 45, 40, 7.5, 0.30, and 0.25mg/kg, respectively. The remaining groups of chicks were fed the diets, where the ITM premix was replaced with OTM mix so as to provide the respective minerals at graded levels in the diet (100, 75, 50, 40, and 30% of the control diet). Similarly, in experiment II, a total of 1350 day-old male broiler chicks were divided at random into six groups with 9 replicates of 25 chicks each and fed the maize-soybean meal-based control diet having ITM at levels similar to those of experiment I or the test diets, where the ITM was replaced with OTM so as to provide the minerals at 100, 80, 60, 40, and 20% of the ITM-based control diet. Each diet was fed ad libitum from 0 to 42days of age. The body weight gain, feed intake, and feed efficiency were not affected by supplementing OTM at 30 and 20% in experiments I and II, respectively. Slaughter variables, activities of glutathione peroxidase and super oxide dismutase, and lipid peroxidation and ferric reducing activity in serum were not affected by supplementing OTM at the lowest level of 20% in the diet. Similarly, bone-breaking strength, ash, and Mn contents were not affected by supplementing OTM at 20% of the mineral concentration in control diet containing ITM. Deposition of Ca, P, Cu, and Fe in tibia ash increased with increased concentration of OTM in the diet. However, Zn content in tibia ash reduced with reduction in OTM level in the diet. Based on the results, it is concluded that trace mineral supplementation in organic form even at 20% of the concentration recommended for ITM may be sufficient in maize-soybean meal-based diet to support the optimum growth, bone ash, bone strength, and serum antioxidant status in commercial broilers.

Different levels of organic trace minerals in diets for Nile tilapia juveniles alter gut characteristics and body composition, but not growth

Different levels of organic trace minerals in diets for Nile tilapia juveniles alter gut characteristics and body composition, but not growth

Influence of supplemental copper, manganese, and zinc source on reproduction, mineral status, and performance in a grazing beef cow-calf herd over a 2-year period

This experiment evaluated the effects of Cu, Mn, and Zn source on mineral status, reproduction, and performance of grazing beef cattle in eastern Colorado. Crossbred (Angus and Angus × Hereford; n = 261) 3-yr-old beef cows were stratified by expected calving date, BW, BCS, and liver Cu status and randomly assigned to 1 of 6 replicates. Replicates were then assigned to 1 of 2 treatments (n = 40–45 cows per replicate), resulting in 3 replicates per treatment for the 2-yr experiment. Treatments consisted of (1) inorganic–organic trace mineral combination (IOC; 75% of Cu, Mn, and Zn from sulfate forms and the remaining 25% from organic AA complexes) and (2) hydroxy trace minerals (HTM; 100% from hydroxychloride forms). Replicates were rotated among pastures approximately every 28 d to minimize pasture effects. Free-choice mineral feeders were used to provide NASEM (2000) recommended concentrations of Cu, Mn, and Zn continuously for 2 yr. Blood samples and liver biopsies were obtained from every cow before the initiation of the experiment and then from a subgroup of animals (20 random animals per replicate) at the end of yr 1 (d 335 of the experiment) and 2 (d 638 of the experiment). Over the 2-yr experiment, mineral intake, cow BW, BCS, pregnancy rate to AI, and overall pregnancy rate did not differ across treatments. Calf weaning weights were also not affected by trace mineral source. At the end of yr 1 and yr 2, liver Cu concentrations were greater ( P ≤ 0.05) in HTM- compared with IOC-supplemented cows. Liver Zn concentrations were greater ( P < 0.05) in cows receiving HTM at the end of yr 1 and tended ( P < 0.06) to be greater at the end of yr 2. Liver Mn concentrations were not affected ( P > 0.05) by trace mineral source. Overall productivity of grazing beef cows and their calves over a 2-yr period were similar in cattle supplemented with hydroxy or a combination of sulfate and organic trace minerals. Liver Cu and Zn concentrations were greater in cows fed HTM.

Trace Mineral Leaching from Equine Compost

Mineral leaching from compost can be environmentally disruptive. Little information is available regarding trace mineral leaching from equine-sourced compost. The objective of this study was to quantify the mineral content and leaching potential of compost produced from feces of horses fed different amounts and forms (organic or inorganic) of trace minerals. Nine horses were fed three treatments in a 3 × 3 replicated Latin Square design. The dietary treatments were provided as a daily pellet: CON (pellet without added trace minerals), ING (added inorganic trace minerals), and ORG (added organic trace minerals). The added trace minerals were Co, Cu, Mn, and Zn. Feces were collected from each horse after a 16-day feeding period, combined with straw, composted, and then subjected to simulated rainfall to measure mineral mobility. Concentrations of Co, Cu, Mn, and Zn were greater in ING and ORG compared to CON compost (p &lt; 0.05); additionally, ING had greater Zn than ORG compost (p &lt; 0.05). More Cu leached from ING and ORG compared to CON (p &lt; 0.05). The most Zn leached from ING, followed by ORG, and the least amount leached from CON compost (p &lt; 0.05). Dietary trace mineral intake affected the trace mineral concentration in the compost and amount available to leach during rainfall events.

Effect of dietary inclusion of antioxidants and organic trace minerals on growth performance, carcass characteristics, and meat quality of finishing pigs with pre-slaughter transportation

A total of 320 pigs (body weight = 98 ± 4 kg) were assigned to four treatments, with eight replicates (pens) per treatment. Pigs were fed the following diets: a control diet (CON), the CON diet plus antioxidant blends (AOX), organic trace minerals (OTM), or both (AOX + OTM). After the feeding trial, two pigs from each pen were selected for slaughtering right away or after transportation. The inclusion of AOX, OTM, or AOX + OTM had no significant effect on feed intake, average daily gain, and feed efficiency compared with CON (P &gt; 0.05). The pre-transportation significantly reduced the pH value of loin meat at 24 h post mortem and leg meat at 45 min post mortem (P &lt; 0.05). The pigs in the AOX, OTM, and AOX + OTM group had significantly lower plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) content than the CON group (P &lt; 0.05). Pre-transportation resulted in significantly higher meat MDA contents (P &lt; 0.05), clearly influencing the oxidative stress of pigs. The inclusion of antioxidant blends or organic trace minerals had no significant effect on the growth performance and antioxidant capacity of finishing pigs.

Chondronecrosis with osteomyelitis in broilers: further defining lameness-inducing models with wire or litter flooring to evaluate protection with organic trace minerals

The feed additive Availa-ZMC was investigated for the ability to reduce lameness in broilers using 2 alternative models for inducing lameness. The mixture of organic trace minerals was effective in reducing lameness by 20% in the wire flooring model and 25% in the litter flooring model with the bacterial challenge. Lameness in both models is overwhelmingly attributable to bacterial chondronecrosis with osteomyelitis. The reduction in lameness was associated, at least in part, with enhanced intestinal barrier integrity mediated by elevated expression of tight junction proteins and stimulation of bactericidal killing of adherent peripheral blood monocytes obtained from the birds treated with Availa-ZMC. Lameness is a major animal welfare concern in broiler production. The wire flooring model and litter flooring model with the bacterial challenge are effective models for evaluation of management strategies for mitigating infectious causes of lameness.

The Effects of Organic Trace Mineral Supplementation on Heritage Rhode Island Red Breeding Stock

The Effects of Organic Trace Mineral Supplementation on Heritage Rhode Island Red Breeding Stock

Comparative effects of inorganic and organic trace minerals (Zn, Se and Cr) supplementation on expression of ChTLR2b gene in broilers

Poultry is the fastest growing livestock sector in the developing countries. The global poultry sector is expected to continue to grow, as demand for poultry meat is driven by growing needs, population, rising incomes and urbanization. The present experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of inorganic and organic trace minerals supplementation on expression of ChTLR2b gene in broilers. A total of 216 broilers randomly divided into twelve groups and each group consisting of 18 broilers in 3 replicates. T1 group was kept as control. T2, T3 and T4 group was supplemented with zinc (40 mg/kg of feed) inorganic, organic and 50% organic form respectively. T5, T6 and T7 groups was supplemented with selenium (0.3 mg/kg of feed) from inorganic, organic and 50%organic form respectively. T8, T9 and T10 groups was supplemented with chromium (2 mg/kg of feed) from inorganic, organic form and 50% organic form respectively. T11 and T12 group was supplemented with combination of all 3 minerals from inorganic and organic form respectively. RT-PCR expression analysis of ChTLR2b gene in spleen revealed that maximum up regulation (3.8413 fold) was found in T3 group (supplemented with organic Zn @ 40 mg/Kg of feed), followed by T4 (3.5325 fold) whereas in bursa of fabricius the maximum up regulation (2.8921 fold) was found in T6 group followed by T12 (2.5310 fold ) as compared to control group. Up-regulation of gene expression ChTLR2b in bursa of fabricius and spleen indicates beneficial effect of organic trace minerals in potentiation of immune system in broilers.